Arrived in North Carolina, I quickly began preparations for the export of VLV: modifications and adaptations required for the future registration in Switzerland, maintenance and preventive work, especially to improve the engine cooling which is still difficult as the big 6-liter diesel is confined in the engine compartment…
 
 
1. Cleaning the moving parts of the variable geometry turbo.
 

 
 
2. Re-install of the turbo. Contortionist session ensured to achieve some bolts! 😀
 

 
 
3. Taking the front apart.
 

 
 
4. After removing radiators, intercoolers, fans etc, a part of the work is done to reach the front cover of the engine.
 

 
 
5. Here it is, the cover is removed after a day and a half of work! For the record, I will have to repeat it as a big oil leak appears at the restart. Guess why? Ford had delivered the wrong Semmering gasket! What a f..!
 

 
 
6. That damn little joint earn me the removal of all theadmission for replacement. A full more day of work…
 

 
 
7. plasma cutting in the winch holding plate to improve cooling.
 

 
 
8. Removing the front brake for installation of new calipers. In the end, I will go back with the same, the new calipers being too large for VLV’s wheels…
 

 
 
9. VLV in U-Joint Offroad workshop.
 

 
 
10. U-Joint Offroad fair in Asheville “Van Life Rally”.
 

 
 
VivaLaVida had a real success – I could have sold her several times!
 

 
 
After the fair, it’s camping time with U-Joint team.
 

 
 
11. Nice campsite!
 

 
 
12. Davidson River…
 

 
 
13. On my way to Baltimore where I will drop off VLC for its first transoceanic crossing, I drove in Washington DC.
 

 
 
14. Last night on US ground with the wooden wall that will isolate the interior of VLV and thawing the fridge before stopping it for a few weeks…
 

 
 
15. Last picture at the entrance of Baltimore harbor. Have a good journey VLV! See you in Antwerp in a few weeks. 😉
 

 
 
At the time you will read this update, VivaLaVida will be undertaken its Atlantic crossing…
 
To be followed soon for the “pick up” in Antwerp and the road to Switzerland. 😉