We left for a trip up the river trail and decided to come back along one through the forest. Not the smartest after the morning’s rain: every bug and leaf took an interest in us and we left with many places needing scratching. It seems that biking keeps us from getting it too much; there were several pretty close to each other big logs we had to carry our bikes over and that was when we were attacked. Actually, it’s true: swarms sometimes pelt us as we plow through even on the path. Definitely wear eye protection and keep you mouth closed when possible.

View from the bike/pedestrian bridge to the other side.

Seriously, this place is alive. All of it. Winter is not all that far back and yet the green canopy is so mature and thick we had to duck under creepers. My sunglasses were too much for the minimal light. The smell is that of growing things.

The bus is not going to be purchased, big surprise I know. I spoke with the CA DMV and per Shirley, the short of it is registration is “probably possible” and “make sure you have all the CA forms filled out” and “can’t register until you’re in state” and the temporary tags will expire before we’re back. To summarize, on to finding a rental and revisiting the “make a kinda RV” strategy.

I optimistically made up this checklist for the bus inspection, amalgamating several site’s advices. Hopefully it’ll serve you when in a time of need.

PRE INSPECTION

1. Write down the Vehicle Identification Number (VIN) which is a 17-digit code usually located on the top of the instrument panel, at the base of the windshield. It will also be on a sticker on the driver’s-side door pillar, and in several other places around the vehicle. Make certain that all the VINs on the vehicle match! If the one on the door pillar is different than the one on the dashboard, or title, or somewhere else, then something is not correct.

WITH CAR OFF

1. Maintenance records should show steady oil changes
2. Is the bodywork straight, look down the fenders and doors for ripples, look at doorframes and underhood for evidence of crash damage
3. Check tires for wear, should be even
4. Check for body repair with magnet on different panels
5. Check shocks are not leaking
6. Check for rust in wheel wells, frame, floorboards
7. Battery corroded?
8. Air filter clean enough?
9. Oil on dipstick black (or green or red) and free from grit?
10. Is radiator fluid foamy or contain oil droplets – should not.
11. Has the car been in a flood> Reach under car for top of gas tank or under instrument panel for mud or leaves. Smell for mold
12. Are the brake and gas pedals overworn?
13. Is the steering wheel overworn for the milage?
14. Seat comfy?

WITH CAR ON

1. Turn key into Accessory position. All dash warning lights should illuminate; especially “check engine” and “ABS”
2. Does transmission fluid smell sweet and have little or no particulate matter. Must not be burnt orage or brown.
3. Check heat and AC. Fan should blow without any obstruction or excessive noise

WHILE DRIVING

1. Any steering vibration or shaking?
2. Braking good? Continue in a straight line?
3. Accelerate well?