Well a progress report on preparations for the big trip...
As reported earlier, the bus had a broken front spring. It now has two new front springs. The original springs are tapered and to hard (expensive) to match so the bus has two new multi leaf springs of the same rate - and sits about 25mm higher.
In servicing and checking the bus for the coming trip... it has broken rear shock absorber. No problem for a Hino, one would think... However this bus has shockers with a pin top and eyelet bottom mount. Can't get one - or get one made for love or money. Hino price is about $700 each ex Japan... plus GST!!!
No choice, they are ordered, and we await arrival...
Meanwhile have ordered Thermashield paint for the (exposed bit of) the roof so must clean and sand the roof and get it applied. Then will stick on the PV solar panels.
The RHHINO now has a VANSAT fully automatic satellite dish installed. It is fantastic. The front dual passenger seat recycled as a lounge faces the 22"LED TV just in front of the door. And we have a table, rear overhead cupboards and the right side awning - just need shockers...
