Kombi in the ER

I've been working on Kombi seemingly from the very first day I've been with her.  Wait, actually from the very first day I was with her. We've made it through some interesting roadside repairs and other more calculated adjustments that I could plan for.  This morning was by far the most intense repairs need thus far.  It was planned, sort of, so with plenty of time I set up to meet with the local mechanic here in San Pedro and go over a small list. 

For about four days or so now Kombi would only start sometimes, then never, then sometimes.  After testing the battery and the alternator it came down to the starter motor.  I removed and disassembled the starter and with the help of Willis(that's the mechanic's name) we diagnosed that it was the bushing that aligns the starter with the actual motor.  The chances of him having the right bushing were slim.  After searching his garage/yard we did not in fact find the right bushing but we found one that was close and ground and drilled it out to fit our needs.   We reassembled the starter, installed the bushing, installed the starter, and gave the ol girl a go only to find out that she runs like a dream. Perfect!  In only a couple few hours Willis and I had fixed yet another problem with Kombi and driving away I could tell she was more than happy, purring as it were.  I felt the need to relay this story of repair and triumph because not only would i forget the details but I have a hot Internet connection and I need to take advantage of it.  

So far on this trip the repairs to Kombi are as follows:  separated shifting assembly, 2 flat tires, broken throttle cable, broken clutch cable, new fuel filter, complete separation of left axle from transmission (on the road) and reinstall with 4 out of 6 bolts(added one more with Willis this morning), installed lighter, and removal of and repair to starter motor and bushing.   I'm one third of the way through the trip, I wonder what's next. 

On the second of January Kombi and I attempt arguably the hardest day of the trip traveling over the Paso de Jama from Chile to Argentina.  We'll spend a hundred or so kilometers above 12,000 feet with our max altitude somewhere over 15,000.  Should be interesting, but I have faith in and love for Kombi and after today I feel the same from her.  I also must give credit where credit is due.  If it weren't for Hoyt I wouldn't stand a chance on this here trip.  So, thanks Dad.  

Talk to you guys soon.

William

Oh and this would have been a great time to take pictures but I suck at that.