With only 10 days left in the year, General Winter has arrived. Currently, Niigata City seems to have the same 40cm snow depth as Nagaoka City, with a type of snow more common in rural areas. While Nagaoka, equipped with snow removal infrastructure, faces no issues, Niigata may experience traffic disruptions.
Starting a blog six months ago, I’ve been freely expressing my thoughts on agriculture (at a home garden level) and the changes in nature. However, due to the abnormal high temperatures and drought (with 40 days of no rain) this summer, the harvest of crops has been mediocre, and agricultural work has become somewhat neglected. As a result, I’m thinking of challenging myself with minimal tillage cultivation starting next year. (There are stories suggesting that it might actually be more labor-intensive rather than less, even though it’s supposed to be less demanding…)
On the other hand, this year has also been a time for challenges as a late-stage elderly person, trying things I’ve never done before. With machinery and equipment aging, I had no choice but to perform maintenance tasks such as tractor repairs, air conditioner replacement, and carburetor cleaning for the snow blower and wood chipper. Additionally, launching a website took quite a bit of time. (Most things can be found on YouTube nowadays, so it’s become an era where DIY is quite achievable.
Nevertheless, everything new is challenging, and it can feel discouraging at times, but the sense of achievement, or rather self-satisfaction, is rewarding.
Replacement of Caterpillar Track Wheels （April）
Since the end of last year, there has been a squeaking sound while driving, so upon investigation, it turned out the bearing of the track wheel was worn out. I bought a track wheel from a combine that seemed compatible on Yahoo Auctions and procured a new bearing from Monotaro.
After struggling with tasks such as removing the crawler and dealing with rusted bolts through brute force, I finally replaced the two worn-out wheels. The rest is scheduled for replacement next year.
Bearings are essential for rotating components, so I purchased a bearing puller and carefully inserted it with force.
Website Launch (July)
At the beginning of the year, I aimed to launch a website, so I purchased Creator Mana’s HTML & CSS introductory course. After getting a basic understanding, I thought I was ready, but when I checked YouTube, I realized I still needed to study JavaScript and PHP. Feeling a bit overwhelmed, I switched to WordPress, which seemed more manageable, and finally managed to launch the website.
I’ve been using WordPress for about six months now, but I feel like my knowledge of HTML, CSS, and PHP, which I learned a little bit before, is gradually fading away. Perhaps it’s time for a refresher course.
The content of my blog is gradually becoming more haphazard and disorganized. Although there are some changes in farm work and the natural environment, they generally repeat on a yearly cycle. Consequently, it seems like the topics I write about will remain the same. I’m currently contemplating what to do next year. That’s the current situation.
The full-screen image used for the homepage of ‘Dacha- Shouse’ is of the entrance to the Kawamata Farm. (There used to be a gate with a door across the stone bridge leading to the mansion.
Air Conditioner Installation Work (November)
”With this year’s intense heat, the air conditioner has been running constantly. It’s been in use for 20 years, so it might give out next year. Since the outdoor unit is in a high place, I’m planning to set up scaffolding for a simultaneous replacement.
My friend YK in Tokyo said he’s been replacing his own air conditioners, so he offered to guide me through the DIY process. I promptly purchased four units online from a wholesaler in Akihabara.
I also procured tools such as a vacuum pump and gauge, a pipe flaring machine, and a dedicated torque wrench (borrowed) from Yahoo Auctions. Despite struggling, we managed to complete the installation. (In the end, YK installed three units, and I installed one.)
I keenly felt the importance of following the work procedures as there were quite a few do-overs. (Planning is half the battle.)
The Three Essential Tools for Air Conditioner Installation:
- Vacuum Pump & Gauge
- Pipe Flaring Machine
- Torque Wrench
Snow Blower Carburetor Cleaning (December)
Entering December, with more snowfall expected in the weather forecast, I tried to start the snow blower for a test run. However, the engine wouldn’t start. Although the spark plug was emitting sparks, it wasn’t wet. Since fuel wasn’t reaching the engine, the carburetor might be clogged.
For the time being, I removed the carburetor, soaked it in carburetor cleaner until it was full of foam, and cleaned the jet nozzle and other holes with a wire. Then, I reassembled everything and nervously turned on the ignition switch. Fortunately, the engine started. Just in time for the snow – phew!
Since I only use it 2 or 3 times in winter, and forgot to drain the gasoline after the season ended, it seems like the carburetor got clogged.
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