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Finding/Restoring the Grape

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Alexis Park Inn & Suites
  1165 S. Riverside Drive
   Iowa City, Iowa  52246
Toll Free: 888-9ALEXIS

(888-925-3947)

Local:  319 337-8665
Fax:    319 351-4102
Email:AlexisParkInn@mchsi.com

Proud Members of:


Iowa Bed & Breakfast Guild


Iowa City Chamber of Commerce


Iowa City Convention & Visitor's Bureau


New Mighty Grape
 
In December of 2006, our fuel truck (the original "Mighty Grape") went in for an oil change.  While it was in the shop, I asked them to take a look at the tail lights, which had suddenly stopped working.

Within the hour they called me with bad news.  When they tried to lift the truck on the hoist, it had started to break in half!   The frame was rusted partially through, and the news was bad:  the damage was not repairable.  After four years and 7700 gallons of gas, it was time to find a new Grape.

 
Click here to read the story of how we found, purchased, and restored our 1995 Toyota T100 4x4 (AKA: "The Green Grape") to nearly-new condition.   It should be paid for in another 4000 gallons or so!
 
Click on the thumbnails, below, to see a larger picture:
 

Mary with the Old and New Grapes!

There is quite a difference in size between the two...

After detailing -- not bad for 12 years old and 180K miles!

Would you pay $2500 for this beauty?

Here's the flip-up side window that lets us get at the pump

The pump has worked flawlessly for 4+ years and 7700 gallons. The tank holds 55 gallons.

A reel for this hose cost $500! This bucket cost $20

There is no rust on this 12 year old, always-in-Iowa truck!

Here's a shot of the static reel, made from a retractable extension cord.

It is firmly grounded to the truck

A shot of the nice, clean interior. The extended cab lets us carry four people as needed

Even with 350 pounds of fuel in the back, it handles great!

Fueling is easy and safe...

This sure beats hauling the plane to the self-serve pump

Personal, to-the-door service, just like the good ol' days

It just doesn't get any easier!