That was the latest
Here's the latest on the saga of the broken van.
I organised its recovery today and it's now at a garage across town from me. Renault, in their infinite wisdom, have quoted 5 - 10 days to get the new ignition barrel to the garage. I think that's pretty disgraceful really - though I do appreciate that it has to be compatible with the current vehicle coding/keys and I've no idea of what's involved. So ignition barrel and starter motor is the initial diagnosis prior to the garage having a more detailed look. Obviously the starter motor can't be replaced prior to the barrel because it would probably result in another burn out.
As for the window becoming non-operational. Ignore that. That was me being silly. I found out that it works perfectly if the ignition key is only turned half way.
I guess I will rent a small van for a few days. I have enough contaINERS FOR 225 LITRES and a backpack to work from. Also I have a telescopic ladder if needed - though I would probably defer any ladder work until I get my van back. Hardly ideal but at least I can earn.
I think it's ridiculous that Renault's slowness will cost me far more than the parts and labour. It sounds like the parts will be a lot less than I originally guessed and the garage will be getting me a non Renault starter motor.
That's still pretty much where I'm at. My van is at a garage waiting for Renault to sleepwalk its way into supplying the relevant ignition barrel.
Today I picked up a Transit hire van - rented for a week for £158 (pretty reasonable deal I think).
I will be working from it with backpack and barrels.
Fortunately, most of my work in the next week or so is within 2 - 3 miles of my water source, so it won't be too bad popping back to top up the barrels.
It weird driving a van again that sounds and feels like a van. Helps me to appreciate the Trafic's one redeeming feature.
