Rules for Safe Touring

as published in "The Lone Star" in March 1996 (Fred Carlton)

1. Follow the directions of the Tour Leader. Tour Leader will decide how the tour will travel. Leader will try to maintain 40-45 mph. Leader will always line up just outside of town if we get separated by lights.

2. Always start the tour with a full tank of gas, then gas up when the Tour Leader gases up. In most cases he will have traveled the route before and he know when we need gas.

3. Keep Tour Leader informed if you plan to travel a different route or if you plan to arrive at a different time. Also advise the Tour Leader if you have any special requests or if you leave on a side trip or leave for home early. These suggestions will help the Tour Leader maintain some sanity.

4. Get a CB radio that works. Most "on the road" information comes over the CB. It's also lots of fun "motor mouthing" on the CB, BUT, as we enter towns or congested areas where we may get separated, let the Tour Leader and Backdoor have the priority on the CB. CB's are fun and useful if used properly. We normally use channel 5.

5. We stop for anyone in the group with car trouble. No need to get irritated at anyone with car trouble. We've all been there and will probably need help again. However, if you have a known problem (battery, starter switch, etc.) fix it before you leave. Good preparation always pays off.

6. On tour when we have a decent shoulder, we pull over and yield to faster traffic. We certainly do not want to anger motorists by not pulling over. When there is no shoulder, leave gaps in our caravan so modern cars can "hop scotch" around us.

7. Keep a safe distance between the Model A Ford in front of you and your car. You never know when he will make an emergency stop and mechanical brakes are not known for emergency stops. Avoid damaging your car and more importantly, embarrassing yourself by crashing into someone else's pride and joy.

8. If you don't have a Model A Ford or you are working on yours, come with us anyway. Just line up at the rear in your modern car behind the Model A's and join in on all the fun. When we are in parades, park your modern car and jump in the back seat of a Model A; we love to have you along.

9. Carry your club roster and the national MAFCA roster. This can be a lifesaver if you need help or parts on the road. (Note: Our club members have driven in Louisiana, Arkansas, Oklahoma, Colorado, New Mexico, Yellowstone National Park, all over Texas including Big Bend National Park.)

10. Get out and tour! We will never leave anyone on the side of the road. We have a tradition of helping each other and getting everyone home safely.