Over the past couple of years, we have been in the process of re-wiring the remote control systems at our transmitter sites to give better information in the event of a failure.

Afton was one of the last sites remaining to be re-wired, however, when we attempted to re-wire the site we found that the remote control had been invaded by mice.  It was still functioning but I did not want to leave it in that state.  We removed it and cleaned it in an attempt to make it work.  Unfortunately the unit was not quite working properly after it was cleaned out…It will be sent back to the manufacturer (now cleaned of mouse residue) for repair.  In the mean time, we had another remote that could be installed so we could finish the project.

Reid gently cleans mouse gunk off the boards in an attempt to repair this remote control…

While Reid was cleaning the boards, I cleaned out the chasssis.  Here it is, stripped of all the boards and as clean as I can get it.  There was a significant amount of mouse residue in this unit and some slight traces remain even after a good scrub.

Reid begins the process of puttiing the boards back in the unit…

Wow…It actually works!
(Well, sort of…It quit working after this picture was taken.)
Fortunately, we brought along another unit just in case.

Made it to the transmitter site…
Reid begins unboxing some new equipment to be installed.

The tailgate of the truck once again serves as an impromptu workbench…

Ben works on re-wiring…

Storms rolling in…Better finish before the lightning starts!

Finished!

Ben and Reid pose for a photo.  Nice job, guys!

A gorgeous view of the Star Valley with the meandering Snake River greets us as we leave the tower site.