Spring has sprung in the Sierra

[OsideMatt]

Zip and Kathy,

FYI - Mice hate peppermint. I had a knock sensor wire chewed up in my FJ Jan '10 when it rained so much a little guy made a home right on top of the block. In all 2005+ HiLux style chassis (Taco, FJ Cruiser, 4-Runner) a rodent can get up anywhere on the powertrain and walk right up the tranny onto the back of the block. Quoted as a $1200 repair. Fixed it myself ~$100. 2 weeks later, happend again. Fortunately I'm handy and cheap.

Long story long, during the 2nd repair I used a paint brush and peppermint oil and covered everything. Since then I (naturally) havn't had any problems but I've also used the oil intermittely on the suspension lowers, etc. when leaving my ride at the TH for more than a day or two. Anywere they'd get up. I translated my new-found trick into a trip last August from Mineral King and used the oil to do pack straps, tent lines, etc. Other two guys in my group got dissambled by marmots and my gear went untouched. I've been spreading my tip to some of my friends and to date it seems to be the real deal.

[KathyW]

Thanks Matt - sounds like peppermint is worth trying. I wonder if it will attract bears though?

I was told even the Toyota Dealerships have problems with rodents chewing wires and wire harnesses on the new vehicles sitting on the lot.

[Blooty]

Beautiful photos of SEKI. I've been wanting to get back over there.

Incidentally, I heard that the marmots are attracted the the antifreeze. I'm worried about them chewing up wires...so will try the insecticide thanks for the tip.