The VDH 20th year anniversary meeting

 Arriving Friday in Nurnberg, I was greeted by VDH member Andreas. I have known him for many years. He has learned my sense of humor, or lack thereof, so Andreas assumed the role of my personal assistant. Anyway, we drove to Ornbau on a beautiful 80* day through the countryside. A little reminding of proper driving techniques to Andreas, and we arrived at Ornbau, a small farm town, now transformed into the VDH 20th year anniversary club meeting destination. The area of the town where the VDH buildings are located is crowed with covered beer halls and benches. At the main hall is a large patio with bench seating. Across was a full sound stage. Fresh cooked food was available at any time. And Beer. Good local Beer. Lots of Beer.
 After greeting Horst and Betina, Horst gave me a quick tour of the meeting area. I was amazed of the amount of workshop centers and technical displays. Everything from sunroof repair to technical films from old Mercedes archives. Daimler AG Classic Center sent by car carrier, a C111 concept car from Stuttgart. One of a kind and quite a crowd attraction. The Mercedes Corporate recognition of the VDH meeting was impressive.

At one of the workshops, I watched Wolfi, a Bosch specialist, give a lecture on Bosch mechanical fuel injection with a pump completely dissembled, injector, prechamber and cut away section of a cylinder head. I loved it. I had no idea what he was saying, but the people watching looked as if they had just learned that they will never touch this system on their own car!

The VDH parts departments were at full capacity with many waiting in line. During this time I met the different people whom I've met throughout the years via VDH. A few had visited my business in California.

Cars were not allowed to come into the town yet, but continued to gather in a large lot across the street. The main entrance was framed in a massive Mercedes grill complete with star and badge.