I have 8 channels I watch and yours by far is the one I watch the most for information on things you do and the life you live as an example of how to do it right. Keep your head up bro and it’ll work out no problem.
Brian, you really have a great attitude when dealing with situations like this. One of the reasons I continue to watch your videos and follow along with your travels.
Life is full of unexpected breakdowns but a wise man is prepared and knows that he doesn't have to break down when the van does. You have my respect and admiration, Brian.
Brian, so sorry for this downtime for repairs, and YES be thankful that you are healthy and have options. Thanks to your wonderful friend Bill, you are NOT lost! I am so thankful you post real situations that ALL of us can learn from. Remember, keep that positive attitude, IT WORKS!
So nice to see a “man” on the road and not a bunch of kids wanting everything handed to them with the attitude they’re to smart to work on their stuff and that’s what they pay ppl under them to do. Good attitude Brian. I’m gonna throw some cash your way just because you handled this with class on your own and didn’t beg for TH-cam mommy and daddy to take care of your problems.
It sure sounds like one of the needle bearings is behind the cap. This would explain why you had a hard time getting that joint back in. Always look at the last thing you did and being we are all human that's likely where you'll find your problem. Pretty sure anyone who's ever changed u-joints has got a needle behind the cap at least once. Good luck.
Bless you young man....this isn't just a VanLife lesson for folks...this is a Life lesson. We encounter unexpected challenges in any lifestyle. It often takes a while to find the bright side again, but your positive outlook always comes through. Safe Travels, Friend.
A bad situation, but still, NO DRAMA or begging. I see problem SOLVING happening here. So many other van dwellers could learn a lot from you Brian. You lead by example, and that is why I like this channel. Nice to have "friends of the road" to help you out too. Good luck with figuring this out, but I'm also leaning towards the van being overloaded, especially hanging off the back.
This might help a reader down the road ; If you have a u joint cap fall off ,you can drive several miles with a 1/2 inch drive socket bolted into place ....
Bless you Brian! I could hear the stress in your voice and see it in your face. But it sounds like you are making good decisions! We appreciate your honesty and openness with those of us who are contemplating this lifestyle. That was so kind of your friend Bill to help you!
I'm really sorry about your van troubles. I know from experience that the hardest times in life are the "growingest" times. You will learn and you'll be a better man for it. Knowing you, you'll make even going to the library an adventure, so don't hesitate to find small adventures while you're waiting for your van to share with us. It'll be interesting and it's all part of the joy of life. Joy and sorrow most often than not run in a parallel track. Love and prayers.
your one of the top channels absolutely no ebeging on your channel unlike some other youtubeers they seem to think the viewers owe them a living and any repairs up grades etc. thank you for being real good luck and all my RESPECT
Love your attitude Brian. But most importantly glad you have an emergency fund in place and for encouraging others to have one, regardless of your living situation. I have no doubt you'll be fine. You're a very resourceful man.
This is exactly why I like watching your channel, you’re always prepared for anything that comes at you you have it together. Other channels out there first thing they do is cry into the camera they don’t have no money they don’t know what they’re going to do. Great video thanks for posting and good luck.
I really admire yr mindset. Situations like this happen whether you live in a van, apt., house etc. it's was quite fascinating to watch the repair. Good luck and can't wait to see how you come out
Thank you Brian. I love your attitude. Your willingness to share, not only the good, but the bad is important. It's also nice to have a good friend. Peace.
You show the ups and downs of living on the road, what you are going through both with the travel part, and the life part. Not putting down other folks on TH-cam, but what makes you stand out is how you tackle a problem from beginning to end, and how you resolved it, and how it impacted you emotionally also. I think that can help folks out in their life whether they live in a home or travel home. Thanks Brian, I may get on the road one day, and your videos show what the experience is really like. Life is life, no matter where or how you live it.
If you purchase a Cargo Trailer, make sure it has a side door. It makes access so much easier, especially in bad weather. Kevin (pig) and I met you at the RTR, so you might remember my in progress conversion of my cargo trailer to a small camp trailer. My trailer did NOT have a side door. I found one at an RV recycle yard for $200, but it cost me twice that amount to have it put in due to welding requirements, labor, etc. I wish I had bought one with a side door, but I bought it for transporting small livestock about 10 years ago and had no idea I would be converting it at some point down the road.
Brian , your driving style is very gentle, i don't think that the diff can be damaged by the overloading. Diffs use very large (often tapered) roller bearings and are very sturdy. they only go when there is not enough lubrication for a prolonged time. i hope the workshop has some experience with setting up play on diffs (micrometer and various size shims needed) because that is crucial for it stay good after getting new bearings and a rebuild.
You have the perfect attitude for nomad living. Thanks for the honesty and for sparing the whining. It is refreshing that you remember why you chose this life. Keep up the adventure!
So sorry bout the van Brian. I sincerely hope everything works out. I hope the experience helps you enjoy and appreciate the times when everything is going well.
You can put overload springs on the rear shackles for about 80 dollars. They give you the extra support and are easily installed. I always put them on my pickups and have served me well. Also a good set of airbags can be purchased for under 300 dollars and put on by you. They are really good for adjusting your ride height and getting that extra support. Good luck with all of it.
As an old retired 911 operator, I can tell it's not about the emergency, it's about how you cope with it, how you recover. Stay grounded Brian, you got this thing by the tail.
Way back when ...I had a u-joint fail. My drive shaft came through the floor, and I was STUCK! Glad you caught yours, cars can be hateful. Things could have been much worse, Good Luck!
I hate that this is happening to you and your van, and hope it's resolved quickly. But as silver linings go, between the video and the comments, there is an incredible amount of really good information here. You've got a good crowd here!
I'm so glad you're headed for an RV park- if the problem is serious, you won't be stranded in a remote area. You're far ahead of the game and we're all learning from you.
I just went thru this same repair with my G20 - they would vibrate like mad, especially in 3rd gear under load. Front U-joint was readily available, and cured 80% of the vibration. The rear u-joint is an oddball where the yokes were different sizes, took 4 attempts at NAPA to get one that fit. Glad to hear you were near civilization to get the job done. Dropping a drive shaft is bad enough out on a dirt road, but at speed on a freeway is damned dangerous.
Good video. No matter how prepared you do have those moments of helplessness and fear. But checking in with yourself and saying hey I am fine. Move and and deal with it. Thanks for being authentic. Hope all goes well for you and the van.
Good luck - I know you'll get it repaired and you'll be on your way soon. Keep us posted. When things like this happen to me I always think - in 5-7 days this will all be over with and it will be just a memory.
I can’t even imagine the stress when it’s your home that breaks down. So happy you have that emergency fund, way to plan ahead! Sending positive thoughts your way!
Sometimes when you put the cups back in one or more of the needle rollers will turn on it’s side and prevent the cups seating properly. Been there and done that. Got that squeaking noise too. Answer take it apart and try again. Pack them with plenty of grease! Aren’t vehicles a joy! 😢
I'm full-time in a camper, soon to be in a van. That's what I usually say to the new ones in the Facebook groups also keep a few grand in the bank that you do not touch. And then if something big happens and you have to spend it, it's time to pay the rent again. Anyway till you get that money back up.
Hello Brian! my van has a hitch with a tongue weight of 1000lbs. Your van may be sagging from possibly weak leaf suspension without spring helpers. Who's to say....May be the back rack is bent slightly from the additional weight giving the impression of to much weight on the vehicle. Id say that the U-joints may need to be removed again and reinstalled evenly by a correct press/vice and a socket to pick up the needed final seating. I would not fear a rear-end damaged yoke or damage to the trans yoke or nose. Road repairs are tough. I myself mounted a Knaack job box on my custom 4ft slide out Hitch which will allow me to carry my cycle on top and also allow my rear doors to open. My guess is that you will be ok and its just the u-joints! Good luck! Thanks for the "No Drama" posts! If you are going to be in San Diego anytime DM me and I can help you with metal fab from minimal to Zero $ ! I can also show you my set up which may help you steer away from the trailer. Personally.....No trailer....It is one more thing to fail and not necessary. Good luck, DM me if you need. T
The Chevy van looks so clean and rust free underneath. Still has the original pancake style catalytic converter on it. That's good. 🙋🚐 So much more reasonable to have a repair occasionally than a $800. 00 a month payment and full coverage insurance. I'll take your van anyday over a new one.
Man Brian, you got this! I was thinking back to your early day videos when your old van was having fuel issues. Look how far you've come since then. You've been such a huge inspiration to me, next week I hit the open road myself and have been more excited than a kid at Christmas.!! You've been a Guiding Light for the past year as I've been watching your videos and you can't imagine know how much I have learned from your channel as I have been preparing for my own adventure. I was debating actually this week on whether or not to get AAA and now I am sure I will be getting it for the road. Sending positive vibes your way. Thanks again!
Hang in there Brother. I really appreciate that you share your emotional processes with your followers. Hope to meet you on the road this year. I will be traveling the USA spreading my wife's ashes in all the places we had planned to go but time ran out.
Your mindset is a great asset. I needed to be reminded to focus on the things that are going right. Easy to get stuck obsessing on problems. Today I will obsess on what is going well in my life. Thanks for the lesson! Keep on truckin'
Brian, you are doing everything as you should. You’re accepting of the situation, you have an emergency fund, you have an amazing support system (friends on the road). Whether someone lives on the road or only drives in the area where they live it is understood that every vehicle (especially one with a lot of miles) needs maintenance. Some is expected and some is not. Sometimes the Universe has a way of slowing you down (or stopping you in your tracks) and every thing happens for a reason and in its own time. Now a lot of people will tell me I’m full of sh*t, that it’s just a mechanical issue but that drive line could have dropped out in the middle of bfe and you’d be stuck like chuck but you are safe. I’ve seen drivelines dropped going down a freeway at 60-70 mph and it’s not pretty, it’s extremely dangerous. You’re safe, you’re financially prepared, you’re blessed. Go visit a library or sightsee while your van gets fixed. The world won’t end today. Stay safe & keep smiling friend. Safe travels, Leah 💜🐾💜🐾💜🐾
A set of airbags or add a set of helper springs to the rear, as far as the noise i think its the u-joint again. you have to whack around the area of the joint and it will loosen up or a needle has fallen over and its being squished by the pressure of the caps being forced together. im sure its fixed already! keep on truckin B-man!
Brian I'm so glad for you still being out there. You are truly one of the Van Camper Heroes....like your new intro. I was interested where Bill keeps that toolbox traveling. I am a mechanic and would like to carry tools but you know weight class and space is limited. there is a formula for how much weight you put on a hitch rack. just google formula hitch rack.
Brian, you have a great attitude towards life. This is a speed bump and your handling it. It’s normal to be depressed but you’re working your way through it. Good for you. Great idea about the emergency fund. Best of luck and fast repairs.
I'm so glad you have your buddy to help you. It's okay to have anxiety and feel frustration over stuff that is stressful. I hope you get it sorted soon. Best of luck.
Sorry to see the problems you are having but I think it's helpful you are willing to share them with your viewers. Not every day is smooth driving and spectacular scenery. For those considering van life, it's good to see the good and the bad. It's also a great opportunity for viewers to get a tutorial for mechanical problems typically encountered while on the road. You have obviously have developed the right attitude for dealing with the day to day problems. Also very wise to have a sufficient emergency fund, something a lot of people probably don't think about. Good luck Brian and I hope to see some better news with the van in your next video.
Hey Brian, I had a similar problem with my old pickup recently. I am NOT a mechanic. Started vibrating at 35 mph. Went to Big O tires. For $40 They put it up on the rack and try to diagnose the problem. I got lucky. It was the u joint. Total cost $230 out the door. They were able to figure it out by running it while on the rack. Driveline was off center. My point is that, That is a good way to go. These things are not always as bad as they appear at first. If the mechanic can't figure it out after the diagnoses. Go somewhere else. Good luck
How refreshing. A van dweller smart enough to work (when available) and save an emergency fund. Sh!t happens. Be like a boy scout, be prepared. Even had towing insurance. So glad I've subscribed to AVM. Brian, perhaps you should do a video on preparedness for travelers.
Sorry about your van Brian, I truly hope everything works out. You are a very positive person & your absolutely right as long as your healthy nothing else really matters...Peace...!!!
Sorry for troubles. It’s tough when you have vehicle problems. I’m sure with having a van like that you could find some stiffer springs and heavier duty shocks might be the key. It has a frame and I wouldn’t think it would be an issue to beef the suspension up and that would solve your issues.
I love your positive attitude Brian. You should be commended for having it. Machinery will break down from time to time, but there’s always a solution, though when does break down, it’s always very inconvenient. The idea of a small travel trailer in my opinion is a very good one. If I may make a suggestion, since you’re going to have the extra space, it probably would be a good idea to have a little stockpile of extra parts for your van. Like another set of U joints, radiator hoses, thermostat, just small common parts that you would have on hand in case you would break down. Keep on keeping on man!
Really appreciate your honesty and your sharing of your feelings about your situation. Thank You!
I have 8 channels I watch and yours by far is the one I watch the most for information on things you do and the life you live as an example of how to do it right. Keep your head up bro and it’ll work out no problem.
Brian, you really have a great attitude when dealing with situations like this. One of the reasons I continue to watch your videos and follow along with your travels.
Life is full of unexpected breakdowns but a wise man is prepared and knows that he doesn't have to break down when the van does. You have my respect and admiration, Brian.
Its such a treat to see a guy that handles road problems without begging for donations to fund the road life.
Brian, so sorry for this downtime for repairs, and YES be thankful that you are healthy and have options. Thanks to your wonderful friend Bill, you are NOT lost! I am so thankful you post real situations that ALL of us can learn from. Remember, keep that positive attitude, IT WORKS!
So nice to see a “man” on the road and not a bunch of kids wanting everything handed to them with the attitude they’re to smart to work on their stuff and that’s what they pay ppl under them to do. Good attitude Brian. I’m gonna throw some cash your way just because you handled this with class on your own and didn’t beg for TH-cam mommy and daddy to take care of your problems.
It sure sounds like one of the needle bearings is behind the cap. This would explain why you had a hard time getting that joint back in. Always look at the last thing you did and being we are all human that's likely where you'll find your problem. Pretty sure anyone who's ever changed u-joints has got a needle behind the cap at least once. Good luck.
Bless you young man....this isn't just a VanLife lesson for folks...this is a Life lesson. We encounter unexpected challenges in any lifestyle. It often takes a while to find the bright side again, but your positive outlook always comes through. Safe Travels, Friend.
A bad situation, but still, NO DRAMA or begging. I see problem SOLVING happening here. So many other van dwellers could learn a lot from you Brian. You lead by example, and that is why I like this channel. Nice to have "friends of the road" to help you out too. Good luck with figuring this out, but I'm also leaning towards the van being overloaded, especially hanging off the back.
Sean Spring love his stuff. But he needs to not mention his sizeable emergency fund.
This might help a reader down the road ;
If you have a u joint cap fall off ,you can drive several miles with a 1/2 inch drive socket bolted into place ....
Repairs on vehicles are a part of life. It doesn't make it any easier. Good luck on your repairs.
Bless you Brian! I could hear the stress in your voice and see it in your face. But it sounds like you are making good decisions!
We appreciate your honesty and openness with those of us who are contemplating this lifestyle.
That was so kind of your friend Bill to help you!
Being a former owner operator trucker I know that feeling. Just keep that positive outlook. Everyone has issues no matter what they are doing.
I'm really sorry about your van troubles. I know from experience that the hardest times in life are the "growingest" times. You will learn and you'll be a better man for it. Knowing you, you'll make even going to the library an adventure, so don't hesitate to find small adventures while you're waiting for your van to share with us. It'll be interesting and it's all part of the joy of life. Joy and sorrow most often than not run in a parallel track. Love and prayers.
Great real-life example of what could go wrong with mobile living! Bill is good man!
Your friend Bill is one cool dude. I like him!
I hope all the van repairs go smoothly with no hitches. It appears you are well prepared for this so in the meantime take care, be safe, be happy.
Never say things are going smooth in the middle of a repair. It will jinx you every time. Glad you guys got it figured out.
your one of the top channels absolutely no ebeging on your channel unlike some other youtubeers they seem to think the viewers owe them a living and any repairs up grades etc. thank you for being real good luck and all my RESPECT
Damn lucky it didn't come apart going down the road. Glad you had a friend to help you out.
Love your attitude Brian. But most importantly glad you have an emergency fund in place and for encouraging others to have one, regardless of your living situation. I have no doubt you'll be fine. You're a very resourceful man.
Bill is a HERO.....just love the kindness and smarts of people!! Hope it gets fixed! I like the concept of cargo trailer!!
This is exactly why I like watching your channel, you’re always prepared for anything that comes at you you have it together. Other channels out there first thing they do is cry into the camera they don’t have no money they don’t know what they’re going to do. Great video thanks for posting and good luck.
Be thankful for having someone like Bill to go to. I couldn't believe his tool set up.
That's very wise to have a repair fund.
Best wishes for a quick and easy repair, your van looks pretty clean underneath for its age.👍
I really admire yr mindset. Situations like this happen whether you live in a van, apt., house etc. it's was quite fascinating to watch the repair. Good luck and can't wait to see how you come out
Sorry about your vehicle problems. Took me a lot longer to adopt your great attitude. Take time to relax. May you be back on the road soon.
Thank you Brian. I love your attitude. Your willingness to share, not only the good, but the bad is important. It's also nice to have a good friend. Peace.
You show the ups and downs of living on the road, what you are going through both with the travel part, and the life part. Not putting down other folks on TH-cam, but what makes you stand out is how you tackle a problem from beginning to end, and how you resolved it, and how it impacted you emotionally also. I think that can help folks out in their life whether they live in a home or travel home. Thanks Brian, I may get on the road one day, and your videos show what the experience is really like. Life is life, no matter where or how you live it.
Wow Brian, thanks for the honesty. This was a very teachable video for me. Fingers crossed for you. God bless.
If you purchase a Cargo Trailer, make sure it has a side door. It makes access so much easier, especially in bad weather. Kevin (pig) and I met you at the RTR, so you might remember my in progress conversion of my cargo trailer to a small camp trailer. My trailer did NOT have a side door. I found one at an RV recycle yard for $200, but it cost me twice that amount to have it put in due to welding requirements, labor, etc. I wish I had bought one with a side door, but I bought it for transporting small livestock about 10 years ago and had no idea I would be converting it at some point down the road.
Brian , your driving style is very gentle, i don't think that the diff can be damaged by the overloading. Diffs use very large (often tapered) roller bearings and are very sturdy.
they only go when there is not enough lubrication for a prolonged time.
i hope the workshop has some experience with setting up play on diffs (micrometer and various size shims needed) because that is crucial for it stay good after getting new bearings and a rebuild.
You have the perfect attitude for nomad living. Thanks for the honesty and for sparing the whining. It is refreshing that you remember why you chose this life. Keep up the adventure!
So sorry bout the van Brian. I sincerely hope everything works out.
I hope the experience helps you enjoy and appreciate the times when everything is going well.
You can put overload springs on the rear shackles for about 80 dollars. They give you the extra support and are easily installed. I always put them on my pickups and have served me well. Also a good set of airbags can be purchased for under 300 dollars and put on by you. They are really good for adjusting your ride height and getting that extra support. Good luck with all of it.
being from the rust belt I'm so jealous of how clean the underside of your van is.... no rust anywhere.
As an old retired 911 operator, I can tell it's not about the emergency, it's about how you cope with it, how you recover. Stay grounded Brian, you got this thing by the tail.
Way back when ...I had a u-joint fail. My drive shaft came through the floor, and I was STUCK! Glad you caught yours, cars can be hateful. Things could have been much worse, Good Luck!
I hate that this is happening to you and your van, and hope it's resolved quickly. But as silver linings go, between the video and the comments, there is an incredible amount of really good information here. You've got a good crowd here!
When you said they had to go thru every u-joint to find the right ones I smelled trouble. I admire the way you handled the problem.
Sending you and your van some good healing vibes :)
I'm believing with you Brian that all will be well. Love your vids brother. Blessings!
I'm so glad you're headed for an RV park- if the problem is serious, you won't be stranded in a remote area. You're far ahead of the game and we're all learning from you.
Nice to see you have your mind set in the right place. Never cry for anything that can't cry for you :)
I just went thru this same repair with my G20 - they would vibrate like mad, especially in 3rd gear under load. Front U-joint was readily available, and cured 80% of the vibration. The rear u-joint is an oddball where the yokes were different sizes, took 4 attempts at NAPA to get one that fit. Glad to hear you were near civilization to get the job done. Dropping a drive shaft is bad enough out on a dirt road, but at speed on a freeway is damned dangerous.
Good video. No matter how prepared you do have those moments of helplessness and fear. But checking in with yourself and saying hey I am fine. Move and and deal with it. Thanks for being authentic. Hope all goes well for you and the van.
Good luck - I know you'll get it repaired and you'll be on your way soon. Keep us posted. When things like this happen to me I always think - in 5-7 days this will all be over with and it will be just a memory.
I can’t even imagine the stress when it’s your home that breaks down. So happy you have that emergency fund, way to plan ahead! Sending positive thoughts your way!
That emergency fund is KEY... great advice.
Sometimes when you put the cups back in one or more of the needle rollers will turn on it’s side and prevent the cups seating properly. Been there and done that. Got that squeaking noise too. Answer take it apart and try again. Pack them with plenty of grease! Aren’t vehicles a joy! 😢
Wow look at the heat signatures on that ujoint cap
Oh wow! Hope you get it fixed soon and it's not too costly. Good that you have an emergency fund
Take care of you
I agree having a contingency fund is vital. Thanks for sharing your trials. Look forward to seeing how it all works out.
I'm full-time in a camper, soon to be in a van. That's what I usually say to the new ones in the Facebook groups also keep a few grand in the bank that you do not touch. And then if something big happens and you have to spend it, it's time to pay the rent again. Anyway till you get that money back up.
Awe! So sorry your van is having issues!
keep your head up Brain! just another challenge to overcome! I like the trailer idea also.
P.S. Bills the man lol
Hello Brian! my van has a hitch with a tongue weight of 1000lbs. Your van may be sagging from possibly weak leaf suspension without spring helpers. Who's to say....May be the back rack is bent slightly from the additional weight giving the impression of to much weight on the vehicle. Id say that the U-joints may need to be removed again and reinstalled evenly by a correct press/vice and a socket to pick up the needed final seating. I would not fear a rear-end damaged yoke or damage to the trans yoke or nose. Road repairs are tough. I myself mounted a Knaack job box on my custom 4ft slide out Hitch which will allow me to carry my cycle on top and also allow my rear doors to open. My guess is that you will be ok and its just the u-joints! Good luck! Thanks for the "No Drama" posts! If you are going to be in San Diego anytime DM me and I can help you with metal fab from minimal to Zero $ ! I can also show you my set up which may help you steer away from the trailer. Personally.....No trailer....It is one more thing to fail and not necessary. Good luck, DM me if you need. T
Glad to hear you recovered yourself with Mindfulness. Great thing to talk about in your videos. Inspiring for sure! Thank you!
Keep moving forward. Everyone has problems now and then. The good outweighs the bad.
Peace.🎈
Good luck with the repairs, hope you are back on the road soon
The Chevy van looks so clean and rust free underneath. Still has the original pancake style catalytic converter on it. That's good. 🙋🚐 So much more reasonable to have a repair occasionally than a $800.
00 a month payment and full coverage insurance. I'll take your van anyday over a new one.
Man Brian, you got this! I was thinking back to your early day videos when your old van was having fuel issues. Look how far you've come since then. You've been such a huge inspiration to me, next week I hit the open road myself and have been more excited than a kid at Christmas.!! You've been a Guiding Light for the past year as I've been watching your videos and you can't imagine know how much I have learned from your channel as I have been preparing for my own adventure. I was debating actually this week on whether or not to get AAA and now I am sure I will be getting it for the road. Sending positive vibes your way. Thanks again!
Journeyvision Congrats to You. Yes, Brian is really an inspiration to all of us. Best of luck on Your travels!
Stay strong Brian. I know these problems are a pain, but we get through them and are better for it.
Good to see how level-headed and financially wise you are. Good luck with the van. 😉
Beautiful scenery. Good friend in Bill and his wife.
Being in the flow is key...😊
Bummer Brian. Hope by now you are back on the road again. I love your attitude and how you talked yourself down to a place of clarity.
great additude and rainy day finacial planning brian
Hang in there Brother. I really appreciate that you share your emotional processes with your followers. Hope to meet you on the road this year. I will be traveling the USA spreading my wife's ashes in all the places we had planned to go but time ran out.
Good that you pointed out the importance of an emergency fund!
Your mindset is a great asset. I needed to be reminded to focus on the things that are going right. Easy to get stuck obsessing on problems. Today I will obsess on what is going well in my life. Thanks for the lesson! Keep on truckin'
Brian, you are doing everything as you should. You’re accepting of the situation, you have an emergency fund, you have an amazing support system (friends on the road). Whether someone lives on the road or only drives in the area where they live it is understood that every vehicle (especially one with a lot of miles) needs maintenance. Some is expected and some is not. Sometimes the Universe has a way of slowing you down (or stopping you in your tracks) and every thing happens for a reason and in its own time. Now a lot of people will tell me I’m full of sh*t, that it’s just a mechanical issue but that drive line could have dropped out in the middle of bfe and you’d be stuck like chuck but you are safe. I’ve seen drivelines dropped going down a freeway at 60-70 mph and it’s not pretty, it’s extremely dangerous. You’re safe, you’re financially prepared, you’re blessed. Go visit a library or sightsee while your van gets fixed. The world won’t end today. Stay safe & keep smiling friend. Safe travels, Leah 💜🐾💜🐾💜🐾
A set of airbags or add a set of helper springs to the rear, as far as the noise i think its the u-joint again. you have to whack around the area of the joint and it will loosen up or a needle has fallen over and its being squished by the pressure of the caps being forced together. im sure its fixed already! keep on truckin B-man!
Brian I'm so glad for you still being out there. You are truly one of the Van Camper Heroes....like your new intro. I was interested where Bill keeps that toolbox traveling. I am a mechanic and would like to carry tools but you know weight class and space is limited. there is a formula for how much weight you put on a hitch rack. just google formula hitch rack.
Brian, you have a great attitude towards life. This is a speed bump and your handling it. It’s normal to be depressed but you’re working your way through it. Good for you. Great idea about the emergency fund. Best of luck and fast repairs.
I absolutely love you attitude! Thank you for the inspiration 🙏🏻🙏🏻🙏🏻
I'm so glad you have your buddy to help you. It's okay to have anxiety and feel frustration over stuff that is stressful. I hope you get it sorted soon. Best of luck.
not sure if you do this...but I would recommend keeping a log book of any and all work done, date, and the part numbers associated with it.
Everybody needs a "Bill" in their lives. And I'd recommend getting a little larger trailer than you think you need...😎
Keep us updated buddy from Michigan
All the best, and good luck with the repair, Brian! By the way - Bill is such a nice fellow. You are lucky to call him your friend!
You could also use jack stands on the rear and test it out. That's if you haven't taken to shop yet.
Get a good pair of adjustable coil over rear shocks and add an extra spring it will take care of the sag and drive alot better.
Sorry to hear that so soon.. hope it all goes well.. 🤗 Becarefull..
Sorry to see the problems you are having but I think it's helpful you are willing to share them with your viewers. Not every day is smooth driving and spectacular scenery. For those considering van life, it's good to see the good and the bad. It's also a great opportunity for viewers to get a tutorial for mechanical problems typically encountered while on the road. You have obviously have developed the right attitude for dealing with the day to day problems. Also very wise to have a sufficient emergency fund, something a lot of people probably don't think about. Good luck Brian and I hope to see some better news with the van in your next video.
You are blessed to have Bill for a friend
Hey Brian, I had a similar problem with my old pickup recently. I am NOT a mechanic. Started vibrating at 35 mph. Went to Big O tires. For $40 They put it up on the rack and try to diagnose the problem. I got lucky. It was the u joint. Total cost $230 out the door.
They were able to figure it out by running it while on the rack. Driveline was off center. My point is that, That is a good way to go. These things are not always as bad as they appear at first.
If the mechanic can't figure it out after the diagnoses. Go somewhere else. Good luck
Good advice Brian. Good luck.
Thanks for showing reality and how it affected you mentally. Love your videos!
Wow Bill has a lot of tools. Very nice of him to help you. Your approach and advice is sound. You will be back on the road very soon.
How refreshing. A van dweller smart enough to work (when available) and save an emergency fund. Sh!t happens. Be like a boy scout, be prepared. Even had towing insurance. So glad I've subscribed to AVM. Brian, perhaps you should do a video on preparedness for travelers.
Just saw the repaired post. GREAT
Sorry about your van Brian, I truly hope everything works out. You are a very positive person & your absolutely right as long as your healthy nothing else really matters...Peace...!!!
It’s always something Brian. Let’s hope it is something easy and cheap to fix. Good point on the emergency fund idea. Things break
Its a good video that shows the things we may have to deal with.
Sorry for troubles. It’s tough when you have vehicle problems. I’m sure with having a van like that you could find some stiffer springs and heavier duty shocks might be the key. It has a frame and I wouldn’t think it would be an issue to beef the suspension up and that would solve your issues.
I love your positive attitude Brian. You should be commended for having it. Machinery will break down from time to time, but there’s always a solution, though when does break down, it’s always very inconvenient. The idea of a small travel trailer in my opinion is a very good one. If I may make a suggestion, since you’re going to have the extra space, it probably would be a good idea to have a little stockpile of extra parts for your van. Like another set of U joints, radiator hoses, thermostat, just small common parts that you would have on hand in case you would break down. Keep on keeping on man!
You've got great moral support there and he has tools! 👍 😆
In spite of the challenges, your perspective remains sterling. Kuddos 2U Brian.
Good luck, hoping for an easy, quick fix.
Appreciate your honesty Brian. Wise man.✌