2008 at the Hammond Barn

[RHClarke]

Bob's BBQ is in the bag, summer is slowly turning into fall (climate change they call it now), and the focus at the barn turns to domestic chores. Unfortunately, we did not have a chance to get up to the Bancroft area for the big show...maybe next year. Today, we rounded up more metal for the scrappers - you would be surprised at what Bob had lieing about - he was!

We wrangled a Rube Goldberg farm implement - brand name Dion, and nicknamed "Stephane" (after one of our finest liberal politicians) out of the brush and then Grant and Bob cut some odds and ends off of the device for future "artistic" welding chores. We took a break around 3 PM to quaff some of Canada's finest ales (it was quite hot - the beer evaporated rather quickly). A few short stories about CMP collecting later, we were back at it.

I ran the HUP engine again today (this time with the fan connected) and found that old engines like to leak ...everything - including water. Bob recommended that I "pipe dope" the bolts for the water pump (I'll be looking that up later on the internet). Frame clean up and a second coat of paint are in the offing - once the brakes are finally adjusted...and then the great mating of the body to the frame...check is in the mail...

Bob fiddled with his old tractor in preparation for "putting in the wood" - a chore for the upcoming weeks. Grant continued to work on his roof panel.

Between the great clean up and the day to day tinkering, it was a great day at the barn. Hopefully, the weather remains good this fall. Speaking of which, it's time to fill up the van - hurricane Gustav will be driving up the price of gas soon (oil execs love these storms...). More later.