Arnie
1972 VW Kombi Van
January 8th, 1995 - April 13th, 1996
He served us well
and always came through
in times of need
∞
· left Cape Town Jan 15/95
· filled up at 31 km
· discovered gas leak, speedo stopped at 81 km
· got bolt stuck in tire – R10 fix
· lost starter motor between Durban and Swaziland (near False Bay)
o later to discover that it was the ignition that was giving us grief all along
· gashed hole in exhaust in Mozambique between Vilanculos and Beira (see “The Worst Road in Africa”)
o muffler sealant applied later in Masvingo with little effect
· various scratches from several game parks
· some new rust from ocean-side journeys (and a distinct lack of washing)
· door slider started to go around Hwange (an up-front and personal account of the ramifications at “Happy Tourists”)
· losing power on the way to Hwange; revving high, popping out of first gear
o equated to tempers running high and popping for the occupants of Arnie as well
· Survived it all!
· chugged into Pietersburg
· sold Arnie April 13th, 1996
 |
| That was our Arnie, just a little more faded and worn around the edges |
* Picture courtesy of Michael at http://www.flickr.com/photos/ifhp97/4755649237/in/set-72157624314943542/
nice. i always wanted one...and a good vehicle becomes likea good friend...
ReplyDeleteArnie was a sweet ride, not without his quirks. When I worked int he auto-body industry, I met lots of "interesting" people that really loved their cars. I give Arnie props for all he offered us, but in the grand scheme of things, it was just a van; a vehicle (literally and figuratively) for our adventures.
ReplyDeleteOMG...what a touching tribute to Arnie!
ReplyDeleteI felt the same way when I traded in my old Chevy Nova - I was sooooo sad. A car almost becomes like a living, breathing, and loyal human being to you, doesn't it?
I still miss my Chevy Nova!
X
As he was a major figure in my travels, I felt it was only fitting to give him a grand farewell. He changed the course of my travels and for that I will be forever grateful. Cheers to your Nova & my Arnie Ron! :)
ReplyDelete