Some Treats For Dodge

Three years before I came along in the summer of 2009, Dodge became a valued member of Gary's family. Back on September 26th, 2006, Gary saw Dodge on eBay. By the end of the day, Dodge was at his new home on Gary's driveway. A few months later, Gary and Dodge camped together for the first time. It was the only time that Gary had camped in anything but a tent, and it was definitely a step up (literally) from sleeping on the ground. With all of the camping gear and everything else that has to be brought along on trips, Gary was a bit cramped inside Dodge. At that point, he decided to use Dodge as a hauling and towing vehicle, and to find a small vintage trailer to camp in. That's where I came into the picture. Since then, the three of us have been inseparable. Gary calls us "The Three Camp-A-Teers". We're besties to the full extent of the meaning of the word. Dodge and I get a little work done to us each year before we leave home for our fall and winter camping season. I'm sure I'll be getting my systems checked very soon, but for now it's Dodge's turn. You may recall that his windshield got broken by a passing log truck last season in northern Georgia. The cracks had really spread since then, and some were within Gary's line of sight. It was definitely time for a replacement. Boyd's Glass was chosen by recommendation (and price). They ordered Dodge's new glass one day, and installed it the next. What a difference! In addition to all the cracks in the old windshield, it's amazing how hazy the glass gets over time. The new one is crystal clear. With that done, it was time for some exhaust work. Rick's Muffler Shop had replaced Dodge's muffler a few years ago, so Gary took him there again. Although the old muffler had some holes in it, there was also a major exhaust leak where the exhaust pipe bolts up to the manifold. The bolts were replaced and tightened, and the problem was solved. Last year, I knew when Gary and Dodge were returning to the campground after taking a side trip together somewhere. Dodge's exhaust was a dead giveaway, but now they will be able to sneak up on me. I guess I'd better be on my best behavior, but that won't be too hard. I'm ALWAYS a good boy (HaHaHaHa!!!). Now it's Gary's turn to do the rest of the work on Dodge. His oil needs changing, and there's a leaking gasket on the rear differential. He can handle that. He's also revising the interior modifications that he did last year to make them a bit more "user friendly". Enjoy your upgrades, Dodge, and Happy 10th Anniversary to my two besties. I am so lucky to be part of the gang. Long live "The Three Camp-A-Teers!".