It's been an expensive last three months or so.
Tire cupping evidence on the front wheels led to the replacement of the front shocks, which were apparently toast. Only got about 30K miles from those shock absorbers since they were replaced back in July of 2023. It was pricey.
Of course, the tires were also due to be replaced after the trip to the eastern half of the country, so that was another bunch of money for six new tires. Still, one can't really skimp on tires eh?
The windshield was replaced due to the cracks I'd lived with for quite a while having grown too long. $250 deductible, the rest covered by insurance.
Today, September 10, my new mechanic shop (way less costly) finished work on replacement of the front end ball joints/tie rods/tie rod ends. My old previous mechanic shop had noted the work needed to be done, but had provided a costly estimate. An estimate that almost resulted in me disposing of the motorhome.
Also had the transmission drained/refilled (almost 8 qts) along with both the inner and remote filters. They also pointed out to me that the RV has a transmission oil cooler! Never realized that.
Luckily, the offer I made to "give it away" wasn't accepted in time and I was able to gracefully withdraw it.
Shopped around two other spots and found a less expensive option and my new mechanic shop. They're not really a shop per se. They're a mobile repair service specializing in heavy trucks/equipment. Marshall's Equipment Repair LLC.
They were recommended by a neighborhood friend who's an accomplished gearhead.
Roy and his son Dalton, are very knowledgeable about repairing vehicles and Fords especially. They answered my questions freely and in great detail, taking time to explain concepts to me related to the work done.
Inspections were free as opposed to the other two shops.
They came in at the lower price as their overhead isn't as much as established shops of course. That and their labor rates were quite reasonable in comparison to the other shops.
Here's a short video of one of two sets of ball joints that were replaced. They looked pretty rough and I'm quite confident I was correct in getting them replaced now vice a few thousand miles down the road.
So, for now, Umarang the VRRV remains in the family. Not sure what this upcoming camping season will look like right now, we shall see.
