True point. We do kinda expect Brad to be our Guinea Pig trying new and different things with not all needing to be a super success. Then again, when one is an overall success, like the 392, it is tough to let it go. I am personally thinking of trading in my 2022 392 for a 2024 as a last year, long term owner anticipation extension but the color choices suck IMHO
All this Internet talk about Al Gore. I lived through those days. Who cares if Al Gore has ANY rhythm at all (I doubt it). Since he claimed to have 'invented the internet' can we just blame all this WWW (What Went Wrong) business on him? Quoting the rock band, Queen, in Hammer to Fall: History won't care at all. I hope you all recognize irony and sarcasm when you encounter it. PS: What is the opposite of irony? Wrinkly. LOL
What a wonderful way to enjoy your retirement, Brad. You and Marco are the epitome of living the Jeep life. I live the simple nomad van life enjoying each day. I am housesitting in Running Springs until March. Then it's into visiting and camping in the New Mexico state parks. My bucket list seems to grow as I watch you, Marco, and others travel and explore great destinations. However, at 76 I explore on the "milder" side traveling and living in a 4x2 GMC Savana DIY conversion. I wish you a great and safe 2024. 🙏 BTW my thoughts on selling your Jeep 392...don't!!!
I think you should find a way to keep. Jeep announced Final Edition 392 so it will be dead next year. If nothing else value will shoot up once they’re no longer available on the lots. Right now a lot of them left.
Stellantis seems to be exiting the V8 market for everything but the Ram HD, probably due to emissions and fuel economy regulations. Even the Ram 1500 is going six-cylinder only. It's almost silly because the Hemi is what sells Rams.
There currently are favorable new 392 available for trade in, but here is what kills sales in CA - the taxes. California does NOT give any Trade-In tax credit, all cars pay full tax regardless of trade in value
@@Tritium1775 it's not a case of the _price_ of gas compared to gas usage. That V8 will use quite a bit more off road. No problem if you're just out rock crawling for the day but if you're an Overlander like Brad doing hundreds of miles in the back country away from gas stations, the lower range can be an issue.
100% brother! Brads Gladiator build is purpose driven and spot on. But there's a reason he's keeping the ole 392 and gas tax aint a worry for someone whos spending 100k on a fiat.@@backwoodstherapy
I’m retiring in a few years form the Military, looking forward to having more time to explore the back country. Your content and adventures inspire me to set conditions now with the truck to get out there!
Brad….. hang on to the 392. And thank you for what you do brother. I’m glad you’re taking some time for yourself …. Im envious and living vicariously through you 💪👊😎
Brad, I spent from July 1982 to December 1982 in Deadhorse Alaska at the Kuparak Oil Field. In the "heat" of the summer there are mosquitoes that you wouldn't believe. In the dead of the winter it is brutally cold. During the summer and early fall the ground looks like wet concrete. We were happy when the freeze came to make the roads look like paved concrete roads. The terrain is flat as a pancake with lots of "lakes" that are inches deep. One of the first things I saw when getting off the plane were tee shirts for sale with "Prudhoe Bay Wind Festival January 1 thru December 31. The sun never set in the summer and it barely rose above the horizon when I left in the middle of December. I flew in so I can't tell you how far south you have to drive to see a hill or a plant. (I don't even remember any plant life at all.) I saw beautiful scenery around Fairbanks from the airport. I saw beautiful scenery around Anchorage again from the airport. I would love to see more of Alaska but not around Deadhorse even though I only saw a small area around our campsite. Just my opinion.
Sad to hear Regena will not be able to adventure with you as often, but happy to hear she’s so excited about her new position! Hope she’s still able to get away somewhat cause she’s such a joy to have around!
I just bought my first Jeep in October.. it’s a 2021 DEISEL wrangler…. I absolutely love it! It’s like an adult Lego set. I am making it the way I want it.I get 28 mpg on highway. No EV can touch it for the same money. I love your channel. Gives me good ideas and insight into what I wanna change. Thanks for the videos! Keep ‘em coming
Brad, we went north in 2022 in our JLURD and camped and explored and had a blast. Like you mentioned we didn't feel it was a good use of time to go all the way to Purdhoe Bay but we did head north to the Arctic Circle and went over the Brooks range to Toolik Lake and turned around there. The scenery was amazing and I'd definitely recommend going up the Dalton some distance. Safe travels and keep the content coming!
Back in the mid 80s, a small group of NAS Miramar buddies and I would drive down to Cabo and and back. We would drive down to Cabo on the Pacific coast side and drive back on the Sea of Cortez side. It was always epic. The people, the food, and the scenery were fantastic! We would time it around the big Easter celebration in La Paz. Anyway, I am envious of your trip and hope you have a great time!
Chad, from Living the Van Life, has taken both of the Artic trips you’re talking about. Both trips looked awesome in his videos. Sounds like you have some great ideas for 2024. My new 4x4 finally came in a couple days ago after a nine month wait. My own adventures are about to begin and your videos certainly inspire me.
I've been following Chad for years, he makes great content and his Arctic series was great. Maybe someday I'll do the Prudhoe Bay trip, but for the time being I'm going to focus on other regions up North.
Glad to see you're holding on to the 392 for now. I've got a sting gray 392 sitting on 37's. The wife and I decided to go on a last minute road trip (day before go time lol) so we loaded up and left south east Kansas headed for the Baja. I had 12 days off for Christmas. We drove 4 days from Kansas to Cerritos Beach, stayed 4 days and drove 4 days back to Kansas. Talk about a high fuel bill haha. It was an awesome drive! We didn't quite make it all the way to Cabo since we had already flown there before. Todos Santos/El Pescadero area was a great place to visit.
Tuk! Yes! A number of years ago I did a trip on motorcycles from southern Vancouver Island to the arctic circle via the Dempster Highway. It remains one of my most epic memories. At the time, the summer road ended at Inuvik, and that was our destination. We didn’t quite make it, though, as spring runoff caused the river-crossing ferries to be out of commission. Now that the summer road goes all the way to Tuk, I’ve been trying to put together a 4x4 crew to do the trek. I’ve got a bunch of lads interested, but none of them have yet been able to put aside 2+ weeks of vacation to do it. I’m envious. Let me know if you need someone to carry your bags, Brad!
Glad to hear the feedback on the 392, we just picked our 2024 392 up in Bikini, after playing and working around them for years, figured now was the time to get one, keep up the great work Brad, we've been watching your content for years!
I think selling the Cherokee is smart. Of all the vehs I would definitely not sell the 392 with the v8s all going away. I really enjoy these coffee one takes. I look forward to the gladiator build and the trip through canada sounds amazing!
We'll have our Gladiator up in Alaska in July...been there a bunch...you'll love it. Galbraith Lake is just north of the Brooks range--that's a great target if you didn't want to all of the way to Deadhorse.
Great video! Really looking forward to your channel in 2024! Really hope you are able to keep the 392. I had a 2018 Scat Pack Challenger with a 392 that I had to part with to pursue my Jeep ambitions and I miss it so much. The power of that engine is therapeutic!
Good job Brad......The wife and I did Tuk 2 years ago now in our Chevy Express Quigley. Great trip! Did the interior of Alaska on the way back. Best of luck!
I understand the decision about the Cherokee, my brother and I were left our Fathers 1978 Cherokee when he passed away and it is a driver also, in awesome shape, (metallic copper colour) we would never sell it, but it is only for local trips on sunny days, I get the most waves when driving it, but it does have reliability issues. My 2020 Gladiator Rubicon is my daily driver, building it up to accommodate some short camping trips, love your channel, great to see family friendly 4x4 videos.
I am from Canada I live in the Great Lakes basin SWO . I did the trip up to the Arctic ,Dempster highway Dawson city , Yukon and NWT ,I went into Alaska on the Top the world highway to Chicken Alaska and beyond then back down to northern BC . I was living out of my converted for overland use Jeep Wrangler JL Rubicon . I took the back seats out and built a sleeping platform with a sliding drawer system underneath 12 volt fridge roof rack with storage boxes and solar panels on top , awning and awning room . I was away exploring for 3 months it was awesome . I saw some stunning places and views and met some fantastic fellow travellers . I stayed at Tuktoyaktuk and stood in the Arctic Ocean , It is very remote and a beautiful trip up there for sure . Cheers Wild Bill Jeep Overloading the remotest parts of northern Canada .
Just finished watching your Coffee One Take and I’m happy to hear you are going to Alaska, finally! Your current build will keep you busy and a few trips will eat up lots of time. And LIFE still happens! What I am most excited about is you going out doing videos like the last few. I know I have said it for years now but those are my favourite ones to watch. Thanks for keeping us in the loop and maybe I will see you at an airplane crash site. Been to a few of them in Arizona!! Cheers
Love the channel , I was stationed at fort wainwright AK for years , my PCS I drove through the Yukon on my way to my next post, it was fantastic! Please go north and skip the bay, there’s just so many awesome and amazing places to see and go to. Don’t fall to the tourist trap bucket lists!!!
The 392 is the last of a generation of big American V8's - you would definitely regret letting her go. Glad you are keeping her. Always enjoy your videos.
Please keep the 392! Watching you videos for years and even I can tell which vehicles you get attached to! With that said, I really see the van leaving, with your Jeeps fit the bill better.. But looking forward to seeing your Baja adventure. It’s always been on my bucket list. Maybe could do a Baja for the first timers video?Thanks for taking us on your trips?
Thanks for being a long time follower. The truth about the van is for long road trip Regena and I really enjoy it. It will never be as capable as our Jeeps, but it does have a place in the ways we like to explore.
New subscriber, you’ve helped inspire me to plan to overland/digital nomading with a Gladiator, and specifically wanted to thank you for your question to Jeep on the future 4xe as that helped me to wait to see that they release thr 4xe in 2025. Excited to see your explanations adding lithium batteries under your backseat- (you’ve made your own 4xe). My hope is to move my spare to the back like a Wrangler and add my own extra lithium batteries in that undercarriage space for remote work. All the best on your ambitious Trail Aid Station.
I’ve got 220k on the 4Runner in stock configuration with one size larger tires. A recent rebuild replaced all wearable parts. I’m 66 so I will need another vehicle eventually, but I should be good for a while. I sleep in the back and want to continue, so 4Runner length. Not sure if I can hang until Hydrogen, but that’s current thinking. I have a Prius Prime for around town and love the technology. I would consider in an off-roader.
Glad you're keeping the 392. What a machine! Looking forward to your adventures in 2024. I have just joined the wrangler crowd and I can't wait to get mine on the trail. Your videos are inspiring! Thank you!
Masterchief, ive been watching your vids for a while. Something clicked in my brain just now. I was in the BHR with you when we deployed on the MEU. I was with 2/4. HM3 Ednave. I was the Greenside equiv of then HM2 Floto.
On your thoughts on going to deadhorse. My dad and I drove from Alabama last summer and he was in the same boat as you, undecided if it was worth it to go up there or not. Let me tell you both of us would agree that was the highlight of the trip. The dalton is the prettiest road I’ve ever driven and over driven all over the us (48 states). It’s totally worth going to deadhorse if you’re up there. We took 5 days total to go up and back to allow for weather delays which fortunately we didn’t need and stayed a day in prudhoe.
Love my Redarc Manager 30, but it only charges at 30 amp/hour. I needed an extra DC DC charger to charge enough to keep ahead of the 2 fridges, Starlink and misc stuff on hot summer days.
Brad…About touching your toe in the Arctic Ocean at Prudhoe Bay...I worked in Prudhoe Bay for 30 years and I would recommend seeing other parts of Alaska first. Although Prudhoe Bay can be beautiful in the summer with the wetlands full of birds and wildflowers the “Haul Road” to access the area is very busy during this time of the year with commercial traffic. Also, you would have a very limited view of the area and not to able to experience the width and breath of the area. I don’t think people realize how large an operation Prudhoe Bay is. Had I still been working up there (Retired now) I could have been able to escort you and given you a tour of the area. There are plenty of videos on TH-cam that will show you what it is like but a good friend of mine from Texas told me once “If you want to see what Prudhoe Bay is like just go to a West Texas oil field and imagine it with snow”. Anyway, I could go on and on about my experiences in “Pluto” (That’s what some of us called the area) but see other parts of Alaska first. It is such a magical place.
We've got very similar plans as you. Baja in mid-March down to La Paz and back. Sierras in May/June, and then a couple month trip to Canada/BC in Aug/Sept/Oct time frame. And we'll be traveling from San Diego in our Gladiator...ha! Maybe we'll see you on the road. Have a blast!
Errol from IG here Brad, watching your videos over the years man have been great and seeing you build to where you are now is nothing short of inspirational and incredibly amazing. I may can’t catch every video the day they drop but best believe they get watched, keep doing the videos that make you happy! Much love from New Orleans, LA still plan to get on a trail with you eventually in life 🤙🏾
We drove from colorado to alaska in 2021. We explored glaciers and mines which was the highlight. Dalton highway was cool to get to the arctic, but after doing it, was clearly a trucking route. Also, the dirt from that road is still stuck to the bottom of my jeep 2 years later even after power washes
Enjoy your one- takes, like having a personal conversation with you. Building out my 2024 calendar as well, and Arizona and Nevada are there for several rips, Maybe see you out on the trail, Safe travels. "Jeep"n It Simple".
It's always good to have a plan in place (Long, Mid, and Short term), even when we know, for sure, that there are going to be changes along the way. Happy new year and many blessings to you and your family.
My wife and I are planning a trip to Tuk this year as well. I agree, a trip that incredible deserves a better culminating destination than Prudhoe Bay. Look forward to hearing more about your northern run as it gets closer.
I drove in a Ineos Grenadier about 6 months back in South Africa and must say, this is a great vehicle that has massive potential. Loads of customisability options, and I think this will be a formidable vehicle once its properly rigged out.
Brad I always look forward to your vidios. I enjoy the coffee one takes. As the owner of a 2010 Hummer H3t alpha adventure with ft and rear lockers I couldn't help but wish you would have enjoyed you mentioning the GM Colorado AT4X and Canyon ZR2. Thanks for your show and your content
If ever there was a Jeep that needed a V-8, its the Gladiator! You will regret it if you sell off the JLU 392. Your "Doc" Gladiator build will be fabulous and unique! Thanks for taking us along.
Good for you Brad!! After all, that should be what this channel is about at the end of the day, what YOU love and enjoy and want to share with us. Looking forward to the adventures. And I would never sell the 392, it’ll be a collectors jeep before you know it, and you’ll regret it.
I agree with your thoughts on Deadhorse and am also leaning towards Tuktoyaktuk as a more desirable destination....hope to do the trip either this year or next and want to get up there for the summer solstice. Keep the 392...I think you'd miss the extra ponies when towing your trailer on the trails. Thanks for the updates on everything and curious to see where 2024 takes you!
Have you thought about asking Nate at dirt lifestyle? That would be epic. And have you thought about LINE-X for the Gladiator? You would never have to worry about scratches and rust. And they can paint match. Food for thought.
Brad...One more thing I would like to mention. It is about the TH-cam algorithm. I like your channel because your personality comes across as truly enjoying what your are doing. I dislike channels that "Chase" the "AL" or their thumbnails are "Click-Bait". Once I have clicked on something that I determine, after a few seconds of viewing, that I have been victim of click-bait I tell TH-cam to not recommend that channel again...All the best and "Fair winds and following seas!"
A nearby adventure you might consider, if you haven't already done it, is the Desert National Wildlife Refuge, north of Las Vegas. There are 2 main trails - one is 35 miles long, and the other is 72 miles. It goes through desert, canyons and mountains. I enjoy driving my LR Defender through that area. Also, Bitter Springs trail, near Valley of Fire, is pretty scenic.
The solo trips are great! I, for one, would love the chance to see and explore the lesser known and lesser traveled parts of Ca, NV, AZ and OR. Do what brings you joy and ignore the algorithm. What brings me back to this channel is your authenticity and presentation style. 🍻
To be honest I love all of your content From the wrenching to the offroaoding The vehicles Equipment And the family and friends You and your family are an inspiration You’re doing pretty much everything that I wish I could do and some day hopefully will be able to but until I can I/we get to live vicariously through you and your adventures
Let’s see some more adventures for sure. Love the Baja content for sure want to see that. It’s on my 24 list as well. Last July we went up thru Canada to Jasper and Banff national parks and got me wanting to do an Alaska trip so bad. It was like a taste of the wild. Lol
We like the coffee 1 takes! We also want to do the Tuktoyuktuk adventure trip. Not sure of our dates though. Love watching you with or without the fam and friends. You always have interesting videos and talking points. Keep it up!
Enjoy watching your channel. I'm currently Jeepless after owning and wheeling a '98 TJ in AZ back in the day. Regarding your Alaska trip: I rode my motorcycle 7,000 miles roundtrip to Alaska in 2019. I chose not to ride to Prudhoe Bay for the same reasons you stated. I would recommend that you take the Cassiar one direction and the AlCan the other just for variety. You can fly your wife into Calgary if you plan to do the Ice Fields Parkway/Banff/Jasper or Whitehorse. She won't get a true sense of Alaska or the adventure if you fly her into Fairbanks or Anchorage. I've never regretted not going to Prudhoe. Occasionally I think I should have ridden up to the Arctic Circle, but it wouldn't have worked for my situation. Since you are in a Jeep and not subject to the discomforts of weather, I recommend that you go in late May or early June before the insects hatch. You'll get some rain and cool/cold weather - but that's better than being swarmed by bugs to the point of insanity. Generally speaking, you can't get to Tuk earlier in the season because the rivers may still be locked in ice and the ferries won't be operating. Keep up the good work.
Your shows are the best because they are genuine. You inspire people, keep up the good work and don’t follow the algorithms and the TrailRecon nation will continue to grow! CANNOT WAIT FOR ALASKA!
I bought a Grand Cherokee Trailhawk 4xe last January and I do not like it at all. I live in the Phoenix area, and the battery system rarely worked more than a few miles once temperatures got hot. By the way, I Iove your channel and have learned quite a bit watching your content.
Dear Brad, just a thought. If doing trails, longer trails, is a person’s “happy place”, having a good 4WD that “sips” fuel would seem to make the 392 less attractive - to ME. Glad those people who have them are pleased. The diesel JLU we have works for us. Anyway, keep up the great videos!
Travel / adventure videos are always fun, for sure, but do show / and explain more to us about the battery systems your planning for the Gladiator! Keep on, keepin' on!
Good luck north. We did Tuk a couple of years ago, then AK. Salmon glacier was amazing also the top of the world highway on to Chicken was excellent. I would like to go to Baja/Cabo as well. Love your coffee. I use it in a blend yours being the largest %. Due for more…
My 2cents. While I do watch and learn stuff from your build videos. I do get more enjoyment from the adventure videos. I'm always looking forward to seeing what Marco serves at the next meal! Keep up the good work.
Yeah man, adventure videos! I enjoy the trips you take the most. So I'm wanting to see the experience of new places and travel! Im excited for your Alaska and Baja trips!
I enjoyed this session of the TrailRecon Coffee One-Take. I am very interested in the future of the Gladiator - I'm planning to purchase in two years, hopefully in time for any new changes to shake out the bugs. A potential 4xe Glad is definitely in scope. One factor I need to research: ICE vehicles have inherent longevity (barring major defects). What is the outlook for PHEVs? Battery pack lifespan? Will deteriorating battery life and the cost of replacing the packs limit the viability of long-term ownership?
I think that this is a very exciting time for overland/expedition enthusiasts with the rollout of some new/updated vehicles. I have a Grenadier on order; however, I am looking forward to checking out the new Lexus GX, and the updated Land Cruiser.
You built your audience through doing the videos you wanted, no reason to force the algorithm. Keep it up! Safe trails.
Thank you! I hope to share some adventure with you all this year I'm really excited about.
True point.
We do kinda expect Brad to be our Guinea Pig trying new and different things with not all needing to be a super success.
Then again, when one is an overall success, like the 392, it is tough to let it go. I am personally thinking of trading in my 2022 392 for a 2024 as a last year, long term owner anticipation extension but the color choices suck IMHO
All this Internet talk about Al Gore. I lived through those days. Who cares if Al Gore has ANY rhythm at all (I doubt it). Since he claimed to have 'invented the internet' can we just blame all this WWW (What Went Wrong) business on him? Quoting the rock band, Queen, in Hammer to Fall: History won't care at all. I hope you all recognize irony and sarcasm when you encounter it. PS: What is the opposite of irony? Wrinkly. LOL
What a wonderful way to enjoy your retirement, Brad. You and Marco are the epitome of living the Jeep life. I live the simple nomad van life enjoying each day. I am housesitting in Running Springs until March. Then it's into visiting and camping in the New Mexico state parks. My bucket list seems to grow as I watch you, Marco, and others travel and explore great destinations. However, at 76 I explore on the "milder" side traveling and living in a 4x2 GMC Savana DIY conversion. I wish you a great and safe 2024. 🙏 BTW my thoughts on selling your Jeep 392...don't!!!
Thank you! NM has some really great areas to explore, but some of them are pretty remote... bring extra fuel!
I think you should find a way to keep. Jeep announced Final Edition 392 so it will be dead next year. If nothing else value will shoot up once they’re no longer available on the lots. Right now a lot of them left.
Stellantis seems to be exiting the V8 market for everything but the Ram HD, probably due to emissions and fuel economy regulations. Even the Ram 1500 is going six-cylinder only. It's almost silly because the Hemi is what sells Rams.
Glad you are keeping the 392! They are amazing vehicles.
Excited for the Gladiator build
@@XXPS60 I'd keep it until it's out of warranty, then if it breaks again I'd look into getting an atlas transfer case.
There currently are favorable new 392 available for trade in, but here is what kills sales in CA - the taxes.
California does NOT give any Trade-In tax credit, all cars pay full tax regardless of trade in value
lol a 392 owner that cares about gas price. If they exist, it's called an identity crisis. You buy that vehicle for pure joy.
@@Tritium1775 it's not a case of the _price_ of gas compared to gas usage. That V8 will use quite a bit more off road. No problem if you're just out rock crawling for the day but if you're an Overlander like Brad doing hundreds of miles in the back country away from gas stations, the lower range can be an issue.
100% brother! Brads Gladiator build is purpose driven and spot on. But there's a reason he's keeping the ole 392 and gas tax aint a worry for someone whos spending 100k on a fiat.@@backwoodstherapy
I'm glad you are keeping the 392! Best Wrangler ever. I was nervous as you took so long to give the answer. Once you gave the answer, I was relieved.
Never sell 392
Never sell 392
NEVER EVER!
Never sell 392
Never sell 392. Not eva! They won’t import them to Australia, I’m devastated!,
Don't sell the 392!!!!
I’m retiring in a few years form the Military, looking forward to having more time to explore the back country. Your content and adventures inspire me to set conditions now with the truck to get out there!
Brad….. hang on to the 392. And thank you for what you do brother. I’m glad you’re taking some time for yourself …. Im envious and living vicariously through you 💪👊😎
Brad, I spent from July 1982 to December 1982 in Deadhorse Alaska at the Kuparak Oil Field. In the "heat" of the summer there are mosquitoes that you wouldn't believe. In the dead of the winter it is brutally cold. During the summer and early fall the ground looks like wet concrete. We were happy when the freeze came to make the roads look like paved concrete roads. The terrain is flat as a pancake with lots of "lakes" that are inches deep. One of the first things I saw when getting off the plane were tee shirts for sale with "Prudhoe Bay Wind Festival January 1 thru December 31. The sun never set in the summer and it barely rose above the horizon when I left in the middle of December. I flew in so I can't tell you how far south you have to drive to see a hill or a plant. (I don't even remember any plant life at all.) I saw beautiful scenery around Fairbanks from the airport. I saw beautiful scenery around Anchorage again from the airport. I would love to see more of Alaska but not around Deadhorse even though I only saw a small area around our campsite. Just my opinion.
Sad to hear Regena will not be able to adventure with you as often, but happy to hear she’s so excited about her new position! Hope she’s still able to get away somewhat cause she’s such a joy to have around!
It's a life balance. She will still be out with me when she can.
Regina has accomplished a miracle and Brad can now bake.
I'm just joking....
I would love to see you and Marco do trails together more often. Love all your videos!!
Fix it and keep it. There’s got to be a way to increase gas mileage on the 392. I’d buy one if I could get 18-22 MPG.
I just bought my first Jeep in October.. it’s a 2021 DEISEL wrangler…. I absolutely love it! It’s like an adult Lego set. I am making it the way I want it.I get 28 mpg on highway. No EV can touch it for the same money. I love your channel. Gives me good ideas and insight into what I wanna change. Thanks for the videos! Keep ‘em coming
Brad, do the videos that make you happy. I’m sure I’m not the only one, but I’ll watch any video you make. Love them all, even the One Takes!
Thank you!
Brad, we went north in 2022 in our JLURD and camped and explored and had a blast. Like you mentioned we didn't feel it was a good use of time to go all the way to Purdhoe Bay but we did head north to the Arctic Circle and went over the Brooks range to Toolik Lake and turned around there. The scenery was amazing and I'd definitely recommend going up the Dalton some distance. Safe travels and keep the content coming!
Back in the mid 80s, a small group of NAS Miramar buddies and I would drive down to Cabo and and back. We would drive down to Cabo on the Pacific coast side and drive back on the Sea of Cortez side. It was always epic. The people, the food, and the scenery were fantastic! We would time it around the big Easter celebration in La Paz. Anyway, I am envious of your trip and hope you have a great time!
Chad, from Living the Van Life, has taken both of the Artic trips you’re talking about. Both trips looked awesome in his videos. Sounds like you have some great ideas for 2024. My new 4x4 finally came in a couple days ago after a nine month wait. My own adventures are about to begin and your videos certainly inspire me.
I've been following Chad for years, he makes great content and his Arctic series was great. Maybe someday I'll do the Prudhoe Bay trip, but for the time being I'm going to focus on other regions up North.
Glad to see you're holding on to the 392 for now. I've got a sting gray 392 sitting on 37's. The wife and I decided to go on a last minute road trip (day before go time lol) so we loaded up and left south east Kansas headed for the Baja. I had 12 days off for Christmas. We drove 4 days from Kansas to Cerritos Beach, stayed 4 days and drove 4 days back to Kansas. Talk about a high fuel bill haha. It was an awesome drive! We didn't quite make it all the way to Cabo since we had already flown there before. Todos Santos/El Pescadero area was a great place to visit.
Tuk! Yes! A number of years ago I did a trip on motorcycles from southern Vancouver Island to the arctic circle via the Dempster Highway. It remains one of my most epic memories. At the time, the summer road ended at Inuvik, and that was our destination. We didn’t quite make it, though, as spring runoff caused the river-crossing ferries to be out of commission. Now that the summer road goes all the way to Tuk, I’ve been trying to put together a 4x4 crew to do the trek. I’ve got a bunch of lads interested, but none of them have yet been able to put aside 2+ weeks of vacation to do it.
I’m envious. Let me know if you need someone to carry your bags, Brad!
Glad to hear the feedback on the 392, we just picked our 2024 392 up in Bikini, after playing and working around them for years, figured now was the time to get one, keep up the great work Brad, we've been watching your content for years!
I think selling the Cherokee is smart. Of all the vehs I would definitely not sell the 392 with the v8s all going away. I really enjoy these coffee one takes. I look forward to the gladiator build and the trip through canada sounds amazing!
We'll have our Gladiator up in Alaska in July...been there a bunch...you'll love it. Galbraith Lake is just north of the Brooks range--that's a great target if you didn't want to all of the way to Deadhorse.
I’m so happy you’re keeping the 392! It’s one of my favorite vehicles that you own and I would’ve been very sad to see it go.
Great video! Really looking forward to your channel in 2024! Really hope you are able to keep the 392. I had a 2018 Scat Pack Challenger with a 392 that I had to part with to pursue my Jeep ambitions and I miss it so much. The power of that engine is therapeutic!
Good job Brad......The wife and I did Tuk 2 years ago now in our Chevy Express Quigley. Great trip! Did the interior of Alaska on the way back. Best of luck!
Best adventures I have ever done myself are the ones I have said I’ve wanted to do for a long time and then have just done them. Hope you make it up!
I understand the decision about the Cherokee, my brother and I were left our Fathers 1978 Cherokee when he passed away and it is a driver also, in awesome shape, (metallic copper colour) we would never sell it, but it is only for local trips on sunny days, I get the most waves when driving it, but it does have reliability issues. My 2020 Gladiator Rubicon is my daily driver, building it up to accommodate some short camping trips, love your channel, great to see family friendly 4x4 videos.
I am from Canada I live in the Great Lakes basin SWO . I did the trip up to the Arctic ,Dempster highway Dawson city , Yukon and NWT ,I went into Alaska on the Top the world highway to Chicken Alaska and beyond then back down to northern BC . I was living out of my converted for overland use Jeep Wrangler JL Rubicon . I took the back seats out and built a sleeping platform with a sliding drawer system underneath 12 volt fridge roof rack with storage boxes and solar panels on top , awning and awning room . I was away exploring for 3 months it was awesome . I saw some stunning places and views and met some fantastic fellow travellers . I stayed at Tuktoyaktuk and stood in the Arctic Ocean , It is very remote and a beautiful trip up there for sure .
Cheers Wild Bill Jeep Overloading the remotest parts of northern Canada .
Super info and can’t wait for all in 2024. Blessed 2024 to you and the whole family.
Just finished watching your Coffee One Take and I’m happy to hear you are going to Alaska, finally! Your current build will keep you busy and a few trips will eat up lots of time. And LIFE still happens!
What I am most excited about is you going out doing videos like the last few. I know I have said it for years now but those are my favourite ones to watch. Thanks for keeping us in the loop and maybe I will see you at an airplane crash site. Been to a few of them in Arizona!! Cheers
Thank you and fingers crossed life doesn't get too much in the way this coming year.
Love the channel , I was stationed at fort wainwright AK for years , my PCS I drove through the Yukon on my way to my next post, it was fantastic! Please go north and skip the bay, there’s just so many awesome and amazing places to see and go to. Don’t fall to the tourist trap bucket lists!!!
The 392 is the last of a generation of big American V8's - you would definitely regret letting her go. Glad you are keeping her. Always enjoy your videos.
Please keep the 392! Watching you videos for years and even I can tell which vehicles you get attached to! With that said, I really see the van leaving, with your Jeeps fit the bill better..
But looking forward to seeing your Baja adventure. It’s always been on my bucket list. Maybe could do a Baja for the first timers video?Thanks for taking us on your trips?
Thanks for being a long time follower. The truth about the van is for long road trip Regena and I really enjoy it. It will never be as capable as our Jeeps, but it does have a place in the ways we like to explore.
Sounds like an Epic Adventure Year for you Brad.
Hope it works out for you.
Thanks in advance for taking us along. .
You bet!
New subscriber, you’ve helped inspire me to plan to overland/digital nomading with a Gladiator, and specifically wanted to thank you for your question to Jeep on the future 4xe as that helped me to wait to see that they release thr 4xe in 2025. Excited to see your explanations adding lithium batteries under your backseat- (you’ve made your own 4xe). My hope is to move my spare to the back like a Wrangler and add my own extra lithium batteries in that undercarriage space for remote work. All the best on your ambitious Trail Aid Station.
Welcome to the channel and thank you! I'm looking forward to the battery build out, more to come on that.
Always glad to get an update from the Kowitz family. Happy for y'all!
I’ve got 220k on the 4Runner in stock configuration with one size larger tires. A recent rebuild replaced all wearable parts. I’m 66 so I will need another vehicle eventually, but I should be good for a while. I sleep in the back and want to continue, so 4Runner length. Not sure if I can hang until Hydrogen, but that’s current thinking. I have a Prius Prime for around town and love the technology. I would consider in an off-roader.
Glad you're keeping the 392. What a machine! Looking forward to your adventures in 2024. I have just joined the wrangler crowd and I can't wait to get mine on the trail. Your videos are inspiring! Thank you!
Thank you!
Masterchief, ive been watching your vids for a while. Something clicked in my brain just now. I was in the BHR with you when we deployed on the MEU. I was with 2/4. HM3 Ednave. I was the Greenside equiv of then HM2 Floto.
When you head north, consider sticking your toes in the Laird River hot springs. Driving the Alaska highway, while all paved, is a great adventure.
On your thoughts on going to deadhorse. My dad and I drove from Alabama last summer and he was in the same boat as you, undecided if it was worth it to go up there or not. Let me tell you both of us would agree that was the highlight of the trip. The dalton is the prettiest road I’ve ever driven and over driven all over the us (48 states). It’s totally worth going to deadhorse if you’re up there. We took 5 days total to go up and back to allow for weather delays which fortunately we didn’t need and stayed a day in prudhoe.
Love my Redarc Manager 30, but it only charges at 30 amp/hour. I needed an extra DC DC charger to charge enough to keep ahead of the 2 fridges, Starlink and misc stuff on hot summer days.
Brad…About touching your toe in the Arctic Ocean at Prudhoe Bay...I worked in Prudhoe Bay for 30 years and I would recommend seeing other parts of Alaska first. Although Prudhoe Bay can be beautiful in the summer with the wetlands full of birds and wildflowers the “Haul Road” to access the area is very busy during this time of the year with commercial traffic. Also, you would have a very limited view of the area and not to able to experience the width and breath of the area. I don’t think people realize how large an operation Prudhoe Bay is. Had I still been working up there (Retired now) I could have been able to escort you and given you a tour of the area. There are plenty of videos on TH-cam that will show you what it is like but a good friend of mine from Texas told me once “If you want to see what Prudhoe Bay is like just go to a West Texas oil field and imagine it with snow”. Anyway, I could go on and on about my experiences in “Pluto” (That’s what some of us called the area) but see other parts of Alaska first. It is such a magical place.
We've got very similar plans as you. Baja in mid-March down to La Paz and back. Sierras in May/June, and then a couple month trip to Canada/BC in Aug/Sept/Oct time frame. And we'll be traveling from San Diego in our Gladiator...ha! Maybe we'll see you on the road. Have a blast!
Errol from IG here Brad, watching your videos over the years man have been great and seeing you build to where you are now is nothing short of inspirational and incredibly amazing. I may can’t catch every video the day they drop but best believe they get watched, keep doing the videos that make you happy! Much love from New Orleans, LA still plan to get on a trail with you eventually in life 🤙🏾
We drove from colorado to alaska in 2021. We explored glaciers and mines which was the highlight. Dalton highway was cool to get to the arctic, but after doing it, was clearly a trucking route. Also, the dirt from that road is still stuck to the bottom of my jeep 2 years later even after power washes
Enjoy your one- takes, like having a personal conversation with you. Building out my 2024 calendar as well, and Arizona and Nevada are there for several rips, Maybe see you out on the trail, Safe travels. "Jeep"n It Simple".
Another great update.....glad you're getting back to your roots.
It's always good to have a plan in place (Long, Mid, and Short term), even when we know, for sure, that there are going to be changes along the way. Happy new year and many blessings to you and your family.
We Love seeing the places you visit. Can’t wait for the Alaska trip! It’s on our bucket list to go.
That you for sharing, 2024 calendar is filling up quick. Everyone stay safe, warm, happy and healthy. From Henrico County Virginia
My wife and I are planning a trip to Tuk this year as well. I agree, a trip that incredible deserves a better culminating destination than Prudhoe Bay. Look forward to hearing more about your northern run as it gets closer.
Great video, Brad. Looking forward to 2024
You and me both!
You already inspired me sir. I bought a jeep gladiator last year, and I’ve been doing my own adventures
With Regina smiles and yours when driving and talking about the 392 you have to keep it.
Great video, Alaska/Baja have did both from Ontario Canada, both amazing adventures. Scenic overload.
I drove in a Ineos Grenadier about 6 months back in South Africa and must say, this is a great vehicle that has massive potential. Loads of customisability options, and I think this will be a formidable vehicle once its properly rigged out.
I'm looking forward to seeing what modification they come up with for these.
Brad I really enjoyed the coffee one take! Follow your gut feeling if you’re hesitating about selling the 392 don’t sell it!
Brad I always look forward to your vidios. I enjoy the coffee one takes. As the owner of a 2010 Hummer H3t alpha adventure with ft and rear lockers I couldn't help but wish you would have enjoyed you mentioning the GM Colorado AT4X and Canyon ZR2. Thanks for your show and your content
My vote is for keeping the 392. It is one of the kind, that soon may no longer be replaceable.
If ever there was a Jeep that needed a V-8, its the Gladiator! You will regret it if you sell off the JLU 392. Your "Doc" Gladiator build will be fabulous and unique! Thanks for taking us along.
Good for you Brad!! After all, that should be what this channel is about at the end of the day, what YOU love and enjoy and want to share with us. Looking forward to the adventures. And I would never sell the 392, it’ll be a collectors jeep before you know it, and you’ll regret it.
I agree with your thoughts on Deadhorse and am also leaning towards Tuktoyaktuk as a more desirable destination....hope to do the trip either this year or next and want to get up there for the summer solstice. Keep the 392...I think you'd miss the extra ponies when towing your trailer on the trails. Thanks for the updates on everything and curious to see where 2024 takes you!
Tuk ! Yes.👍
Have you thought about asking Nate at dirt lifestyle? That would be epic. And have you thought about LINE-X for the Gladiator? You would never have to worry about scratches and rust.
And they can paint match. Food for thought.
So excited for the future trip to Alaska! Your channel is a regular part of my morning coffee routine!
Thanks for joining me with a cup of Joe!
Brad...One more thing I would like to mention. It is about the TH-cam algorithm. I like your channel because your personality comes across as truly enjoying what your are doing. I dislike channels that "Chase" the "AL" or their thumbnails are "Click-Bait". Once I have clicked on something that I determine, after a few seconds of viewing, that I have been victim of click-bait I tell TH-cam to not recommend that channel again...All the best and "Fair winds and following seas!"
A nearby adventure you might consider, if you haven't already done it, is the Desert National Wildlife Refuge, north of Las Vegas. There are 2 main trails - one is 35 miles long, and the other is 72 miles. It goes through desert, canyons and mountains. I enjoy driving my LR Defender through that area.
Also, Bitter Springs trail, near Valley of Fire, is pretty scenic.
I'll have to look into those, thank you!
The solo trips are great! I, for one, would love the chance to see and explore the lesser known and lesser traveled parts of Ca, NV, AZ and OR. Do what brings you joy and ignore the algorithm. What brings me back to this channel is your authenticity and presentation style. 🍻
I agree with your sentiment. film what you love, we love the content and can tell when you genuinely enjoy what you are doing
To be honest I love all of your content
From the wrenching to the offroaoding
The vehicles Equipment
And the family and friends
You and your family are an inspiration
You’re doing pretty much everything that I wish I could do and some day hopefully will be able to but until I can I/we get to live vicariously through you and your adventures
Thank you so much!
Love the one takes. Like the sound of your plans and the videos. Looking forward to them.
Go to Tuk. Did it two years ago for my 70th birthday. Would do ago. I live on the east coast of Canada so it was a real road trip.
Love the coffee one take. And love that you are doing what you want to do. Hope to see you out on the trail someday. ❤
Awesome.Thanks for sharing and taking us along
Yes come out to Nevada. Great weather from October-May in southern Nevada and mid to north Nevada is great September-June
Great preview of what’s to come this year. Looking forward to riding along!
Let’s see some more adventures for sure. Love the Baja content for sure want to see that. It’s on my 24 list as well. Last July we went up thru Canada to Jasper and Banff national parks and got me wanting to do an Alaska trip so bad. It was like a taste of the wild. Lol
Going to Tuk would be awesome ! Time for blazing new trails, and enjoying your time off camera too. 🍁🤙
We like the coffee 1 takes! We also want to do the Tuktoyuktuk adventure trip. Not sure of our dates though. Love watching you with or without the fam and friends. You always have interesting videos and talking points. Keep it up!
Enjoy watching your channel. I'm currently Jeepless after owning and wheeling a '98 TJ in AZ back in the day.
Regarding your Alaska trip: I rode my motorcycle 7,000 miles roundtrip to Alaska in 2019. I chose not to ride to Prudhoe Bay for the same reasons you stated. I would recommend that you take the Cassiar one direction and the AlCan the other just for variety. You can fly your wife into Calgary if you plan to do the Ice Fields Parkway/Banff/Jasper or Whitehorse. She won't get a true sense of Alaska or the adventure if you fly her into Fairbanks or Anchorage.
I've never regretted not going to Prudhoe. Occasionally I think I should have ridden up to the Arctic Circle, but it wouldn't have worked for my situation.
Since you are in a Jeep and not subject to the discomforts of weather, I recommend that you go in late May or early June before the insects hatch. You'll get some rain and cool/cold weather - but that's better than being swarmed by bugs to the point of insanity. Generally speaking, you can't get to Tuk earlier in the season because the rivers may still be locked in ice and the ferries won't be operating.
Keep up the good work.
Wow I bet that was an epic trip on a bike! Great information, than you!
Glad your keeping the 392.
Your shows are the best because they are genuine. You inspire people, keep up the good work and don’t follow the algorithms and the TrailRecon nation will continue to grow!
CANNOT WAIT FOR ALASKA!
"It's a keeper." 😅 I think Regina is the only show thing in your life my friend. You seem to change vehicles even more than I do. Happy New Year.
I saw an Ienos Grenadier in person yesterday, they are pretty cool.
Well kinda figured on the Pear. Was hoping to see that in a retro overlanding trip video. Hopefully the new owner will keep going on the build.
I bought a Grand Cherokee Trailhawk 4xe last January and I do not like it at all. I live in the Phoenix area, and the battery system rarely worked more than a few miles once temperatures got hot.
By the way, I Iove your channel and have learned quite a bit watching your content.
We will be in Tuk this September. It’s one of our bucket list place. We make a detour to do the Mackenzie Trail first. It’s a 19k km trip for us.
So glad you are keeping the 392.
Dear Brad, just a thought. If doing trails, longer trails, is a person’s “happy place”, having a good 4WD that “sips” fuel would seem to make the 392 less attractive - to ME. Glad those people who have them are pleased. The diesel JLU we have works for us. Anyway, keep up the great videos!
Travel / adventure videos are always fun, for sure, but do show / and explain more to us about the battery systems your planning for the Gladiator!
Keep on, keepin' on!
Your best videos are the ones you enjoy doing the most.
Good luck north. We did Tuk a couple of years ago, then AK. Salmon glacier was amazing also the top of the world highway on to Chicken was excellent. I would like to go to Baja/Cabo as well. Love your coffee. I use it in a blend yours being the largest %. Due for more…
Thank you so much! Glad you’re enjoying the coffee!
My 2cents. While I do watch and learn stuff from your build videos. I do get more enjoyment from the adventure videos. I'm always looking forward to seeing what Marco serves at the next meal! Keep up the good work.
It's going to be a good time ! I can't wait to see where you take us.
Yeah man, adventure videos! I enjoy the trips you take the most. So I'm wanting to see the experience of new places and travel! Im excited for your Alaska and Baja trips!
Good job Master Chief, glad to see you doing what makes you happy, take that time and enjoy it.
Thank you! I can't complain about retirement!
Sounds like a good plan Brad. Look forward to hearing about your adventures this year. All the best.
I enjoyed this session of the TrailRecon Coffee One-Take. I am very interested in the future of the Gladiator - I'm planning to purchase in two years, hopefully in time for any new changes to shake out the bugs. A potential 4xe Glad is definitely in scope.
One factor I need to research: ICE vehicles have inherent longevity (barring major defects). What is the outlook for PHEVs? Battery pack lifespan? Will deteriorating battery life and the cost of replacing the packs limit the viability of long-term ownership?
To be honest there are plenty of videos available showing how to install suspensions etc so if you mostly show adventures I know I'll never complain.
I think that this is a very exciting time for overland/expedition enthusiasts with the rollout of some new/updated vehicles. I have a Grenadier on order; however, I am looking forward to checking out the new Lexus GX, and the updated Land Cruiser.