My quick and rough counting of the votes on the mechanic and trailer question are three for, and four against (that is, four in favour of short trips not needing a mechanic or recovery trailer).
I'm going to cut this off as of next weekend, because I owe the mechanic an answer, and I want to get down to route planning. Therefore, either post here (or PM me if you are shy) before then or forever hold your peace.
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