So, we are done with the trip and I'm back to the fucking rain of West coast.
We left Friday morning. First to the mechanics to have everything done since the car was parked for so long and had a few issues. The mechanic flushed and topped everything as well as some stuff really needed to be done (the AC belt was literally gone when they checked it as my friend complained no AC), made sure the whole car is in pristine shape to tackle the continuous driving.
Then we left for our journey. Loaded some snacks, drinks and ice in our cooler and away we went.
HWY20 is HIGHLY RECOMMENDED!!! You go through Northern Cascades National park and the view is just breathtaking. Compare this to the alternative (i-90 down in Seattle), definitely take the extra time (about an hour) and go HWY20.
I brought my camera and tripod with the idea of doing some astro photo since we'd be going through thousand of miles worth of terrain with no light pollution at all. Sadly, we were following/being followed by a HUGE system. Once we made past WA state, I don't think I ever seen cloud even some opening until past Chicago.
It was awesome to go through Idaho/Montana in the middle of the night. We rocketed through it... not sure about my buddy, but I often drove past 100mph (I think I hit over 130 at one point) without noticing since there was no cars or any other thing that serves as reference point. I knew I was going fast because of the engine rev sound, but that's about it.
The only thing about going that fast is our mileage. We did about 800KM on a 22Gallon tank. When driving more civilized (as in almost always at speed limit), the best we did was 1160 between fueling.
We originally planned to take turn sleeping due to our difference in time zone. So I'd drive until late night and he'd sleep after dinner time. As it turns out though, it was impossible to sleep continuosly for long because any big sudden break or potholes/bumps would wake us up. So what we ended up doing is a lot of micro naps. Like sleeping for 1-3hrs, wake up, talk and change so the other can go sleep.
Overall very smooth drive until we were leaving Chicago. It wasn't just pouring, but more like dumping water from the sky. We were going at a modest 50mph (where speed limit was 55/60) and with the weight and almost brand new tires, we were having a difficult time maintaining a grip on the road. Simply too much water for the tires to handle. Not to mention that visibility was non-existant even with the wiper at highest setting, we could barely see a thing.
What's funny was when we were crossing back into Canada. The agent was in disbelieve that we've already made our way there by leaving on Friday and said: "I'm sure you guys broke many laws along the way, but I'm just gonna let it slide."
Overall, a very unique experience... long drives with good friend. I would not hesitate to do it again if needed. Tired... sure, but definitely nothing quite like it.
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