Well, except for the bridge that we had to build on my last adventure. We ran into a small issue where the trail was actually washed out from the monsoon season, and wound up having to do some shoveling and winching and bridge-building to get all nine jeeps back out. Turned a 3 hour trip into a 7 hour trip that included backing down part of the trail because even with the bridge, it wasn't actually possible to get through there forward for anyone but the 2-door. And the Gladiator had to be pulled and pushed to get the rear into position to back over the bridge.
One other thing ive seen here in colorado to add to the finger gesture telling how many more rigs is some trails especially here in colorado that are narrow and a shelf road and two vehicles can’t pass is they put a sign with a cb channel listed so you can radio to see if someone is coming the other way so you know if it’s ok to proceed. Nothing worse in a Rocky loose shelf road with a 1000 foot drop and having to back up
Ian hates side by sides, i like him even more now. been a fan since the Extreme 4x4 days. im a little biased but probably the most economical entry level super capable 4x4 would be an XJ cherokee, Bullet proof drive train, super easy and simple to maintain and modify,
I would never claim an XJ to be bulletproof… they are made like junk and out of bad ideas…. but are extremely capable. Any 3rd or 4th Gen Bronco you can stomp the gas pedal thru the radiator yank it into 1st and float valves all day. When you get stuck then you put it in 4L.
@@bradleymorris8875 the straight 6 is a God of a motor. Even the Chrysler one haha and I'm a Ford guy. I had a 91 ranger and it was great off road. But I mean everyone had jeep Cherokees. And they all did very well as far as mechanical failures on the trails. Pretty robust. Easy to mod. Same with the rangers. I wouldn't call jeeps junk at all. They were made simple for a reason. There's a reason people use them other than being a jeep cult.
I miss Extreme 4X4. I really wanted to get a 2001 XJ. The dealer in my college town was selling a mid trim for $16,000. They also had a TJ Sport for the same price.
Garbage on the trails is a huge one. I’ve also noticed that since SXS’s got more and more popular that all the the trails got more abused. It’s all about throttle and zipping in and out on the SXS’s where with a rig you tend to be more careful with the throttle. Rigs don’t tear up the trails as much as side x sides.
Ummmmm - well I don't agree at all. And I have had trucks, jeeps, atvs and SxSs....and around my area the big trucks and jeeps totally destroy the trails as much as SxS/Atvs. It is all about the driver\person not the vehicle. Currently have a SxS, Jeep, and Truck....my SxS is what I use on the weekend because I don't it need for work on Monday- and I pack out what I pack in
@@r3kanman yep totally agree!! I’ve seen rigs with 40”-44” & smaller tires just destroy trails along with sxs’s trucks, jeeps etc. they cannot get up a hill or trail & the hammer it & dig big holes or whatever. I don’t think you can point your finger at just one group. It’s all about the driver & how they drive & what off road experience they have.
@@INSIDIOUS-ONE agreed, it comes down to the driver. Sometimes it's a lack of knowing and understanding their impact, and others it's a lack of caring about their impact. Education can cure one while the other usually can not be cured. There is bad apples in every bunch and off roaders are no exception.
Yes it is up to the driver but SxS drivers are "generally" more throttle happy drivers which causes lots of wash bored and whoops. Also because they are more entry level SxS are more responsible for trash just like Ian said
Ian and Nate, thank you for reminding people about trail adequate. I made a two-day camping trip out to Sacramento, CA. After packing up, I heard my late father reminding me to clean up. It was a lesson he taught us, kids, at an early age when we went camping. While walking my pattern, picking up trash from the prior folks and my group, I saw the kids sitting around on their electronics. I realised we need to go camping out more, so I can pass on the knowledge from the old folks.
My 3rd gen taco somehow went from a fun camping rig to a full blown mule. Everything from rock crawling to 15hr road trips. Poor thing Is scratched and dented but I’ve had a blast using my land-yacht. Lol.
I 100% agree with Ian on the side by side thoughts. They are great, but man they sure can put a person into a bad situation way over their skill level.
You see the same thing with Jeeps. It's easy to go write a check and have way too much rig for your experience. Like Ian, I started at 16 with stock 4x4s. Moved to Co. at 20 and started hitting mild trails. Slowly progressed into harder and harder trails. So the rigs got upgraded. I have a co worker that never wheeled before. Never has had a trail rig. He went out and bought a bad ass JK. Way too much rig for a beginner.
@@bradywilliams2666 I agree, but typically that person that goes out and buys a super badass Jeep is spending 50-70k on it vs 20k on a super badass side x side. The money invested a lot of times will at least cause them to think twice. Unless there is booze involved and that an entirely different convo.
Nate. Very good off-roading 101 upload ! Downunder has the southern hemisphere equivalent to North America or Stateside, just there's more critters that kill you ? V.
Your thoughts on trail etiquette are on point. I'm from Wyoming, and most of the trails I wheeled as a kid are shut down because of people ruining the trails. Garbage is a huge reason, but also running the trails while they are muddy.
Great video, maybe salespeople should give a trasharoo or something together with every sold sxs😂 Im currently building a YJ and it’s gonna be fun if parts are truly getting scarce, lets hope the people coming into the hobby stay with modern stuff
I bought a 98 Silverado k1500 two yrs ago for 5 gs ,put a canapy, cargo rack, cb radio, did brakes, steering box and arm, ac cond.,insp trans and transfer, Serv both, boom, takes me where I want to go. 77 yo so dispersed camping, gravel and two track within reason for an old guy. Inexpensive, no payments, low insurance. I'm happy camper and quasi explorer, doing what I never did as a young man. Maybe see you fellas if you go to Eastern Oregon.
Issue with SBS/UTVs now days it's they're crazy overpowered for most off-road driving scenarios. Take a super charged 1000cc UTV that's capable of flying at 60mph in 7 seconds and expect people to drive those safe and responsibly on a Forest Service road where you shouldn't be driving any faster than 25mph and it's a recipe for disaster.
Niice. My daily is a 79 F150 300 4x4 manual on 33in BFGs. She does awesome out in the Owyhees. But nothing too extreme. The kids are getting larger, so I just picked up a 98XJ. I don't have a shop, just grass and tools.
I am watching ya from Scotland but I am originally from Silesia and I can tell you from my experience in Europe and Scotland than if you continue vote locally and to your government as you do now you will still have amazing country, with variety of land, but you will have no access to this places by car! It happen in Scotland where by law you are not allowed to go anywhere off road or overland apart boring camp sites for RV and it’s happen recently in Europe, thanks to those so called „green people” in union Europe. think for who you vote, what is his background, what he want achieve while taking your tax and freedom, because you can have the most capable amazing rig, but could go only to pay and play sites if they exist do to health and safety lol, or if your insurance allow this….. Right now you are lucky Nation but watching what is happen in your politics you will soon not be. Sorry to be pessimistic, but maybe that ring some bells in your head….
Trail manners Big one here in Michigan, dam side by sides COMMUNICATE , yes sir more often than not I am giving nothing from group of them on a blind spot on a sandy trail. I don't think that get it, can you guys do a video on hand signals?..
I was watching an East Coast based 4x channel, and the dude said "People coming downhill have the right of way." People spreading these contradictions to accepted trail etiquette and practices are a problem.
I'm probably twice, maybe three times as old as both of you, but, S-holes on the street will be S-holes off road. I found the same applies for boating.
I paid 2k for a super clean XJ , lightly trailed it to feel it out , installed a lift , really good tires , and detachable sway bar links , perfect vehicle to learn in and im not stuck with payments . super easy to work on and parts are cheap and plentiful
I find the problem with people dumping big items in the woods or on trails is not the 4X4 community but the local transfer stations are charging higher and higher fees to dispose of things like appliances and furniture, people either don't want to or can't afford to pay. So it's easier to just dump it on a trail and make it someone else's problem. I live on a dead end road near a wooded area and come home from work and find appliances, couches, mattresses, tires, etc...all the time. I just put up two trails cameras to try and catch them in the act!
I bought a 91 HDJ81 triple locked last year. Love it! Curious if you have a Instagram? Im always looking for others in the Landcruiser crowd to swap stories with. I’m jdmgngr.
Sure the diversity of the US is endless but that’s because it’s huge. Israel is same size as Utah and we have woods, desert ,sands , rock climbing and in the winter time we have mud and snow.
I think most people have more all around rigs then offroad rigs. alot of people cant drop $40k on a rig and then do all the add ons.. also Jeeps and Toyotas arent the only rigs to do things with.. i think they have over saturated the offroad market. people now cant afford an old chevy or ford. what once was a $1500 rig is not $15k.. so realistically you cant just begin into it.. it now takes alot of money to do. even a SXS is $20k+...its a sad downward spiral for regular folks and has turn into a wealthy only sport or if you have sponsors.. Not everyone gets 40" Maxxis tires for free the day they came out
Dude.. no one needs 40s unless you are into serious rock crawling and you can do car camping and YES, this is what it is OVERLANDING = CAR CAMPING !! and people have done this in ANYTHING that moves/have wheels since the beggining of car times, so go ahead, get whatever you like/can afford and go outside and ENJOY nature!! and yes, nature, if you dont like it, you are doing it wronf and this is not for you =) Just a general advice, not necesarily directed to you
Good points, 3 years ago, bought a shortbed k1500 $800. Fixed a small gas leak changed fluids, and drive it regularly. Sons lookin for a rig, it’s crazy, wranglers start at 10k for a pos.... Ridiculous, young people are at a huge disadvantage, rent , cost of living, etc.
@@yepitsme431 I have a semi purpose built offroader, it's taken me 14 years to get it where it is but it is also my daily driver.. You say " anything with wheels" but there is alot of states with lift laws and regulations. Not everyone lives 50 miles from civilization or in a state that doesn't care. So you can't just use what you want. I agree I love nature but the reality is that this is a very expensive sport/ hobby. You can't really get into it as a 16 year old with $1000.. it just doesn't really happen anymore. There are more laws, and regs then ever because of coal rollers, squatters and vehicles that are just unsafe. There is a 87 Chevy short bed down the road for $13900 ..how does a 16 yr old afford that and afford to go wheeling, afford insurance, gas, maintenance.. people don't make California money.. most people only make $40k a year. As far as 40s.. celebrities, TH-camrs, and other wheelers from highly known places get alot of stuff free. Most people can't go and buy $2000 worth of tube, $3000 tires, lift kits etc.. by the time you're done you've put in a years mortgage into a vehicle....I'm pointing out reality.. I want people to go out and wheel, enjoy nature. I do. But let's be realistic.. California isn't it..
@@rickreese5794 by the time expenses are paid, not much left to be able to afford that winch or heck even a decent tent now is $300-500. At $11-15/hr it's just darn near impossible..
Lol challenge accepted! I want to use this Comment to base a future build 👍 If you shop around you can absolutely build a great offroad rig for cheap... watch me 😁
I want to get into off roading. I've been torn for some time between a RZR or building an XJ. I managed to get a XJ for free that needs some work so I'm probably going to go that route. Life is short do things!
I started wheeling back in the 80's. Stepped away from it for a few decades and a few years ago got back into it. A lot has changed (tech, rigs, no side by sides, lol) But a lot has stayed the same. I think the Facebook thing is a huge help as well as You tube and channels like this. The wealth of info out there now is just mind boggling. Great video, great advice. See you out there...
As for trail etiquette people need to know if you're going up hill the downhill traffic should stop for uphill traffic. I agree with hand signals. But alot of don't know about trail etiquette.. Mark
Love my 2 owner low miles 98 Ram 1500 out here in Utah. Leveling kit on 35s. Goes pretty much anywhere I care to go. I’m not a hardcore wheeler, more of an overland/forest service road exploring rig, but even then it’s got plenty of ground clearance to get over some fun things. Even better is that it was fairly cheap! Not on gas though lol.
Have been watching 8 different channels on offroading and overlanding. Then watched a episode where the Canadian govt is closing roads. The side by side light came on. There are overland sideXside builds. The limiting factor is windows and windshields. Especially in rainy climates. Ian gave some solid advice.
Traditional clubs still exist, most clubs have Facebook Groups. My jeep club FRJC Fox River Jeep Club still does in person monthly meetings, social meet up like today's is a ice-cream run & one monthly off road trip + a members only extended trip/Adventure. 😀
i can't even count how many fires i've put out over the years with absolutely nobody around. so annoying!!! and the trash, oh my gosh you can fill 55 gallon bags in Colorado with trash!
The only bad thing about FB groups is people just wanna talk shit about each others rigs and wheeling abilities. They don’t care about getting out and actually wheeling.
I just remove myself from groups that are full of people like that. I know plenty of knowledgeable people and have access to plenty of knowledgeable people through social media and relationships I’ve established in this community. So when I need advice i shoot them a DM or call them directly and get their input.
I have to throw kudos to Ian for his recommendation of a side-by-side/UTV. If you can swing that payment (or save up & pay cash), they really are an excellent starting point. You get a turn-key, trail-ready ride that can generally handle what most hobbyists would [realistically] try to conquer. You aren't putting your daily driver in harms way. Furthermore, upgrades and repairs for a UTV are a fraction of the price compared to similar parts for pretty much any full-size truck/Jeep/SUV.
Great video Nate and Ian ! We were blown away with how many people showed up to the Crawling for a Cure event that had never been off-road before. It’s amazing how many people are getting into this (dirt) lifestyle. We are also beyond excited to explore this beautiful country towing our Jeep with our motor home. We intend to spend 3-6 months on the road seeing as many fellow off-roaders and different trails as we can!
Thank you for this video! Please do more and encourage other high visibility members of the sport to do them as well! This is so needed it's sad.. I used to off-road with trucks back in the day when 33s were big and 35s were holy crap huge. Living in Maine a lot of trails have been lost to irresponsible drivers and also development which puts more pressure on the trails that are left. I enjoy SxSs but not all SxS owners... Being a member of many ATV clubs for 17 + years the rise of the high horsepower SxSs and 64"+ width has been the death Nell of to many trails and maintenance has soared as well thanks to uneducated throttle junkies. Thanks again and please push more trail use education out there!
SxS’s are amazing! I have a 98 2 door XJ all done up and a rzr XP1000 and I pretty much only drive the rzr now. I can leave my driveway and In 5 minutes I’m hitting the trail. If your looking to go camping then the SxS’s aren’t too practical but there better at everything else. All the Jeep and 4x4 rig guys don’t like SxS’s because there jealous you can buy a used fully capable 1000 SxS for 15k and go out a rip beat the hell out of it and not break anything. If I did the same riding with my Jeep as my rzr the Jeep would be destroyed and unusable. The rzr is tougher, faster and overall way more fun and that’s why SxS’s are dominating the off-road industry, Because they are the easiest to get into and by far the most fun!!!
My first rig was a 1984 Toyota flatbed 4x4. Installed 5.71’s Detroit in the front spool in the rear. 33” boggers on the back and TSL’s on the front. 22R with a cam. Add a leafs in all 4 corners. I nicknamed the truck YODATILLER….. cuz with the gears it would just crawl and dig up dirt in 2wd low😂…. I’ve learned so much with that truck. That truck would literally go anywhere. I joined a 4x4 club, all Jeep’s 🤪 I was able to go everywhere, even the places the other Jeep’s couldn’t go. I love Jeep’s, but I’d rather build another Toyota. I built this truck in 1999-2000 era. I’ve learned so much since then.
East coast, modified JLRUD daily driver owner (37’s, beadlocks steel bumpers, full belly pan, otherwise pretty stock), wheeling for several months now, with my local club (NOT a Facebook group 😉) over 100-strong. It’s true what everyone says-“seat time above everything else”. It is crazy how much more comfortable and confident I am after only 8 or so times out. Bitten by the off road bug HARD. And TH-camrs like y’all have been so helpful. The thing about formal clubs that Facebook Clubs don’t do is that clubs raise funds and work with local governments to keep public lands open. We’re constantly trying to literally and figuratively clean up the messes these “Facebook groups” leave behind them.
Is it just me, or does no one else not see the striking resemblance of Ian and Mr Heat Miser from those Santa Clause kids show from the 70’s. 🤣 Now onto the topic on hand. My first off road vehicle was a stock 90 jeep wrangler. I ended up swapping out the rear axle to an 8.8, EFI 350, 700R4, lockers front/ Rear, 5” lift, 35” Swampers. Was an amazing vehicle that i built over the course of 2 years. Now im on my 5th Bronco (86) which is my cushy overlanding vehicle.
Sweet Lord. He's like the Guy Fieri of off-road. I can barely keep my fingernails clean over a 3-4 day offroad trip, let alone keeping that much product on lock-down. Admittedly, it is causing me a bit of internal dialogue, on whether I should try harder in the style department.
"Where would you start?" Guy #1. Spend $35k on a used jeep with a warranty. Guy #2. Spend $25k on a side by side. Me. Spend $2,500 on an old grand cherokee.
my lust for offroading is growing as my wallet diminishes..... It started with a stock YJ and gravel roads......still have the YJ and now a heavily modified JKU thats made 2 4500+ mile trips out west to Moab and Arizona...it keeps growing
People leaving campsites trashed is a pet peeve of mine. I live near the Mark Twain National Forest, and just this past holiday (Labor Day), several campsites were left trashed. One campsite still had a smoking fire pit and a log with hot coals. It was a forest fire just waiting to happen. SO DAMN IRRESPONSIBLE.
Nate, I don't know you yet but plan to meet you at some point just to shake your hand, say God Bless you, and thank you for being such an inspiration to a 50 year old family man. You have no idea how much you've inspired me, from improving my welding, my jeep, my values, and my view on living the "moment". You guys have some great points and I agree with many if not all. Great job. I've watched Ian for a long time, it's really cool to see you conducting an interview 1 on 1 with him on your channel. That's awesome. Make sure he puts you on his favorites link as he currently doesn't have you on there :). To Ian, you are super cool and I've been a fan for years. I live in GA and can't wait to see you on the trails as well brother. To anyone watching this video and maybe reading my comment: Enjoy the moment, get on the trails, leave no trace other than tracks, and share the experience with your kids, family, or friends. Ian makes a point about all of the resources we have here in the US and it's so true and refreshing to hear that. I also share the same advice of taking a trip or adventure away from you home town area. My suggestion to anyone (motorcycle or Jeeper, over-lander, or adventurer) is head straight to Colorado. As a motorcyclist and jeep guy, I'll also suggest to look up "Back Country Discovery Route" organization "Ride BDR" and use these tracks for starters. They can be used for bikes, jeeps, or overlanding and is a great way to get started. I rode my BMW R1200GSA across country pre-pandemic and had a blast and couldn't wait to get back there with my family in my new JLUR on 39's. A trip like this will get the blood flowing and provide plenty of "on the trail" training and also give insight on how you may wish to build your rig or what type of wheeling you may want to do. Oh and as a bonus for those who have a wife that doesn't like tents. The BDR routes show all the little towns with motels, B&B's, and any other type of lodging. The routes are designed to have "options" that work for everyone. Lol. God Bless you all.
Right before the video started (it was on auto play) I was thinking how I would love for a introductory video cause I've ALWAYS wanted a jeep and got into this channel due to the harbor freight trailer diy and had no idea where to begin 😂 I live in NC so unfortunately side by sides are probably better for me but I also have a knack for photography and kind of always wanted to make a camper van to just tour and take photos for a week or so a year, seeing your jeep+trailer combo video a few weeks ago with the family I think that would be a awesome middle ground (cause that custom van would be 30k just for the van before customizing 😬) and could be a daily driver as a jeep. I'm looking at starting a different job soon if I can and I'll be making more $ with more time to build up and play around so definitely looking forward to that :D You also REALLY got me interested in touring Montana and the Pacific Northwest xD Georgia is also beautiful territory and I would love to go back there some day, wildlife photos of the mountains would just be *chef's kiss* Big thanks to both of y'all for the vid :D
Totally agree on the diversity of the US. I'm from Nebraska (ya, I know 😜). If you've never been to Western NE & saw pics of it, you'd never guess where it was. Just got back from South Dakota & it was killer. My Sis lived in Hall Montana, absolutely gorgeous. Bottom line is every state has cool areas, you just need to go explore them.
I wanted to go Overlanding, wife wanted a pickup truck to haul furniture, trash, etc. So we got a Gladiator. I'm an old diesel guy, so eco diesel it was. Not disappointed.
I just got a rig 6 weks ago.. I "wanted" a k5 Blazer originally, but family size and active lifestyle demanded more room - so I went with a square body Suburban - I known, a big girl.
I got my start in off roading with a used stock 2001 Kawasaki Prairie 750 vtwin 4wd utility quad. After the first few rides, I bought a lift kit for it and put 28" tall mud light tires on it, then after a season. I then put high performance muzzy race exhaust on it with a basic jet kit, then halfway thru the next season I learned about cvt tuning with springs and clutch weights. Then after that season, went full custom cvt machine work with shaved and lightened pullies and more aggressive pitch cut into the drive pulley to get the belt higher to get more speed out of the quad, then after the third year of riding it, went full fender trimming, snowmobile bar raisers with motocross style bars, and works performance front struts and rear shock, and gorilla CV axles on the front, and designed my own 4" lift kit and rear axle extension for the rear solid driveshaft driven housing. And went to massive 29.5" highlifter outlaw tires 29.5x10x12 front and 29.5x12x12 on the rear. Then I went as far as to making my own balanced intake system which basically turned my 2 single carburetors into dual carburetors feeding both both cylinders thru a custom made intake. Add a rev box chip, and mechanically advanced the ignition timing by 6degs. It became a serious hard core muddy trail quad, and used to ride it all over upstate NY in the tughill region. Had that quad for 8yrs and put 14k miles on it, went thru a drive belt almost every weekend out, which was between 150 to 200 miles of riding on trails, dirt roads, and mudding from sun up to sun down. That's where I got the off road obsession from. Now it's turned into full size trail trucks.
What is your favorite place to wheel in Oklahoma? Im from northeast okla! Disney is my "backyard " park. Clayton, poteau, mac alester, wenoka, Tackett creek, rugged mountain, mid- america?
Dirt Lifestyle I have an idea. I have a stock as a rock 93 Bronco that is worn out as a homeless guy’s bicycle. @sarahsmith thinks it’s nothing compared to an XJ or Blazer .Let’s do a stock against stock challenge. You pick the trails and subscribers rigs and do a real world comparison on this channel. $300 entry fee all proceeds goes to your family’s choice of charity
NO, don't "fly to Moab and rent a side by side"! that's what is ruining places like that, you're supposed to be giving good advice! why am I actually watching this filler, I'm going outside to work on my Land Cruiser.
I want to be inclusive of all forms of back country users and every type of user group has bad apples, but 40 yrs. ago the dirt bikes made whoops... I get it and they get to choose their way to recreate... normal bobtail rigs spin tires and dig holes/ruts. I have to say though that the SXSs of late have really degraded the quality of local (Ca. & Az.) just flat trails... washes & dirt roads. It's to a point that airing down & disconnecting doesn't help in a streetable rig. Some will deny it, but I believe the suspension design & power (along with the driver) of these rigs have been hard on the trails and even pushed folks away from the trails frequented by SXSs. I'm blessed to have cut my teeth on trails that originated from the late 40s through to the 80s and for 60+ yrs. the trails hadn't degraded like they have in the past 12 to 15 yrs. There has been an explosion of all types of users as well as more closures further condensing the pressure on trails... Like I said everyone gets to choose how they recreate, but I fear that the proliferation of SXS might force more closures. My thought is noob, start with a reliable 4X4, learn how to drive it... find it's short comings and make sensible mods. to what fits your way to go out in the back country. Maybe a second rig if you'd rather wheel a bit harder, cause there's nothing like braking it on Sat. cobbling it together to get home on Sun. TRYING to fix it enough on Sun. afternoon to get to work at 11 PM for you graveyard shift early Mon. AM.
Come on stop bagging on us SxS guys 😀. You can get into a big mess buying a new Jeep and get it where you don't have the right skills. I learned with a used Jeep and Polaris 500 Atv now I have a very capable Sxs. Also being on the Atlantic coast of Canada - most of the approved trails around me are Atv/Sxs trails . AND it is our local Atv/SxS clubs that go out and clean the trails. The are tons of people that think the trails are a dump and bring out appliances, garbage bags, etc etc. I know there are bad SxSs drivers that drop trash and stuff - but I see all kinds on the fire roads making a mess - that we then pickup. I love my X3 😀
I did like when they said not to buy a Jeep for $40,000. Instead by a side-by-side. I had to tell them this. But buying a brand new side-by-side will set you back pretty close to the area of a used jeep. The prices of side-by-side‘s are up there with even some new vehicles. Then you’re stuck with a vehicle that may be a two, and if you’re lucky, three season vehicle. Most of us would say that it would be more economical to buy a vehicle that you can drive in every day and in any situation. That you can also take off road or over landing. In my opinion, a side-by-side would be one of the worst suggestions For somebody who wants to get into, or try any type of offloading. Even if you buy a brand new Jeep. Then find out that you don’t like that type of recreation. You can either drive the jeep around. Or, the way they keep the value. You may even be able to sell it for as much, if not more than you paid for it. Unless you live in a smaller town or city. They are allowing side-by-side’s to be driven on the roads. Even though their vehicle counterparts have regulations to allow them to be on the road. So then I would suggest a side-by-side. That way you can legally break the most common rules of the road.
I think the main reason that SxS are a PITA is that they're mostly rentals. The people I've met who owned and modified their own rigs are pretty cool. Rule #1 of Moab, the SxS always has the ROW....don't argue, just let them through and your life will be easier
That dude needs to stop going to "Experimental Hair Designs Featuring Novice Stylists". Either that or stop going through the carwash with the sunroof open. 👍 😉 Kidding aside the disrespect to the environment and other enthusiasts is bullshit. Same problem with us motorcyclists. People trashing the place and ripping through the parking area. No excuse. I don't buy the special upbringing to not be a$$holes! It's not complicated.
Having been in the army, I have been to Europe, Asia, crossed US by car almost a dozen times. I think about the people that never get to leave their home state. This I realized when visiting my wife's grandparents in France. They lived 50 miles from Paris, and never went there in their life. I have lived in all three west coast states as well as Midwest. Your right there's so much diversity in lower 48. I've been to Hawaii, might not make Alaska, have been to all but deep south. This year exploring eastern Oregon. What a way to spend old age!
Good Stuff Guys, my name is Dave "Red" and I have a desk job.... lol Key points where do you live, what do want you want to do, experience/skills, money and time.
I see allot more Bronco IIs in the woods these days w/ FORD 8.8 rear, D35 TTB, 4.0L engines. They are cheap and capable as long as they aren't rusted out as Jeeps of the same year will be here in the North East.
there is Creek just West of my house and sens SxS's have showed up the creek has about 40-100 of them every weekand and it is perfectly Legal but they leave LOADS of trash i have F350 fx 4 and have filled it 3 times in one day and the following weekand it looks like i didn't even do anything burned my self out and gave up
I think the best, first, off-road vehicle is something that has aftermarket support. Finding a sweet deal on a random 4x4 might seem like a great start but when you can't find any parts or upgrades on the market a person could get frustrated. Also, from everything I have seen and heard, don't start with a full-size truck/SUV since trails are often designed around mid-size or smaller vehicles.
Many years ago, when I was young and dumb, we climbed up a nicely manicured hill in my old CJ-5 only to find out (from the grounds keeper) that is was a ski slope (he was not happy). On another occasion we were off-roading in some brush and came upon some nicely manicured grass only to find out it was a golf course. That grounds keeper was really unhappy. So, if you come across some nicely manicured terrain, it's best to back out.
Trail Etiquette: slow down. I get the side by sides are fast and fun, but save the full throttle for the open OHV areas, or the track, w/e. I've been involved in two offroad collisions out here in AZ, and seen several more happen firsthand. In all but one, same scenario: SxS is going too fast around a blind corner and ends up in oncoming traffic. Pro tip if you own or rent one of these things; those cages are for low speed roll protection, not so much collision, and on many of them, your upper body and/or face is about level with the bumper and grill on a lifted jeep or truck. Physics says the full size vehicle that weighs at least twice what you do will win every time, and it does not go well for the SxS occupants, let me tell you.
This is Dave from Colorado with a desk job!!! I have a little more mechanical experience than you described. Planning to get my wife out for some overlanding and camping. I have a Bronco Badlands on order.
Yes to taking your rubbish out. Plus if you can clean up other's rubbish. Been doing that since I first got my licence and a Land Rover in 1973. If you love your country then this should be second nature.
You are both out of your mind. Dropping enough cash or worse going into debt , to buy a sxs or vehicle with a warranty, for a hobby you don't even know if you will enjoy, is the worst advice I have ever heard given. A side by side is NOT a good way to learn offroad as they are so capable anyone can go anywhere in them. They will not teach you anything about driving offroad. I'd recommend buying a decent Jeep XJ or Chevy tracker for less than $5000 . Add some some aggressive tires and a cheap hf winch, educate yourself on vehicle recovery, and go have fun. If you enjoy the sport you can upgrade your rig after you learn a little about the sport.
Why are we trying to get more people out on the trails? Too much use already and many many bad actors littering and tearing up the wilderness. "Stay off my lawn!" LOL. Also, pee pee and poo poo paper needs to be bagged and taken out with you!!! Another thing that annoys me to no end is folks bagging their dog poop but leaving the bag there, WTF???
Nate, love all you content. I would love to see your experience as a plumber help this A/C newbie. There isn’t a lot of information out there on how to set up A/C plumbing when doing motor swaps and it melted my brain during my first swap.
Hey brother I have a 2014 Jeep Sahara I was thinking about putting a hood luber on it would that keep the engine cooler or is it just a waste of money??
I will say something that no one wants to hear. Baby's first off roader should be a used Subaru station wagon with over sized tires and a basic lifted suspension. It is inexpensive and can go most places my FJ can within the limitations of the lift and tires. The CVT isn't awesome but it is your first off roader. It wont leave you stranded the way a Jeep will. It wont suck your wallet dry like a 4ltr Toyota will. It will also out run any sold axle vehicle on the forest roads, you can really upset the Jeeps with this one.
On shortages, it’s everything. I build computers, but I’m into trucks, or you might want a big screen, or hi-fi. If it has a chip, the supply chain is severely screwed at the moment. But, you talk to any other person in a occupation, and their orders are all backed up too. Fun times.
The best starter rig is probably what you already have. Anybody the daily drives a SUV or a truck has something capable enough to get out there and get on some dirt roads and easy trails. Bring some smart gear and make sure you have a recovery point. After that get out there! Sure you can build a crazy rig. But, you don't have to do that to have fun and enjoy getting out there.
You can use Mich Ultra and Bud light cans as mile markers on side-by-side accessible trails in the southeast. Don't forget, a lot of people breathe through their mouths.
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Ian’s hair grows longer and taller as he dispenses off roading advice. If he stops, he goes bald.
Lol
Hilarious!
And chopping up & rebuilding what others consider to be junk...
Ian is a great guy, I still want to see the jet engine he does his hair with every morning…..
His hair is a cross between the guy from sum 41 & the ancient aliens dude.
Take nothing but pictures, leave nothing but footprints (tire tracks). If you're not doing this, you're doing it wrong👍👍
Fill in your ruts if you can.
Boy Scout rule: Leave the campsite Cleaner then it was when you got there.
Clean up garbage!
Well, except for the bridge that we had to build on my last adventure. We ran into a small issue where the trail was actually washed out from the monsoon season, and wound up having to do some shoveling and winching and bridge-building to get all nine jeeps back out.
Turned a 3 hour trip into a 7 hour trip that included backing down part of the trail because even with the bridge, it wasn't actually possible to get through there forward for anyone but the 2-door. And the Gladiator had to be pulled and pushed to get the rear into position to back over the bridge.
One other thing ive seen here in colorado to add to the finger gesture telling how many more rigs is some trails especially here in colorado that are narrow and a shelf road and two vehicles can’t pass is they put a sign with a cb channel listed so you can radio to see if someone is coming the other way so you know if it’s ok to proceed. Nothing worse in a Rocky loose shelf road with a 1000 foot drop and having to back up
Ian hates side by sides, i like him even more now. been a fan since the Extreme 4x4 days. im a little biased but probably the most economical entry level super capable 4x4 would be an XJ cherokee, Bullet proof drive train, super easy and simple to maintain and modify,
I would never claim an XJ to be bulletproof… they are made like junk and out of bad ideas…. but are extremely capable. Any 3rd or 4th Gen Bronco you can stomp the gas pedal thru the radiator yank it into 1st and float valves all day. When you get stuck then you put it in 4L.
@@bradleymorris8875 the straight 6 is a God of a motor. Even the Chrysler one haha and I'm a Ford guy. I had a 91 ranger and it was great off road. But I mean everyone had jeep Cherokees. And they all did very well as far as mechanical failures on the trails. Pretty robust. Easy to mod. Same with the rangers. I wouldn't call jeeps junk at all. They were made simple for a reason. There's a reason people use them other than being a jeep cult.
And xjs are pretty cheap to build
@@bradleymorris8875 🤣 when you say something... and it's as far from the truth as possible.
I miss Extreme 4X4. I really wanted to get a 2001 XJ. The dealer in my college town was selling a mid trim for $16,000. They also had a TJ Sport for the same price.
Garbage on the trails is a huge one. I’ve also noticed that since SXS’s got more and more popular that all the the trails got more abused. It’s all about throttle and zipping in and out on the SXS’s where with a rig you tend to be more careful with the throttle. Rigs don’t tear up the trails as much as side x sides.
Side by side people definitely tend to care less about the trails. They just rip on through and abuse the trail however they want.
Ummmmm - well I don't agree at all. And I have had trucks, jeeps, atvs and SxSs....and around my area the big trucks and jeeps totally destroy the trails as much as SxS/Atvs. It is all about the driver\person not the vehicle. Currently have a SxS, Jeep, and Truck....my SxS is what I use on the weekend because I don't it need for work on Monday- and I pack out what I pack in
@@r3kanman yep totally agree!! I’ve seen rigs with 40”-44” & smaller tires just destroy trails along with sxs’s trucks, jeeps etc. they cannot get up a hill or trail & the hammer it & dig big holes or whatever. I don’t think you can point your finger at just one group. It’s all about the driver & how they drive & what off road experience they have.
@@INSIDIOUS-ONE agreed, it comes down to the driver. Sometimes it's a lack of knowing and understanding their impact, and others it's a lack of caring about their impact. Education can cure one while the other usually can not be cured. There is bad apples in every bunch and off roaders are no exception.
Yes it is up to the driver but SxS drivers are "generally" more throttle happy drivers which causes lots of wash bored and whoops. Also because they are more entry level SxS are more responsible for trash just like Ian said
YES, I always get excited on Sundays for more Nate.
Thanks buddy 👊
Sunday morning poop, time to watch DL
Lol... I'm honored? 🤣
Ian and Nate, thank you for reminding people about trail adequate. I made a two-day camping trip out to Sacramento, CA. After packing up, I heard my late father reminding me to clean up. It was a lesson he taught us, kids, at an early age when we went camping. While walking my pattern, picking up trash from the prior folks and my group, I saw the kids sitting around on their electronics. I realised we need to go camping out more, so I can pass on the knowledge from the old folks.
0:51 “All many places” Ian’s voice is just iconic for me. Before TH-cam we watched tv Sunday mornings! Now every day can be Sunday morning.
My 3rd gen taco somehow went from a fun camping rig to a full blown mule. Everything from rock crawling to 15hr road trips. Poor thing Is scratched and dented but I’ve had a blast using my land-yacht. Lol.
I am a beginner off roader, so this is great. All I have is an old Tahoe and a Hi-Lo camper I'm converting to overlander status. Thanks alot for this.
Happy to help! This one is for folks like you 🙌
I 100% agree with Ian on the side by side thoughts. They are great, but man they sure can put a person into a bad situation way over their skill level.
You see the same thing with Jeeps. It's easy to go write a check and have way too much rig for your experience. Like Ian, I started at 16 with stock 4x4s. Moved to Co. at 20 and started hitting mild trails. Slowly progressed into harder and harder trails. So the rigs got upgraded. I have a co worker that never wheeled before. Never has had a trail rig. He went out and bought a bad ass JK. Way too much rig for a beginner.
@@bradywilliams2666 I agree, but typically that person that goes out and buys a super badass Jeep is spending 50-70k on it vs 20k on a super badass side x side. The money invested a lot of times will at least cause them to think twice. Unless there is booze involved and that an entirely different convo.
Nate. Very good off-roading 101 upload ! Downunder has the southern hemisphere equivalent to North America or Stateside, just there's more critters that kill you ? V.
Including your government. We are all praying for the down under crew. The outback is the best place to be.
Australia is what much of America wishes it could be.
I am one of those Americans. I’ll dream up some idea, and Australia already has a scene for it.
@@madhousediy5050 right up until the pandemic mate. Sorry. I will never go there again.
Your thoughts on trail etiquette are on point. I'm from Wyoming, and most of the trails I wheeled as a kid are shut down because of people ruining the trails. Garbage is a huge reason, but also running the trails while they are muddy.
Great video, maybe salespeople should give a trasharoo or something together with every sold sxs😂
Im currently building a YJ and it’s gonna be fun if parts are truly getting scarce, lets hope the people coming into the hobby stay with modern stuff
Keep the alcohol at home
Right on Dave,get out there !
Camping vs tv.... HA !!!
No Brainer....
I bought a 98 Silverado k1500 two yrs ago for 5 gs ,put a canapy, cargo rack, cb radio, did brakes, steering box and arm, ac cond.,insp trans and transfer, Serv both, boom, takes me where I want to go. 77 yo so dispersed camping, gravel and two track within reason for an old guy. Inexpensive, no payments, low insurance. I'm happy camper and quasi explorer, doing what I never did as a young man. Maybe see you fellas if you go to Eastern Oregon.
Issue with SBS/UTVs now days it's they're crazy overpowered for most off-road driving scenarios. Take a super charged 1000cc UTV that's capable of flying at 60mph in 7 seconds and expect people to drive those safe and responsibly on a Forest Service road where you shouldn't be driving any faster than 25mph and it's a recipe for disaster.
Niice. My daily is a 79 F150 300 4x4 manual on 33in BFGs. She does awesome out in the Owyhees. But nothing too extreme. The kids are getting larger, so I just picked up a 98XJ. I don't have a shop, just grass and tools.
I am watching ya from Scotland but I am originally from Silesia and I can tell you from my experience in Europe and Scotland than if you continue vote locally and to your government as you do now you will still have amazing country, with variety of land, but you will have no access to this places by car! It happen in Scotland where by law you are not allowed to go anywhere off road or overland apart boring camp sites for RV and it’s happen recently in Europe, thanks to those so called „green people” in union Europe. think for who you vote, what is his background, what he want achieve while taking your tax and freedom, because you can have the most capable amazing rig, but could go only to pay and play sites if they exist do to health and safety lol, or if your insurance allow this….. Right now you are lucky Nation but watching what is happen in your politics you will soon not be. Sorry to be pessimistic, but maybe that ring some bells in your head….
Trail manners Big one here in Michigan, dam side by sides COMMUNICATE , yes sir more often than not I am giving nothing from group of them on a blind spot on a sandy trail. I don't think that get it, can you guys do a video on hand signals?..
I was watching an East Coast based 4x channel, and the dude said "People coming downhill have the right of way." People spreading these contradictions to accepted trail etiquette and practices are a problem.
I'm probably twice, maybe three times as old as both of you, but, S-holes on the street will be S-holes off road.
I found the same applies for boating.
I paid 2k for a super clean XJ , lightly trailed it to feel it out , installed a lift , really good tires , and detachable sway bar links , perfect vehicle to learn in and im not stuck with payments . super easy to work on and parts are cheap and plentiful
I find the problem with people dumping big items in the woods or on trails is not the 4X4 community but the local transfer stations are charging higher and higher fees to dispose of things like appliances and furniture, people either don't want to or can't afford to pay. So it's easier to just dump it on a trail and make it someone else's problem. I live on a dead end road near a wooded area and come home from work and find appliances, couches, mattresses, tires, etc...all the time. I just put up two trails cameras to try and catch them in the act!
I got a 93 fzj80 factory triple locked its our daily we love it it's a tank but gets where we want to go
I bought a 91 HDJ81 triple locked last year. Love it! Curious if you have a Instagram? Im always looking for others in the Landcruiser crowd to swap stories with. I’m jdmgngr.
@@jeffandrews7335 I don't sorry think I tried to use it one time but haven't been on there since =/
Watching from eastern Washington this morning. Waiting for rain to hit the trail!
Sure the diversity of the US is endless but that’s because it’s huge. Israel is same size as Utah and we have woods, desert ,sands , rock climbing and in the winter time we have mud and snow.
SXSs are like fleas. All the SXS tours in Moab has ruined Hell's Revenge for me. Used to be a fun quick trail. Now it's a circus show.
I think most people have more all around rigs then offroad rigs. alot of people cant drop $40k on a rig and then do all the add ons.. also Jeeps and Toyotas arent the only rigs to do things with.. i think they have over saturated the offroad market. people now cant afford an old chevy or ford. what once was a $1500 rig is not $15k.. so realistically you cant just begin into it.. it now takes alot of money to do. even a SXS is $20k+...its a sad downward spiral for regular folks and has turn into a wealthy only sport or if you have sponsors.. Not everyone gets 40" Maxxis tires for free the day they came out
Dude.. no one needs 40s unless you are into serious rock crawling and you can do car camping and YES, this is what it is OVERLANDING = CAR CAMPING !! and people have done this in ANYTHING that moves/have wheels since the beggining of car times, so go ahead, get whatever you like/can afford and go outside and ENJOY nature!! and yes, nature, if you dont like it, you are doing it wronf and this is not for you =)
Just a general advice, not necesarily directed to you
Good points, 3 years ago, bought a shortbed k1500
$800. Fixed a small gas leak changed fluids, and
drive it regularly. Sons lookin for a rig, it’s crazy, wranglers
start at 10k for a pos.... Ridiculous, young people are at
a huge disadvantage, rent , cost of living, etc.
@@yepitsme431 I have a semi purpose built offroader, it's taken me 14 years to get it where it is but it is also my daily driver.. You say " anything with wheels" but there is alot of states with lift laws and regulations. Not everyone lives 50 miles from civilization or in a state that doesn't care. So you can't just use what you want. I agree I love nature but the reality is that this is a very expensive sport/ hobby. You can't really get into it as a 16 year old with $1000.. it just doesn't really happen anymore.
There are more laws, and regs then ever because of coal rollers, squatters and vehicles that are just unsafe. There is a 87 Chevy short bed down the road for $13900 ..how does a 16 yr old afford that and afford to go wheeling, afford insurance, gas, maintenance.. people don't make California money.. most people only make $40k a year.
As far as 40s.. celebrities, TH-camrs, and other wheelers from highly known places get alot of stuff free. Most people can't go and buy $2000 worth of tube, $3000 tires, lift kits etc.. by the time you're done you've put in a years mortgage into a vehicle....I'm pointing out reality..
I want people to go out and wheel, enjoy nature. I do. But let's be realistic.. California isn't it..
@@rickreese5794 by the time expenses are paid, not much left to be able to afford that winch or heck even a decent tent now is $300-500. At $11-15/hr it's just darn near impossible..
Lol challenge accepted! I want to use this Comment to base a future build 👍
If you shop around you can absolutely build a great offroad rig for cheap... watch me 😁
I want to get into off roading. I've been torn for some time between a RZR or building an XJ. I managed to get a XJ for free that needs some work so I'm probably going to go that route.
Life is short do things!
I started wheeling back in the 80's. Stepped away from it for a few decades and a few years ago got back into it. A lot has changed (tech, rigs, no side by sides, lol) But a lot has stayed the same. I think the Facebook thing is a huge help as well as You tube and channels like this. The wealth of info out there now is just mind boggling. Great video, great advice. See you out there...
As for trail etiquette people need to know if you're going up hill the downhill traffic should stop for uphill traffic. I agree with hand signals. But alot of don't know about trail etiquette..
Mark
Jeep Cherokee xj! Cheap parts everywhere completely customizable
I have a ton of paper maps for the just in case type scenario. Maps don't run out of batteries
Love my 2 owner low miles 98 Ram 1500 out here in Utah. Leveling kit on 35s. Goes pretty much anywhere I care to go. I’m not a hardcore wheeler, more of an overland/forest service road exploring rig, but even then it’s got plenty of ground clearance to get over some fun things. Even better is that it was fairly cheap! Not on gas though lol.
Have been watching 8 different channels on offroading and overlanding. Then watched a episode where the Canadian govt is closing roads. The side by side light came on. There are overland sideXside builds. The limiting factor is windows and windshields. Especially in rainy climates. Ian gave some solid advice.
You can get them with windows and windshield and climate control. Just need to spend a lot
@@Russianmafia10 just started looking. I know you can get the agricultural work type. Haven't seen any rock crawler type. Will look a bit more. Thanks
Get a s10 or blazer and fit 33s. Go from there. They're cheap and pretty tough as long as you arent rock bouncing
Traditional clubs still exist, most clubs have Facebook Groups. My jeep club FRJC Fox River Jeep Club still does in person monthly meetings, social meet up like today's is a ice-cream run & one monthly off road trip + a members only extended trip/Adventure. 😀
i can't even count how many fires i've put out over the years with absolutely nobody around. so annoying!!! and the trash, oh my gosh you can fill 55 gallon bags in Colorado with trash!
Everyone always recommend wranglers and toyota...but what about full size rigs?
I like it all 👍
The only bad thing about FB groups is people just wanna talk shit about each others rigs and wheeling abilities. They don’t care about getting out and actually wheeling.
This is reality unfortunately. They CAN have great info but also tons of trolls
I just remove myself from groups that are full of people like that. I know plenty of knowledgeable people and have access to plenty of knowledgeable people through social media and relationships I’ve established in this community. So when I need advice i shoot them a DM or call them directly and get their input.
I have to throw kudos to Ian for his recommendation of a side-by-side/UTV. If you can swing that payment (or save up & pay cash), they really are an excellent starting point. You get a turn-key, trail-ready ride that can generally handle what most hobbyists would [realistically] try to conquer. You aren't putting your daily driver in harms way. Furthermore, upgrades and repairs for a UTV are a fraction of the price compared to similar parts for pretty much any full-size truck/Jeep/SUV.
Ian HAS to cut that hair. It's bad. Like, B A D.
Great video Nate and Ian ! We were blown away with how many people showed up to the Crawling for a Cure event that had never been off-road before. It’s amazing how many people are getting into this (dirt) lifestyle.
We are also beyond excited to explore this beautiful country towing our Jeep with our motor home. We intend to spend 3-6 months on the road seeing as many fellow off-roaders and different trails as we can!
Minor detail, but unless you are competing it’s a hobby.
With the exception of IL, I agree US has great off-road diversity 😀
Thank you for this video! Please do more and encourage other high visibility members of the sport to do them as well! This is so needed it's sad.. I used to off-road with trucks back in the day when 33s were big and 35s were holy crap huge. Living in Maine a lot of trails have been lost to irresponsible drivers and also development which puts more pressure on the trails that are left. I enjoy SxSs but not all SxS owners... Being a member of many ATV clubs for 17 + years the rise of the high horsepower SxSs and 64"+ width has been the death Nell of to many trails and maintenance has soared as well thanks to uneducated throttle junkies. Thanks again and please push more trail use education out there!
SxS’s are amazing! I have a 98 2 door XJ all done up and a rzr XP1000 and I pretty much only drive the rzr now. I can leave my driveway and In 5 minutes I’m hitting the trail. If your looking to go camping then the SxS’s aren’t too practical but there better at everything else. All the Jeep and 4x4 rig guys don’t like SxS’s because there jealous you can buy a used fully capable 1000 SxS for 15k and go out a rip beat the hell out of it and not break anything. If I did the same riding with my Jeep as my rzr the Jeep would be destroyed and unusable. The rzr is tougher, faster and overall way more fun and that’s why SxS’s are dominating the off-road industry, Because they are the easiest to get into and by far the most fun!!!
My first rig was a 1984 Toyota flatbed 4x4. Installed 5.71’s Detroit in the front spool in the rear. 33” boggers on the back and TSL’s on the front. 22R with a cam. Add a leafs in all 4 corners. I nicknamed the truck YODATILLER….. cuz with the gears it would just crawl and dig up dirt in 2wd low😂…. I’ve learned so much with that truck. That truck would literally go anywhere. I joined a 4x4 club, all Jeep’s 🤪 I was able to go everywhere, even the places the other Jeep’s couldn’t go. I love Jeep’s, but I’d rather build another Toyota. I built this truck in 1999-2000 era. I’ve learned so much since then.
XJ , 3rd or 4th Gen Bronco , any rental car.
i became a xj jeep guy because my 95 bronco rotted away lol
East coast, modified JLRUD daily driver owner (37’s, beadlocks steel bumpers, full belly pan, otherwise pretty stock), wheeling for several months now, with my local club (NOT a Facebook group 😉) over 100-strong.
It’s true what everyone says-“seat time above everything else”. It is crazy how much more comfortable and confident I am after only 8 or so times out. Bitten by the off road bug HARD. And TH-camrs like y’all have been so helpful.
The thing about formal clubs that Facebook Clubs don’t do is that clubs raise funds and work with local governments to keep public lands open. We’re constantly trying to literally and figuratively clean up the messes these “Facebook groups” leave behind them.
Is it just me, or does no one else not see the striking resemblance of Ian and Mr Heat Miser from those Santa Clause kids show from the 70’s. 🤣
Now onto the topic on hand. My first off road vehicle was a stock 90 jeep wrangler. I ended up swapping out the rear axle to an 8.8, EFI 350, 700R4, lockers front/ Rear, 5” lift, 35” Swampers. Was an amazing vehicle that i built over the course of 2 years.
Now im on my 5th Bronco (86) which is my cushy overlanding vehicle.
Sweet Lord. He's like the Guy Fieri of off-road.
I can barely keep my fingernails clean over a 3-4 day offroad trip, let alone keeping that much product on lock-down.
Admittedly, it is causing me a bit of internal dialogue, on whether I should try harder in the style department.
"Where would you start?"
Guy #1. Spend $35k on a used jeep with a warranty.
Guy #2. Spend $25k on a side by side.
Me. Spend $2,500 on an old grand cherokee.
my lust for offroading is growing as my wallet diminishes..... It started with a stock YJ and gravel roads......still have the YJ and now a heavily modified JKU thats made 2 4500+ mile trips out west to Moab and Arizona...it keeps growing
People leaving campsites trashed is a pet peeve of mine. I live near the Mark Twain National Forest, and just this past holiday (Labor Day), several campsites were left trashed. One campsite still had a smoking fire pit and a log with hot coals. It was a forest fire just waiting to happen. SO DAMN IRRESPONSIBLE.
Nate, I don't know you yet but plan to meet you at some point just to shake your hand, say God Bless you, and thank you for being such an inspiration to a 50 year old family man. You have no idea how much you've inspired me, from improving my welding, my jeep, my values, and my view on living the "moment". You guys have some great points and I agree with many if not all. Great job. I've watched Ian for a long time, it's really cool to see you conducting an interview 1 on 1 with him on your channel. That's awesome. Make sure he puts you on his favorites link as he currently doesn't have you on there :).
To Ian, you are super cool and I've been a fan for years. I live in GA and can't wait to see you on the trails as well brother.
To anyone watching this video and maybe reading my comment: Enjoy the moment, get on the trails, leave no trace other than tracks, and share the experience with your kids, family, or friends. Ian makes a point about all of the resources we have here in the US and it's so true and refreshing to hear that. I also share the same advice of taking a trip or adventure away from you home town area. My suggestion to anyone (motorcycle or Jeeper, over-lander, or adventurer) is head straight to Colorado. As a motorcyclist and jeep guy, I'll also suggest to look up "Back Country Discovery Route" organization "Ride BDR" and use these tracks for starters. They can be used for bikes, jeeps, or overlanding and is a great way to get started. I rode my BMW R1200GSA across country pre-pandemic and had a blast and couldn't wait to get back there with my family in my new JLUR on 39's. A trip like this will get the blood flowing and provide plenty of "on the trail" training and also give insight on how you may wish to build your rig or what type of wheeling you may want to do. Oh and as a bonus for those who have a wife that doesn't like tents. The BDR routes show all the little towns with motels, B&B's, and any other type of lodging. The routes are designed to have "options"
that work for everyone. Lol.
God Bless you all.
I recommend everyone carry a fire extinguisher with them. Fires are becoming much more common.
I understand and acknowledge your boy is super knowledgeable.........but I can't take him seriously with that hair. sorry
Spot On guys your Country is Awesome MY Heart is in WYOMING IDAHO Montana Visit Offen From NEW ZEALAND
Right before the video started (it was on auto play) I was thinking how I would love for a introductory video cause I've ALWAYS wanted a jeep and got into this channel due to the harbor freight trailer diy and had no idea where to begin 😂
I live in NC so unfortunately side by sides are probably better for me but I also have a knack for photography and kind of always wanted to make a camper van to just tour and take photos for a week or so a year, seeing your jeep+trailer combo video a few weeks ago with the family I think that would be a awesome middle ground (cause that custom van would be 30k just for the van before customizing 😬) and could be a daily driver as a jeep. I'm looking at starting a different job soon if I can and I'll be making more $ with more time to build up and play around so definitely looking forward to that :D
You also REALLY got me interested in touring Montana and the Pacific Northwest xD Georgia is also beautiful territory and I would love to go back there some day, wildlife photos of the mountains would just be *chef's kiss*
Big thanks to both of y'all for the vid :D
Totally agree on the diversity of the US. I'm from Nebraska (ya, I know 😜). If you've never been to Western NE & saw pics of it, you'd never guess where it was. Just got back from South Dakota & it was killer. My Sis lived in Hall Montana, absolutely gorgeous. Bottom line is every state has cool areas, you just need to go explore them.
I wanted to go Overlanding, wife wanted a pickup truck to haul furniture, trash, etc. So we got a Gladiator. I'm an old diesel guy, so eco diesel it was. Not disappointed.
I GUESS fauchi GETS A THUMBS UP FOR SCARING EVERYBODY OUTSIDE
WE’LL GIVE’EM A THUMBS UP JUST BEFORE HE GETS DRAWN & QUARTED
I just got a rig 6 weks ago.. I "wanted" a k5 Blazer originally, but family size and active lifestyle demanded more room - so I went with a square body Suburban - I known, a big girl.
I got my start in off roading with a used stock 2001 Kawasaki Prairie 750 vtwin 4wd utility quad. After the first few rides, I bought a lift kit for it and put 28" tall mud light tires on it, then after a season. I then put high performance muzzy race exhaust on it with a basic jet kit, then halfway thru the next season I learned about cvt tuning with springs and clutch weights. Then after that season, went full custom cvt machine work with shaved and lightened pullies and more aggressive pitch cut into the drive pulley to get the belt higher to get more speed out of the quad, then after the third year of riding it, went full fender trimming, snowmobile bar raisers with motocross style bars, and works performance front struts and rear shock, and gorilla CV axles on the front, and designed my own 4" lift kit and rear axle extension for the rear solid driveshaft driven housing. And went to massive 29.5" highlifter outlaw tires 29.5x10x12 front and 29.5x12x12 on the rear. Then I went as far as to making my own balanced intake system which basically turned my 2 single carburetors into dual carburetors feeding both both cylinders thru a custom made intake. Add a rev box chip, and mechanically advanced the ignition timing by 6degs. It became a serious hard core muddy trail quad, and used to ride it all over upstate NY in the tughill region. Had that quad for 8yrs and put 14k miles on it, went thru a drive belt almost every weekend out, which was between 150 to 200 miles of riding on trails, dirt roads, and mudding from sun up to sun down. That's where I got the off road obsession from. Now it's turned into full size trail trucks.
What is your favorite place to wheel in Oklahoma? Im from northeast okla! Disney is my "backyard " park. Clayton, poteau, mac alester, wenoka, Tackett creek, rugged mountain, mid- america?
Dirt Lifestyle I have an idea. I have a stock as a rock 93 Bronco that is worn out as a homeless guy’s bicycle. @sarahsmith thinks it’s nothing compared to an XJ or Blazer .Let’s do a stock against stock challenge. You pick the trails and subscribers rigs and do a real world comparison on this channel. $300 entry fee all proceeds goes to your family’s choice of charity
NO, don't "fly to Moab and rent a side by side"! that's what is ruining places like that, you're supposed to be giving good advice! why am I actually watching this filler, I'm going outside to work on my Land Cruiser.
I want to be inclusive of all forms of back country users and every type of user group has bad apples, but 40 yrs. ago the dirt bikes made whoops... I get it and they get to choose their way to recreate... normal bobtail rigs spin tires and dig holes/ruts. I have to say though that the SXSs of late have really degraded the quality of local (Ca. & Az.) just flat trails... washes & dirt roads. It's to a point that airing down & disconnecting doesn't help in a streetable rig. Some will deny it, but I believe the suspension design & power (along with the driver) of these rigs have been hard on the trails and even pushed folks away from the trails frequented by SXSs. I'm blessed to have cut my teeth on trails that originated from the late 40s through to the 80s and for 60+ yrs. the trails hadn't degraded like they have in the past 12 to 15 yrs.
There has been an explosion of all types of users as well as more closures further condensing the pressure on trails...
Like I said everyone gets to choose how they recreate, but I fear that the proliferation of SXS might force more closures.
My thought is noob, start with a reliable 4X4, learn how to drive it... find it's short comings and make sensible mods. to what fits your way to go out in the back country. Maybe a second rig if you'd rather wheel a bit harder, cause there's nothing like braking it on Sat. cobbling it together to get home on Sun. TRYING to fix it enough on Sun. afternoon to get to work at 11 PM for you graveyard shift early Mon. AM.
Come on stop bagging on us SxS guys 😀. You can get into a big mess buying a new Jeep and get it where you don't have the right skills. I learned with a used Jeep and Polaris 500 Atv now I have a very capable Sxs. Also being on the Atlantic coast of Canada - most of the approved trails around me are Atv/Sxs trails . AND it is our local Atv/SxS clubs that go out and clean the trails. The are tons of people that think the trails are a dump and bring out appliances, garbage bags, etc etc. I know there are bad SxSs drivers that drop trash and stuff - but I see all kinds on the fire roads making a mess - that we then pickup. I love my X3 😀
I did like when they said not to buy a Jeep for $40,000. Instead by a side-by-side. I had to tell them this. But buying a brand new side-by-side will set you back pretty close to the area of a used jeep. The prices of side-by-side‘s are up there with even some new vehicles. Then you’re stuck with a vehicle that may be a two, and if you’re lucky, three season vehicle. Most of us would say that it would be more economical to buy a vehicle that you can drive in every day and in any situation. That you can also take off road or over landing. In my opinion, a side-by-side would be one of the worst suggestions For somebody who wants to get into, or try any type of offloading. Even if you buy a brand new Jeep. Then find out that you don’t like that type of recreation. You can either drive the jeep around. Or, the way they keep the value. You may even be able to sell it for as much, if not more than you paid for it.
Unless you live in a smaller town or city. They are allowing side-by-side’s to be driven on the roads. Even though their vehicle counterparts have regulations to allow them to be on the road. So then I would suggest a side-by-side. That way you can legally break the most common rules of the road.
I think the main reason that SxS are a PITA is that they're mostly rentals. The people I've met who owned and modified their own rigs are pretty cool. Rule #1 of Moab, the SxS always has the ROW....don't argue, just let them through and your life will be easier
That dude needs to stop going to "Experimental Hair Designs Featuring Novice Stylists".
Either that or stop going through the carwash with the sunroof open. 👍 😉
Kidding aside the disrespect to the environment and other enthusiasts is bullshit. Same problem with us motorcyclists. People trashing the place and ripping through the parking area. No excuse. I don't buy the special upbringing to not be a$$holes! It's not complicated.
Having been in the army, I have been to Europe, Asia, crossed US by car almost a dozen times. I think about the people that never get to leave their home state. This I realized when visiting my wife's grandparents in France. They lived 50 miles from Paris, and never went there in their life. I have lived in all three west coast states as well as Midwest. Your right there's so much diversity in lower 48. I've been to Hawaii, might not make Alaska, have been to all but deep south. This year exploring eastern Oregon. What a way to spend old age!
It is an option, why would you tell a beginner in 4X to spend $20K with a warranty ? Get a $2500 Blazer/Dakota/Tahoe and see if they like it first.
Good Stuff Guys, my name is Dave "Red" and I have a desk job.... lol
Key points where do you live, what do want you want to do, experience/skills, money and time.
I see allot more Bronco IIs in the woods these days w/ FORD 8.8 rear, D35 TTB, 4.0L engines. They are cheap and capable as long as they aren't rusted out as Jeeps of the same year will be here in the North East.
there is Creek just West of my house and sens SxS's have showed up the creek has about 40-100 of them every weekand and it is perfectly Legal but they leave LOADS of trash i have F350 fx 4 and have filled it 3 times in one day and the following weekand it looks like i didn't even do anything burned my self out and gave up
I think the best, first, off-road vehicle is something that has aftermarket support. Finding a sweet deal on a random 4x4 might seem like a great start but when you can't find any parts or upgrades on the market a person could get frustrated. Also, from everything I have seen and heard, don't start with a full-size truck/SUV since trails are often designed around mid-size or smaller vehicles.
I have 2 LD Defenders and I love camping and Off Roading. I’m worried about safety for people of colour on back roads. Any ideas?
Many years ago, when I was young and dumb, we climbed up a nicely manicured hill in my old CJ-5 only to find out (from the grounds keeper) that is was a ski slope (he was not happy). On another occasion we were off-roading in some brush and came upon some nicely manicured grass only to find out it was a golf course. That grounds keeper was really unhappy. So, if you come across some nicely manicured terrain, it's best to back out.
Trail Etiquette: slow down. I get the side by sides are fast and fun, but save the full throttle for the open OHV areas, or the track, w/e. I've been involved in two offroad collisions out here in AZ, and seen several more happen firsthand. In all but one, same scenario: SxS is going too fast around a blind corner and ends up in oncoming traffic. Pro tip if you own or rent one of these things; those cages are for low speed roll protection, not so much collision, and on many of them, your upper body and/or face is about level with the bumper and grill on a lifted jeep or truck. Physics says the full size vehicle that weighs at least twice what you do will win every time, and it does not go well for the SxS occupants, let me tell you.
The heat miser goes off-roading ?
he's mister 101
This is Dave from Colorado with a desk job!!! I have a little more mechanical experience than you described. Planning to get my wife out for some overlanding and camping. I have a Bronco Badlands on order.
Yes to taking your rubbish out. Plus if you can clean up other's rubbish. Been doing that since I first got my licence and a Land Rover in 1973. If you love your country then this should be second nature.
You are both out of your mind. Dropping enough cash or worse going into debt , to buy a sxs or vehicle with a warranty, for a hobby you don't even know if you will enjoy, is the worst advice I have ever heard given. A side by side is NOT a good way to learn offroad as they are so capable anyone can go anywhere in them. They will not teach you anything about driving offroad.
I'd recommend buying a decent Jeep XJ or Chevy tracker for less than $5000 . Add some some aggressive tires and a cheap hf winch, educate yourself on vehicle recovery, and go have fun. If you enjoy the sport you can upgrade your rig after you learn a little about the sport.
YES! Hand signals to let others know how many rigs are behind you. Also GMRS 16 is the general 4X4 channel to monitor
good content , start slow ,pick up your crap when you leave .
Why are we trying to get more people out on the trails? Too much use already and many many bad actors littering and tearing up the wilderness. "Stay off my lawn!" LOL. Also, pee pee and poo poo paper needs to be bagged and taken out with you!!! Another thing that annoys me to no end is folks bagging their dog poop but leaving the bag there, WTF???
Hey Nate... just wondering, since you were at Ians... were you at Smoky Mt Jeep Invasion?
Nate, love all you content. I would love to see your experience as a plumber help this A/C newbie. There isn’t a lot of information out there on how to set up A/C plumbing when doing motor swaps and it melted my brain during my first swap.
Great crash course! Makes it super easy to share with with our friends who are just getting into it 💯
Hey brother I have a 2014 Jeep Sahara I was thinking about putting a hood luber on it would that keep the engine cooler or is it just a waste of money??
Garbage everywhere. Wheeling in Kentucky this morning and just piles of beer cans and garbage everywhere.
I will say something that no one wants to hear. Baby's first off roader should be a used Subaru station wagon with over sized tires and a basic lifted suspension. It is inexpensive and can go most places my FJ can within the limitations of the lift and tires. The CVT isn't awesome but it is your first off roader. It wont leave you stranded the way a Jeep will. It wont suck your wallet dry like a 4ltr Toyota will. It will also out run any sold axle vehicle on the forest roads, you can really upset the Jeeps with this one.
On shortages, it’s everything. I build computers, but I’m into trucks, or you might want a big screen, or hi-fi. If it has a chip, the supply chain is severely screwed at the moment. But, you talk to any other person in a occupation, and their orders are all backed up too. Fun times.
The best starter rig is probably what you already have. Anybody the daily drives a SUV or a truck has something capable enough to get out there and get on some dirt roads and easy trails. Bring some smart gear and make sure you have a recovery point. After that get out there!
Sure you can build a crazy rig. But, you don't have to do that to have fun and enjoy getting out there.
You can use Mich Ultra and Bud light cans as mile markers on side-by-side accessible trails in the southeast. Don't forget, a lot of people breathe through their mouths.