Chez Team · video

What this video covers

A Mercedes-Benz MB 28 van experiences repeated engine failure and starting difficulties while attempting to cross the Andes mountains from Chile into Argentina during the COVID-19 pandemic.3:29 The crew identifies a clogged fuel filter as the primary mechanical issue, which causes a loss of power and stalling at high altitudes, particularly near the 2,500-meter mark.17:08 Despite the engine’s persistent performance problems, the vehicle remains operational throughout the transit. The crossing involves navigating the steep, winding "caracol" mountain passes near Portillo, where the crew encounters local wildlife, including foxes.7:21 Upon reaching the border, the travelers face complex, evolving pandemic-era customs and immigration protocols, requiring them to join a gendarmerie-escorted caravan to Uspallata or Mendoza for mandatory quarantine procedures.18:59 The journey highlights the challenges of maintaining an older, non-standard vehicle in remote, high-altitude terrain while navigating restricted international borders.

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