Into the New Year

The winter had remained cold, so we had simply left Gary in his barn. But now it was February, possibly the warmest on record, and spring had begun. Our bees had already taken advantage of the first warm days to slowly prepare for longer outings or at least to tidy up their hive and throw out everything that had accumulated during the cold months.
For us, it was time to finally set an appointment at the truck professionals in Engelsdorf. Sebb picked up the phone, and we got an appointment on the sixth of March, quarter past seven in the morning... yes, seven fifteen... and then, as discussed in November, an hour of inspection, and at the end, there should be a repair plan.

Sebb then called the acquaintance with the barn and arranged for us to pick up Gary again on the first weekend in March to take him to the workshop.

March second, twenty-four. It was ten o'clock when we were finally back in Brandis for the first time. We were prepared for all eventualities. We had tools, a jump-start cable, a starter battery that we had borrowed from the winterized motorcycle, and an air pump. Had Gary made it through the winter well? Was there still air in the tires? Had he not leaked too much? What would happen when Sebb turned the ignition key? At first glance, there were... no notable abnormalities. Yes, a little oil had dripped, maybe 5 drops. Gary had naturally gathered a bit of dust, but that was to be expected. The air in the tires had held.

Now came the moment of truth. Would the engine start? The ignition lock was a bit sticky. The pre-heating time for the glow plugs dragged on, and then the pre-heating light went out. On the first attempt, Sebb was too hesitant, and after a few turns, the engine died again. On the second attempt, Sebb let the starter run a bit longer, put some pressure on the gas pedal, and... lo and behold! The engine started, and the motorhome awakened for the new season.

On the way home to Leipzig, we made a quick stop at a gas station. Pumping air into the tires and checking the oil. Then it was off home.