Gromit is a refurbished Series IIa which was shipped over to New Mexico .Below is an email sent to us by Mr. Northup - his new owner.

Dear Chris,

Now, after a very good night's rest, I can write about Gromit's trip to his new home.

The importation part was amazingly smooth. That whole part was seamless. As far as I can tell, Gromit suffered no ill effects from his roll on/roll off shipping.

I had a one moment of the terrible "Oh, no's." Gromit quit on a Houston freeway, in the middle of rush hour. I coasted to a stop in a miraculously placed pull-off spot, and felt REAL despair. I got out and did the manly thing: looked under the hood for any trace of trouble. Nothing was amiss. Gromit acted like he was out of fuel, but that was not possible as I'd just filled the driver's side tank. As yet I'd not looked for the second tank, but did so and found it. Empty. Now, I thought, if there are two tanks, there must be a switch somewhere. Peering about I discovered it by the driver's left foot. Easily moveable with a new driver's foot, looking for a comfortable position. I moved the switch, turned the key and watched the gas gauge go to full. Gromit started right up and we went on our way.

I can't tell you how satisfied I am with the entire project. I've yet to see Gromit in his best environment, but we'll be heading down the ranch in a couple of weeks, and there he'll be in his element. I'm amazed at the stability of the vehicle. I had to drive through a hurricane on my way out of Houston, five hours worth. The wind and rain were relentless and brutal. Gromit was stable and secure, although my knees did get wet.

I was totally unprepared for the lushness of the interior. Carpets, yet! And the seats are very comfortable. The finish detail is great. Please pass along to the fellows what a fine job they did.

Gromit got better than 20 mpg for the trip, and once we actually went over 60! Gromit went thru less than a quart of oil. Most commendable. If I'd wanted speed I'd bought a Ferrari. In the thousand mile journey we actually passed 6 cars, but one of them may have been stalled.

There were no signs of overheating, even in the 90-plus degree part of Texas.

I'll drive Gromit up to the top of the hill this evening and make a picture to send along, so you can see your work in it's new home. I'm very grateful for all of your efforts and fine work.

Thanks again, Chris, for everything. Your patience with this LR neophyte is greatly appreciated. I'll wear the colors (colours) of Liveridge with pride and always be ready to supply the highest recommendation. And I look greatly forward to meeting you, and The Other Chris, and the lads, in the fall. Pints for all.

We'll be in touch soon with more photos.

Sincerest best wishes,

Steve Northup