September 16, 2023 Day 2 Umatilla Oregon to Renton Washington 240.8 miles
Well the tire is completely flat this morning. So after a microwave breakfast Rob went out to change the tire. Getting the spare off took forty-five minutes because there was a problem with how it was mounted. Thankfully the weather is cool. We got on the road about 9:40.
The first part of the drive is very dry and brown. Once we got past the Tri cities of Pasco, Richland and Kennewick Washington we came to the area where lots of fruit and hops are raised. Now its growing lots of new houses and many more vineyards. Didn’t seem to be as many hops. Must be more profit in wine.
By the time we reached Yakima the temperature had increased and it was time for a break and lunch. Lucky for us the area has a Costco which means a better gas price and cheap hot dogs. This Costco also had strawberry ice cream. Connie tried one and said the flavor tasted very artificial. She probably won’t order one again.
From Ellensburg Washington to Renton the temperature was about ten degrees cooler. More mountains and pine trees. The traffic also increases. We did a brief stop at the Cle Elum Bakery for cinnamon rolls and cinnamon bread. Luckily the still had some.
When we got close to the exit to Renton on Highway 405 the traffic really slowed down. We are no longer the slowest vehicle on the road. They are doing major construction on highway 405. Last week the road was closed for four days. That must have been terrible because the road is bumper to bumper in all lanes both directions. Some of the ramps are scheduled to be closed this coming week. Boise traffic doesn’t look so bad any more.
The car has developed a few new problems and sounds. The passenger door comes open sometimes when going around 90 degree turns or over bumpy roads. Thank goodness for seat belts. A clicking sound comes from the front somewhere and when we brake a puff puff sound can be heard.
We made it to Rob’s brother Ed’s house. He says the clicking sound is most likely a broken wheel. The door can be temporarily fixed with Velcro and the puffing sound may be the muffler rubbing on something. We will review it tomorrow. The two guys soon went out and worked on some of the problems and changed the oil and refilled the radiator with antifreeze.
Spoffords Travel 