I'm in Kumbia, 30ks from Kingaroy

Happywanderer · The Master

I'm in Kumbia, 30ks from Kingaroy

jules47 · The Happy Helper

Oh, Marj - poor you - I feel like coming and giving you a hug myself - first time is always the worst - but you will get through this, in 6 months time, you will look back and laugh - Myrtle is just testing you, you know - which woman is stronger - prove it is you!!!!
Chilax as the young ones say.
.
See ya soon.

milo · Guru

hi hw
sorry things are getting you down
i wonder if theres some kind of wind up thing that can
be hooked up to your pop top to make it easier to put it up and down?

Travel Bug · Guru

Oooh Marj, like Jules I want to go and give you a hug too.

As I am too far away...I am sending lots of cyber hugs your way smile

You have been really tested but from here on things must get better!!

Take care and don't lose that smile. Cheers. Pam. xoxox

Happywanderer · The Master

Thanks girls and milo Yes there is but costs quite a lot. Sheba has looked into it. Will be something for down the track.
If I manage to keep sane that will be one of the first things I look into getting, wouldm't have worried before but now it might be first priority. Also solar panel and also a decent awning I want the ironman 4 x4 one and can zip on walls to make a good sized room but that will have to wait.
I've just made myself a lovely cuppa using my house jug on the power here, have laptop, phone and camera all charging. I won't bother with the TV tonight but might try it if here a while tomorrow. So will plug radio in shortly and play on here or read a book.

ChiChi1 · Guru

Thinking of you HW. Chin up. Hugs!!!

Gerty Dancer · Guru

So pleased you found helpful friendly folk nearby... I wonder sometimes if people like that are angels in disguise.
Nearly there, then by the time you come home all Myrtle's probs will be sorted out and you'll find the trip a breeze.

Happywanderer · The Master

I think you maybe right Gerty. I will stay at my sons till its fixed, New deep cycle battery inhouse and work out the oil thing. Maybe I need to carry some with me being an older vehicle. I'm used to little cars that just go from one service to the next.
Myrtle was fully serviced before I left in amongst all the other things done so there should be a problem except her age and of course everything is under the seats so have to be shown where to put the oil.
I called into mechanic as I was leaving Echuca and got hime to show me where the water goes for radiator as that is all under seat too. Not like the modern day cars where you lift a bonnet.

lilly31 · Guru

Chin up marj
Things will get better and even if you do decide this is not for you ...at least you went out and had a go more then a lot have ever done ...
But i think you will just get stronger and this first trip is testing you to see just how strong you are ....
Have a good rest tonite and thing will look better in morning ...

bill12 · Guru

Don,t panic , Mrs Mainwaring!We all have to learn, sometimes.Has the motor still got oil in it? It pays to carry a 4ltr jug of oil , just in case.Some times its a faulty sensor on the motor, but , it pays to check the oil and water levels every morning. You just have to get in the habit.If the oil light comes on, pull over, and check the oil.The dipstick is usually on the left side(looking forward), and reads E to F(empty to full).It should be somewhere in between.Is it a diesel or petrol?Don,t put diesel oil in a petrol motor as the diesel oil is a detergent oil and will damage the motor. PM me if you need help.

Happywanderer · The Master

Bill it is a petrol motor. When you say to check the dipstick I'm the only dipstick here at the moment. Where is the dipstick??? As I say I'm used to lifting a bonnet. What do I remove to find it?? Is it under the seat and which of the 3 is it under.??

Ma · Guru

Marj, from where you are if you head up the street past the butchers shop you will find a little garage tucked in just up the road.

Found the people of Kumbria to be very friendly and I'm sure if you told the young chap in the garage what's happening he will be able to help you out.

Hope the showers and the loos are working there. They weren't when we stayed there but at least we had some power.

jack biggles · Senior Member

Hello Marj,

We havent spoken before, Im new here. If you could tell us what year model and what van you have, I will try to locate something online & guide you towards the engines dip stick & location for filling the oil.

With an older vehicle, it should certainly go onto either your daily check list or depending on the amount of miles you cover each week, perhaps a weekly one.

I take it you have a Toyota of some description, can you give some further info & I will see if I can dig up an online diagram for you.

regards
jack

Cruising Granny · Guru

OK Marj, we need to sit down with a cuppa, and have a little chat.
Firstly, don't, repeat NO NOT go home!!!!! You'll kick yourself for the rest of your life it you do.
Now the hug, hug, hug, hug. Really girl, I mean it. Stick with it, but just prepare yourself so you can relax and enjoy it.
Please get your S in L to show you how to check oil and water and tyres. It's a bit tricky in your vehicle as you sit almost on the motor, but it's worth your while to get into the habit.
Every morning BEFORE you start the motor check everything, including the battery levels, if it's not a sealed battery.
Things change a lot quicker when you drive all the time. I don't know if your vehicle uses water or coolant in the radiator, but I'm guessing water.
Carry at least 5 litres of water with you, or coolant concentrate if it's coolant you're needing.
Carry a couple litres of oil which is compatible with your vehicle and the fuel you use. They vary quite a bit, so choose wisely and ask for assistance at the auto shop.
When you're on your own out there you need to know these basics even if you are a member of the RAC or equivalent.
If a light comes on or a guage (temp) changes on the dash you need to stop immediately, and check out why. DO NOT drive on until you've checked. It could cost your motor, and your nomadding lifestyle.
Do not open the radiator when the motor has been running!!!!! There is a lot of pressure in there and it will blow all over you inflicting dreadful scold injuries. Wait until the motor cools, and then using a big rag, hold the cap down firm as you twist to undo. The pressure will still be there, but the water will be cooler.
To check the oil the car needs to be off so the oil can go to the bottom to get a true reading on the dip stick. Extract the stick, wipe it clean with a rag, then re-dip, and check to see there's oil on it in the first place, and then make sure it comes up to the mark on the stick. Make sure you push it back into the hold firmly but don't force it, so the cap sits over the top, or you'll squirt oil all over the place outside the motor when you get going again, and you don't want that.
The wrist will recover, but you may need to strap it or buy a wrist strap at the chemist when the shops open again, just to support it until it strengthens again. You may need to do some little exercises to help it heal.
Whatever you do, DO NOT, repeat DO NOT go home. You'll regret it, and be a frustrated old woman sitting around your home, regretting the day she didn't persevere.
Kick back at your son's place while you gather your thoughts and you wrist heals a bit. You've had a taste of the road, and when you calm down you will want more. You'll be better prepared when you hit the road after the visit.
It's all part of the experience - the Grey Nomad experience. Hang in there girl, I wish I could be there.

lilly31 · Guru

Cruising Granny wrote:
OK Marj, we need to sit down with a cuppa, and have a little chat.
Firstly, don't, repeat NO NOT go home!!!!! You'll kick yourself for the rest of your life it you do.
Now the hug, hug, hug, hug. Really girl, I mean it. Stick with it, but just prepare yourself so you can relax and enjoy it.
Please get your S in L to show you how to check oil and water and tyres. It's a bit tricky in your vehicle as you sit almost on the motor, but it's worth your while to get into the habit.
Every morning BEFORE you start the motor check everything, including the battery levels, if it's not a sealed battery.
Things change a lot quicker when you drive all the time. I don't know if your vehicle uses water or coolant in the radiator, but I'm guessing water.
Carry at least 5 litres of water with you, or coolant concentrate if it's coolant you're needing.
Carry a couple litres of oil which is compatible with your vehicle and the fuel you use. They vary quite a bit, so choose wisely and ask for assistance at the auto shop.
When you're on your own out there you need to know these basics even if you are a member of the RAC or equivalent.
If a light comes on or a guage (temp) changes on the dash you need to stop immediately, and check out why. DO NOT drive on until you've checked. It could cost your motor, and your nomadding lifestyle.
Do not open the radiator when the motor has been running!!!!! There is a lot of pressure in there and it will blow all over you inflicting dreadful scold injuries. Wait until the motor cools, and then using a big rag, hold the cap down firm as you twist to undo. The pressure will still be there, but the water will be cooler.
To check the oil the car needs to be off so the oil can go to the bottom to get a true reading on the dip stick. Extract the stick, wipe it clean with a rag, then re-dip, and check to see there's oil on it in the first place, and then make sure it comes up to the mark on the stick. Make sure you push it back into the hold firmly but don't force it, so the cap sits over the top, or you'll squirt oil all over the place outside the motor when you get going again, and you don't want that.
The wrist will recover, but you may need to strap it or buy a wrist strap at the chemist when the shops open again, just to support it until it strengthens again. You may need to do some little exercises to help it heal.
Whatever you do, DO NOT, repeat DO NOT go home. You'll regret it, and be a frustrated old woman sitting around your home, regretting the day she didn't persevere.
Kick back at your son's place while you gather your thoughts and you wrist heals a bit. You've had a taste of the road, and when you calm down you will want more. You'll be better prepared when you hit the road after the visit.
It's all part of the experience - the Grey Nomad experience. Hang in there girl, I wish I could be there.

DITTO C.G

jack biggles · Senior Member

I've had a look through your posts & found a picture of your van. Fine looking example I must add.

I figure its 2nd generation hiace, so somewhere between 1977 & 1982. I've also searched high and low for an online diagram of the engine but can't find one. Rather frustrating really.

Its probably good advice to find a mechanic or similar to help you & show you what the deal is with checking the oil and topping it up. Considering that youve already driven 40 odd km's with the oil light on it would NOT be a good idea to drive too much further, espeically since none of us here can see how much oil is in it. If the oil runs too low, you risk seizing the engine & then it would be lights out for the old machine.

Don't be put off by this ever so small set back, soon you will see that its both easy to check the oil & top it up & you will wonder why you hadnt given it a go earlier. Not sure how to help from here, perhaps the people camped near you may help you identify where the dip stick is & also the correct filling point for the oil.

Gerty Dancer · Guru

Well said, Granny!!!

Happywanderer · The Master

I'll answer Jack biggles then go back to read the rest. Its a 1981 Toyota Hiace with pop top. And all the workings are under the seat.

Happywanderer · The Master

Thanks for that CG and others. What a mine of information. I knew not to lift the radiator cap when hot and had asked mechanic to show me where the fill up was for that. Had no idea I should check it all before I go out each day on these long trips. I should have been shown all that by someone at home. Perhaps my mechanic could have gone over it all with me, opr S in L or my neighbour, a mlae about my age who has an older style flat deck truck.
No one mentioned it, no wonder I was so stressed by the time I got here tongiht.
Loos are working Ma, will try the shower out in the morning. It is a lovely spot, don't mind if I have ot stop here a couple of days. Haven't told my son I am that close yet. Will just turn up on his doorstop when its all fixed. The grandies will be surprised. Weren't expecting me for another couple of weeks.

Helena · Guru

HI HW ditto to all grannie has said you will regret it if you go back home now it is the old adage easy when you know how. You almost always have problems on the first trip out but don't be put off by that I take my hat off to all the solo's out there just hang in there HW sending you lots of hugs. Helena.

jack biggles · Senior Member

Yes, no worries, I CANNOT find an engine diagram online. From memory of the model, you need to lift the passengers seat to access the engine compartment. Right on top of the engine will be a black cap, it will be black plastic, as opposed to the radiator one which will be a steel cap.

Before you check the oil, the vehicle should be parked on flat ground. Also, its best to do it in the morning after the engine has rested & given time to allow the oil to drain from the upper parts of the engine back into the sump. Best done in the morning & that way everything is cool & you cant accidently burn yourself on something hot.

The DIP STICK, on more modern vehicles are normally colour coded yellow or similar, but your model will have just an eyeloop end, is my guess & may be a little hard to pick, until you've been shown, after that NO PROBLEMS.

Again, personally I would be very careful about driving too far after the engine light has illuminated indicating LOW OIL, as this is WARNING time & continued driving could result in the engine seizing up.

Wish I could find a pic or diagram, that would make this as simple as 1,2,3. In any such case, you would need some oil anyway.

When you do top up with oil, don't put the entire bottle in, you could overfill the engine wich can ALSO DAMAGE IT. Just add a bit at a time & allow a few minutes to drain down to the bottom of the engine & recheck the dip stick.

Honestly, might sound difficult BUT after youve done it a couple of times, you will virtually do it with your eyes shut.

Sorry I couldnt find a diagram.

Happywanderer · The Master

Will get a wrist support when the shops open. I brought my left hand one with me from when I had my broken wrist, just in case it ached too much. Didn't expect this and it can't be interchanged as has a steel bar down the palm. Didn't realise just how sore it was till now, very tight and hard to move wrist but can move all fingers although a bit of pain when I do.
Someone is singing in the park tonight and playing a guitar but too tired to go and for a look.

Cruising Granny · Guru

HW I use 2 Futuro Sport wrist straps. They're ok for either wrist. I had one with a metal strip in it, and it actually slides out, but because of the shape it's not transferable between wrists.
I find the Futuro supports very versatile and are adjustable. Good luck with that. Don't give up. We're here in spirit cheering you on.
After all your preparation and dreams, you can't give up now.

Happywanderer · The Master

Love your photo CG, very business like now.

Jack Biggles, I had no problems checking oil in my other cars so once shown will be a piece of cake. I understand what you mean by eyeloop end. Its all metal isn't it. I will have Myrtles seat up in the daylight checking it all out myself, now we've had this talk. Thank you.

Happywanderer · The Master

Will look out florthe futuro straps. CG

DellieMay · Senior Member

HW...... I hope you are listening to CG!!!!!! Ditto. Chin up mate...you can do this.
Cheers Dellie

jules47 · The Happy Helper

Hey Marj - good to see you more positive - if Myrtle was serviced before you left, I would be pretty surprised if there is no oil - a service would include oil change etc., so you've done, what 1000k? - 4 litres of oil? but stranger things have happened I suppose -
Good idea to take a breather where you are, you need to rest your wrist, get the oil problem sorted - you can use a hand towel as a heat pack, if you don't have one, dampen slightly and put in microwave for a couple of minutes - same thing if you want a cold pack - dampen, put in freezer till cold - works like a dream.

As for pulling down your pop top - do the strutty things need a wipe over with something like dry silicone spray or something (dry because it doesn't attract dust or dirt) mine on the van is really easy to push up and down - but then again I am very short and can stand up in the van without the pop top being up - can also stand up in vans (used to be courier), they used to call me the pygmy - ha!ha!

Keep your chin up chicky - you'll be right - keep in touch.

HeadnHome · Senior Member

Wow I've been offline for a few days while I went away and its all been happening HW!!
but I think your going great guns, you'll get it sorted I'm sure, agree with everyone else,
take a break, and then when all sorted and rested try again, hey just think on the positive
side, your learning so much every day, and before you know it, you'll be stopping and helping someone else out
there because hey its happened to you and now you know what has to be done! but I did get a giggle
out of your dipstick comment!! you can't go home as everyone is enjoying your updates!!!

Happywanderer · The Master

Just happen to have my account in the back of my Camps Wide book.

5 litres Engine Oil 7.00 a litre. total $35.00
Oil pressure switch $8.00

jack biggles · Senior Member

Absolutely all metal. You can pull it out, give it a wipe with a rag, push it back in until its fully seated then remove it again & check where the oil went to on the stick.

There will be two marks & perhaps a thatched series of lines between them (high and low marks) & the oil should show up in there.

By the sounds of things, your van may be using a little bit of oil, which isnt the end of the world, just means you need to check the oil more often.

In picking an oil, this could get confusing for you, but you obviously need engine oil for a petrol engine. It should probably be about a 10w-40 viscosity but maybe a quick chat to a mechanic & he can write down on a peice of paper what specs your oil should be, you can then get the stuff at kmart or similar more cheaply & always carry a bottle & small funnel with you to do the job.

If you've checked oil before, take a gander around the engine in the morning and look for that loop & go from there.