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Greg Parker explains gravity-defying suspension
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The "low-rider" coach Greg was building
for a special-needs school |
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Farewell to Barstow's philosopher mechanic |
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[Continued from Page
1]
Greg was convinced that the alpha state
(characterized by brain waves oscillating 8 to 12 cycles per
second) is the key to understanding the deeper mysteries of
life. Most brain research supports the idea that the alpha
state is particularly well-suited for gaining inspiration
and acquiring factual information on an accelerated basis.
Greg, however, took these ideas several steps further. At
the time of his death, he was working on a book that shows
links between the alpha state and spiritual and emotional
health. By using affirmations and other "spoken word"
techniques while in an alpha state, Greg believed that he
could heal disease, attract prosperity, and access sources
of wisdom.
Wherever he gained his inspiration, Greg
was a font of remarkable creativity, especially when it came
to automotive design. His work has fostered an entire community
of custom vehicle builders. Many of his creations completely
defy convention. "Sentimental Journey," a super-charged
"horseless" stagecoach, was built on a 2002 Ford
Bronco chassis. Another, a covered wagon powered by a Ford
460 engine, is capable of challenging even the fastest of
off-road racing trucks. When I visited with him in November,
2004, Greg was building a "low-rider" stagecoach
that will be used by a home for handicapped children.
In addition to his predilection for discussing
the power of the alpha wave, Greg loved to explain his
anti-gravity off-road racing suspension system to people who
visited his shop. This work in progress -- which I first saw
in April, 1996, and which is still in much the same state
of semi-completion -- is an elongated, dune buggy-style chassis
with an unconventional structure that shifts the weight of
the axle in such a manner that it appears to be nearly weightless.
Greg's design contradicts just about every theory of weight
distribution and propulsion currently accepted in the automotive
world.
Greg's brother Ed passed away in 1998,
but a number of the "Mad Max" style creations that
they built together are still on display in the old A-1 Towing
yard. Officially, Greg had retired from both the towing and
car repair business, but when I was there last November, at
least ten people stopped by to have him "take a quick
look at" something in their cars. Others came by to hear
the latest news on Greg's projects.
Greg roamed the greater Barstow area for nearly
forty years, usually in his custom 4-wheel drive van,
but also in his attention-grabbing motorized stagecoach. He
was an adventurer not only on the dusty roads of the eastern
Mojave, but also on the edges of philosophy and creativity.
He was an inspiration to me, and it was obvious from the crowds
at his memorial service and twilight procession that I was
far from alone.
As of this writing, I don't know what will
become of Greg Parker's remarkable vehicles, but if your
path brings you to Barstow, take ten minutes and swing by
the former A-1 Towing yard. Even though Greg won't be there
to tell you about the remarkable creations parked behind the
fence, you can still appreciate the genius, artistry, philosophy,
and humor of Barstow's best-loved tow truck driver.
DIRECTIONS
The former A-1 Towing lot is at 30939 E. Hwy
58, Barstow, California. (Exit at the Old Highway 58, then
proceed 1.4 miles and look for the sign on the south side
of the road. Map
Mark
Sedenquist
September 25, 2005
