Thanks for everyones recommendations about what could possibly be the source of my sons Tacomas burning smell. We have spent the last few days trying to figure it out with no luck. And of course when we are now out driving on the road the smell is gone. If we find the culprit, we'll be sure to follow up. Safe travels everyone!
What shape are the taco's shocks in? The very first thing that came to my mind about the burning smell was a shock overheating. Aging or inferior quality shocks will overheat on extended rough roads especially at speed over rougher terrain and then be fine back on asphalt. Could be your mystery problem.
when i get my raptor hot from offroading in 4wd it makes a smell but otherwise never does it in normal conditions i think its a front diff thing or heat from the engine thing
Brad this Jeep and Taco episode with your son was great and definitely will be a good memory. Will be nice to see further episodes of your son Jordan's Taco build. One day I hope to travel out that way from here in Alberta, Canada.
That's so cool Jordan was able to go out with you in a stock taco 🌮👍. Goes to show you that if you want to get into overlanding just use the vehicle you have. Great father and son video.
I have a Jeep and my son has a Tacoma. We also travel into the outback. As Brad knows having your son as a partner in adventure is an ultimate privilege. Great video that we very much enjoy and keep them coming.
I appreciate that you show the difficulties of overlanding and camping. And I'll probably take my wife and dogs out there sometime too. Great videos, I watch faithfully and take a lot of inspiration from your travels!
I have had over 10 flat tires from small gravels over the years, so to lessen that from happening as often I started running the tires with the most plys. Looked like a great place to explore!
just the trials and tribulations of buying a Used second hand vehicle. You both did the right thing and checked it out several times. Safety first. Another very fun video! Merci
I carry a 4-5 ft long metal pipe (about 1" dia.) in the back... insert handle of socket wrench on one end and then easily utilize leverage to loosen those lug nuts
Jordan's a great guy, a chip off the old block. Sunset was stupefying, and the chow looked great. First time I've seen KM3s fail on the trail. Great work, Brad, although I wish I'd been there to help with my Safe Jack Sarge bottle jack and a cordless DeWalk impact wrench. Love to the whole family.
Add that milwaukee M18 impact to your trail gear, or get an 18 or 24" breaker bar and the right socket for the jeep. Or better yet a set of flip sockets and breaker bar.
My son is gonna be 3 in July. He's already been enjoying the trail with just me and him going out, he looks out the window and loves every bit of it. Even when we're off camber or going up a step hill he laughs and tells me go faster, i got an xj thinking it would be more comfy for him. Can't wait to take him camping for a week
I cant wait to see the Taco build. I bought my first Jeep tj after watching your channel and it has it's purpose but in the dust, the soft top is awful...I love my 2012 tacoma...keep up the good work and thank you both for your service to this great country .. every thing I know day to day is a result of my father's impact ..good work Gents
And there is the aspect of my Tacoma that I miss the most driving my JKU, the tail gate. The tail gate is useful even in the driveway when a neighbor wanders by and you want a quick place to sit.
Ive ran this trail many times, solo & small groups. When solo i never do this run in the summer heat🥵, just to play it safe. Fun trail to run to the river. Lots of side trails to explore are amazing.
One of the main reasons I have a breaker bar in all my vehicles, even the sedan. Dealerships, and even me, over torque with the impact gun. Great stuff and excellent vids.
Any trip, short or long, good or bad that you can make as a father and son is something that should be cherished. I lost my father in 2016 and I miss all the atv and camping excurions we made over the years. Do not take these moments for granted. Life is short.
Goat milk is amazing as crazy as it sounds its far easier on the digestive track but that trip looks absolutely amazing! Definitely a bit of ASMR with that sunset
I have met you at Overland Expo in Flagstaff (Bernese Mtn Dog). Your relationship with your son is emotional for me. My son and I spent many days in the desert camping. He was a desert racer and a sponsored downhill mtn bike racer. He passed 2 years ago at 37 due to brain cancer but his memory lives with me and we will meet again. Back in the 70's I knew the So Cal deserts like the back of my hand. I've been on every trail in Anza and around it. I always enjoy your videos as do my friends. Keep it up.
Great father/son adventure, even with the challenges. Hoping to get my grandsons and sons in law out there for at least an overnighter! Thanks for the videos and inspiration.
It'll be interesting to see where Jordan goes with this. I may be a Jeep guy, but I dig seeing what folks do to their rigs, no matter what make it is ... or what they do. It's your rig do what you want, not what comments say... even if they don't like it.
Next time you guys and gals pass through Banning on the I-10, stop by the Gilman Ranch Museum for a looksee. There is still a remnant of the original Bradshaw Trail on the property, as this was one of the stage stops along the trail. Museum hours seem to be hit or miss, but Saturdays seem to be the best time to find them open. I'm sure they can fix you up with books and info about the Bradshaw Trail!
Burning smells you can't trace back are a real bummer. If it's not electrical, could be an exhaust part, or something dripping onto a hot exhaust, or maybe a brake binding or a friction lining of some kind? Lastly the actual cabin heater could be reaching the end of its life? Whatever the case, you guys have to get back out there, it was such a cool place to camp! Loved this adventure, despite the small issues you had!
I got some Ryobi electric tools and it's great. An electric wrench for taking off sway bar links, electric air pump for airing back up, electric chainsaw for small trees that fall across the path. All run off the same battery. Bring a couple spare batteries and a charger to plug into the power outlet and you're golden.
It's so good you and your son enjoy going out and exploring together. I'm older, these days, I do a trip, tell my youngest nephew where I went and he his friends go there. Shock and Awe that his old uncle knows about all of these really cool places!!!
I carried an impact wrench with plenty of batteries just in case the lug nuts are too tight. I also have a long, light weight aluminum pipe to get some leverage if the wrench fails. So far, the wrench is doing fine.
Awesome trip you guys and some priceless memories indeed. Kudos to Jordan's breakfast, that's always been a favorite of mine when I cook for my 2 sons. Thanks for sharing!
These are definitely my favorite videos you do! Bummer about the Tacoma, sure you’ll get it figured out. Look forward to the next time you go out there again.
Awesome desert scenery, that sunset at camp with salmon Burger's for dinner, that's what camping is all about... Pity about the flat tyre. But more importantly the odd smell of smoke in the Tacoma is a bit concerning...hope you find out what that was.👍🇦🇺🚙
Not 100% sure with the Tacoma, but with the Toyota Prado, you’ll have to press and hold the Traction Control button until you get 2 indicator lights for it to completely turn off. We love your videos! ❤
Good video of the Bradshaw Trail, your video answered at least so far if the train trestle was going to be left alone. 2 years ago our group did this trail, 14 truck campers!
Patton's WW2 training ground was between this trail and Joshua Tree. Trails are through those hills to the north and very scenic and interesting. There is a museum up there on the highway as well.. The trail from there down to the Bradshaw was quite worthwhile.
This area was actually just a small part of the world's largest (in history) land based military training center during WWII. Early in the war General Patton became the first commander of what is called the Desert Training Center, which stretched from the outskirts of Los Angeles and east past Bouse, Arizona, and from the Mexican border on up to southern Nevada. My dad was at Blythe, CA for a little training with his bomber wing before heading across the pond to help Hitler change his bad judgement!
When TrailRecon posts a new video, I hit like before I hit play because I know it's worth it. I wasn't wrong. I wish we had land and trails like this out East. Looking forward to see the Tacoma build come together. If you ever want to try something different, try getting a Subaru and building it into a light overlander. They're more capable than you'd expect and could handle roads like these with a slight lift and skid plates. People have even done light rock crawling in them. There's a good aftermarket for off-road parts. It could be a fun budget build, just don't get one with a CVT or head gasket issues.
Another great video, Brad. This one makes me miss the trips on the trail with my son. I experienced an unknown smell on one trip that turned out to be the alternator overcharging the battery and a frying the computer. Hope you find the source of the burning smell soon. Happy trails!
Now that ain't right.... A Jeep and a Toyota hit the trail and the Toyota is the one with an issue? Oh the shame! Lol. Great video! Jordan is a great addition to the adventures! Can't wait for the Tacoma build.
They're not perfect, haha. Some buddies of mine went out on a trail ride with a couple Toyotas and some Land Rovers, it was one of the Toyotas that broke. Busted CV axle, not uncommon.
Big fan of you guys! Check valve cover gaskets, they start leaking droplets here and there but won't smoke. Being a LMPY truck the rubber might have dried out on the valve covers. My dad is a mechanic and i was thinking whilst watching your video that i need a trip with my dad like this one. God Bless!
Sorry you had to cut your trip short, hope it’s nothing serious, great video with some beautiful shots. It’s great to see you both out on the trail again (father son beautiful).
Oh man! Can I just say I’m SO thankful to see the marvelious last of the mighty 2nd Gen Tacos! 2015 was one of the best! I am SO thankful your son didn’t show up in a new 100K TRD PRO, lol… I know they aren’t that much but a TRD OR is a great start! Now just remember when it’s time for a roof rack, you have factory installed nuts already under your roof drip moulding. Enjoy and keep that Tacoma forever! That 4.0 is amazing when compared to the 3.5L. Supercharger would be sweet if funds allow also!
Little tip -when you smell that smoke, grab that fire extinguisher first before you try to find where the smell is coming from. Jordan did very well to "check" the hood first with his hand for heat, but an extra pro tip: crack the hood an open slowly so it won't flare up as much if there is a fire in your engine bay; and of course having that properly sized fire extinguisher ready.
I know someone who recently had a vehicle fire, he got out to investigate smoke and while they were investigating the vehicle locked itself, locking the fire extinguisher inside. He ended up smashing one of the windows to get at it and to get some expensive gear out.
Watching these videos I often forget that you're also doing the filming! You make it look so seamless. When I'm out there the last thing I want to do is film everything. Thanks as always for your hard work.
There's camshaft end seals on that engine too. Reach down the back of the heads with your hand, engine cold, rub all around the vack of the head and see if there's oil on your hands. By the way, those heads are one piece so, check the cam cover gasket and sparkplug tubes for oil indicating leaky sparkplug tube seals.
took my 22 bronco out for its first trail ride this last weekend. the newness that burns off these things is impressive. i suppose running around in 4 low really works things. obviously the tacoma isn't brand new, but i know the smell game. it sucks!!
what a rad adventure and outing for you both! Bummer about the suspicious smell. hopefully you can sort it out ASAP and it is not too bad. the sceneries and that sunset were amazing!
The gen3 Tacoma you can press and hold the traction control button until the full traction control light comes on. It will not disengage over 35mph the same way as a quick button press.
Yeah the torquing of wheel nuts is a big issue and started a big conversation on Mad Matts's channel. Never trust a tyre fitting workshop and check your own vehicle, know your own vehicle especially in the outback
Was wondering why Jordan didn’t go with the Ford Bronco?? I thought I heard him say he quite liked it when you had yours. Fun stuff, really enjoy your trips and family. Thank you.
Yet another really nice video! Thank you both for putting this one together. One small consideration: Anyone who has "a shop," virtually any shop rotate or remove wheels and tires should always pack a 1/2" or even 3/4" (for 1-ton rigs) breaker bar in his or her off-road tool box. I learned this lesson the hard way too many years ago to say here. Semper Fidelis to you both and to the rest of your family. Merry Christmas, too! Andy McKane, Maunaloa (Molokai), Hawaii.
Impact guns on lug nuts are bad. Especially when the tech doesn't know how to NOT hammer the things on. I had that happen once, and it broke my lug wrench. I went off on the shop when I finally got it fixed. From now on, I specifically request that they do NOT use impact to tighten my lugs. Secondly, on my 2015 Tacoma, the oil filter is on the top of the motor. There is almost no way of preventing some spillage when changing oil filters. One trick I have been doing, I take a nail and pop a hole in the top of the filter. That way, when it drains, it gets the oil out of the filter too.
Cant wait to see how my 2019 Tacoma does on some trails like these. I have to change stock tires an wheels first and a front lift for starters then i should be ready!
I actually carry a 25 inch long breaker bar with a dedicated socket for those stubborn tight lug nuts. I also have a pipe that can be used as a cheater bar on a ratchet.
Lol, that's called impact torque setting at 240 ft lbs. Typical of every tire shop. I never let tire shops put my wheels on. Love the videos, semper fi brothers.
When changing tires, I like to use the breaker bar the other way so I’m pulling up on it. You can put way more power into it, instead of bouncing your body weight on it. I was nervous watching thinking you might hit your knuckles into the ground… Anyway, thanks for sharing your adventures!
Man adventures with the kiddo. Can't wait for my son to grow up. Thanks for the adventures and I was kinda a little sad one of the km3s failed. I also run 37 kms 3 on my jtr.
The KM3s are a great tire! This appeared to just be a side wall hit from those jagged rocks, which can happen when you're wheeling as much as we are. I've got a lot of off-road miles on this set, so its probably time for some new ones.
Great video as always Brad. You are a great storyteller. Too bad you had to cut it short because of the mysterious smell coming from the Tacoma and the flat tire. Good to see that all turned out fine in the end. Can't wait for the next adventure.
I used to work a dealership and I rarely saw the service techs torque down the lug nuts. A few ugga duggas on the impact wrench and it was off to the races.
You do such great work with your channel! I thoroughly enjoy it. It's really cool seeing the western experience. So different from the southeast. Im in Georgia, and have a lot of fun out my way! Keep up the great content!
It is always better to stop and call the trip rather than not and it ending in disaster. Good call guys, even if there is nothing massively wrong, it's always there for another day! 🙂
It's always been my thought that airing down only gives a very minimal percentage of width, but the length is where you gain the most gains. Either way, it's the same end result. Thanks for rhe content.
Man I wanna do stuff like this with my boys when they grow up but for now while their little it's camping and fishing trips all in the same vehicle haha. Great video!
The sunset was amazing! So jealous you get to overland all year long. Makes me consider(but not act upon) moving away from New England for the all year wheeling!
You were born at the right time. 100 years ago there were no Jeeps, and in 100 years in the future that whole area is going to be full of apartments and businesses.
My 2nd Gen Tacoma had an 18 gallon fuel tank. That was one of the few thing I didn't like about it. My 3rd gen has a bigger tank but a smaller engine. I'd take your engine and trans combo over my newer one.
Nice thing about having a pickup is at. It's not too difficult to throw a couple extra 5 gallon cans in the bed. I wish it was that easy with my 4Runner.
Hey Brad, let Jordan know that if he holds the traction control button down for 5 seconds, it will turn it off. Even over 30 mph. Hope you figure out where the smell is coming from 🤞
Brad you need an impact gun and a highlift jack for that bad boy LOL! I was surprised to see you using that factory jack!!! Loved this episode, I wish my son was into off-road and not just water-cooled VW's haha!
I kept thinking a Goose Gear seat delete with a RedVision power manager and fridge would be perfect for the back of your sons Tacoma. Especially now since RedArc has a smaller 10 AMP power manager control box.
I know you eliminated the fridge but, they are supposed to be run pretty level. They can take the angle short term but I think the compressor will run hot at the angle of the back seat. Could be why I think you said it wasn’t running very cold.
Thanks for everyones recommendations about what could possibly be the source of my sons Tacomas burning smell. We have spent the last few days trying to figure it out with no luck. And of course when we are now out driving on the road the smell is gone. If we find the culprit, we'll be sure to follow up. Safe travels everyone!
It can be so tricky!! I say run it until you meet your deductible! Then he can get a JEEP
What ended up causing the flat? Was it just a slice from a rock, or random piece of metal or something?
What shape are the taco's shocks in? The very first thing that came to my mind about the burning smell was a shock overheating. Aging or inferior quality shocks will overheat on extended rough roads especially at speed over rougher terrain and then be fine back on asphalt. Could be your mystery problem.
What about your front diff fluid? Often goes overlooked….
when i get my raptor hot from offroading in 4wd it makes a smell but otherwise never does it in normal conditions i think its a front diff thing or heat from the engine thing
Looks like a great father son adventure 🙌
Appreciate it buddy! Love seeing you and your son out there as well!
Brad this Jeep and Taco episode with your son was great and definitely will be a good memory.
Will be nice to see further episodes of your son Jordan's Taco build.
One day I hope to travel out that way from here in Alberta, Canada.
Thank you! More adventures to come and hope you are able to make it down here, you'll love it!
That's so cool Jordan was able to go out with you in a stock taco 🌮👍. Goes to show you that if you want to get into overlanding just use the vehicle you have. Great father and son video.
Thanks! Exactly, you don't need a crazy built vehicle or a ton of gear to get out there.
I have a Jeep and my son has a Tacoma. We also travel into the outback. As Brad knows having your son as a partner in adventure is an ultimate privilege. Great video that we very much enjoy and keep them coming.
Absolutely blessed that my sons still want to come out with me.
I appreciate that you show the difficulties of overlanding and camping. And I'll probably take my wife and dogs out there sometime too. Great videos, I watch faithfully and take a lot of inspiration from your travels!
Thank you! I think it's important to show that things don't always go perfect, but that doesn't mean you can't still have an amazing time.
Thanks for keeping it real! We appreciate seeing the challenges and the successes! Mapping/navigation has been one of our biggest challenges!
I think it's important to share when things don't go perfect. It's all about attitude, embracing the challenge and having an awesome time.
I have had over 10 flat tires from small gravels over the years, so to lessen that from happening as often I started running the tires with the most plys. Looked like a great place to explore!
just the trials and tribulations of buying a Used second hand vehicle. You both did the right thing and checked it out several times. Safety first. Another very fun video! Merci
I carry a 4-5 ft long metal pipe (about 1" dia.) in the back... insert handle of socket wrench on one end and then easily utilize leverage to loosen those lug nuts
and it doubles as a weapon :D
Jordan's a great guy, a chip off the old block. Sunset was stupefying, and the chow looked great. First time I've seen KM3s fail on the trail. Great work, Brad, although I wish I'd been there to help with my Safe Jack Sarge bottle jack and a cordless DeWalk impact wrench. Love to the whole family.
My dad loved the desert. I miss him and the amazing travels we had 4 wheeling. So I'm a little jealous of the journey you and your son are starting.
Add that milwaukee M18 impact to your trail gear, or get an 18 or 24" breaker bar and the right socket for the jeep. Or better yet a set of flip sockets and breaker bar.
My son is gonna be 3 in July. He's already been enjoying the trail with just me and him going out, he looks out the window and loves every bit of it. Even when we're off camber or going up a step hill he laughs and tells me go faster, i got an xj thinking it would be more comfy for him. Can't wait to take him camping for a week
Those are the memories that you'll be smiling at for the rest of your life. Enjoy your time with you boy, they grow fast!
I cant wait to see the Taco build. I bought my first Jeep tj after watching your channel and it has it's purpose but in the dust, the soft top is awful...I love my 2012 tacoma...keep up the good work and thank you both for your service to this great country .. every thing I know day to day is a result of my father's impact ..good work Gents
And there is the aspect of my Tacoma that I miss the most driving my JKU, the tail gate. The tail gate is useful even in the driveway when a neighbor wanders by and you want a quick place to sit.
Awesome Father - Son time together. Thank You for sharing with us. So Blessed..
Ive ran this trail many times, solo & small groups. When solo i never do this run in the summer heat🥵, just to play it safe. Fun trail to run to the river. Lots of side trails to explore are amazing.
Tacoma owner and gazelle tent owner here! Really nice setup, good choice👍🏼
Great film. You know you have a good life when your kids still want to take a break with you!
Brad all the best from the UK.
100%!
One of the main reasons I have a breaker bar in all my vehicles, even the sedan. Dealerships, and even me, over torque with the impact gun. Great stuff and excellent vids.
Any trip, short or long, good or bad that you can make as a father and son is something that should be cherished. I lost my father in 2016 and I miss all the atv and camping excurions we made over the years. Do not take these moments for granted. Life is short.
You are 100% correct, every moment counts. So sorry for your loss, I'll bet you guys had some great memories on those excursions.
@TrailRecon Thank you my friend. And thank you for both you and your sons service. Respect from Canada
Goat milk is amazing as crazy as it sounds its far easier on the digestive track but that trip looks absolutely amazing! Definitely a bit of ASMR with that sunset
I have met you at Overland Expo in Flagstaff (Bernese Mtn Dog). Your relationship with your son is emotional for me. My son and I spent many days in the desert camping. He was a desert racer and a sponsored downhill mtn bike racer. He passed 2 years ago at 37 due to brain cancer but his memory lives with me and we will meet again. Back in the 70's I knew the So Cal deserts like the back of my hand. I've been on every trail in Anza and around it. I always enjoy your videos as do my friends. Keep it up.
My heart goes out to you!
I remember you and your dog, so glad we got to meet. I'm sure those were some special memories you made with your son.
Happy you and Jordan can wheel together again! Excited for him and his build!
Wow, that time lapse sunset was neat to see, I'm sure more impressive in person. Keep the adventures coming Brad!
It was! The cameras never do it justice.
Great father/son adventure, even with the challenges. Hoping to get my grandsons and sons in law out there for at least an overnighter! Thanks for the videos and inspiration.
Challenges just make the adventure more memorable sometimes. Hope you guys are able to get out there while the weather is nice!
It'll be interesting to see where Jordan goes with this. I may be a Jeep guy, but I dig seeing what folks do to their rigs, no matter what make it is ... or what they do. It's your rig do what you want, not what comments say... even if they don't like it.
Next time you guys and gals pass through Banning on the I-10, stop by the Gilman Ranch Museum for a looksee. There is still a remnant of the original Bradshaw Trail on the property, as this was one of the stage stops along the trail. Museum hours seem to be hit or miss, but Saturdays seem to be the best time to find them open. I'm sure they can fix you up with books and info about the Bradshaw Trail!
Burning smells you can't trace back are a real bummer. If it's not electrical, could be an exhaust part, or something dripping onto a hot exhaust, or maybe a brake binding or a friction lining of some kind? Lastly the actual cabin heater could be reaching the end of its life? Whatever the case, you guys have to get back out there, it was such a cool place to camp! Loved this adventure, despite the small issues you had!
I always carry a battery powered Impact wrench on trips for my tires and Skid plates. Saves time and energy.
I got some Ryobi electric tools and it's great. An electric wrench for taking off sway bar links, electric air pump for airing back up, electric chainsaw for small trees that fall across the path. All run off the same battery. Bring a couple spare batteries and a charger to plug into the power outlet and you're golden.
Man, I think Brad enjoys videos of the 392 starting just because of that sound! Looks like fun guys.
Good video, i would never hang out with my father so consider yourself lucky to have a good relationship
Great trip! So fortunate to have your kids enjoy activities that you do.
It's so good you and your son enjoy going out and exploring together. I'm older, these days, I do a trip, tell my youngest nephew where I went and he his friends go there. Shock and Awe that his old uncle knows about all of these really cool places!!!
You're a great father, Brad! Wish I had one like you
I'm out here in Utah camping in the snow with no breakfast and that burrito looks amazing!
Stay warm!
I carried an impact wrench with plenty of batteries just in case the lug nuts are too tight. I also have a long, light weight aluminum pipe to get some leverage if the wrench fails. So far, the wrench is doing fine.
Hit the nail right on head Brad! 2nd gen Tacomas are indeed a 21 gallon tank from factory! Looks like a fun trip!
Awesome trip you guys and some priceless memories indeed. Kudos to Jordan's breakfast, that's always been a favorite of mine when I cook for my 2 sons. Thanks for sharing!
Thanks! You should try it next time with Goat Milk! LOL!
@@TrailRecon LOL!! I'll admit, that's one ingredient we haven't used 😂
These are definitely my favorite videos you do! Bummer about the Tacoma, sure you’ll get it figured out. Look forward to the next time you go out there again.
Awesome desert scenery, that sunset at camp with salmon Burger's for dinner, that's what camping is all about... Pity about the flat tyre. But more importantly the odd smell of smoke in the Tacoma is a bit concerning...hope you find out what that was.👍🇦🇺🚙
Not 100% sure with the Tacoma, but with the Toyota Prado, you’ll have to press and hold the Traction Control button until you get 2 indicator lights for it to completely turn off. We love your videos! ❤
This has now become a ritual for me! Love the long videos
Awesome, glad you are enjoying them!
Good video of the Bradshaw Trail, your video answered at least so far if the train trestle was going to be left alone. 2 years ago our group did this trail, 14 truck campers!
Brad this was great. I literally said to myself. I can't wait to do this with my son. Keep us tuned on the suspected Tacoma smoke.
I love these videos with your son. Sharing your passion is so special to watch.
Love watching your adventures. Need to see a marlin crawler lift on that toyota.
Amazing sunset! Try looking into the DJI drones. Pretty adorable amazing quality. Got mine today and it works perfect. Awesome Video!
Patton's WW2 training ground was between this trail and Joshua Tree. Trails are through those hills to the north and very scenic and interesting. There is a museum up there on the highway as well.. The trail from there down to the Bradshaw was quite worthwhile.
This area was actually just a small part of the world's largest (in history) land based military training center during WWII. Early in the war General Patton became the first commander of what is called the Desert Training Center, which stretched from the outskirts of Los Angeles and east past Bouse, Arizona, and from the Mexican border on up to southern Nevada. My dad was at Blythe, CA for a little training with his bomber wing before heading across the pond to help Hitler change his bad judgement!
When TrailRecon posts a new video, I hit like before I hit play because I know it's worth it. I wasn't wrong. I wish we had land and trails like this out East. Looking forward to see the Tacoma build come together.
If you ever want to try something different, try getting a Subaru and building it into a light overlander. They're more capable than you'd expect and could handle roads like these with a slight lift and skid plates. People have even done light rock crawling in them. There's a good aftermarket for off-road parts. It could be a fun budget build, just don't get one with a CVT or head gasket issues.
Thank you so much! I've seen some nicely built Subaru's out there.
I giggled everytime he said "hit a mine" or "this mine is a bust"...
Another great video, Brad. This one makes me miss the trips on the trail with my son. I experienced an unknown smell on one trip that turned out to be the alternator overcharging the battery and a frying the computer. Hope you find the source of the burning smell soon. Happy trails!
Last videos I've seen family is included! That's awesome 👌 👏 👏
Great footage of vehicles and the landscape of the desert, and also great advice on traveling and condition of environment.
Now that ain't right....
A Jeep and a Toyota hit the trail and the Toyota is the one with an issue? Oh the shame! Lol.
Great video! Jordan is a great addition to the adventures!
Can't wait for the Tacoma build.
They're not perfect, haha. Some buddies of mine went out on a trail ride with a couple Toyotas and some Land Rovers, it was one of the Toyotas that broke. Busted CV axle, not uncommon.
What an adventure. Good memories and what a beautiful sunset.
The best!
Dirty little secret that none of us like to admit with our fancy jacks: the factory jack is pretty decent! 😀
Awesome! Miss the desert. Also, can't stand when my son responds to everything with 'sure' LOL! Go Navy, beat Army!
Big fan of you guys! Check valve cover gaskets, they start leaking droplets here and there but won't smoke. Being a LMPY truck the rubber might have dried out on the valve covers. My dad is a mechanic and i was thinking whilst watching your video that i need a trip with my dad like this one. God Bless!
Sorry you had to cut your trip short, hope it’s nothing serious, great video with some beautiful shots. It’s great to see you both out on the trail again (father son beautiful).
Oh man! Can I just say I’m SO thankful to see the marvelious last of the mighty 2nd Gen Tacos! 2015 was one of the best! I am SO thankful your son didn’t show up in a new 100K TRD PRO, lol… I know they aren’t that much but a TRD OR is a great start!
Now just remember when it’s time for a roof rack, you have factory installed nuts already under your roof drip moulding. Enjoy and keep that Tacoma forever! That 4.0 is amazing when compared to the 3.5L. Supercharger would be sweet if funds allow also!
Good trip with son. Always lessons to learn. Plug kit, colby valves, 4 way or breaker and if room an impact are a must. Just encase. Thanks
Little tip -when you smell that smoke, grab that fire extinguisher first before you try to find where the smell is coming from. Jordan did very well to "check" the hood first with his hand for heat, but an extra pro tip: crack the hood an open slowly so it won't flare up as much if there is a fire in your engine bay; and of course having that properly sized fire extinguisher ready.
I know someone who recently had a vehicle fire, he got out to investigate smoke and while they were investigating the vehicle locked itself, locking the fire extinguisher inside. He ended up smashing one of the windows to get at it and to get some expensive gear out.
Makin Memories.
Watching these videos I often forget that you're also doing the filming! You make it look so seamless. When I'm out there the last thing I want to do is film everything. Thanks as always for your hard work.
Thank you! It's a lot of work, but I love doing it. And sometimes I put the camera away and just enjoy the journey.
@@TrailRecon as you should!
There's camshaft end seals on that engine too. Reach down the back of the heads with your hand, engine cold, rub all around the vack of the head and see if there's oil on your hands. By the way, those heads are one piece so, check the cam cover gasket and sparkplug tubes for oil indicating leaky sparkplug tube seals.
took my 22 bronco out for its first trail ride this last weekend. the newness that burns off these things is impressive. i suppose running around in 4 low really works things. obviously the tacoma isn't brand new, but i know the smell game. it sucks!!
what a rad adventure and outing for you both! Bummer about the suspicious smell. hopefully you can sort it out ASAP and it is not too bad. the sceneries and that sunset were amazing!
Thanks! Truly, that sunset was one for the ages!
The gen3 Tacoma you can press and hold the traction control button until the full traction control light comes on. It will not disengage over 35mph the same way as a quick button press.
Yeah the torquing of wheel nuts is a big issue and started a big conversation on Mad Matts's channel. Never trust a tyre fitting workshop and check your own vehicle, know your own vehicle especially in the outback
Was wondering why Jordan didn’t go with the Ford Bronco?? I thought I heard him say he quite liked it when you had yours. Fun stuff, really enjoy your trips and family. Thank you.
Yet another really nice video! Thank you both for putting this one together. One small consideration: Anyone who has "a shop," virtually any shop rotate or remove wheels and tires should always pack a 1/2" or even 3/4" (for 1-ton rigs) breaker bar in his or her off-road tool box. I learned this lesson the hard way too many years ago to say here. Semper Fidelis to you both and to the rest of your family. Merry Christmas, too! Andy McKane, Maunaloa (Molokai), Hawaii.
I have the exact same Methods Racing wheels on an all white JLUR, love the color
Impact guns on lug nuts are bad. Especially when the tech doesn't know how to NOT hammer the things on. I had that happen once, and it broke my lug wrench. I went off on the shop when I finally got it fixed. From now on, I specifically request that they do NOT use impact to tighten my lugs.
Secondly, on my 2015 Tacoma, the oil filter is on the top of the motor. There is almost no way of preventing some spillage when changing oil filters. One trick I have been doing, I take a nail and pop a hole in the top of the filter. That way, when it drains, it gets the oil out of the filter too.
Cant wait to see how my 2019 Tacoma does on some trails like these. I have to change stock tires an wheels first and a front lift for starters then i should be ready!
I actually carry a 25 inch long breaker bar with a dedicated socket for those stubborn tight lug nuts. I also have a pipe that can be used as a cheater bar on a ratchet.
Lol, that's called impact torque setting at 240 ft lbs. Typical of every tire shop. I never let tire shops put my wheels on. Love the videos, semper fi brothers.
When changing tires, I like to use the breaker bar the other way so I’m pulling up on it. You can put way more power into it, instead of bouncing your body weight on it. I was nervous watching thinking you might hit your knuckles into the ground…
Anyway, thanks for sharing your adventures!
Man adventures with the kiddo. Can't wait for my son to grow up. Thanks for the adventures and I was kinda a little sad one of the km3s failed. I also run 37 kms 3 on my jtr.
The KM3s are a great tire! This appeared to just be a side wall hit from those jagged rocks, which can happen when you're wheeling as much as we are. I've got a lot of off-road miles on this set, so its probably time for some new ones.
Great video as always Brad. You are a great storyteller. Too bad you had to cut it short because of the mysterious smell coming from the Tacoma and the flat tire. Good to see that all turned out fine in the end. Can't wait for the next adventure.
Thank you! We'll be back out there again soon!
I used to work a dealership and I rarely saw the service techs torque down the lug nuts. A few ugga duggas on the impact wrench and it was off to the races.
You do such great work with your channel! I thoroughly enjoy it. It's really cool seeing the western experience. So different from the southeast. Im in Georgia, and have a lot of fun out my way! Keep up the great content!
Thank you so much!
It is always better to stop and call the trip rather than not and it ending in disaster. Good call guys, even if there is nothing massively wrong, it's always there for another day! 🙂
I always say it’s not an adventure until something goes wrong!
👍 nice trip, thanks for sharing.
Thanks for watching!
Wow, "For Sure", haven't heard that since my days in the Navy stationed in Port Hueneme, CA lol
I live right here where u guys went in north shore would be great take a pic with you guys
It's always been my thought that airing down only gives a very minimal percentage of width, but the length is where you gain the most gains. Either way, it's the same end result. Thanks for rhe content.
Man I wanna do stuff like this with my boys when they grow up but for now while their little it's camping and fishing trips all in the same vehicle haha. Great video!
It's all about getting out there with them an making memories, fishing and camping trips can be very special!
@@TrailRecon I agree heading out on one this weekend! Now hopefully we can catch something!
The sunset was amazing! So jealous you get to overland all year long. Makes me consider(but not act upon) moving away from New England for the all year wheeling!
Not all year just different seasons. We avoid the desert in the summer!
You were born at the right time. 100 years ago there were no Jeeps, and in 100 years in the future that whole area is going to be full of apartments and businesses.
Man, that MagnaFlow exhaust sounds good. And what a great wander.
I enjoyed listening to the 392.
Oh ya, I smile every time it starts up!
My 2nd Gen Tacoma had an 18 gallon fuel tank. That was one of the few thing I didn't like about it. My 3rd gen has a bigger tank but a smaller engine. I'd take your engine and trans combo over my newer one.
Nice thing about having a pickup is at. It's not too difficult to throw a couple extra 5 gallon cans in the bed. I wish it was that easy with my 4Runner.
Hey Brad, let Jordan know that if he holds the traction control button down for 5 seconds, it will turn it off. Even over 30 mph. Hope you figure out where the smell is coming from 🤞
Good knowledge, thank you!
The time lapse of the sunset 👌
This is such a beautiful place! Thanks for sharing! Hope Jordan finds the answer to the odor… looking forward to seeing what is next! 🥾🥾🥰
Brad you need an impact gun and a highlift jack for that bad boy LOL! I was surprised to see you using that factory jack!!! Loved this episode, I wish my son was into off-road and not just water-cooled VW's haha!
I kept thinking a Goose Gear seat delete with a RedVision power manager and fridge would be perfect for the back of your sons Tacoma. Especially now since RedArc has a smaller 10 AMP power manager control box.
The Goose Gear setup as really helped to make my storage system more organized. I'm interested in the new Redarc box.
I know you eliminated the fridge but, they are supposed to be run pretty level. They can take the angle short term but I think the compressor will run hot at the angle of the back seat. Could be why I think you said it wasn’t running very cold.