Fast forward 30 days from that f’d up trip and I’m back in Bend to pick up my Westy. Christian, from the auto shop, and I have been texting, calling and emailing during this time and everything is ready as planned. It was very gracious of him to pick me up on a Saturday morning and bring me to the shop. Thanks again!

Oil Leaks – mechanic was very surprised how loose all oil fittings were. Tightened all, cleaned the engine / compartment and looked for any other oil leaks. All good.

Alternator – did not need to replace as the alternator cable was pinched and eventually exposed to bare metal and shorted. Coincidence that it occurred right after it was washed.

Fan Belt – replaced

Since they specialize in auto electrical items, I had them redo my inverter, which has never adequately worked. Seems the cable diameter we originally used from the battery to the inverter under the jump seat was significantly undersized. Ran a copper cable the diameter of my thumb and all good. Now I can make coffee or use a heater when no shore power is available.

By noon, I was heading out of town towards Summer Lake Oregon. I’ve got a reservation for a campsite at the Summer Lake Hot Springs about 125 miles southeast.

Finally out of Bend and checking gauges every 15 seconds waiting for the other shoe to drop, but everything was running and feeling great. Stopped for gas and checked the oil and back on the road. Don’t want to be the kiss of death, but she’s running strong, like she should.

Summer Lake is a large, alkali lake. About 25,000 acres and average depth of 1′. Yes that is correct. From my previous run up here, I’ve mentioned these large alkali lakes and dry lake beds.

Anyway, Duane built this place in 1988 on the hot springs and there is a large indoor pool and outside soaking tubs, all at various temps.

Additionally, there are cabins (heated geothermal floors) and campsites.

Nice campsite! This place is simply simple and beautiful. Was going to spend one night, but the peace and tranquility encouraged a second!

The next 3 shots are of the bathhouse. All taken from the exact spot with my new iPhone using 3 different focal length settings.

Just beautiful out here.

Love these options 👍🏼

Picture study of Gary

And again

So, it’s about 60 degrees and you just bask in the sunlight.

Then the sun goes behind the mountain and the temp drops 10 to 15 degrees within 30 seconds! No kidding.

Flyover country

New low light feature on the iPhone. Got to say I am impressed.

One final note. It was 60 degrees during the day and I wasn’t quite sure how cold it would get, but decided to plug in the heating pad to put by my feet as the back door does get pretty cold at night. Also put the heater on low.

Woke up to this…

More from the road in a day or so. Hoping to stop in on Robin and Randy tomorrow.