The last two trips to Montana has sent me packin with my tail between my legs. Last Xmas , I was determined to make it to coyote mecca- Zortman. After making a set and weather and nite turning against me , pointed my truck to mecca. I turned off the blacktop and headed into the abis . Crossing a cattle guard my truck rolled to a stop, my tac reading 1600 RPM. Going through all the gears, checking fuses' I prepared to set out to walk the 3 (?)mile to Zortman. Through the nite, head lites appear, a young Marine and new bride heading to Zortman to go coyote hunting. Next morning the highways had turned to glass. Called a tow truck from Lewistown to get me to the chevy garage. Yup, blown transmission.
Calling my Insurance, I had No road hazard. Renting a vehicle , I proceeded to Great Falls for Xmas. Picking up my truck , I licked my wounds and headed back to Minnesota.
Forward 6months.
Turning north from Winnett and into the interior, I round a corner to hear an evil hiss. Yes, right rear tire is going flat. A very kind rancher stops to assist, but not wanting to be reduced to pilgrim status, I decline. After all, I carry tire patch and mini compressor. To my surprise it won't patch. I'll change the tire. The cable releases to the ground , tire won't come down. Chevy has installed a mechanical device that will NOT release. I return to Winnett at a high rate of speed to a garage. This man is saint. My tire is shot, and can't get a new tire till tuesday. The spare is reluctant to come off. He scratches head says "had one of these a year ago!" O-yea, on bolt the bracket. Once more, I lick my wounds and head back to Minnesota.