Pleasing but more questions need answers

This blog is a mess, so much I have not put on that I would have done so in the past. Can't even say it just boatey stuff as there are visits missing updates. Hey ho .... here is something by way of a catch up and an excuse!

First off I need to recognise the move onto the water by Adam and Adrian on NB Briar Rose. Its nice to see a blogger realise a dream of canal living. I always wanted to and remember the excitement and a bit or dread when I moved aboard in April 2014..... I can't believe ( I did it )  and that it will be 11 years ago later this month 

My living aboard announcement

Anyhow  - here is a link to their blog 

Briar Rose day 1

We were due on Percy up the Llangollen last week but this put paid to that. 5th consecutive virus since Christmas .....  

Went down with it while up in Scotland on my motorbike - maybe a blog to follow on that. Made that lovely trip a challenge but one that was achieved. Problem was in my return Rachel got it from me so our plans were messed up !

I used my first day free of virus to go over to Percy and get a sample of the hydraulic oil from her drive system as I wanted to know if it needed replacing. The internet gave me an oil testing company and for £50 plus they sent me a container and instructions. I was able to run the engine and circulate the hydraulic oil for half an hour before the sample was taken via syringe and pipe out of the reservoir. As the lab was near Burton on Trent I took it over on my bike for the testing.

Go the results today, they classified it as satisfactory with some technical data I need to dig into. I'd like to get it topped up a bit but unsure of the grade and make etc... I've reached out to Tony and Paul Redshaw in case they are able to offer advice....

I've also ordered a complete gasket kit from Stationary engine supplies as the crankcase door has an annoying oil weep I need to address. It means draining down the block and removing the alternator water pump and starter to get the door off. I will drain and wipe out the sump which is a 500 hour service item but as I did it last year and we can't have done more than 100 hours on the engine since it's premature but such simple jobs (relatively) with nice fresh SAE30 oil afterwards can only be good for the engine. I'll check the impeller at the same time..... maybe pics to follow.