VAN BREAKDOWN Part 2 | $1600 later...
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- เผยแพร่เมื่อ 26 มิ.ย. 2021
- After a week of being stranded in a parking lot, the van broke down AGAIN. Over this week I made some mistakes, learned a lot, and spent way more money than expected. Welcome to the uglier side of vanlife!
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/ linneaandakela
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We are Linnea and Akela. In May, 2020 I purchased our 2016 Ram ProMaster, Togo, to become our full-time home. With this van build, I am using my stubbornness and drive to show individuals that they, too, can convert a campervan BY THEMSELVES and ON A BUDGET, with a lot of learning, rolling up the sleeves, and getting to work.
Our goal is to inspire individuals to chase their dreams... to break from societal limitations and live the life they truly desire. And, to GET OUTSIDE!
SUBSCRIBE for van build details, wanderlust travel, and the truth about van life with a big german shepherd!
Follow on Instagram: @linnea.and.akela
Props to the two people who took you and your stuff from the hotel to the dealership. It’s great that some people are still good out there.
I agree! They were wonderful, and a huge reason why I was able to get out of that motel earlier!
Here's the thing, if you own your home (whether it's on wheels or not), home maintenance happens. I live in Central Calif. My AC decided to quit last week. Was just under $1400 to repair it but obviously very necessary. On the positive side, you're now on the edge of a beautiful lake and I'm still sitting in the central valley next to some really crappy neighbors. Trade you any day. ;-) Keep your chin up.
So true! I was in a condo for forever and now that I’m in my first house, WOW! Always something 😅 Wouldn’t change it for a thing.
So, I had to look up that switch to see what it actually does. Here's what I found: "The transmission range switch is part safety device and part PCM sensor (PCM = Powertrain Control Module = Fuel Injection Computer). The safety device part of the transmission range switch ensures that your vehicle cannot be started unless the transmission is in neutral or park and thus prevents the your vehicle from moving immediately when it is started." It's also know as the Park/Neutral switch. Apparently, it's pretty rare for this to fail on its own, it usually will fail as a result of a bad installation or other maintenance damage. Also, I found in a forum where they found if you have a loose or faulty brake switch (the one that screw in to the arm where your brake pedal is that is always pressed when you DON'T have your foot on the pedal, but as soon as you hit the break it allows the switch to open up) then the Transmission Range Switch could read that as "you don't have you break pressed while switching through Park/Neutral to Drive", thus could cause the same problem. So, in your case, it WAS the switch, but I thought this additional bit of info could be helpful in your travels.
Thank you so so much for writing this all out! I makes it easier for me to understand and I know it will help others make more sense of this too. BIG THANKS!
@@Linneaandakela You are most welcome. Your videos have been SUPER helpful. I'm a scuba instructor, and my wife and I have a 6x10 cargo trailer we turned into a mobile dive shop. We sometimes go places where we can dive and camp, so your channel is one of the ones I frequently go to as we augment our trailer to be more multi-functional. Scuba equipment for us and for teaching takes up most of the room, but now we've installed cabinets and a modest electrical system (prepping to add a similar Renogy system to yours) so that we could dive totally off the grid. Keep up the great work, and I wish you continued success!
My xTerra has a similar switch, and it has been a "dome-scratcher' for me on occasion. Thankfully, I have been able to manipulate it in such a way that I am able to get started and on my way.
Keep being your badass self! Love seeing you doing you, my dear! ❤🙏
I love how the dog comes first in all of the decisions....that speaks to you being an AWESOME person!!! Hang in there! And keep inspiring us!!
One small tip - from a mechanic - pay attention to how your transmission works IF they used a pressure flush of your transmission and not the gravity method ( with dropping of the pan and filter change ) AND get a rare earth magnet ( ebay / amazon ) and attach it to the middle of your transmission pan and leave it there. The cheapest and best form factor ones are recycled hard drive magnets off ebay - low profile - wide footprint. And under $ 10 ) REASON : if you have an older transmission with lots of miles - and especially if you can feel it slipping - and they use the PRESSURIZED flush method - then the pieces of the lining and metal shavings etc . . of the "falling apart" transmission ( delaminating friction plates etc . . ) were then agitated and pushed with force all around the transmission - in all of the tiny channels and orifices etc . . and literally this pressure method can make transmissions worse and fail to work - needing replacement. Whereas using the gravity method ONLY can give you years of use without having to drop old transmission and replace. ( $ 2500-6000 ) I have used gravity method on transmissions with 300,000 miles + which fixed the no reverse and other issues for under $ 100. And since the bulk of the fluid is in the torque converter - you need to do the gravity method multiple times over say every 3-6 months until the fluid is relatively clear and you see no shavings or particles on the magnet or in the pan at changes. Even a 3x initial - 6 months and a year is $ 300. And it works. It beats $ 6000 for a swap all day long. Just a tip that could save you thousands. And of course this is based on a transmission that is slipping - won't go into reverse etc . . not catastrophic failure of gears / large pieces in the works etc . . Anyway - I am writing about this because I think the dealers take the lazy way in the transmission game - offer these pressurized "flushing services" knowing full well that some of the transmissions they do it to will fail - and then they get to - of course - charge people for transmissions swaps and make thousands of dollars because of something they just did themselves as a service. Plus - you're a woman - alone - coming into a dealership - and you are a PRIME TARGET for the "dealership service manager" whose literal job is to sell you the most services possible at the highest price - AND he/she makes commission off of it as well. It is even worse if you are an elderly woman - alone. I won't even go into the book time - no customer obtained parts - dealership obtained parts markup 400-800% - and arbitrary / made up warranty claim denials etc . . and on and on. In fact - I hope you have warranty and that is why you took it to the dealer - but if you did not have warranty - a dealer is the single most expensive way to get your car fixed. Their built in gouging is legendary. Mom and pop shops with a good ( online or otherwise ) reputation is the way to go. Good luck. ( Mechanic over 30 years )
And also - ASK your mechanic ABOUT the fluid - is it clear - were there shavings - did they use a pressurized flushing system or gravity etc . .
Wow thank you for taking the time to write all of this out!
So I do now that they dropped the pan - they mentioned that many times. Is this something that I can request when I get Togo serviced? Like can I asked specifically for them to use the gravity method instead of pressure flushing?
And I will order that magnet right away! Thank you for being so specific about what one is best.
I cannot thank you enough for all of this amazing advice!! I appreciate it more than you know. Thank you thank you thank you!
Some articles ( or do your own google search ) as this is a well known deal with the pressure flushing method :
www.waynesautocenter.com/blog/pan-drop-vs-transmission-flush-whats-difference/
www.chicagotribune.com/news/ct-xpm-2000-03-12-0003120058-story.html
mygarageairdrie.ca/services-pricing/maintenance-services/services-that-you-dont-need-transmission-flushes/
www.powaytransmissions.com/Home/TransmissionFlush
@@Linneaandakela
# 1. Some cars have a drain plug on the pan - others do not. And so for the cars that do not have a drain plug the pan has to be dropped to fully drain the fluid and change filter.
# 2. Yes - ask for gravity method only ( "change" ) rather than ( "flush" ) although they might say "replacement" and then you have to clarify method and what they mean. And filter change at fluid change is also imperative. ( I mention because some quick oil change type places will just suck fluid out from the top and then top off and say you had a fluid change - which is hilarious - because even the very dirty / plugged up filter is still in your car etc . . Anyway - that is a scam / almost useless service.
Anyway - I don't want you to get scammed. If you have a relatively older transmission that is slipping only - or doesn't go into reverse from a cold start but does after it warms up - and doesn't have catastrophic issues - ( like won't shift at all or even move the vehicle ) - then the simple easy gravity method ( I call it the "dilutement" method ) for sometimes under $ 50 in total each fluid change out - can - and does fix your transmission - without a $ 3000-6000 swap. And can make it last for years more.
Glad to see you didn't lose your sanity through all this. Your parents raised you well.
I can relate. My transmission went on my van in New Mexico. I was stranded for 6 weeks. Thankfully a Walmart Manager let me stay in the parking lot until I figured out what to do. I’m glad you and Akela are back in your home.
Linnea, we are all on your team! Crowd fund that shit next time. We'd all be happy to help and give more than just the Patreon money. 💙
Yea you're absolutely. People would put in whatever....$100, $20....anything helps. Linnea's videos make people happy and inspire people!
I’d help too.
Thank you for sharing these 2 episodes - new van (Promaster) traveller - solo female so learning from your experiences is giving me so much confidence thank you two! Love how Akela is so happy just to be with you anywhere ❤
As always, it is a pleasure to see you bounce back so resiliently. I hope my support on Patreon helps a bit. I know it isn't much, but I am on a budget too. My build is coming to fruition, and I hope to be out on the road soon.
Refreshing to see somebody as fit and healthy as you, also show us that one can have some bacon, and a cookie here in there and still be OK. Many very fit and healthy people are only seen drinking blended grass shakes, and snacking on rice cakes.
Any type of home needs maintenance. You’ve got this..❤❤
Stuff breaks. Fact of life. Doesn't make it less stressful, painful, etc... Glad it got sorted and the van should be good to go again for a long time! (crosses fingers)
I love your attitude during all this; hey always remember to be safe. And oh by the way wish there were MORE of your adventures on you tube.
I would get service dog credentials for Akela; that way you cannot be refused service over some "no pets" nonsense. My guy Godzilla here goes everywhere with me, and as a short haired dog (Bluenose Pit) he loves the heat, hates the cold, but I still can't leave him in the car for more than about 10 minutes with the windows down in this weather, or 25 minutes with the engine off in winter. The service dog deal is very handy. Happy motoring. :)
Really good to know about the “pot holes” with vanlife vs just the “happy times” and gorgeous views. 👍
For sure. It is all part of the journey!
Linnea, you truly are one of the most positive humans on the planet. You have so many great things ahead of you. Way to roll with the punches. Be well and stay safe!
Thank you so much!❤️
Oh the shirt on backwards trick did not fools us, :) your in your PJ's LOL
You are brave and resourceful. You will be fine. Thanks for the great video.
Transit's are being recalled. Worth looking into.
Watching from Ontario Canada and watching what your dealing with proud
Motel prices are nuts this summer. Paid$90 for a dump in Baker City OR. I guess one way you can look at the repair bill as less than 2 months rent for a 1 bedroom in a lot of places.
Glad your home.. sounds like the Dealer did ok, someone spent time looking rather than just replacing expensive parts, But Most important is you kept Akela safe... So pleased everything is fixed :) you and Akela got back into the woods ... x.
That's why I like a stick shift, no transmission craziness! Just put a new clutch in! Old school. I kind of thought the starter replacement was questionable but now you have a new starter!
I guess it's like I've heard...if you have the money to fix a problem you don't have the problem. You just have to feel the money anxiety and then let it go and move on!
Wow I know the feeling
It can be a bit rough! But I am so happy to be home now
Akela❤ makes you feel better lovely girls keep strong
That was horrible, I know it was not a good experience but you got thru it in one piece...I am in the middle of doing some repairs on my van, I replaced the ignition coil I had a misfire going on and ran about 3 bottles of fuel injector cleaner thru it and it seems to be better now...trying to avoid a big repair myself. Stay calm and deep breaths.
hey ! love you sharing all, Im also a solo female nomad. I recomend to sign in to Couchsurfing, is the best option to have support from locals wherever you are and in many different ways.
Hope to hear from you, love from Chile
MONDY
When Gary and I bought our first camper, we started putting $100 out of every paycheck into a separate checking account for camper and truck maintenance. As you know we have had lots of trials and maintenance fun. Every time I was so grateful we had started doing that.
So glad to see you! Happy its figured out!
Been anxiously watching for this update knowing it was going to be an expensive tale. Promaster transmissions are a weak link in the van. Especially if not taken good care of with regular fluid changes. Happy you did not need a new one. Enjoy your content and attitude and of course Akela.
My fleet ambo guys run 80-90 vehicles thru their shop...historically E Series...now both Transits and Pro Masters.....they HATE both. Difficult to work on. They had a low milage Pro in for tranny...parts EVERYWHERE. Whole front engine and cradle has to be removed ...crazy! Transits are almost as bad..."get out the torches" to cut front frame off/ then welder to pu the it back on!! (From a Ford dealer/factory tech at my local Napa Store parts counter) Thus stuff is CRAZY ..5 times longer to swap a tranny.
you did real good/your van is repaired/now enjoy no rent/get on the road/smile real big /have a la-ta-coffee /happy days are hear again/an your best friend with you/thanks much
Just in case this happens to anyone else, try turning on the key, put your foot on the brake pedal, move the shifter into the neutral position and then crank the engine.
We tried that multiple times before the first mechanic looked at it!
Thank you for sharing.
Hey my friend I just saw your post on your vehicle breaking down I'm trying to get on the road myself and have an issues to and I hope that you are doing okay and surviving it does get kind of scary the thought of for me the first time of being out on the road and me and so far from everybody and I'm hoping that watching you and other people will help me keep the strength you're definitely an inspiration and an awesome person like I've always said you rock it 🙂
I'm glad you finally got the van fixed
I am so glad, you are so safe and that you have your home back...Now have some time to enjoy and have a great time.
Looks like Akela was enjoying that big bed! Glad your home is fixed and it’s all behind you now. Be safe out there!
Man, a lot of worries....
But you came through !!
And are safe with Akila.
yes for sure!
Have fun and take care and take it easy and enjoy it
Thank you David!
Man sorry to hear about all your trouble but akela is such a good dog just to make you feel better I've got to spend about 2200 on mine yeah I hope you feel better now hahahaha had to get new brakes I need a new wheel bearing I need a tune-up and two tires😁😜🐝🙃
These things only seem to happen when we wish we were better prepared. Ugh! Glad you have it sorted now and wishing you all good things in the future!
Glad you are back in your van. It sux you had this happen to you. Hoping yalls journey is smoother from here on out. Stay safe and hydrated out there.
Thank you Corinna, I hope so too!
This is why an AMPLE emergency fund is vital
This sorta happened to my Chevy Colorado and it turned out to be the ignition. Had it repaired and removed about 1/2 the keys on my keychain.
Thanks for the update. Glad Togo is 100%. Looking forward to your next adventure.
Me too!! Thank you!
I hate you're having issues.
That dealership should be.....😠
I have a 2018 Ford Transit and just got back from a 4000 mile trip. Not even a hiccup! Whew! Hope its resolved quickly!
Also, I have two keys so I can leave the air on for the dogs and lock it if I need to go inside a store or something.
You are so awesome I’m glad that everything worked out I like that you express everything anger fear hunger braveness happiness. You gave us the good and the bad very genuine I love it thanks for the video
I've been looking forward to hearing how things went. I'm glad it's all over and I appreciate the info and the attitude. I appreciate your take on things and your honesty. Thanks again for sharing. 🤘👊🍻
Of course, thank you Tobey!
Way to make it through a challenge and maintain a positive attitude. Your experience reminds me to use a DVM and check the voltages as part of a debug process. That was a tricky failure mode.
Agree with everything you said at the end...it is all part of the lifestyle and when you get those good times back its worth all the problem solving energy and of course, money!Nice one 👍😊
Great protection dog.
I think it was a facebook van group where someone had posted a link to one of your videos, and said, "I spent all day binge watching her videos, she's addicting."
And she was right. You are addicting. I've just started watching and saw a couple of your build vids. You are awesome at explaining things and showing what you're doing. You don't drag things out longer than they need to be, and you don't skimp when it comes to explaining. I hope you have many more years of fulfillment and adventure in your travels. You are an inspiration.
A really sad experience, but so valuable, since there seem to be so many considering Vanlife in older vans, who don't appear to grasp the nature of aging mechanical systems and their needs / limitations.
great hear that your wheels are A-ok. enjoy your journey
Omg you have just been through so much trying to figure out what was wrong with Togo. I’m glad you finally found out. I’m not glad at the amount it all cost. I’m also glad you found someone you could trust to get you back to Togo. Knowing your situation, with no way of getting back, someone from the shop should have picked you up. What an experience, hopefully no more problems for a while with Togo 🙏❤️
Mechanics and repairs can be a nightmare. I have older vehicles and no one wants to work on anything over 10 years old. It's crazy. Every time I have to go to the shop it's $500-$1000. Sucks! So glad it's fixed and you are back on the road. Love your attitude! Akiela is a doll! Love your videos. Thanks for sharing!
Yes they really can! Thank you so much, and Akela says "thank you" as well!
Painful. I’m glad you are back in the van and enjoying the wide open spaces. Good luck 👍🏾🍀
Thank you me too!!
Wow, that was a lot to deal with. I hope you are feeling renewed by your time in the mountains.
I sure am! It was definitely a needed trip :)
OMG so sorry. I am glad you made it through with your sanity. Makes me nervous as I am picking up my new van tomorrow to start a van build. Hang in there!!
I am glad as well! Congrats on picking up your new van, that is amazing! Oh the adventures you will have... :)
Its so hard to find a good honest dealership anywhere lol
Really sorry you and Akeala had to go through all that mess, as a dog mom myself, I get it that you want your baby to be safe and comfortable. Hope your week is great and I really love your channel and content; I’d rather watch your adventures “adVANtures” than watch tv 📺 any day 🧡. Stay safe!!
WOW! Glad you survived your expensive breakdown, and thanks for sharing! What a freak thing to happen to you and happy to see Akela loving the bed in motel! :) All the BEST to both of you and hopefully last Van issue for a while.... Cheers :)
Yes, she absolutely loved how big the bed was! Thank you for the support and love!
So glad the mechanics were able to get to the bottom of this breakdown. Sorry it cost so much but now you at least have a new starter and fluid that maintains your transmission. I look forward to more of your adventures and I thank you for sharing the ups and downs since I am going to be out on the road too one of these days and it helps to watch you!
Yes so true! I am glad that sharing my experiences is helpful!
I am a big fond of you..you inspired me to convert my cargo van into a travel van.
According to the transmission expert, the 2015 cargo van and below have an issue with the transmission mount which affects the gasket and influences the transmission - failure prematurely.
The factory had rectified those issues in 2016 and above, but the key is to maintain the transmission oil clean. The maintenance schedule recommends an oil change every 60,000 miles. However, it is a good idea to replace it every 30,000 particularly in situations where the weather, weight and distance play a big role.
Sorry it’s been such a rough time!! My clothes washer died this weekend- I know what it’s like with the unexpected expenses!! Glad you are both safe and back on the road!!👍🏻😎
Thank you Stacey!!
Glad Togo is fixed!
Akela in the hotel room that first time on the bed... What a happy pup. :)
Reading/reviewing any work order is crucial....lesson learned I guess.....good luck !
Glad you are back!
Thank you, me too!
WOW, I am so sorry this happen to you. But you are right, its part of living the Van/Nomad life. It's not a matter of if, it's a matter of when things do break down. I hate that saying but it's true. Love your vides and education on living on the road. Safe Travels!
Just now catching up on the last 2 weeks of videos!! That super sucks that you had to spend that money!! Ouch!!! Hopefully that's it for a bit!! 🤗❤
Vehicles are too tech now. I used to do all my own work with the help of a friend. Now I’m scared shitless of new vehicles and this is why. Dealerships over charge and some mechanics troubleshooting practices end up costing more. I’m so sorry you experienced both of these. My mechanic whom I trusted completely retired November before last and now I need work done. DREAD! I noticed Akila sooooooo approved of the econo bed. At the end of the vlog she was looking up at you with such love. You have given her a wonderful and full life. See you next week and cheers cheers from Canader eh!
Yes, this is the tricky part. I had talked to a few mechanics that said "these vehicles now require so much training outside of just mechanics that it makes it really hard to do your own work". I can understand the pros to this, but it also feels like a trap at times! Thank so much for all the support and love!
Great update episode. Travel takes money.
Thank you! And yes, it certainly does!
Great attitude. Hopefully there's some reimbursement for the misdiagnosis the first time around.
My wife and I got done with our van build and the vehicle we just bought from the dealership (used) the transmission went out 😅 so that’s a bit of a step back
"We will see if we can get you in" is not an empty promise, that is a condition on their work schedule having an opening.
This actually was what I consider an empty promise - there were things throughout the week about timeline and pricing that didn’t go as they told me.
I feel ya girl. Just had to have the transmission and clutch rebuilt in my fiancé’s car. $2,100. But thank God our vehicle isn’t our home.
So glad you’re back on the road! Do you have regular routine maintenance on your van at a dealership? It’s expensive but can sure save headaches along the way! Good luck! I always look forward to your videos!
Thank you, me too!
I think that I will need to start doing regular maintenance more. Unfortunately, the last few places I have had repair Togo end up not taking the time to do everything I ask, which makes me thing that just bringing it into a dealership every now and then would be beneficial!
I know this is too late but if I remember correctly your van is automatic right? So to me, it sounds like it's the Inhibitor switch. This switch stops you from starting it in "drive or any gear" It only allows you to start it in Park and Neutral.Little Tip: Never Never Ever Take Your Vehicle To A Dealership. Take it to a local Mechanic Shop Most Will Look After You And Won't Rip You Off Which Unfortunately Sounds Like That Happened To You. Lesson learned I suppose. If you're not already doing it. Keep up with your vehicle services but don't use a Dealership. They, the private mechanics, will not only do a general service like oil change etc but also give you a report on the whole vehicle and a list of what maybe due required next time. This way you can save up for the next service.
Change your starter cables.
I’m so happy your over that hump. ♥️
I am too!
yay
I own and live in a semi truck, we face the same challenges basically, my dog Jesse travel's with me also, so I understand the frustration, hang in there, if you ever need immediate financial help I'm sure your viewers will help, just have to ask.
If she asked for money I am thinking quite a few would respond with various amounts
Happy that you made it through that ordeal.
Thank you, me too!
Remember that most countries have laws that protect you from work you haven't asked for. That means all the time documenting faults is not chargeable, as it's irrelevent to the job you have asked them to do. Also the transmission flush/oil replace they can't charge for either unless it has to be drained to replace the faulted part. So to everyone, know what they can charge for and what they can't and stand for your rights to only pay for the necessary work. It's also worth buying a code reader for your vehicle as that probably would have told you the fault in the first place. Live and learn... :-D Go enjoy the travel.
If it makes you feel better, I had a $6,900 Bill for my Promaster at 120,000 miles.....no warranty.
But that feeling of getting back out there has to make it all worth it
Feel ya, I’m on the verge of full engine replacement after buying van with swapped 35,000 mile engine. Van life is not a cheap endeavor.
Pls be carefull so many crazy ppl out there god bless
Try four dogs and a cat!
Please get extra insurance for breakdowns. Get hotel stay coverage too. XOXO
Never take an auto to dealer if it’s not warranted work. They will empty your pockets
My automobile club membership cost $175 pa. I get free towing, roadside assistance and emergency accommodation if I'm far from home. Best insurance I've ever had.
That sounds really great!! Would have came in really helpful... haha
I agree that it is very important to tell all sides of van life ..When you did your van build , you were very detailed which I loved . I am planning a van build early next year and your videos have already helped so much .Would you install my windows ? haha Like all walks of life , there are always pros and cons ..I just got an email from a friend that LOVES her home but is having big problems w/ neighborhood and area she lives .. not a problem in van :) .. Glad u r back in business .If you would also share how it feels to leave your HOME / VAN w/ dealership for 8 days ...I think one huge lesson for me his excellent maintenance of van . Thanks
Thank you!
And I'd love to install you windows, haha!
Thank you for all the support and love!
Just a helpful fyi for the future. almost all la quintia inns are pet friendly and usually under the 100$ range!
Thank you!!
A lot of people have problems with the promaster van.
This is why I prefer manuals and not automatics. Less stuff that can break.
I swear, it doesn’t matter whether it’s a new dealership or a small shop... they sometimes don’t know how to properly diagnose problems. Just swap out parts until it works. I spent about 4K a few years ago between about 4 shops. Turned out it was just a connection at the cooling fan. And then another 3-4k where the guy was just replacing parts when it was just a wheel bearing
4K between 4 shops! That makes me so grateful for my experience!
I keep thinking there should be a network of people across the US that you can connect with ... in nearly any town... that allows those who are in need to stay at their place for a limited number of days. A network of family essentially. Maybe even with its own app with detailed info.. would help so many and save tons (provided those helping don't get misused).
This is such a neat idea! I agree.
@@Linneaandakela Hi, Just an FYI " Bob Wells " is a pioneer RVer / TH-camr and massively popular , I'm sure through his huge network of followers (mostly out West), people can find support while out there, I've been following Bob for years and I believe "THAT" is the network of helpful Nomads that was suggested . Hope that could help some folks. peace
Great editing, very inspirational!! Curious if you edit this video all at once or over several days? Do you edit one video at a time or do you work on multiple at once?