Having never been to an RV repair shop I was not prepared. The staff was very friendly, which I later found out was in part due to the amount of money the charge. The service manager knew exactly what the problem was before I had finished my description of the problem, then he threw me the curve ball. We can take care of that quickly have you back on the road in no time, it's just a one hour job if we have the part in stock. At this point I was loving this place, then he ask the question that was the start of the downhill slide. "What chassis is you coach built on?" Simple enough question, but who knows that, not me. Back to the campground to see if somewhere in all the papers I have on the care and maintenance of the motor home is the name of the builder of the chassis. After 2 hours of pouring over all assorted papers and manuals no name of the chassis builder anywhere. Feeling like an idiot and hoping there was someway they could proceed without that info I called the Service Manager. Guess what, beside the drivers seat on the wall is a little sticker with all the info, who would of thought to look there, but the bigger question is why didn't he tell me to look there first, or am I really suppose to know that as a requirement to owning and operating an RV, and do I have to surrender the RV till I take a course somewhere?
With the required information it's back to the shop. Proudly I proclaimed it has a Roadmaster chassis at which point he lost his smile and said that's bad we don't stock parts for Roadmaster. The problem is that the RV manufacture uses several different chassis, even on the same RV and mine just happen to be the least used so the do not stock parts. The Manager said give me a day and I'll see if I can track down the part.
Back to the campground to pick up the DW and explore Flagstaff, I'm not about to let this little setback get me down. Flagstaff is a beautiful town high in the mountains, heavily forested, close to the south rim of the Grand Canyon, just a great place to visit if your ever that way stop and spend a little time.
Good new and bad news, the manager called, he has located the part, it is in Chicago, bad news it will take a week to reach Flagstaff or for a mere $70.00 they will overnight the park. I opted for the overnight. As we toured the town we noticed the wind was picking up and the temperature dropping so decided to call it a day and snuggle up in our beautiful and very comfortable motor home and prepare to take it to the shop in the morning when the part arrived.
While watching the news that evening they were reporting on a strong storm with heaving rain and high winds in Phoenix about 200 miles south. The storm was heading north and snow was possible in the higher elevations, yep you guessed it we had a damn blizzard that night. The next morning it was beautiful with everything covered in snow. As we were enjoying the beauty the storm had left behind the shop called. There was a problem, seems that the over-night delivery did not make it. The UPS plane had a breakdown and would be sending the part tomorrow. Now I'm thinking we must have had a curse placed on us, can so many things go wrong just by chance.
Finally good news the part made it, have the repair scheduled for the next morning, Bad news, UPS will not refund the overnight charge as they only guarantee over-night once the plane takes off, prior to that it is considered processing time which is not considered part of the over-night.
Sunday, September 15, 2013
A paniful lesson in the cost of RV repair
Well just check into the Tall Pines RV park in Flagstaff. I've checked in maybe 30 parks since beginning with no problem, till now. Filled out the required registration form, showed ID, handed my credit card to the manager to complete the transaction, then it went downhill. Seems that the owner of the park had an fight with the back regarding the fee they imposed for processing credit cards, and therefore no longer accepted credit cards. Cash or check only. As many Rv'ers will attest to we don't carry a lot of cash when traveling, credit cards for purchases and debit cards for a little walking around cash. A thorough search of my wallet and all pockets resulted in a grand total of $7.64. That left a check as the only option which the Manager would be happy to accept. When was the last time you were 2,000 miles from home and a business willingly accepted a personal check? This was a pleasant surprise considering the "don't trust anyone" that is so prevalent today. Now this is all well and good till you realize you have not seen your checkbook in the last 3 months, and have no idea where to start looking. Only one thing to do, wake up the wife. Women have two unique abilities a man could never master, 1. the power of total recall of every word a man has ever uttered, which is not the one I needed now and have never been to fond of, and, 2. being able to remember where everything is located from the birthday card she received 10 years ago to the candy bar I had stashed in a safe place so she wouldn't know about it which even I had forgot about. Women are just weird creatures. Anyways, even in her groggy state from being woke up she knew right where to located the checkbook.
That all out of the way, finally set up in the campground among the tall pines, will be going to the repair shop in the morning, life is good.
Cool morning, clear skies, I'm off to the repair shop.
'
That all out of the way, finally set up in the campground among the tall pines, will be going to the repair shop in the morning, life is good.
Cool morning, clear skies, I'm off to the repair shop.
'
Monday, December 20, 2010
Onward to Flagstaff
Monday morning, blue skies and 70 degrees, perfect weather for the next leg of the journey. First thing is to check my patch on the overflow tank, JB Weld and Duct tape, overnight it has harden just like the package stated. Feeling good, maybe we are catching a bit of good luck, fill the tank and hit the road.
Being the cautious type and not fully trusting my ability to make the repair, DW is so smart have to wonder why she married me, anyways DW suggest that I stop in Winslow to see how the patch was holding. Being the dutifully husband I am I said yes dear though my motto is what you don't know can't hurt you. Normally by now DW would be ready to head to the bed for a short nap well I drove but today she was wide awake waiting to hear how the patch was doing, no way I'm getting of stopping. upon reaching Winslow I found a safe place to stop for the required inspection. Bam, that's the sound of my jaw dropping when what I see is water dripping from the patch.
Now you must always remember I am a man therefore most of the time my decisions are made based on the easiest way out of any situation. My options are tell DW it's leaking and having to find a place to stay in Winslow ( not a fun place to be) and then try to find someone to make the repair and be stuck here for only heavens knows how long, Or I can do the man thing. I got back in the motor home with a smile on my face and immediately told DW it's holding, no leaking we're good to go.
Dw is happy says it's time for a nap and off to the bed she goes.
The rest of the trip was uneventful, that proves that prayers are heard and answered, at least mine because i was praying all the way to Flagstaff that it would hold just long enough to get there.
My luck continued, I took the first Flagstaff exit, at the stop sign I could see the RV Repair shop and a sign for an RV Park just 2 miles further. Thank you God, that was easy think maybe we can renegotiate the terms of my prayer promises.
Cont. in Pt. 5 Snow storms tornadoes and the high cost of RV repairs.
Being the cautious type and not fully trusting my ability to make the repair, DW is so smart have to wonder why she married me, anyways DW suggest that I stop in Winslow to see how the patch was holding. Being the dutifully husband I am I said yes dear though my motto is what you don't know can't hurt you. Normally by now DW would be ready to head to the bed for a short nap well I drove but today she was wide awake waiting to hear how the patch was doing, no way I'm getting of stopping. upon reaching Winslow I found a safe place to stop for the required inspection. Bam, that's the sound of my jaw dropping when what I see is water dripping from the patch.
Now you must always remember I am a man therefore most of the time my decisions are made based on the easiest way out of any situation. My options are tell DW it's leaking and having to find a place to stay in Winslow ( not a fun place to be) and then try to find someone to make the repair and be stuck here for only heavens knows how long, Or I can do the man thing. I got back in the motor home with a smile on my face and immediately told DW it's holding, no leaking we're good to go.
Dw is happy says it's time for a nap and off to the bed she goes.
The rest of the trip was uneventful, that proves that prayers are heard and answered, at least mine because i was praying all the way to Flagstaff that it would hold just long enough to get there.
My luck continued, I took the first Flagstaff exit, at the stop sign I could see the RV Repair shop and a sign for an RV Park just 2 miles further. Thank you God, that was easy think maybe we can renegotiate the terms of my prayer promises.
Cont. in Pt. 5 Snow storms tornadoes and the high cost of RV repairs.
Friday, December 10, 2010
California or Bust Pt3
Springerville AZ. is not a bad town, they have all the facilities necessary to sustain life. The important things civilized people require, like a grocery store, gas stations, laundries, numerous bars and the 2 most important to me, an auto parts store and a Dairy Queen.
After a good nights sleep the plan for the day was to return to the auto parts store to find something that might work better than the epoxy that helped us get down the mountain but just barely before it gave out.
After awaking the first thing I did was throw back the curtains to see if the rain was gone. It was a beautiful day full of promise until may eyes focused. We were parked in the middle of a junkyard. Well not actually a junk yard, the park was full of looooonnnnng term tenants, they had apparently been there a long time had not washed there trailers and motor homes in a long time and it was obvious that there had not been a trash pick up in, I would guess about 10 years based on the accumulation of trash bags, car parts, assorted pieces of broken furniture and other items piled around each one. When I stepped out I realized why there was one space available for rent when we arrived. Apparently this space was used by the tenants as a dumping ground for their dogs. No they didn't dump their dogs there, the dogs are the ones that did the dumping. It was like running through a minefield just to reach the back of the motor home.
If you've ever towed a car you know that to unhook you have chains, cables and wires to disconnect. Try doing that tippy toeing through a doggy minefield. That was not going to bother me, I was on a mission. Off to the auto parts store. Surprise, Springerville is the only town in America that the auto parts store is closed on Sunday. Ok, no problem, back to the motor home fire up the computer, get online and find the closest RV repair shop or open auto parts store. Closest RV repair is in Flagstaff AZ about 4 hours away, the closest auto parts is 48 miles in the town of Show Low. I Opted for Show Low.
Show Low is and interesting town at least the name is interesting. Seems that back in 1880 two men both of which were large land owners in the area wanted to form a town but thought it was only big enough for one of them. Being gentlemen, rather than a gun fight at high noon on main street they decided on a friendly game of cards with the loser leaving town. One hand of low ball poker, Mr. Cooley's low card was a 5, he said to Mr Clark it's yours if you "Show Low". Mr Clark turned over the Deuce of Clubs, the lowest card in the deck and Mr. Cooley left town. That's how the name came about, the main street in Show Low is even named Deuce of Clubs Dr. and in the middle of town is a bronze statue of the 2 men playing card.
Ok enough of the history lesson, found an auto parts store, again discussed my need with the sales clerk he in turn spoke with the "old timer that knew everything". The old timer was a cross between wise budda and Don Knotts just shook his head and said "ain't nothing gonna stick to that crap they make them there tanks outa". I can feel my ship sinking fast until the old timer said try that Home Depot down the road a piece they're used to handling that plastic crap.
Home Depot here I come! At the store I am confronted by a wall of adhesive. I formulated a plan of attack, I'll ask for help, not just any help, this time I'm looking for a youngster that maybe can at least spell polyethylene and will not call my damaged tank plastic carp. I spotted my subject, I figured with the Jesus tattoos and the hula hoop earrings he had at least attended the Show Low Community College. After explaining my problem and need he said and I quote " ain't nothing gonna stick to that crap" I just smiled and said I know that's what your Grandfather told me. He didn't think it was funny seems his grandfather had been dead for 10 years. After my mumbled apology he did offer a suggestion, JB Weld according to the package, JB weld will stick to anything and harden into a steel like patch. Finally success is on the horizon.
Upon arriving back at the motor home, tip toeing through the doggy mine field I sat down to lunch and read the instructions on the use of JB Weld. Will adhere to all types of metal, glass, plastic, wood, PVC piping, I'm feeling good, then the last sentence in small print my bubble burst, Will not adhere to polyethylene.
Like hell it won't- I'm putting it on and wrapping it in Duct tape
Continued in Pt.4 Flagstaff here we come..
After a good nights sleep the plan for the day was to return to the auto parts store to find something that might work better than the epoxy that helped us get down the mountain but just barely before it gave out.
After awaking the first thing I did was throw back the curtains to see if the rain was gone. It was a beautiful day full of promise until may eyes focused. We were parked in the middle of a junkyard. Well not actually a junk yard, the park was full of looooonnnnng term tenants, they had apparently been there a long time had not washed there trailers and motor homes in a long time and it was obvious that there had not been a trash pick up in, I would guess about 10 years based on the accumulation of trash bags, car parts, assorted pieces of broken furniture and other items piled around each one. When I stepped out I realized why there was one space available for rent when we arrived. Apparently this space was used by the tenants as a dumping ground for their dogs. No they didn't dump their dogs there, the dogs are the ones that did the dumping. It was like running through a minefield just to reach the back of the motor home.
If you've ever towed a car you know that to unhook you have chains, cables and wires to disconnect. Try doing that tippy toeing through a doggy minefield. That was not going to bother me, I was on a mission. Off to the auto parts store. Surprise, Springerville is the only town in America that the auto parts store is closed on Sunday. Ok, no problem, back to the motor home fire up the computer, get online and find the closest RV repair shop or open auto parts store. Closest RV repair is in Flagstaff AZ about 4 hours away, the closest auto parts is 48 miles in the town of Show Low. I Opted for Show Low.
Show Low is and interesting town at least the name is interesting. Seems that back in 1880 two men both of which were large land owners in the area wanted to form a town but thought it was only big enough for one of them. Being gentlemen, rather than a gun fight at high noon on main street they decided on a friendly game of cards with the loser leaving town. One hand of low ball poker, Mr. Cooley's low card was a 5, he said to Mr Clark it's yours if you "Show Low". Mr Clark turned over the Deuce of Clubs, the lowest card in the deck and Mr. Cooley left town. That's how the name came about, the main street in Show Low is even named Deuce of Clubs Dr. and in the middle of town is a bronze statue of the 2 men playing card.
Ok enough of the history lesson, found an auto parts store, again discussed my need with the sales clerk he in turn spoke with the "old timer that knew everything". The old timer was a cross between wise budda and Don Knotts just shook his head and said "ain't nothing gonna stick to that crap they make them there tanks outa". I can feel my ship sinking fast until the old timer said try that Home Depot down the road a piece they're used to handling that plastic crap.
Home Depot here I come! At the store I am confronted by a wall of adhesive. I formulated a plan of attack, I'll ask for help, not just any help, this time I'm looking for a youngster that maybe can at least spell polyethylene and will not call my damaged tank plastic carp. I spotted my subject, I figured with the Jesus tattoos and the hula hoop earrings he had at least attended the Show Low Community College. After explaining my problem and need he said and I quote " ain't nothing gonna stick to that crap" I just smiled and said I know that's what your Grandfather told me. He didn't think it was funny seems his grandfather had been dead for 10 years. After my mumbled apology he did offer a suggestion, JB Weld according to the package, JB weld will stick to anything and harden into a steel like patch. Finally success is on the horizon.
Upon arriving back at the motor home, tip toeing through the doggy mine field I sat down to lunch and read the instructions on the use of JB Weld. Will adhere to all types of metal, glass, plastic, wood, PVC piping, I'm feeling good, then the last sentence in small print my bubble burst, Will not adhere to polyethylene.
Like hell it won't- I'm putting it on and wrapping it in Duct tape
Continued in Pt.4 Flagstaff here we come..
Monday, December 6, 2010
California or Bust Pt.2
New Mexico
Finally out of Texas. I have never explored New Mexico, like most travelers I have passed through many times on I-10 or I-40 with the only stops being for gas. Never gave the state much thought and what I did was limited to how barren it was with a few small dusty desert towns which never seemed very welcoming.
When traveling in a car through New Mexico typically I would drive 70-80 MPH, windows rolled up and the air conditioning blasting away. Nothing to see and no reason to stop, New Mexico takes about 3-4 hours to pass through by car and if you fill up before entering there is no reason to stop, not even for gas. When in a motor home the rules all change. It's about an 8 hour trip and stopping for gas is required.
About half way across the state I found it necessary to stop for gas in the town of Deming. Deming is basically a wide spot in the road with the over priced gas, and a few fast food restaurants along with a few residents surviving in weather beaten small house or mobile homes all of which had seen better days which were so far behind them few people even remember those days.
Now it's late afternoon and if we continue driving the closest town of any size is Tucson AZ. which is about another 6 hours away. Total surprise to find a campground about 8 miles north of I-10 in Deming and it was also one of the Passport America discount campgrounds. After consulting the DW which I always do, I like be able to share the blame just in case it is a real dump. Sorry for letting out a trade secret men but I think the wives allready know that little trick.
The campground was named Hidden Valley, sounds real enticing maybe even romantic tucked away in a beautiful valley watching the sun set behind the surrounding mountains. Let me assure you Hidden Valley does indeed live up to all we envisioned. Getting there is the problem. It is 8 miles north, 3 miles of nice smooth paved road then 5 miles of dusty, dirty, bumpy dirt road with maximum speed of 15 mph. After what seemed like hours of eating dust and no sign of life you come to a little rise in the road and there before you is Hidden Valley, a beautiful oasis in the middle of nowhere. The RV park was beautiful and well maintained, and the view would take your breath away. If your ever in the area do not over look this park it is well worth the adventure it takes to get there. The only drawback is that the back of the motor home and the car were covered in a thick layer of dust and due to limited water in the desert washing the RV is not permitted.
That evening while planning the next days trip I decided that since we were in no real hurry now would be a good time to see more of New Mexico. I discovered that Highway 180 would take us north the length of the state and pick up I-40 at Winslow AZ, Of course you know of Winslow through that great Eagles song, Take it Easy. This route would take us over the mountains in central New Mexico and on to Williams AZ where would would camp for a couple of days and explore the Grand Canyon. Sounds great, right, but hold on one little detail was overlooked. I totally forgot to consult the God of Fate.
The next morning the sun was shining, not a cloud in the sky the temperature in the mid 70's, a perfect day. 1-80 was a smooth and wide, the mountains calling us to come and enjoy natures beauty. O what evils lurk in them mountains. The first few hours were filled with jaw dropping beauty. Then we started to climb, twist and turn, the road got narrow and the speed dropped to a crawl. DW decided that the thinner air of the elevation, the exhausting beauty of the scenery and the rocking motion of the motor home made for a perfect time to nap, so off to the bed she goes. Though the drive had turned tough I am enjoying the views, the aspen trees which had started change color and the tall ponderosa pines.
Here comes fate. In the middle of the Gila National Forrest topping the mountain at 7,000 ft a warning light came on. Being that replacing an engine in the motor home is $15-20,000. I don't take chances and pull over as soon as the light shows up. Luckily 1 mile from the time the light came on was a scenic overlook with room to stop. As I exited to inspect the engine I couldn't help but to pause long enough to take in the view. We were at the crest of the mountain overlook, a beautiful endless valley. Wish I had thought to take a picture to share but at that moment I was just a little distracted. When I reach the rear of the motor home which being a diesel pusher has the engine in the back, I was assaulted by a spray of hot water. After having my hand scalded by the water while opening up the engine compartment I discovered a steady stream coming from a hole in the plastic overflow tank for the radiator. For those that are not familiar with the overflow tank, every vehicle has one it acts a reservoir for radiator. As the water heats up it expands and the tank provides a place for the water to be held until it is cooled and then returned to the radiator. That's a simplified version but you get the picture.
We are now 40 miles from the nearest town and unable to drive the motor home in this condition. After consulting the DW it was decided that I would disconnect the car and drive to town and pick up something to patch the hole while she guarded the motor home. A 40 mile trip through the mountain, even in a car, is at least an hour each way but it sure is a beautiful drive and at this time I'm not to worried, we have plenty of time and once fixed we will just have to spend the night in Winslow and lose a day but we're still in no hurry so no problem. Springerville, AZ is a very small town but luck was with me and there was one auto parts store. Then the luck ran out. After consulting with the clerk who informed me that overflow tanks are made of polyethylene which can not be repaired. Seems all adhesiveves are made of a chemical which will not stick to polyethylene and if applied will dissolve the tank. Not having the DW available to consult with (share the blame) I made an executive decision and purchased an epoxy just to try in case the clerk was wrong. Also purchased a couple of highly overpriced gallons of antifreeze to replace what boiled out.
On the way back the wind picked up the clouds rolled in, the tempture dropped and the rain started, the weather can change very quickly in the mountains. By the time I got back the motor home the wind was blowing about 40mph the rain was blowing sideways and the motor home was rocking like it was ready to sail off the cliff. The beautiful valley view had turned ugly. Having lived in Florida where it's always warm there I was is a cold wind driven rain with no jacket trying to make repairs that couldn't be done with a product not suited for the job. When using epoxy it is necessary to mix together the resin and the hardner, after mixing you have very limited time to apply it before it hardens into a concrete like blob. With teeth chattering and hands shaking due to the cold and rain I manage to apply a over sized glob which appeared to be sticking. Epoxy takes at least 24 hours to totally adhere but we are not going to stay on this mountain for 25 hours.
Duct tape!!! Being somewhat of a shade tree mechanic I always keep a roll of duct tape handy after all it may not fix the problem but is helpful as a temporay fix and will get you to someone that knows what their doing. I'm not waiting, I get out my roll of duct tape and proceed to wrap the entire tank with it, right over top of my epoxy patch. Back in the warmth of the motor home feeling rather proud of my patch job and thinking with the epoxy and the duct tape as backup support I'll give it an hour before heading down the mountain to Springerville. We decided that I'd drive the motor home and the DW would follow just in case the patch didn't hold. DW was supposed to stick close to the bumper and watch for water squirting out the back. Away We go!
We made it! At last on level ground in Sprinerville I pull in to a small shopping center just as the warning light came on, guess the patch didn't hold but just long enough. At least here we have phone and Internet available so looks like I'm doing a good job of kicking fate's butt. On line we search for a nearby RV park where we can setup get comftortable while I explore our option for a permanent fix. After an extensive online search the only RV park available was located less the 1 mile away. It's dark, raining, cold and I'm tired so any port in a storm. At this time it does not matter what the park looks like as long as they have hook up. It's late so after I'm exhausted so it's just dinner and to bed, we'll worry about repairs in the morning. Stay tuned more to come in Part3
Finally out of Texas. I have never explored New Mexico, like most travelers I have passed through many times on I-10 or I-40 with the only stops being for gas. Never gave the state much thought and what I did was limited to how barren it was with a few small dusty desert towns which never seemed very welcoming.
When traveling in a car through New Mexico typically I would drive 70-80 MPH, windows rolled up and the air conditioning blasting away. Nothing to see and no reason to stop, New Mexico takes about 3-4 hours to pass through by car and if you fill up before entering there is no reason to stop, not even for gas. When in a motor home the rules all change. It's about an 8 hour trip and stopping for gas is required.
About half way across the state I found it necessary to stop for gas in the town of Deming. Deming is basically a wide spot in the road with the over priced gas, and a few fast food restaurants along with a few residents surviving in weather beaten small house or mobile homes all of which had seen better days which were so far behind them few people even remember those days.
Now it's late afternoon and if we continue driving the closest town of any size is Tucson AZ. which is about another 6 hours away. Total surprise to find a campground about 8 miles north of I-10 in Deming and it was also one of the Passport America discount campgrounds. After consulting the DW which I always do, I like be able to share the blame just in case it is a real dump. Sorry for letting out a trade secret men but I think the wives allready know that little trick.
The campground was named Hidden Valley, sounds real enticing maybe even romantic tucked away in a beautiful valley watching the sun set behind the surrounding mountains. Let me assure you Hidden Valley does indeed live up to all we envisioned. Getting there is the problem. It is 8 miles north, 3 miles of nice smooth paved road then 5 miles of dusty, dirty, bumpy dirt road with maximum speed of 15 mph. After what seemed like hours of eating dust and no sign of life you come to a little rise in the road and there before you is Hidden Valley, a beautiful oasis in the middle of nowhere. The RV park was beautiful and well maintained, and the view would take your breath away. If your ever in the area do not over look this park it is well worth the adventure it takes to get there. The only drawback is that the back of the motor home and the car were covered in a thick layer of dust and due to limited water in the desert washing the RV is not permitted.
That evening while planning the next days trip I decided that since we were in no real hurry now would be a good time to see more of New Mexico. I discovered that Highway 180 would take us north the length of the state and pick up I-40 at Winslow AZ, Of course you know of Winslow through that great Eagles song, Take it Easy. This route would take us over the mountains in central New Mexico and on to Williams AZ where would would camp for a couple of days and explore the Grand Canyon. Sounds great, right, but hold on one little detail was overlooked. I totally forgot to consult the God of Fate.
The next morning the sun was shining, not a cloud in the sky the temperature in the mid 70's, a perfect day. 1-80 was a smooth and wide, the mountains calling us to come and enjoy natures beauty. O what evils lurk in them mountains. The first few hours were filled with jaw dropping beauty. Then we started to climb, twist and turn, the road got narrow and the speed dropped to a crawl. DW decided that the thinner air of the elevation, the exhausting beauty of the scenery and the rocking motion of the motor home made for a perfect time to nap, so off to the bed she goes. Though the drive had turned tough I am enjoying the views, the aspen trees which had started change color and the tall ponderosa pines.
Here comes fate. In the middle of the Gila National Forrest topping the mountain at 7,000 ft a warning light came on. Being that replacing an engine in the motor home is $15-20,000. I don't take chances and pull over as soon as the light shows up. Luckily 1 mile from the time the light came on was a scenic overlook with room to stop. As I exited to inspect the engine I couldn't help but to pause long enough to take in the view. We were at the crest of the mountain overlook, a beautiful endless valley. Wish I had thought to take a picture to share but at that moment I was just a little distracted. When I reach the rear of the motor home which being a diesel pusher has the engine in the back, I was assaulted by a spray of hot water. After having my hand scalded by the water while opening up the engine compartment I discovered a steady stream coming from a hole in the plastic overflow tank for the radiator. For those that are not familiar with the overflow tank, every vehicle has one it acts a reservoir for radiator. As the water heats up it expands and the tank provides a place for the water to be held until it is cooled and then returned to the radiator. That's a simplified version but you get the picture.
We are now 40 miles from the nearest town and unable to drive the motor home in this condition. After consulting the DW it was decided that I would disconnect the car and drive to town and pick up something to patch the hole while she guarded the motor home. A 40 mile trip through the mountain, even in a car, is at least an hour each way but it sure is a beautiful drive and at this time I'm not to worried, we have plenty of time and once fixed we will just have to spend the night in Winslow and lose a day but we're still in no hurry so no problem. Springerville, AZ is a very small town but luck was with me and there was one auto parts store. Then the luck ran out. After consulting with the clerk who informed me that overflow tanks are made of polyethylene which can not be repaired. Seems all adhesiveves are made of a chemical which will not stick to polyethylene and if applied will dissolve the tank. Not having the DW available to consult with (share the blame) I made an executive decision and purchased an epoxy just to try in case the clerk was wrong. Also purchased a couple of highly overpriced gallons of antifreeze to replace what boiled out.
On the way back the wind picked up the clouds rolled in, the tempture dropped and the rain started, the weather can change very quickly in the mountains. By the time I got back the motor home the wind was blowing about 40mph the rain was blowing sideways and the motor home was rocking like it was ready to sail off the cliff. The beautiful valley view had turned ugly. Having lived in Florida where it's always warm there I was is a cold wind driven rain with no jacket trying to make repairs that couldn't be done with a product not suited for the job. When using epoxy it is necessary to mix together the resin and the hardner, after mixing you have very limited time to apply it before it hardens into a concrete like blob. With teeth chattering and hands shaking due to the cold and rain I manage to apply a over sized glob which appeared to be sticking. Epoxy takes at least 24 hours to totally adhere but we are not going to stay on this mountain for 25 hours.
Duct tape!!! Being somewhat of a shade tree mechanic I always keep a roll of duct tape handy after all it may not fix the problem but is helpful as a temporay fix and will get you to someone that knows what their doing. I'm not waiting, I get out my roll of duct tape and proceed to wrap the entire tank with it, right over top of my epoxy patch. Back in the warmth of the motor home feeling rather proud of my patch job and thinking with the epoxy and the duct tape as backup support I'll give it an hour before heading down the mountain to Springerville. We decided that I'd drive the motor home and the DW would follow just in case the patch didn't hold. DW was supposed to stick close to the bumper and watch for water squirting out the back. Away We go!
We made it! At last on level ground in Sprinerville I pull in to a small shopping center just as the warning light came on, guess the patch didn't hold but just long enough. At least here we have phone and Internet available so looks like I'm doing a good job of kicking fate's butt. On line we search for a nearby RV park where we can setup get comftortable while I explore our option for a permanent fix. After an extensive online search the only RV park available was located less the 1 mile away. It's dark, raining, cold and I'm tired so any port in a storm. At this time it does not matter what the park looks like as long as they have hook up. It's late so after I'm exhausted so it's just dinner and to bed, we'll worry about repairs in the morning. Stay tuned more to come in Part3
Saturday, December 4, 2010
California or Bust Part 1 Texas
W0W how time flies! When we started this blog we had every intention of fatefully updating frequently, well so much for good intentions. This will be my attempt at redemption.
Last time I made an entry here we were in Louisiana heading for Texas. The DW had plans of obtaining temporary employment for a few months to build up the old bank account before continuing our travels. Once again the God of fate snatch us by the shirt collar and said think again on those plans. Upon arriving in Texas Dw applied for her nurse licence. She was assured this was a very simple process, apply, get a temporary license and work well the permenent license was process.
We set up camp a Lake Livingston State Park in the Piney Woods portion of Texas, what a beautiful location.
Our view at sunset
We had 4 fantastic days of of lounging around, enjoying nature and it's beauty when we here informed by the rangers that the park was sold out for the weekend to a rally group and we'd have to leave. So much for Texas hospitality.
After a search of area campgrounds for available and affordable space we decided to move westward about 80 miles to Huntsville. Huntsville is the prison capital of Texas something like 6 prisons along with the Texas State Prison Museum are located there.
Huntsville is a nice small town with lots to do and we availed ourselves of their many attractions. First we visited the museum, It really was quite interesting with the history of the prisons, art and crafts created by inmates over the years, guns made of soap. knives made of toilet paper. my guess on that one is it was self cleaning, soaked up the blood as it killed no mess to clean up afterward, also they had the original "Old Sparky" the first Texas electric chair. I personally found that fascinating, the DW on the other hand was a little unnerved by the site and the fact I enjoyed it. It took the rest of the day to convince the DW that the reason I was smiling well view the chair was not that I was picturing how she'd look sitting there.
We also visited Sam Houston's home and he's grave in the local cemetery. If you have no idea who Sam Houston is look it up online I'm writing this to tell our history not his.
At this point we're feeling good just killing time waiting for the license approval. Bam, God of fate jerks us back. Seems that Dw's finger prints were unreadable, therefore she needs to submit another set before issuing a license. No problem, can do. Submitted another set of prints and they also were unreadable. I thought it was a great idea to sand off our finger prints when we started robbing banks with hindsight I see now that created problems. Durnig this time Dw had received word that lots of jobs were available in the California prisons. After much thought and careful planning we decided to start toward California well waiting for Texas to approve her license. Now if you every traveled across Texas you will know it takes about 3 days of hard driving and in a motor home it takes 5 days so we figure we would have 5 days in which to either get the Texas license or leave Texas for California, sort of our way of fence straddling. By the time we reach El Paso Texas once again rejected the finger prints as unreadable and suggest live-scan fingerprinting which is suppose to be foolproof. Yup you guessed it, the DW fooled them and the live-scan prints were unreadable. Now we're not dealing with some had core master criminal here, seems like the DW had been taught as a child the cleanliness is next to Godliness so she was here hands frequently and has washed away her finger prints. I vote for really robbing banks now. Texas says the next step is a complete background and name check with the FBI which can take up to 3 moths, Goodbye Texas!
Last time I made an entry here we were in Louisiana heading for Texas. The DW had plans of obtaining temporary employment for a few months to build up the old bank account before continuing our travels. Once again the God of fate snatch us by the shirt collar and said think again on those plans. Upon arriving in Texas Dw applied for her nurse licence. She was assured this was a very simple process, apply, get a temporary license and work well the permenent license was process.
We set up camp a Lake Livingston State Park in the Piney Woods portion of Texas, what a beautiful location.
We had 4 fantastic days of of lounging around, enjoying nature and it's beauty when we here informed by the rangers that the park was sold out for the weekend to a rally group and we'd have to leave. So much for Texas hospitality.
After a search of area campgrounds for available and affordable space we decided to move westward about 80 miles to Huntsville. Huntsville is the prison capital of Texas something like 6 prisons along with the Texas State Prison Museum are located there.
Huntsville is a nice small town with lots to do and we availed ourselves of their many attractions. First we visited the museum, It really was quite interesting with the history of the prisons, art and crafts created by inmates over the years, guns made of soap. knives made of toilet paper. my guess on that one is it was self cleaning, soaked up the blood as it killed no mess to clean up afterward, also they had the original "Old Sparky" the first Texas electric chair. I personally found that fascinating, the DW on the other hand was a little unnerved by the site and the fact I enjoyed it. It took the rest of the day to convince the DW that the reason I was smiling well view the chair was not that I was picturing how she'd look sitting there.
We also visited Sam Houston's home and he's grave in the local cemetery. If you have no idea who Sam Houston is look it up online I'm writing this to tell our history not his.
At this point we're feeling good just killing time waiting for the license approval. Bam, God of fate jerks us back. Seems that Dw's finger prints were unreadable, therefore she needs to submit another set before issuing a license. No problem, can do. Submitted another set of prints and they also were unreadable. I thought it was a great idea to sand off our finger prints when we started robbing banks with hindsight I see now that created problems. Durnig this time Dw had received word that lots of jobs were available in the California prisons. After much thought and careful planning we decided to start toward California well waiting for Texas to approve her license. Now if you every traveled across Texas you will know it takes about 3 days of hard driving and in a motor home it takes 5 days so we figure we would have 5 days in which to either get the Texas license or leave Texas for California, sort of our way of fence straddling. By the time we reach El Paso Texas once again rejected the finger prints as unreadable and suggest live-scan fingerprinting which is suppose to be foolproof. Yup you guessed it, the DW fooled them and the live-scan prints were unreadable. Now we're not dealing with some had core master criminal here, seems like the DW had been taught as a child the cleanliness is next to Godliness so she was here hands frequently and has washed away her finger prints. I vote for really robbing banks now. Texas says the next step is a complete background and name check with the FBI which can take up to 3 moths, Goodbye Texas!
Wednesday, December 1, 2010
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