Day Six: Readying the Falcon

My car has been dubbed the "Millenium Falcon" by my friend Michael Nystrom, and I think the name fits fairly well. The 95 Mercedes has logged more than a quarter-million miles traveling the U.S. and Canada over the past few years. I try to do all necessary mechanical work myself and leave the unnecessary until it becomes necessary. Today several things became necessary to prepare for a few thousand more miles in the coming days. Luckily I bought a very similar car on craigslist for $500 a couple years back, and I can use the parts from this car when needed.

From 620-2011

I added a new thermostat, repaired the auxiliary cooling fans, and added a new 12V outlet in the cabin in addition to the usual fluid-checking. The photo below was taken during the most disassembled state. The radiator, condenser, and fans all had to come out to repair the fans.

From 620-2011

After putting this all back together I drove to visit my boss from my high school job. Mrs. Chandler now supervises information technology for the Jasper City Schools. She is a very nice person, and I am lucky to have met her when I did. Today's theme was "people get what they deserve." I argued that it's basically always true in one way or another, while she resisted somewhat. I think it's really true, but just wish there were shorter delays between deserving and getting...

From 620-2011

Now I'm packing everything up for the journey out tomorrow. I'd like to make it to Council Bluffs, IA, where I worked for two weeks ahead of the Iowa Caucuses in 2008, but the trip is at least 15 hours. Iowa rest stops have wifi, so I will try to post tomorrow from somewhere in Iowa even if it's not Council Bluffs.