Honoring my Father in Law and HM1008
 

I'm new to this forum, but not entirely new to Cobras. I was the co-builder, along with my father-in-law Mike, on an early Hurricane, HM1008. We worked on this project together over a few years, and then enjoyed a few years of driving it. (and enjoying the compliments every time we took it anywhere!) A few years ago, Mike suffered a stroke and we didn't drive the car for a while. It had already been winterized before his stroke so it was in good shape to sit for a while. Mike bounced back from his stroke pretty well, and for a couple of years he was making improvements. Sadly, a few months ago he suffered another massive stroke and after a few months of struggling, ended up passing away. Of course, the whole family was devastated and it's been rough. This past weekend, with my mother-in-laws blessing, we decided to get the Cobra out and go for a ride to honor Big Mike. My wife and I are inheriting the car, but will always know that it is really Big Mike's! We uncovered the Cobra, checked the tires, took the battery off the tender and hooked it up, put fresh gas in and changed the oil, and she fired right up! It was a bit emotional for all off us, but we know Mike was smiling.

Here she is. Hurricane 1008. 390 FE, Ford Toploader:

http://www.teamtreefarm.com/cobra/cobra.JPG

Even though I was there helping to build this car every step of the way, I'm sure I'll run into a few roadblocks where I may need some help. Mike always used this forum as a resource, as I'm sure I will! The car drove great on its first ride in a couple of years. The brakes felt a little soft, and could probably stand to be bled. But, that's the only thing I noticed. Not bad. It's good to have her on the road again, but I'll sure miss my co-builder Mike.

Sorry for your loss.... What was Mike's username on the Forum?

ron
ClubCobra Moderator

For the life of me, I can't remember his username! I know he didn't post much, but he did lurk a LOT!

Great way to celebrate and honor his life!

Welcome and I'm sorry for your family's loss. What a great way to remember and honor your father-in-law. Best of luck.

Best way to remember Mike is to put LOTS of miles on that Cobra!

My exact sentiments. The car is beautiful and I hope you have many years and miles of enjoyment.
You may want to check out the Hurricane forum if you have any questions or need help.
http://http://hurricane-motorsports.com/forum/index.php

It's great to see HMS 1008 - one of the very early ones - looking so good and on the road.
Matt

I think Mike is smiling right now, especially when you take the cobra out and when your tending to it's needs. Sorry for you loss but remember, each cobra ride will be special for you and your family, best of luck and times ahead.

Bill

I'm so sorry to hear of Mike's passing. My condolences to you and your family.
HM1008 looks outstanding and you did a nice job on building it!
Hope to see more pics! Any questions, please fire away!
Larry

Dave,
Sorry to hear of this loss. Everyone here at Hurricane would like to express our condolences and if you ever need anything don't hesitate to contact us! God speed and go out and enjoy that wonderful car as Mike would want you to.
Dusty
Hurricane Motorsports

Late to the show here Mike, but as everyone else has already said drive it, enjoy it and care for it. As the years go by it will have increasingly more and more sentimental value for you . It is a great thing to be able to say to your kids that you and Grandpa built this car together when you were younger. It will be even more special for them when you give it to them.

With respect to the brakes, you may have air in the system or it may be time for a system flush and a change of brake fluid. My suspicion is the flush and change will substantially improve the pedal feel for you.

The build you and your dad did together looks absolutely beautiful. You have a car to be real proud of. Welcome aboard.

All the best,

Ed