Day 235 - Adjusting the Valve Clearance

After breakfast (pancakes with honey and lemon), I adjust the engine valve clearance for the first time. I had watched Wally doing it a few times, but now being on my own made me a little nervous.

The operating manual stated that the cylinder firing order was 1-4-3-2, which made sense to me for a Boxer engine. So, I went ahead and adjusted the valve clearance in that order. I kept my fingers crossed as I started the engine.

I must have done everything correctly because it ran OK, and I didn’t hear unusual sounds or knocking. After a few minutes, I also checked the valve covers to ensure the gaskets were sealing correctly.

Then we continued the trip toward Santiago. The engine ran well, and I was so proud of my acquired car mechanic skills.

This part of Chile was very flat, and the compass pointed North as we continued on Route #5. Agricultural fields, mainly wheat, could be seen on both sides of the road. The snow-capped Volcanoes to our right were a picture-perfect backdrop.

We passed many wineries and cherry farms. One particular town had lots of hand-woven baskets for sale. Another one seemed to specialize in all kinds of brooms.

Tonight we are staying near a river about 45 miles away from Santiago. There are millions of black flies here, driving us crazy.

Stats: Miles 271, Expenses $1.70Read more