A cracked section of hose had softened near the clamp. Under load, it was pulling air into the line.
A small problem creating the symptoms of a very expensive one.
Caleb opened the toolbox behind his cab, found a length of compatible hose he'd saved from another job, trimmed it, replaced the damaged section, bled the system, and wiped his hands.
"Try it now."
Elaine climbed into the seat.
The engine turned twice.
Then the tractor roared back to life.
Elaine let it idle, listening carefully.
Smooth.
Wade's smile disappeared.
"Temporary patch," he said. "Dealer should replace the pump anyway."
Caleb looked at him for the first time.
"Pump's fine."
"You know that from twenty minutes in a ditch?"
"I know because I tested it instead of guessing."
Silence.
Elaine shut off the tractor and climbed down.
"What do I owe you?"
Caleb hesitated.
He thought about the $43.
The rent letter.
Lily's school shoes with the worn soles.
He could have named a number.
Instead he said, "Nothing. Keep a spare section of fuel hose in the toolbox until you get that line replaced properly."
Wade laughed again.
"That's your business strategy, Morrison? No wonder your shop's dying."
Caleb's jaw tightened.