With the temperatures somehow creeping up into the 90’s (in March!), we were itching to get back on the road. Or maybe it’s the simple fact that we spent the last month watching every episode of Game of Thrones and no longer have anything else to do with our free time. Either way, today marks the beginning of our American road trip, round 2.
In order to avoid another inconvenient breakdown, we decided to do a considerable amount of preemptive maintenance on Ludwig. Even though I think I would prefer getting a cavity filled to doing mechanical work on a car, I attempted to help John.
John using the most absurdly large bolt cutters I have ever seen
Things I fixed/changed myself:
• Serpentine belt
• Wipers
• Engine air filter
• Radiator fluid
• Half a spark plug
Things John fixed/changed while I channeled my old cheerleading days:
• The other 7.5 spark plugs
• Front right rotor, ball joints, brake pad, and bearing
• PCV valve
• All 4 tie rod ends
• Fuel filter
• Brake fluid
• Fuses
• New external battery system using an old Nissan Leaf battery
After a touch-up of the internal paint work and a brand new set of tires, Ludwig was deemed ready to roll. Bon voyage Austin, we are heading west!
We had to climb the Greenbelt one last time before saying goodbye to Austin
Safe travels to you both on Round II…. We hope all the van preventative maintenance will avoid any travel delays.
(Lauren, don’t feel bad if I prefer that John helps with the Insight spark plugs…)
John: Please let me know if / when you are in Wisconsin working on Linsight with Eric. I’d love to help!! Not sure if I’m going to InsightFest 2016, but I know many IC folks are looking forward to seeing you there. Happy Travels!! Tom
Safe travels, Lauren and John! You must have recovered well. Glad you are in climbing shape again after some well deserved rest.
Safe travels, Babies. We all will miss you. You are loved.
bye