One sweet deal at a time

As I sit here listening to new SF Public Library music acquisitions and feeling quite proud of myself, it occurred to me that this is a time to share.
Why am I feeling so proud? Yet another repair on the truck is done and all that I have to show for it is some (actually a ton) scratches on my arms and pesky "dirt"  under my nails. Today's adventure was all about the broken headlamp and our power steering. Upon evaluating our new truck we found that the passenger side light was hanging on by the wires. This is no exageration! The mounting bolts had been damaged, the light socket was broken and the bulb hung in the light keeping it from falling backwards toward the engine. Thanks to the battery there was something solid to keep things in their places (kinda).
So, first thing I started out on the light. Just as I was making headway (the light was a pain to get out thanks to the broke-ass grill in the front) the parking lady that haunts us drives up and has no time for my story about not being there for more than the hour you are allowed. What ever- she rolled on and I got out of a ticket for the moment. An hour later (really- those things are not meant to be changed- that is why they have replaceable bulbs) I was done!
After hearing that Gretta didn't need the truck today I figured it was time to deal with the leaking high pressure return hose and housing for our power steering. If you have the money I would only recommend letting someone else do this!!! I had to buy a 24mm socket and adapter to even get going on this. Next- remove the cool front skid plate. This thing really is ready for Centre County!!! Just like the old "Canyonero" (R.I.P.). One nicety has to be the lack of corrosion. Bolts just come off when you try! After removing the battery (second time today) and the radiator overflow tank, it was time to hit the big old pressure bolts. OK, I am not built for strength in my upper body- these things barely came loose before I gave up!!! Honestly- this was the hardest I have worked in years (physically). The housing gushed out fluid and took an old mountain bike race t-shirt with it. The housing had to cup the engine and work it's way up on both sides. By housing I mean steel piping. The removal and replacement took 2 hours. 1 hour was wasted on just one end of the housing and the bolt being put back. You see, just cause you can look at a bolt don't necessarily mean you can get to it. If you can get to it, you probably won't be able to get any force to it. Long story short- I cut the hell out of my arms and twisted my wrists and fingers in ways I hadn't previously though I could just to get a single mounting bolt in place! The other side went quickly and I bled the system in no time!
Looking back- there are things worth paying for. The labor on this job is in that category. The joy of overcoming a challenge never gets old. The torn up arms- that is getting old.
I'll keep you updated with the next repair (I can't imagine there aren't more to come!)
Later.
E
PS

You can't see the scratches or the dried brake fluid...damn photographs

This one is better person as well...you can see the scratches more now...

One for the ladies....sorry fellas!!! Suck it! Sweet beard and Disco Patch!

Just for you kids back east- my arms got scratched up cause I was working on the truck in short sleeves!!!!! Nothing like non-seasonal temperatures at New Years.