We made our annual snowbird return migration, driving 1,190 miles in four days. Other than dealing with steeply inflated gas prices, the trip was trouble-free and quite enjoyable. We made overnight stops in Willcox, AZ, Las Cruces, NM, and Las Vegas, NM. Fuel mileage was typical at mid 12's to low 13's loaded and towing the Smart car.
The Orion was loaded with full water and gas plus all the goods we transfer between our winter and summer houses. We had four fairly heavy boxes plus one suitcase containing food, clothing, and miscellaneous gear distributed between the shower stall and the car. The refrigerator and freezer were crammed full. I also carry a tool box plus two saws, a grinder, and a drill set for projects at both places. I am pleased with myself with how much I can cram into both vehicles and still have some room left over.
I continue to be pleased with the performance of the Transit in our particular configuration of travel. The repairs I had done over the winter were successful with the furnace and rear-view camera and monitor working perfectly. I like having the monitor set up to be in the rear view all the time, and not be distracted by the view changing when I put a turn signal on.
Phrynie is showing her age a bit now. The rear cap is mostly all faded to a lighter color now. The side panels are also not looking as glossy as new. I probably need to spend some time and effort to polish and wax the coach box soon. I tried a "ceramic" wax. It seemed better at first, but maybe is worn off now. That wax seems to work better on my cars than the panel siding of the coach. At about 30,000 miles, all six Hankook OEM tires still have lots of tread remaining. No sidewall cracking either.
Plans for this summer include some local camping trips and a late July run up to Yellowstone. We will have a chance to exercise the solar charging and lithium battery then because of planned extended dry camping.
