Wow...I just read through this entire thread, for the first time. Some great work there.
Forgive me, if I missed it in your thread, but what part of Germany are you in? I only ask because I was in Germany the month of October 2010, and absolutely loved it. I was there to work for our parent-facility, and I had a great time. Some of the friendliest people I have ever met, everywhere I went. Food was incredible. Everyone made me feel comfortable, and at home.
I was in northern Germany, and could not believe how the countryside was, and all the agriculture and produce. The soil was so fertile, it was black. If you can't tell, I would love to go back, and will probably have the chance again. Hopefully.
I was in Zeven, Bremen, Hamburg (!), Bremerhaven.....
A lot of the guys I worked with were fanatically in love with American muscle cars.....always asked me questions and wanted to know everything I could tell them. I actually saw a Ranchero on the A1, and a lifted Dodge Ram rolling on at least 35"'s......
Now, get back to work on that Monte! LOL