Upgrading Our DIY OFF-GRID Power System (immediately broken)

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  • เผยแพร่เมื่อ 30 พ.ค. 2024
  • One step forward, two steps back... // Thank you to Ridge for sponsoring today's video! Upgrade your wallet: ridge.com/ambition
    We're a husband and wife team who bought 20 acres of bare off-grid land in North Idaho. Follow along as we turn a pole barn into our dream shop with an upstairs apartment!
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    00:00 Like a chipmunk
    05:46 Laying pipe and filling trenches
    11:02 Generator and propane tank
    15:21 One mistake . . .
    19:27 Tank filling and bolt stripping
    25:06 Power system tour
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ความคิดเห็น • 955

  • @AmbitionStrikes
    @AmbitionStrikes  6 หลายเดือนก่อน +24

    Are you ready to upgrade your wallet game? Shop Ridge: ridge.com/ambition

    • @majcorbin
      @majcorbin 6 หลายเดือนก่อน +2

      MY FAVORITE RUSH QUOTE IS "Our society is swimming in a SEA of information,yet drowning in IGNORANCE [6 april 2002 (3rd hour)

    • @mobiousenigma
      @mobiousenigma 6 หลายเดือนก่อน +1

      cold wet snowed in.... head north lol go spend a week in the artic circle so when you come back its only mildly inconvenient to be where you are. be thankful for what you do have. on that note thanks for the videos.

    • @Mike-hb4pc
      @Mike-hb4pc 6 หลายเดือนก่อน +1

      RFID wallet? Really? With most of the credit cards out there now using chip technology, RFID is useless. Doesn't work on chip cards.....

    • @TexasVeteranPatriot
      @TexasVeteranPatriot 6 หลายเดือนก่อน

      Be careful of "rated capacity" as it's not always the REAL number (can be 10-20% lower) vs the "continuous capacity";i.e. a 9750 is only 8000 (or less) continuous. "Rated" is usually "peak", dep on the mfg. Load testing will show the real numbers if "continuous" is not in the manual. We find this across the board with many brands, commercial and otherwise. I would step down the plant to about 10k or 9500.11k is pushing it. Also, break-in period. Don't load hard until it's had some break-in time, a few hours. See below about field tech advice....
      Oh boy..."Oil in one of the cylinders.." Man, sorry to hear that, but not surprised. I'm real familiar with Kohler, both on a commercial backup level (both stationary and portable at ATT) and residential (long discussions with my genset maintenance contractors who also install and service residential as well). I 'll keep zipped about it, but let's just say I'm hoping the replacement is not a lemon. I'll leave it at that. Oh and avoid Generac if you change brands later. My advice would be to call a comm/res genset service company and talk to one of the field techs for advice on brand dependability first, should you decide to make a change later down the road. Good luck, guys! Love your work!

    • @nicholesfamily
      @nicholesfamily 6 หลายเดือนก่อน +1

      Looks like I might be buying myself an early Christmas present 😊

  • @peterdement
    @peterdement 6 หลายเดือนก่อน +343

    Consider installing "NO DIG" caution tape in the trench above the gas line.

    • @BradFalck-mn3pc
      @BradFalck-mn3pc 6 หลายเดือนก่อน +6

      👍

    • @pgerry9400
      @pgerry9400 6 หลายเดือนก่อน +12

      Amen!

    • @troyfortune4124
      @troyfortune4124 6 หลายเดือนก่อน +11

      Excellent call.

    • @jmalone2758
      @jmalone2758 6 หลายเดือนก่อน +13

      I've posted this very thing countless times. I think they (everyone who burys lines in the ground) prefer digging up the pipe and making a mess of things. WWOG, Trent & Allie, these folks and others.

    • @igenr8stuff
      @igenr8stuff 6 หลายเดือนก่อน +34

      AND A TRACE WIRE! Sometime, in the future, you're going to want to know where that propane line is buried.

  • @terrencejreich
    @terrencejreich 6 หลายเดือนก่อน +198

    I suggest installing a few safety bollards on the sides and in front of the propane tank. I can see Riley backing the snowblower truck into the tank!

    • @badsanta69
      @badsanta69 6 หลายเดือนก่อน +3

      Or a big rock wall! :)

    • @terrencejreich
      @terrencejreich 6 หลายเดือนก่อน +12

      @@badsanta69 Rocks slide on ice and a bump might push them into the supply line. I would rent an auger for the excavator and put in 6" x 6" posts around the tank.

    • @markmitchell457
      @markmitchell457 6 หลายเดือนก่อน +10

      It's never a bad idea to put up safety poles around a 500 gal tank of extremely flammable gas.

    • @terrencejreich
      @terrencejreich 6 หลายเดือนก่อน +4

      @@markmitchell457 Especially with the winters they get. Easy for a machine to slide sideways.

    • @beckycrump8831
      @beckycrump8831 6 หลายเดือนก่อน +4

      Or Oliver when he starts riding a 4-wheeler. 😂

  • @Mega_Casual
    @Mega_Casual 6 หลายเดือนก่อน +55

    The beauty of your new propane generator system is that from all your hard work improving your road, it allows for propane delivery with no problems.

    • @markmitchell457
      @markmitchell457 6 หลายเดือนก่อน +3

      Each project makes future projects possible. You 3 are a construction crew. "COR Co." Courtney, Oliver, and Riley.
      Oliver just hangs around now, (literally) but give him 15 years.

    • @tomconcitis9322
      @tomconcitis9322 6 หลายเดือนก่อน +1

      @@markmitchell457he’ll be contributing to the build soon enough.

  • @dennisdownes9319
    @dennisdownes9319 6 หลายเดือนก่อน +52

    Let's all have a moment of sympathy for all the couples that struggle just to paint a simple room, fight all the way through and still have it look terrible! You guys are awesome!! DD

  • @TheSouthernMale
    @TheSouthernMale 6 หลายเดือนก่อน +22

    You can always paint the propane tank to blend in with the background, as we all "know" how much Cortney "loves" to paint.

    • @gregbailey45
      @gregbailey45 6 หลายเดือนก่อน +2

      Watch out for overheating in the summer. Maybe build a cover, and paint it green or brown to blend in.

    • @guytech7310
      @guytech7310 6 หลายเดือนก่อน +4

      Bury it : 1. You can store more Propane in a buried tank. 2: Propane can run into supply at low outside temperatures as pressure drops. Burying it helps keep the tank warmer.

  • @robmcdonald8262
    @robmcdonald8262 6 หลายเดือนก่อน +6

    Consider adding an empty duct for electrics to the tank? Add level monitoring, or even a light at the isolating valves? Also a "no dig" tape 200mm above the pipe, just in case someone goes fishing with the excavator in the future.

  • @TK0_23_
    @TK0_23_ 6 หลายเดือนก่อน +27

    When I first stumbled on to your channel, I got hooked and binged 2 or 3 episodes a day. It was a lot of fun consuming you two at a rapid pace. But after I did get all caught up, I was left with the glacially slow pace of one episode a week. Frankly, I got a little discouraged. I had an Ambition monkey on my back and I needed my fix. But no candy for me. :( After a bit of time passed, I found myself trying to watch a new vid at 9:50am on a Sunday. But it wouldn't play. To my delight, I realized I was going to share in your hijinks live (as it were). That was about two months ago. Now I find myself looking forward to Sunday morning with amusing anticipation. I am a city boy with no skills to do what you do and no plans to learn how to do them, yet I am locked in to your families journey. Thank you for bringing a ray of joy into this old mans life.
    I pray a blessing of joy and protection over your family.
    Tim K Charlotte NC

  • @MarkSterrett
    @MarkSterrett 6 หลายเดือนก่อน +1

    I learned many moons ago the Rule of Thumb for threads is to rotate backwards until the click of the threads aligned.

  • @bryank7133
    @bryank7133 6 หลายเดือนก่อน +3

    Maybe it's just me, but since the gas line is coming out the front side of that tank, I'd sink a couple posts to make sure there is no chance of hitting or snagging that line. I might also plant some hearty plants or shrubs out in front of it. Either that, or paint it like a yellow submarine ;)

  • @brynthomas3484
    @brynthomas3484 6 หลายเดือนก่อน +4

    Well done Courtney she is a wife in a million xx❤

  • @midnightoil1965
    @midnightoil1965 6 หลายเดือนก่อน +2

    Hey let’s not a hats off to Grandma for being behind the scenes so this video was possible!! Oh and another great video!!

  • @richardmattingly7000
    @richardmattingly7000 6 หลายเดือนก่อน +1

    The Propane Tank is begging for a bit of decoration and perhaps a Sasquatch on the side listening to some tunes kicking back on a log with Ambition Strikes spelled out on its bark...🌲🌲🌲

  • @seanogs
    @seanogs 6 หลายเดือนก่อน +36

    I drive for Ferrell Gas and occasionally help set up tanks. You may want to put on to two inch thick cement blocks under the feet of the tank. Every so often the tank will start to shift as things settle and may want to level out again. If you are going to paint it, do so with a lighter color.

    • @gregbailey45
      @gregbailey45 6 หลายเดือนก่อน +3

      As, I'm surprised they didn't put it on a slab.

    • @seanogs
      @seanogs 6 หลายเดือนก่อน +2

      @gregbailey45 ya, I've seen them in crushed rock like this which hardens. But, all have had the small rectangle cement pavers place under the stands or feet.

    • @jackpatteeuw9244
      @jackpatteeuw9244 6 หลายเดือนก่อน +3

      Better yet, PT 6x6, like the generator pad.

    • @seanogs
      @seanogs 6 หลายเดือนก่อน +2

      @@jackpatteeuw9244 agreed 👍

    • @christopherlifto3644
      @christopherlifto3644 6 หลายเดือนก่อน +4

      I'm an LP inspector, the concrete pads are a legal requirement.

  • @kimturner19
    @kimturner19 6 หลายเดือนก่อน +2

    Hadn't seen Bailey dog for quite some time. It was reassuring to see her again. Love your pups.

  • @BGPhilbin
    @BGPhilbin 6 หลายเดือนก่อน +1

    When you asked Oliver "What do you think?", it looked like he shrugged!

  • @Luisborgesbej
    @Luisborgesbej 6 หลายเดือนก่อน +4

    Hello from Portugal, you should put the generator's starter battery inside the container as the cold is not good for the batteries and it's easy as the container is right next to the generator

  • @bt9653
    @bt9653 6 หลายเดือนก่อน +6

    Concrete block under tank feet
    Locator wire and no dig tape in trench
    It would be nice if you put an oil filter heater on the generator that could be triggered when your batteries reach a certain level so it doesn’t cold start to 3500 RPM immediately with thick frozen oil.
    My philosophy is not to exercise a generator in the winter either just because I think the wear and tear exceeds the benefit.

    • @jbarvideo12
      @jbarvideo12 6 หลายเดือนก่อน +1

      My 12 kW Kohler generator has run 10 minutes/day and 10 minutes/day to cool off for 12 years. No problems. Nice to know it will work when needed.

    • @thepragmatic6383
      @thepragmatic6383 5 หลายเดือนก่อน

      My 14 KW Generac generator comes equipped with an oil heater as well as a battery heater, which is activated automatically depending on the season.
      It is even equipped with a charge maintainer for the battery, to extend its lifespan.
      Kohler and Generac probably have the same options depending on the geographic location of installation.
      Exercise mode is still recommended to maintain lubrication and prevent corrosion caused by moisture accumulation. My installer set it for a 15 minute start every 14 days.

  • @markw365
    @markw365 6 หลายเดือนก่อน +1

    Pro tip, fill that tank in the summer when propane is cheap. :)

  • @shirleybeattie9606
    @shirleybeattie9606 6 หลายเดือนก่อน +4

    I love you guys. It makes my old heart smile to see the love between you. ❤️🇦🇺🇦🇺🇦🇺🇦🇺🇦🇺

  • @brentsmithline3423
    @brentsmithline3423 6 หลายเดือนก่อน +15

    Another great clip. Thing is with the new bright shiny thing in the gas powered backup generator. Remember to fire up the old diesel generator on whatever is a recommended schedule to make sure it's ready to go if needed. Just one more thing to add to your calendar.
    Love the auto start on the new generator. I know that's why you bought it for the middle of winter in the middle of the night.

  • @darthgbc363
    @darthgbc363 6 หลายเดือนก่อน +5

    A few things to maybe consider....
    Pound some stakes into the ground to secure the new generator & gas regulator.
    Order a new gas hose as a backup to the hose you damaged/fixed.
    Add some bollards around the new propane tank.
    Test for leaks. Soapy water.
    Close the valves when not in use.

  • @spotdogharley
    @spotdogharley 6 หลายเดือนก่อน +3

    Get your propane supplier to put a liquid out valve and hose on your tank so you can fill your own propane bottles ! A true must have for off grid living !

  • @artk6177
    @artk6177 6 หลายเดือนก่อน +3

    Propane is amazing stuff. I bought 160 acres of remote land in 2015. There were 4 campers disbursed on the property that were used as hunting shacks. The campers were junk but each one had 2 - 40 pound propane tanks. Most campers of this size now use 30 pound tanks, but these are older. Nearest I can guess is these tanks were last filled shortly after the property was logged in the early 2000s. So the propane in the tanks was 12-15 years old. So I had 8 nearly full propane tanks. I brought them in to my local propane vendor to see if I could save the tanks. They said they could save them, but I should use the propane in them first. I was surprised the propane would still be good, but it was. For the next 2 years I used that propane for my own hunting camper. As the tanks would empty I'd bring a couple at a time for refurbishing and filling. They had to be refurbished as 30 gallon because 40 gallon valving wasn't available, but now I have 10 - 30 gallon propane tanks (8 old ones, and the 2 that came with my camper) for the camper used on my hunting land.
    Great video guys! Oliver doesn't know how lucky he is to have you two as parents. You are quickly becoming my favorite channel. Editing and narration are pro quality. Keep it up!

  • @kjy7440
    @kjy7440 6 หลายเดือนก่อน +6

    I have been watching your channel for a while. I wish I had the energy and youth to do what you two are doing. I am a former propane service tech. Adding a tracer wire is handy to locate the line when you have problems. Raise one end of the propane tanks at a time and install 4" solid concrete blocks. You need clearance under the tank. Order a new flex line and male connector that you machined down. That flare that you machined off is what makes it gas right.

    • @gregbailey45
      @gregbailey45 6 หลายเดือนก่อน +3

      *gas "tight".

  • @mikeburnett7028
    @mikeburnett7028 6 หลายเดือนก่อน +52

    It amazes me to see how much technology is involved in living off grid

    • @kbuff15
      @kbuff15 6 หลายเดือนก่อน +9

      not to mention the cost

    • @margaretmacinnis1781
      @margaretmacinnis1781 6 หลายเดือนก่อน +9

      LOL these guys have $$$ and chase it. Not so much about the lifestyle for them

    • @stuartrinker
      @stuartrinker 6 หลายเดือนก่อน +4

      Only as involved as you want it. Some just like all the comforts from city life.

    • @kingtut5923
      @kingtut5923 6 หลายเดือนก่อน +5

      You bet , you have to have a lot of money to save a little.

    • @Anton-tf9iw
      @Anton-tf9iw หลายเดือนก่อน

      Lol! And money! Not for 90% of the population, too much $$$$$$$

  • @derrickwatson4164
    @derrickwatson4164 6 หลายเดือนก่อน +5

    Hello from Quebec Canada 🇨🇦 Maybe you should put up a gard rail or fence post to protect the Tank from getting backed into. That's something you do . 1 in each corner just a safety thing. We enjoy your show keep up the good work. You should be proud of what you have done, stay safe and enjoy life. Derrick & Family

  • @stuartkorte1642
    @stuartkorte1642 6 หลายเดือนก่อน +2

    Step 1. Open tank valve
    Step 2. Check for gas leaks.
    Looks like a great system.

  • @jimlove8144
    @jimlove8144 6 หลายเดือนก่อน +9

    You’re so lucky your wife can handle The equipment you own. That is a tremendous help to you.

    • @maeelectronics
      @maeelectronics 6 หลายเดือนก่อน +4

      I think they own the equipment. They work on every project together Cortney is a hands on partner.

  • @genedegiorgio1617
    @genedegiorgio1617 6 หลายเดือนก่อน +4

    What a cliff hanger. Can’t wait until next Sunday. Thanks for sharing.

  • @billvandorn5332
    @billvandorn5332 6 หลายเดือนก่อน +55

    For future projects where you have to move heavy objects and cannot lift with the machines try using some heavy thick walled pipe and roll your items over it. You will find life much easier without hurting your backs.
    Perhaps in the winter when there is downtime you could make some screeds out of lumber and desired steel mesh to sift out any Rock
    You all are definitely blessed to have all of this support and a good friend who is willing to lend you his brand new excavator!

    • @jackpatteeuw9244
      @jackpatteeuw9244 6 หลายเดือนก่อน +3

      Small diameter pipe does not work well on dirt/gravel.

    • @fredericrike5974
      @fredericrike5974 6 หลายเดือนก่อน +2

      Riley, Court; look around the "neighborhood"; somebody has a "Grizzly"; it's a big strong box you pour mixed rock and dirt into and through sieves that help separate the rock from the gravel and the dirt. Or find some plans- you have the cutting table up and at the ready!

    • @markbrown9765
      @markbrown9765 6 หลายเดือนก่อน +1

      I made one of those for use on our property. I used an old mine shaft door someone gave me. It's 5 x 10 woven mesh so I mounted it long way up. With the excavator being able to lift higher it does a fantastic job. All the rock slides down the grate and the dirt falls through. It works awesome without any shaker or spring system required.

  • @freundron
    @freundron 6 หลายเดือนก่อน +1

    Riley - I'd recommend not totally draining nor totally filling your battery packs, leave a buffer at the bottom as well as near the top. Say it's 5-8% at the upper and lower end, to maximize the cycle life. You lose a bit of capacity, but stay away from the boundaries. It's a "best practice" to use a little margin.

  • @waynepaddock7213
    @waynepaddock7213 6 หลายเดือนก่อน +5

    Riley, you should put a couple of 24" patio stones under the legs of the propane tank. The crushed stone and dirt base is not enough. The weight of a full tank combined with the freeze thaw cycles will cause the legs to sink and the tank will rest on it belly and corrode or rust or worst case get punctured by a sharp stone. Just lift up one end at a time an slide a couple of patio blocks underneath the legs. What about Oliver's bedroom??
    Regards
    Wayne Paddock

  • @withanopenheart
    @withanopenheart 6 หลายเดือนก่อน +8

    i love that your channel has as large variety of sponsors...ALL of the other channels I watch ONLY have these 3 sponsors: better help, surf shark and AG one. Thanks for the educational variety of your sponsorships that you also personally use!!

    • @gregbailey45
      @gregbailey45 6 หลายเดือนก่อน +1

      Yes, a tribute to Courtney's online and personal skills, I suspect!

  • @mikeyc7072
    @mikeyc7072 6 หลายเดือนก่อน +1

    That "tiny" Excavator would be great for Oliver👍!! The Family that excavates together stays together!!

  • @johngardiner6800
    @johngardiner6800 5 หลายเดือนก่อน +1

    Don't know if you're aware but as heating engineer, when connecting brass fittings always turn anti clockwise until you hear a click then clockwise to connect without cross threading.

  • @rodneyreizenstein3153
    @rodneyreizenstein3153 6 หลายเดือนก่อน +9

    You should consider putting some deep rods at the base of the generator pad, so it does not move due to vibration of the unit running. Because of that short gas line you have.

  • @davideggleston4793
    @davideggleston4793 6 หลายเดือนก่อน +31

    Congratulations on the upgrade. I would suggest if you are going to keep burying stuff around the property get a roll of metalic tape (burried conduit tape) and a metal detector so you can really find those lines in the future vs somewhere around here. Also might want to build a shifting screen with some fence and lumber (or go all out metal that is your specialty) so you can shift the rocks from the dirt.

    • @gregbailey45
      @gregbailey45 6 หลายเดือนก่อน +4

      * Sift, not "shift"

    • @roballan4944
      @roballan4944 4 หลายเดือนก่อน

      They should have buried a tracer wire

  • @giovannicintolo89
    @giovannicintolo89 6 หลายเดือนก่อน +2

    might be an ambitious project... but building a small vibratory screener for getting rocks/roots out of your dirt might be useful! Rock fill for drainage and dirt for clean fill

  • @carolewarner101
    @carolewarner101 6 หลายเดือนก่อน +2

    OMG...after all that, you got a lemon generator??? Well thank goodness it rears its ugly head early so they can't claim it wasn't under warranty.
    Really cool install. You two continue to amaze and inspire! BTW, your son is sooo adorable...

  • @philstreeter9703
    @philstreeter9703 6 หลายเดือนก่อน +11

    Definitely put some identification for the gas line, so nobody digs up your line. I'm assuming you tested your gas line connections with soapy water. Great job Courtney, you excavator skills are excellent. Quick thinking on the fitting Riley. You two are amazing. Great video. Thanks for sharing.

  • @markmitchell457
    @markmitchell457 6 หลายเดือนก่อน +3

    This content could be on the Discovery+ TV Channel with little or no editing. Your great builders and videographers.

  • @DJ-hv4ju
    @DJ-hv4ju 6 หลายเดือนก่อน +2

    Soap and water test on your gas line!

  • @AA-rc4zr
    @AA-rc4zr 20 วันที่ผ่านมา

    Always live watching you guys do a project. Here’s an idea for your next winter: I recently moved to Italy in a beautiful but less known area of the country by the Adriatic Sea. I am looking to buy a country property here. Be my guests for the winter or as long as you like, whilst helping me with projects.

  • @212caboose
    @212caboose 6 หลายเดือนก่อน +9

    I think your electrical set up (Main: Solar, with both fuel and gas as back ups) is PERFECT

  • @jesstill7833
    @jesstill7833 6 หลายเดือนก่อน +3

    Hi folks in the begining I looked at you and said this boy not going to make ,,so I watched and to my surprise you came through time after time ,,so I said this z lad he’s a goer and very smart man ,,and as I watched you came through with flying colours ..Now I have confidence for you to do any jog ,,I’m so proud of you ,,to me you are on top of your game I’ll give you a96.5 in my opinion you are true Tradie cheers God bless you and Family Champion ❤️❤️🙏🙏💪💪👍👍🦘🇦🇺🇺🇸😁😁

  • @jimjackson9381
    @jimjackson9381 6 หลายเดือนก่อน +3

    That’s not fair to make a cliffhanger. Now we have to wait all week to see what happened to the generator engine, oh boy.
    And it was great to see Courtney back in the excavator. I think she just does a better job. Sorry reckless Reilly. Jim

  • @johnturner7060
    @johnturner7060 6 หลายเดือนก่อน +1

    If you are on vacation, your consumption will be so low, that I can't imagine you will need the generator?
    But having it start when needed is pretty nice!!

  • @Chaplainox
    @Chaplainox 6 หลายเดือนก่อน +1

    You two working together in every way shows me my marriage is lacking LOL

  • @richardjones5255
    @richardjones5255 6 หลายเดือนก่อน +4

    Courtney is one of the best drivers of an excavator I have seen on the task in hand. Her accuracy and precise work is fantastic.

  • @andrelam9898
    @andrelam9898 6 หลายเดือนก่อน +5

    Those emergency generators work great. My parents were buried in over 6 ft of snow in Orchard Park NY a few years back. The power line going up their street was damaged by a falling tree. Since the utility poles ran along the back yard, the utility company wasn’t able to get to it quickly or easily, they ran on natural gas for a couple of days. Central heat just kept on going, they had lights, etc. Great units. Regarding travel suggestions with a “little one”: honestly keep it simple. Find a place with surf and sand and modest temperatures. Just being on a beach with an umbrella to keep worst sun off, they kan be happy for hours just playing in the sand. No need for fancy outings … save if for when he is bigger. It willen stress free for everyone. Since you are West of the Continental divide, Southern California is probably easier to get to than Florida. The other option are looking for an off-week deal at a family friendly all-inclusive somewhere Caribbean, Mexico or one of the stable Central American counties. Sometime there are packaged deals with charter flights that amazing value. Since your aren’t tied to any sort of academic calendar there can be deals found when it’s now school or college vacation times.

  • @JohnnyC10071959
    @JohnnyC10071959 6 หลายเดือนก่อน

    This is like a GIANT RV setup.

  • @ruaraidhmcdonald-walker9524
    @ruaraidhmcdonald-walker9524 6 หลายเดือนก่อน +1

    Courtney is an epic operator!

  • @Halifaxbomber2
    @Halifaxbomber2 6 หลายเดือนก่อน +4

    Great video. I would put some protection in front of your propane tank. Maybe some big boulders, if you can find any around there ;).

  • @caroledavis-lh5to
    @caroledavis-lh5to 6 หลายเดือนก่อน +5

    Great job you guys. Perhaps you should paint your propane tank CAMO!

  • @guygrotke8059
    @guygrotke8059 6 หลายเดือนก่อน +1

    Propane is a perfect solution for off-grid solar backup power. Your air-cooled generator is going to last a very long time, because you only need to run it during the winter when the solar output is too low. It will run cool because the air will be very cold. The only concern will be if it gets too cold for the propane to be pressurized at -44 F, which sometimes happens in Northern Idaho. You could get a heated cover for your tank if that ever does happen. Your propane supplier will know.

  • @Teetles_807
    @Teetles_807 6 หลายเดือนก่อน

    You take Oliver to visit grandparents and then you go play for a few days. Grandparents will love you and you get to be a couple for a few days!

  • @duane4972
    @duane4972 6 หลายเดือนก่อน +5

    Started watching your videos when you were building the Overland truck camper, I could tell by the imagination and quality of that build that you 2 were exceptionally talented and driven.
    Sure enough you have proven my thoughts very valid. I enjoy watching everything y'all do, thanks for the first class entertainment.

  • @charlesurrea1451
    @charlesurrea1451 6 หลายเดือนก่อน +3

    And so long as the propane is kept above its boiling point of -44°F (-42.4°C) it will flow.
    Just hope it doesn't get that cold.

    • @gregorybarth930
      @gregorybarth930 6 หลายเดือนก่อน

      If it gets -45f they have more things to worry about than the generater not starting.

  • @ronblack7870
    @ronblack7870 6 หลายเดือนก่อน +2

    when starting a tapered fitting like the gas line push it on and turn it backwards till you feel a slight click. that is when the thread lines up. then carefully turn the correct way.

  • @robertmccully2792
    @robertmccully2792 6 หลายเดือนก่อน +1

    I have propane and a backup generator , for the days the grid is down. And a well and gravity septic . Life is good!

  • @ahorseman4ever1
    @ahorseman4ever1 6 หลายเดือนก่อน +8

    I got so excited for you then with the lead in for the next video crash! I hope you are able to get it fixed quickly. Probably need to test its reliability before some place tropical. Well today Deb let me sleep in and brought me coffee to watch your video. We both agree we especially enjoy the videos when all 3 of you are in them. Oliver is getting so big. You guys are so much more than a how you have done it channel, for Deb and I we love getting to know you through your videos. I wish more people would treat each other like you two do. Love you guys!

  • @aboutdawntoday
    @aboutdawntoday 6 หลายเดือนก่อน +5

    Your videos somehow manage to inspire me to create my environment with my hand and yet crush me when I realize I do not have an iota of your combined abilities!!! lol I love the snow and I am not a beach person so…no clue. 🙂

  • @wernerpd777
    @wernerpd777 6 หลายเดือนก่อน +2

    From experience, you want to bury a tracking wire with the yellow PEX, along with a 3-4" wide warning banner the entire length of the pipe. I would strongly recommend placing something not natural over the pipe that will immediately show up when digging, such as lime or something very noticeable/visible. Remember, all of those precautions are not for you, but for those who come behind you and do not possess the knowledge you have of where everything is buried. Also, the auto start generator does work. We have it on our hybrid solar system and if the grid is down, the battery state of charge determines when the generator fires up. You might want to have the generator set to exercise for 20 minutes, approximately every 2-3 weeks. It will use hardly any propane over the course of the year. Just for planning purposes, we have a 24 KW Generac. It got used extensively during the Texas ice storm of FEB 2021. We ran solar during the day time when the sun was out and ran the generator overnight. We were 17 straight days without grid power. We started with a full 1,000 gallon (800 actual) tank and by the end of 17 days it was down to 300 gallons. YMMV.

  • @divadyrdnal
    @divadyrdnal 6 หลายเดือนก่อน +2

    Back up or a second generator is a great idea…when you need it, you need it. Everything breaks and it’s usually when you need it the most.

  • @jamesdooley5194
    @jamesdooley5194 6 หลายเดือนก่อน +10

    Landscape looks great always like the contrast of gravel and wood chips

  • @andrew6446
    @andrew6446 6 หลายเดือนก่อน +8

    Improvise, Adapt, and Overcome You three rock!!!

    • @stflaherty63
      @stflaherty63 6 หลายเดือนก่อน

      Did everyone else read that line hearing Clint Eastwood’s voice say it? :-)

    • @andrew6446
      @andrew6446 6 หลายเดือนก่อน

      Heartbreak Ridge
      @@stflaherty63

  • @williamboydsmith4773
    @williamboydsmith4773 หลายเดือนก่อน

    I watched 5 minutes then fast forwarded to the end because the only thing that was not BRAND NEW was his lathe. Shovels, picks, dewalt drill, excavator all the way down to the screw driver he used. Gotta love these independently wealthy youngsters. Reminded me of a History Channel DIY production.

  • @gazelam
    @gazelam 6 หลายเดือนก่อน +1

    I’ve had the same generator on our property for the past 3 years working flawlessly. Oil and filter changes are every 100 operating hours. Mine is hooked up to a 12 kW Sol-Ark inverter/charge controller that also is a good combination. We power a well pump too. I’ve been told that the 14 kW unit is the largest that Kohler will warranty for off-grid use. The local Kohler dealer will only honor that warranty if they do the installation, FWIW.

  • @ElijahPerrin80
    @ElijahPerrin80 6 หลายเดือนก่อน +5

    That was a lot of fun and Ridge is making a good choice in supporting you. Thank you.

  • @lilmsgs
    @lilmsgs 6 หลายเดือนก่อน +7

    Your explaining the basics of how propane works and your solar/battery setup basics is very useful and enjoyable to watch

  • @KenW66
    @KenW66 6 หลายเดือนก่อน

    When winter comes, time to go to Bora Bora.

  • @MrPeyregne
    @MrPeyregne 6 หลายเดือนก่อน +2

    Marker tape is a must at all points. I agree with the peanut crew comments below. Y'all are the perfect example of a couple who can do anything with time, ability, and knowledge. Have fun and be well.

  • @vincej151
    @vincej151 6 หลายเดือนก่อน +5

    You guys are marvelous! Compulsive viewing! Another great episode. It must be sometimes a pain to have to concern yourself with getting good video shots, when all you want to do it get on with the project. I can not imagine the hundreds of thousands of dollars you have spent getting where you are today. But you have bought a quality of life. Cheers from Calgary/Canada

  • @hightechfarmers
    @hightechfarmers 6 หลายเดือนก่อน +19

    Impressive work by both of you to make this happen. Having an automated system with another backup system is ideal for off-grid. You inspire us to automate more and ensure backups to automation.

    • @AmbitionStrikes
      @AmbitionStrikes  6 หลายเดือนก่อน +13

      We’re learning we need backup systems for our backup systems up here! 🤪

    • @fredericrike5974
      @fredericrike5974 6 หลายเดือนก่อน +2

      @@AmbitionStrikes There is an old country maxim that goes " if you have just the one of something, you are just one thing away from out of luck".

  • @toddpeters9007
    @toddpeters9007 4 หลายเดือนก่อน

    Seeing you use a pick brought back memories , on a construction team in the 70s we dug footers with a pick axe , up north! I was 13 . Let's see kids today do it... Ps gray work y'all! You can do anything together ! 😊

  • @Devon-3point1
    @Devon-3point1 6 หลายเดือนก่อน +1

    Most beautiful excavator operator EVER!😊😊

  • @CaptainKseadog1
    @CaptainKseadog1 6 หลายเดือนก่อน +11

    Courtney & Riley, what an absolute awesome addition to your power grid and creature comfort. Courtney, you have such a gentle touch with that excavator. Inherent not learned. You guys ROCK!❤

  • @dlg5485
    @dlg5485 6 หลายเดือนก่อน +3

    Would you guys be willing to do a video discussing the cost of all the parts used in your entire electrical system, including the solar, batteries, inverters, controllers, generator, propane tank, etc? I know it's a lot of info and that there are a lot of variables involved, but I'm trying to figure out if a no compromise off grid electrical system like yours is within reach for me. Great job installing the new generator!

    • @russellv6234
      @russellv6234 6 หลายเดือนก่อน

      They did a video for the entire system pre-generator, but you should be able to ballpark the additional cost.

  • @diggerdog9096
    @diggerdog9096 6 หลายเดือนก่อน +2

    Nice save with the mini lathe , they are a good tool for a small shop..

  • @jameschupp2230
    @jameschupp2230 6 หลายเดือนก่อน +1

    Remember you can always use some 1/2" x 1/2" Hardware Screen and put a frame around it and use it to sift out the larger stone.

  • @stephenurban9880
    @stephenurban9880 6 หลายเดือนก่อน +7

    You should have ran a wire alongside the propane line so it could be traced if you (or anyone else) needs to dig in that area. Should have set tank on some concrete blocks as it will get HEAVY when full and those little feet will sink into the gravel.
    A "wet leg" would have been a handy addition. It would allow you to fill BBQ tanks at home.
    If that's a 1000gal tank it should hold 800gal when full, not 500.

    • @ronblack7870
      @ronblack7870 6 หลายเดือนก่อน +1

      they said a 500 gal tank

    • @stephenurban9880
      @stephenurban9880 6 หลายเดือนก่อน

      @@ronblack7870 So they did (I missed that) but in that case 80% of 500 is 400 gallons

  • @paulwackerla6330
    @paulwackerla6330 6 หลายเดือนก่อน +5

    Great video, you guys can do anything! You went from living in the camper to now having all the electricity you need. I really like Cabo San Lucas, Mexico, which is at the end of the Baja peninsula straight south of California.

  • @robg8254
    @robg8254 2 หลายเดือนก่อน

    I use to get a D8 stuck up to its belly pan . Get a 10 foot long by 4 or 6 inch scrap pipe , a chain with hooks on both ends 1/2 inch or so. Lay pipe in front of dozer with chain through pipe . Hook to tracks . Now you have one giant cleat to drive up on drive out, it works . Be careful not to go to far and pull pipe into the back of the dozer

  • @jamespayne8781
    @jamespayne8781 6 หลายเดือนก่อน +1

    Assuming your old military generator is in good shape you’ll go through half a dozen of those high speed backup generators before you wear out the diesel generator. They’re kinda like the old ugly farm truck you use to go buy parts for the new farm truck that’s always broken. Really glad you decided to keep it. From your drone shots there’s some potential to install more panels on your equipment garage. Not an ideal sun angel but still usable.

  • @piepawrench
    @piepawrench 6 หลายเดือนก่อน +10

    Just a slight correction for y'all, the propane tank is a 500-gal tank, but you can only fill it to 80% which is 400 gals. Also, one gal of liquid propane will make or develope 270 gals of vapor.

    • @henrinaths1
      @henrinaths1 6 หลายเดือนก่อน

      Hi
      I messed with propane lots but there’s so little information out there when I come across someone like yourself I feel you have some knowledge I’m seeking.
      I hoping you could kindly answer this;
      On a stoichiometric burn, does a formula exists to calculate the volume of combusted gases including the heat expansion ratio from a gallon of vapour?
      I have a turbo charged furnace and need to build the heat exchanger to reduce the exhaust temp to or about as close to ambient temperature.
      Thanks any help will be much appreciated.

    • @StephenShreds
      @StephenShreds 4 หลายเดือนก่อน

      Nerd

  • @membershipmovement
    @membershipmovement 6 หลายเดือนก่อน +6

    Wow! This is your best video in months! Keep them coming 😊

    • @AmbitionStrikes
      @AmbitionStrikes  6 หลายเดือนก่อน +3

      Thank you so much! ☺️

  • @devarskinnee8760
    @devarskinnee8760 6 หลายเดือนก่อน +1

    Cabo wabo San Lucas,Mexico,lands end,ya have too see it!,no picture ever did it right!!!! The bluest Waters,and warm!!! Fish tacos anyone?

  • @kevindoyle4521
    @kevindoyle4521 6 หลายเดือนก่อน +8

    What I love about you two is that even when there is a problem, you take an up-beat look at it and just work to fix it. What a great example for all of us.

  • @bernardjones6162
    @bernardjones6162 6 หลายเดือนก่อน +13

    If Oliver retains just 50% of what both of you know he is going to be one heck of a smart person! He is watching every move you make! A couple of years he will be your right hand man! LOL

  • @joshuaprince898
    @joshuaprince898 6 หลายเดือนก่อน +2

    I have a 22kwh propane generator with a kohler motor. It has been a great unit with zero problems, I hope you have the same luck with yours!

  • @seandever2289
    @seandever2289 หลายเดือนก่อน

    Couple critiques, 1( replace that fitting that you altered and the hose, you have it on film that you did it, huge liability if there ends up being a problem. 2) as a Kohler tech, when we do start ups on these gens, we generally prime the oil pump in a dew different ways, take out oil sender and pour some oil down the hole, reinstall, turn off gas’s, and crank a cycle or two. Could have been the engine issue, also good reason to pay the extra for an official Kohler start up. 3) make sure you stay up on your updates, not necessarily installing them, but check and make sure they didn’t fix a bug. Otherwise, great choice on a Kohler, and great install for a homeowner. Didn’t see the 110vac hook up for the battery charger built into your controller, but I’m sure you did it, as your battery wasn’t dead. 😂😂

  • @billyweston949
    @billyweston949 6 หลายเดือนก่อน +3

    Would still consider pipe insulation on the propane line with some 10 mill tape around it to about a foot In the ground. Protection and won’t freeze

  • @robertd-dh8qm
    @robertd-dh8qm 6 หลายเดือนก่อน +3

    another good one guys. Keep them coming,👍🇬🇧

  • @johno7370
    @johno7370 6 หลายเดือนก่อน +1

    Pro tip - make sure you use marking tape to identify services in the future.
    After the loose dirt ontop of the pipe before backfill throw the marking tape ontop then fill in the trench. You never know when you want to do more work.
    Make a map also of services you have run on the property is handy for the future.
    Love the content and keep up the good work!!

    • @guytech7310
      @guytech7310 6 หลายเดือนก่อน +1

      I think this temporary & the are likely going to move the tank as well extend gas line to the home. The just wanted to get something done fast for the winter season.

  • @BradSabako
    @BradSabako 6 หลายเดือนก่อน +1

    Man, you’re becoming an electrical genius! I can’t follow any of the technical stuff you are doing, but it’s amazing. Great job!

  • @BobBohner4851
    @BobBohner4851 6 หลายเดือนก่อน +5

    Courtney and the mini excavator are both so very cute and beautiful. Courtney running the mini excavator is artistry at the highest level. I love her energy, her love of creativity, her ability to overcome fear using a step by step process. I love that both of you are passing these processes into Oliver. Bless you both. Hugs to you both

  • @seanogs
    @seanogs 6 หลายเดือนก่อน +4

    You should pressure test the entire system now to ensure there are no leaks. The driver probably closed the fill valve and just pressure tested the tank fittings only and nothing beyond the 1st stage regulator. You may also need to adjust the flow of gas.

    • @guytech7310
      @guytech7310 6 หลายเดือนก่อน +1

      I am sure the did, just off camera.

  • @user-of8jf4wi1u
    @user-of8jf4wi1u 6 หลายเดือนก่อน +1

    Love this big step in being (auto) selfsufficient. Good job.

  • @KarenSmith-ys3sk
    @KarenSmith-ys3sk 6 หลายเดือนก่อน +1

    I'm glad yall went with propane,I have a 500 gallon tank and I used it with a family of 7,did great,never have I filled it to 450 gallons,I fill it up now,only 2 of us to 175 which will last 9 months. I use it for cooking and water heater,I use my blower system from my fireplace for heating the house,1700 Sq ft,which works find. Good choice. Riley u have magic fingers,u can fix electrical to mechanical, u have learned alot of knowledge! As for travel I'd go into the tropical areas,mexico,Caribbean, etc.