Hi Everyone! I just wanted to clarify something real quick. I'm getting a lot of comments saying this is an easy fix that I could have done roadside. Even if I had the belt and replaced it myself, my steering had seized and my brakes barely stopped me. It was very unsettling! I am not a mechanic and did not know that all ties into the belt. I still would have wanted it checked out by a mechanic. Also, I should have mentioned this in the video, but it was also the pulley that needed to be replaced. Lastly, the garage did not have the parts. They needed to be delivered and that is what took all day. They came in at 3:00 PM, but then the belt was wrong and we had to wait longer for the correct belt to arrive. I am lucky they even took the time to look under my hood as backed up as they were. Anyhow...I should have clarified this in the video. Thanks so much for watching!! As always, I appreciate your support.
I always carried a replacement belt with me once my vehicles aged a bit -- not that i wanted to put it on myself -- but -- there is lots of automotive talent out there -- but the correct part could be hard to come by -- happened to me too often LOL,
I am sorry if I started something. Sometimes I assume that because I can do something others can to. Kinda like saying a doctor can fix a broken bone so I should be able to also. I do apologize.
I'll soon be 71 years old and I just went on my first backpacking adventure. It was a three day two night hike on North Fork Mountain Trail near Seneca Rocks, WVA. It's your fault...just kidding but your videos did inspire me to get out there and get closer to nature.
Cat see what you've done now, you've got this older generation up and motivated, lol July 7 starts this old mans adventure with the mrs , Badlands, Devils Tower, Yellowstone(God help us), Glacier and last but not least Crater Lake!!!
Aw, Cat....no way can I make that choice! At 88 years old and handicapped....I have only wonderful memories of both. My photo albums are stuffed with beautiful pics of the Sierras. Although I live in the beautiful State of Washingtom....and love it....the memories of the sweet town of Bridgeport and the magnificent Sierras will always be with me. My husband and I visited so many wonderfully scenic places through our 70 years together....in our old Ford truck and cab over camper....La Tortuga. Now you bring it all back to us with your shots of every part of the trip.....from driving down the highway, road stops for ice cream, setting up camp, hiking and returning to our rig for our supper by the campfire. I actually "feel" the webbed chair as we just sit and gaze at our piney surroundings. Your photography....your editing....your music mix..... are the best! Many thanks from *Recliner Babe and her Handsome Prince*
When times are stressful, we often seek comfort in a nice meal of Mexican food. Don't worry about your truck breaking down...I mean, it's nacho fault....
Dear Cat 🙂🍀👍, what an episode😯 First, you handle your vehicle problems in a safe and good way✅😅well done! The pictures you send from the cute town, with the mega tasty food 🌮🤩 was very nice. We also like the lake scenery. In our mind you definitely did the best with the ‘used’ time 😂👍👍👍So thank you for sharing this, your ‘Mini’ Berlin group, Nicole and Hardy 😊😘bye the way… have a great Wednesday 🥳🎉
As you mentioned in your video, a spare belt would have been useless in this situation given that your tensioner pulley(s) were also broken. More often than not, the defective tensioner pulleys are what breaks the belt.
I remember you buying this truck and it had a ton of miles... the fact that they got you back on the road so fast again and the truck is still going strong is a great attestment to the quality of these older GM trucks!!! You made a great choice!!! Now keep on shooting that beautiful footage!!!!
My sister has a Jeep Grand Cherokee with 250,000 miles on it. Anyhow, the engine died, so she had a replacement engine installed for I believe $8,000 total including the installation. Running like new and good for at least another 100,000. Cheaper than buying a new vehicle...
You did the right thing. Getting a mechanic to check things out, although 2 weeks is nuts. Especially at 100 degrees. Mmmmm Mexican food, other than a good steak best food in the world. Awesome views. Hmmm, lower woods or higher altitude. I don't have a lot of experience at higher altitudes but plenty in the woods. I'd like to try more higher altitude camping for a good honest opinion. And put a little vodka in that lemonade. (; Enjoy your adventures.
I drive a truck similar to yours. 06 Silverado. I was in Littleton, CO. In 2019 and needed a serpentine belt. There was a guy working at the shop I was in, actually working myself, who is a trained GM tech. He had the old belt off and the new belt on less than 30 minutes......and changed the ac compressor belt too. There are no obstructions to the belt. Annnnd .....he did this without even jacking the truck up. Shops want to create the illusion that certain things are super complicated to justify what they charge. Oh......btw.......he charged me 35 bucks. I bought the belts so the total cost was around a 100 for parts and labor. Cheers. Love your content.
It was also the pulley and unfortunately they didn’t have the belt in stock. I should have explained that in the video. The wait was waiting for the belt to be delivered.
@@CatherineGregoryAdventures tks for saying that cause I was perturbed that they may have taken advantage of you. I hate that. ..and it does happen. Cheers.
My dad owned a garage for over 60 years, he would have just stopped and put the belt on for you. It only takes about 5 minutes. One time a group of people was driving through town headed for the mountains for vacation when their Suburban broke down. He let them drive his Suburban on to the mountains while their vehicle was being repaired. When I'm driving my older vehicle it has a spare belt in the trunk, I could change it myself. Serpentine belts last a long time so you should be in good shape for quite awhile. The next time you are "home" for awhile you might have all of your hoses checked and replace any that look old. Also check your brakes.
I agree Bill J , my dad also was a mechanic and he would've brought a belt and fixed it and she would've been on her way. Tow company would still get there money and a belt cost, and a much happier customer.
@@CatherineGregoryAdventures Probably the pulley failed causing the belt to fail. Stuff happens. You took it in stride and brought us another video filled with great scenery. Thank you.
You're a grounded person - no melt down over the break down. As you say, nature makes everything better. Soft serve for lunch sounds just about right. Such as pretty drive, too. Soothing and beautiful. Crowds will be an issue more so this summer as people are hankering to get out and travel. You manage to find those uncrowded spaces, or at least hide the crowd. Alpine level views are especially nice since it is usually above where we live our daily lives and kind of magical.
You have encouraged us to see Bridgeport! Very beautiful! We will get back to you about the alpine and forest as we have not seen both! Happy trail and we will be watching! Nancy from Canada
Serpentine belts can be tricky. One of those things you never really check. But, easy to fix. Great video. Your videos are always so calming and beautiful shots. Thank you.
Tricky is right. I replaced my Tacoma belt at 40K (used the old one for a spare). You can take the tension off the tension idler and pin it up while you weave the serpentine belt around all the pulleys. Wish I'd have known that when I did the job. Not sure if Chevys tensioners can be held that way. I would recommend everyone to try and replace that belt, You'll see that you need a breaker bar or cheater to hold that tensioner back. That spring is pretty stout.
I understand our situation. I do proactively replace some Items .. including the Serpentine belt every few years. Itis an easy fix but does require a pretty big "Breaker bar" to take tension off the rollers. It takes some pretty decent physical strength.
Teen daughter and I lost a belt pulley in the OUTBACK of BRITISH COLUMBIA! A couple of fantastic Canadians stopped and helped (Americans kept driving on past!!). No shoulder and no lines on this 2 'lane' asphalt road. First man? A MECHANIC out for a Sunday drive with wife ('We never drive this road but for some reason, we decided to today!'). Ran down to his tow buddy's place - AN HOUR away - cuz they had no cell signal either. Ended up coming back with the pulley, and the two men grunted and groaned as they got the tight belt back on. NO diagram for belt to weave thru pulleys on truck. With no cell signal, couldn't google, so we crossed fingers and started truck. BINGO! Canadians are the nicest!
Your videos offer me so much inspiration, dear Catherine. Thank you for all that you do for the whole world. This is the type of energy we all need right now. Love and gratitude 🙏💖✨
Bless your heart and your disposition.through these hardships snd trials. As always you brought us with you to share your adventure in splendor and difficulty. This is why I pray for you every day. 💕🙏🏻
It's the contrast between alpine, step and desert that makes each place unique. You do a great job in capturing the mood and character in each video. Really nice selection of music.
Love Lundy Lake - I worked at Yosemite for a couple of years and would go to Lundy Lake on my days off to get away from the crowds. The trail on the southside of the lake is a nice one. Another time I hiked down from Saddlebag Lake, off Tioga Road, down to the west shore of Lundy Lake a really wild and hardly traveled trail.
At least it was not a big problem with the truck. Your travels show that there is more than just new York Hollywood and lasvegas to America. Truly stunning views thanks 👍👍💙
Pay someone to teach You how to change the belt yourself and always keep a second belt in the rig. . Even if you never use the belt nor you knowledge , The piece of mind will be well worth it.
Without question above treeline. Nothing like the endless views, peace of the wind, and the sense of place as I am a lonely visitor in a vast place of beauty. The Cdt thru the San Juans from Wolf creek pass to spring creek pass is 120 miles 0f pure heaven, only in the trees less then a few hours the whole trip. You want stunning, this is it!!
See, I told you, there's SOMETHING about hiwy 395, Best video EVER/ So Far, Twin Lakes brought me to TEARS! Of course, it's not quite like 60 yrs ago, Loved Bishop and Tom's Place, BACK THEN ... Thank you, Thank you, Thank you ...And the HITS just keep on comin ...
Kat, A good rule of thumb when traveling like you do. Before you start your day, is to do a walk around and check each tire for any possible trouble, and left the hood and look for anything tripping or wet spouts that shouldn't be there and make sure your belts are not frayed. Do this every time and it will help you to stay off the side of the road. I love going through the woods to get to the alpine with the smell of the pines. I wish I was with you!!
So glad you’re safe & so easily able to get back on the road! Man, beautiful footage Cat👍🏼. I’ve never been in Bridgeport or seen Twin Lakes. It’s now on my next trip to the Sierras list 🌲🦌🐿🌲. Happy & safe travels. 🥾🥾🥾
So glad you’re showing the good with the bad. You have such a good attitude, things don’t usually go as planned, that’s just the way it is, plan B. Disregard any negative comments.. Your adventures give so many people joy, keep on trucking’!
Another beautiful video. Thank you. So sorry for your truck issue, very thankful for the favor shown to you by everyone. I love the Forrest. So refreshing to walk a trail winding through trees. Blessings
With not as much spare time on my hands lately, I've taken to watching your videos at 1.5x speed and, I have to admit that I like them even more at that speed. 🤣 PS- Sometimes a car repair could be your guardian angel saving you from a worse fate ahead, never know.
I scream you scream,we all scream for, thanks for another fabulous adventure. Your ending comment couldn't have more appropriate. Contenued safe travels .
Hello Catherine, this is part of life on the road and things happen. All turned out well and beautiful and incredible scenery compensated for all your worries. Keep on trucking with a big smile !!!
Here's my unfailing logic to answer your question. I prefer to be above tree line and in order to get there I have to travel through the sub-Alpine twice , once on the way up and once on the way back... so there, I get to enjoy it all !
Hello 👋 Catherine, it is very good to see you 😀 again. I'm sorry to hear about your vehicle challenge. The Eastern Sierras, along 395, is my absolute. To answer your question, I prefer the forested areas with an abundance of small lakes and streams. All the best to you for your good health, safety and trouble free 🚗 driving. Yes, see you soon. 🤗
The idler pulleys are usually the first thing to break on those year ‘s gm diesel trucks . There are two of them on the truck . Hope they replace both of them for you . If one goes the other one may not be far behind .
Great video. I often tell people my biggest fear isn't bears, snakes, or anything like that; it's breaking down on the road far from home. Sounds like you had luck (and very helpful people) on your side! Love that scenery.
One thing I appreciate most about you Cat is your optimism and positive attitude. Nothing goes the way we plan, Shit happens, and we must learn to adapt in every circumstance and situation. I remember when you first started out and had problems with you RIG and there was others along the way. It's takes a moment for something to go wrong... or right :) I'm glad to see the issue wasn't too serious. You're really look happy living the life/dream and I'm envious of the roads you've travelled. Until next time, take care.
Hello Catherine from Minnesota! I am so glad you received the help you needed. Steve, Tina and Rusty took great care of you how wonderful! Thank you for your candid video I learned from a mechanical stand point. You have been a inspiration to me since I started following your channel so much so that my husband gave me my first lesson today backing my Lance and Ford truck out of the driveway and I took a 1hr trip to get used to driving it. I am planning a camping trip with a GF about two hours away in August. My husband was surprised I had an interest in driving the rig. He has tried in the past to peak my interest to drive it but I always declined. You were the one that sparked my interest and I thank you! for that😊. Stay safe and God Bless You.
Since you asked......I prefer the sub-alpine 10 to 12 thousand ft elevation. I just got back from CO where I spent two weeks in that environment. Love it.
Dear Catherine, glad to hear that all went well with your truck assistance. If I were you, I won't stay in my car along the highway but step aside far from the highway to wait for the assistance. You never know what could happen getting bumped by another car. Stay safe and all the best.
I made my first visit to Mammoth last weekend and I broke down on 395. I too was told that repair shops were slammed with work, so I became a a tad discouraged but worked things out myself. We also hike Devil's Postpile late last Saturday and there were hardly anyone there. The broader Mammoth area is so utterly delightful.
This is reality! Thanks for keeping it real. Not everyday on the road is peaches and cream. Love the videos, your footage is always gorgeous! Keep ‘er rollin’
Why am I not surprised that you're so good at making lemonade? So glad everything worked out. Beautiful footage, as always! Your videos are my time of much needed ZEN. Much love from Michigan! XO
You are living such an awesome life. I grew up visiting Mammoth Lakes and the surrounding areas every summer as I was growing up and it's my favorite place on Earth. Thank you for posting these. I now live in So. Carolina and am living vicariously through your videos.
Leave it to you to provide an excellent example of grace and contentment when presented an unexpected obstacle. Not only are your videos beautiful and inspiring, but your spirit is so uplifting…., especially during a time when our world seems so inundated with unhealthy distractions. It is just outstanding to watch someone not get all ‘bent-out-of-shape’ with a life event that was unplanned, possibly expensive, and time consuming. Your balance and spirit (in addition to your video/photographic skills and talents) are such positive attributes that just keep us watching and wishing we could travel with you (sometimes - we don’t want to spoil the solitude)! Thank you for taking along your travels. Be safe!
I punched a hole in my fuel tank in the middle of the Mojave with zero cell phone service and 49 miles away from the closest gas station lol.....luckily you were on a major highway and had cell service for the tow. Love the videos Cat......
So sorry to hear you broke down, thankfully you weren’t in the campground when it happened. That would have been tricky to get you out of there.. seems things happen for a reason in exactly the right place. They’re still good people out there. My dad was a true lover of the Sierra’s Bridgeport being his favorite. Gorgeous area. Thank you Cat for the beautiful video ❤️
There’s nothing like the Eastern Sierra! I just came back from a backpacking trip over there and it was incredible. It’s definitely my absolute favorite place in the entire California. Thank you for uploading this beautiful video, I can’t wait to go back!
All things in the universe happen for a reason...one may never know the reasons, perhaps you were not meant to go on the backpacking trip...but the main reason is you keep moving forward and let the universe unfold in front of you...and as the song goes "THATS LIFE" 😊😊
Just came back from a 5 day trip near the ghost town of Sacramento, Colorado. The meadow I camp in is 11,400 feet in elevation so near tree line. The best of both worlds where you have open vistas and flowers of the alpine, yet can enjoy the beautiful trees nearby. Plus the trees offer some protection from high winds. Just ensure the trees are in groves and healthy as you would not one to blow down on your camp.
_Glad things worked out for your rig. The most important things to carry are new serpentine belt/ extra belts, and wiper blades, jump box of some sort, and a little antifreeze, always. They don't take much room. It Will save you, and you don't have to wait on parts. Those things can be done on the side of the road._
@@CatherineGregoryAdventures hmmm, maybe the idle wheel/ tensioner? That would make sense if that freezes up it can break the belt or burn through it to.
Yep, definitely carry a serpentine belt with you, even if you can’t change it yourself it will put you at the front of the queue at the shop. Idler pulleys usually aren’t too expensive to carry along, but tensioners can be a bit to expensive to have in your “just in case” kit. If you do want to tackle a belt roadside, get a cheap harbor freight belt remover bar and whatever size socket it needs. take a picture of the belt (before it breaks) and keep it on your phone. The belt path is never as obvious as you would like.
So sorry about your truck. Your videos are like moving post cards, just amazing. That last lake looked like Norway. Please stay safe and enjoy the great outdoors. Thanks so much for sharing your life. Be well.
While the high country has a special beauty and the alpine zones are spectacular my favorite is the arid areas. I love the desert it makes me feel so good.
Oh no! At least your break down was not too serious, and you seemed to have great people helping. On your question, I just love anything in nature but I am very partial to the forest. Gotta have the wind in the trees and the smell of the forest. I always look forward to your Sunday video!
I agree wholeheartedly with your decision to spend more time at each of your future stops. I find that the two parts of the equation are the travel, then the camping…it’s nice to have a bit of a longer break between them. I feel it helps me enjoy each even more! Take care!
I passed through the same area thrice last year during the height of the plandemic. Roads were empty, towns were empty… it was so nice! That drive through there is always so beautiful and serene.
I live in Ridgecrest! Most people I know have a good opinion of Rusty Warren's garage. You found out what a helpful guy he is. Glad you didn't get stuck here too long.
A majority of "guys" have grease under their fingernails. Myself included and we always run into "learning experiences" that we will gladly share. :O) You were in a real fix in the heat of the day and you really lucked out. Getting the service as fast as you did in the middle of nowhere means something. Thoughts are that at least you were able to visit your family before the problems started. Wishing you better days going forward. Dale
Staying put for a while is a wonderful plan! My husband and I in our retirement go and stay in a VRBO for two weeks at least....out west of course....we love living like locals....we like to do less and see more! So upsetting to see my beloved Alabama hills burning. Good luck.🍀 I love anywhere out west that gets me out of the house for a few weeks.
Sorry about the break down but that is life on the road. And yes you made it work out just fine seeing so many new and beautiful places. Thank you for the journey.
Always carry a spare belt with you especially where you travel, and learn how to put it on. you could be on your way in 15 minutes. You Tube Video would show you how to do it Once you know how you never forget. Would save you a lot of money and time. Live and learn!
It was also the pulley. Even if I had the spare belt and replaced it myself with the steering seizing and the brakes not working , I would have wanted a mechanic to check it out. I wasn’t aware it all tied into the belt. I will carry a spare however because they didn’t have the part at the garage. That’s why I had to wait all day. They had one delivered. The first one that was sent was the wrong one, so yes...love and learn.
That is a tough question, or choice to make. They are both so unique in their own manner, and both terrific places to spend time in; but the Alpine gives you the vastness of the beauty unobstructed, while the forests give you a close up of all the beauty that resides within. Can't make a choice... it's a tie.
After hiking above tree line on a hot dry day then I sure do appreciate the reprieve of the dark forest to lay my head. Been to all those places along the 395 corridor and can’t wait to go back.
Hi Everyone! I just wanted to clarify something real quick. I'm getting a lot of comments saying this is an easy fix that I could have done roadside. Even if I had the belt and replaced it myself, my steering had seized and my brakes barely stopped me. It was very unsettling! I am not a mechanic and did not know that all ties into the belt. I still would have wanted it checked out by a mechanic. Also, I should have mentioned this in the video, but it was also the pulley that needed to be replaced. Lastly, the garage did not have the parts. They needed to be delivered and that is what took all day. They came in at 3:00 PM, but then the belt was wrong and we had to wait longer for the correct belt to arrive. I am lucky they even took the time to look under my hood as backed up as they were. Anyhow...I should have clarified this in the video. Thanks so much for watching!! As always, I appreciate your support.
I always carried a replacement belt with me once my vehicles aged a bit -- not that i wanted to put it on myself -- but -- there is lots of automotive talent out there -- but the correct part could be hard to come by -- happened to me too often LOL,
some day i will tell you about the new negative battery cable story - not to be believed LOL.
Monday Morning Mechanics 😂
Keep on Truckin’ !
It is better safe than... Having it tow to the mechanic is the best way...
I am sorry if I started something. Sometimes I assume that because I can do something others can to. Kinda like saying a doctor can fix a broken bone so I should be able to also. I do apologize.
I'll soon be 71 years old and I just went on my first backpacking adventure. It was a three day two night hike on North Fork Mountain Trail near Seneca Rocks, WVA. It's your fault...just kidding but your videos did inspire me to get out there and get closer to nature.
That is so awesome!! Love it!
Donald, yup Ms. Gregory and base camp Chris put the nomad fever in me.
I’m 68 and ditto for me only haven’t pulled the trigger yet on hiking yet. It’s just my dog and I and my camper van .
Cat see what you've done now, you've got this older generation up and motivated, lol July 7 starts this old mans adventure with the mrs , Badlands, Devils Tower, Yellowstone(God help us), Glacier and last but not least Crater Lake!!!
My husband grew up there and worked at Smoke Hole Caverns. Petersburg and Cabins WV is not what it used to be.
Aw, Cat....no way can I make that choice! At 88 years old and handicapped....I have only wonderful memories of both. My photo albums are stuffed with beautiful pics of the Sierras.
Although I live in the beautiful State of Washingtom....and love it....the memories of the sweet town of Bridgeport and the magnificent Sierras will always be with me. My husband and I visited so many wonderfully scenic places through our 70 years together....in our old Ford truck and cab over camper....La Tortuga. Now you bring it all back to us with your shots of every part of the trip.....from driving down the highway, road stops for ice cream, setting up camp, hiking and returning to our rig for our supper by the campfire. I actually "feel" the webbed chair as we just sit and gaze at our piney surroundings. Your photography....your editing....your music mix..... are the best! Many thanks from *Recliner Babe and her Handsome Prince*
Thank you so much Sandra!
When times are stressful, we often seek comfort in a nice meal of Mexican food. Don't worry about your truck breaking down...I mean, it's nacho fault....
Funny good job
😂😂😂
Nachos,but mine
Dear Cat 🙂🍀👍, what an episode😯 First, you handle your vehicle problems in a safe and good way✅😅well done! The pictures you send from the cute town, with the mega tasty food 🌮🤩 was very nice. We also like the lake scenery. In our mind you definitely did the best with the ‘used’ time 😂👍👍👍So thank you for sharing this, your ‘Mini’ Berlin group, Nicole and Hardy 😊😘bye the way… have a great Wednesday 🥳🎉
Thank you so much Hartmut and Nicole!
As you mentioned in your video, a spare belt would have been useless in this situation given that your tensioner pulley(s) were also broken. More often than not, the defective tensioner pulleys are what breaks the belt.
"Nature makes everything better." -- Agreed!
I remember you buying this truck and it had a ton of miles... the fact that they got you back on the road so fast again and the truck is still going strong is a great attestment to the quality of these older GM trucks!!! You made a great choice!!! Now keep on shooting that beautiful footage!!!!
Thank you dude!
My sister has a Jeep Grand Cherokee with 250,000 miles on it. Anyhow, the engine died, so she had a replacement engine installed for I believe $8,000 total including the installation. Running like new and good for at least another 100,000. Cheaper than buying a new vehicle...
You did the right thing. Getting a mechanic to check things out, although 2 weeks is nuts. Especially at 100 degrees. Mmmmm Mexican food, other than a good steak best food in the world. Awesome views. Hmmm, lower woods or higher altitude. I don't have a lot of experience at higher altitudes but plenty in the woods. I'd like to try more higher altitude camping for a good honest opinion. And put a little vodka in that lemonade. (; Enjoy your adventures.
I drive a truck similar to yours. 06 Silverado. I was in Littleton, CO. In 2019 and needed a serpentine belt. There was a guy working at the shop I was in, actually working myself, who is a trained GM tech. He had the old belt off and the new belt on less than 30 minutes......and changed the ac compressor belt too. There are no obstructions to the belt. Annnnd .....he did this without even jacking the truck up. Shops want to create the illusion that certain things are super complicated to justify what they charge. Oh......btw.......he charged me 35 bucks. I bought the belts so the total cost was around a 100 for parts and labor. Cheers. Love your content.
It was also the pulley and unfortunately they didn’t have the belt in stock. I should have explained that in the video. The wait was waiting for the belt to be delivered.
@@CatherineGregoryAdventures tks for saying that cause I was perturbed that they may have taken advantage of you. I hate that. ..and it does happen. Cheers.
A hike with a destination to an alpine lake is my favorite, and if there is some kind of waterfall along the way, that’s a bonus!
Your cinematography is on point as usual. 👍 Thankfully your truck was repaired in a day given the extent of the repairs needed. Safe travels.
My dad owned a garage for over 60 years, he would have just stopped and put the belt on for you. It only takes about 5 minutes. One time a group of people was driving through town headed for the mountains for vacation when their Suburban broke down. He let them drive his Suburban on to the mountains while their vehicle was being repaired. When I'm driving my older vehicle it has a spare belt in the trunk, I could change it myself.
Serpentine belts last a long time so you should be in good shape for quite awhile. The next time you are "home" for awhile you might have all of your hoses checked and replace any that look old. Also check your brakes.
I agree Bill J , my dad also was a mechanic and he would've brought a belt and fixed it and she would've been on her way. Tow company would still get there money and a belt cost, and a much happier customer.
It was also the pulley. They didn’t have the belt on hand. They had to wait for one to be delivered.
@@CatherineGregoryAdventures Probably the pulley failed causing the belt to fail. Stuff happens. You took it in stride and brought us another video filled with great scenery. Thank you.
Forgot to mention that staying longer at great destinations is a great way to increase truck life. That’s my preference anyway. Good decision!
You're a grounded person - no melt down over the break down. As you say, nature makes everything better. Soft serve for lunch sounds just about right. Such as pretty drive, too. Soothing and beautiful. Crowds will be an issue more so this summer as people are hankering to get out and travel. You manage to find those uncrowded spaces, or at least hide the crowd. Alpine level views are especially nice since it is usually above where we live our daily lives and kind of magical.
I have had AAA for years and would never travel without it! I only have the 100 mile tow which has done it for me!!
I have it as well with the extra RV coverage. This tow was covered thankfully.
You have encouraged us to see Bridgeport! Very beautiful! We will get back to you about the alpine and forest as we have not seen both! Happy trail and we will be watching! Nancy from Canada
Serpentine belts can be tricky. One of those things you never really check. But, easy to fix.
Great video. Your videos are always so calming and beautiful shots. Thank you.
Tricky is right. I replaced my Tacoma belt at 40K (used the old one for a spare). You can take the tension off the tension idler and pin it up while you weave the serpentine belt around all the pulleys. Wish I'd have known that when I did the job. Not sure if Chevys tensioners can be held that way. I would recommend everyone to try and replace that belt, You'll see that you need a breaker bar or cheater to hold that tensioner back. That spring is pretty stout.
I understand our situation. I do proactively replace some Items .. including the Serpentine belt every few years. Itis an easy fix but does require a pretty big "Breaker bar" to take tension off the rollers. It takes some pretty decent physical strength.
Beautiful scenery!
The reason people are kind and sweet with you is because you exhibit the same qualities. Glad things worked out love your positive outlook.
Teen daughter and I lost a belt pulley in the OUTBACK of BRITISH COLUMBIA! A couple of fantastic Canadians stopped and helped (Americans kept driving on past!!). No shoulder and no lines on this 2 'lane' asphalt road. First man? A MECHANIC out for a Sunday drive with wife ('We never drive this road but for some reason, we decided to today!'). Ran down to his tow buddy's place - AN HOUR away - cuz they had no cell signal either. Ended up coming back with the pulley, and the two men grunted and groaned as they got the tight belt back on. NO diagram for belt to weave thru pulleys on truck. With no cell signal, couldn't google, so we crossed fingers and started truck. BINGO! Canadians are the nicest!
I’m so grateful you were ok and well taken care of !!! Thanks for telling us about the fire 🔥 close to Whitney.... ugh ... Fire season is the worst !!
Your videos offer me so much inspiration, dear Catherine. Thank you for all that you do for the whole world. This is the type of energy we all need right now. Love and gratitude 🙏💖✨
Bless your heart and your disposition.through these hardships snd trials. As always you brought us with you to share your adventure in splendor and difficulty. This is why I pray for you every day. 💕🙏🏻
You 👱♀️ managed to turn lemons into lemonade.🍋🍋🍋🥛🥛🥛 Good job I love 💖 your videos 🧔
Hi Catherine,,, glad everything went good for, you. Everything in life usually works out the way its suppose to. Be safe keep having fun. Dave in Ohio
It's the contrast between alpine, step and desert that makes each place unique. You do a great job in capturing the mood and character in each video. Really nice selection of music.
Love Lundy Lake - I worked at Yosemite for a couple of years and would go to Lundy Lake on my days off to get away from the crowds. The trail on the southside of the lake is a nice one. Another time I hiked down from Saddlebag Lake, off Tioga Road, down to the west shore of Lundy Lake a really wild and hardly traveled trail.
Keep on truckin....as they say😊
Staying in one spot longer , that you love, just makes sense. Belts are cheap. I always carry a spare. So that’s my lake. Awesome.
You really need to take up fishing, plenty of absolutely beautiful places to fish near Ridgecrest
At least it was not a big problem with the truck. Your travels show that there is more than just new York Hollywood and lasvegas to America. Truly stunning views thanks 👍👍💙
Be sure to have your radiator hoses and coolant checked. It is really hot out there. Stay safe.
Pay someone to teach You how to change the belt yourself and always keep a second belt in the rig. . Even if you never use the belt nor you knowledge , The piece of mind will be well worth it.
Without question above treeline. Nothing like the endless views, peace of the wind, and the sense of place as I am a lonely visitor in a vast place of beauty. The Cdt thru the San Juans from Wolf creek pass to spring creek pass is 120 miles 0f pure heaven, only in the trees less then a few hours the whole trip. You want stunning, this is it!!
See, I told you, there's SOMETHING about hiwy 395, Best video EVER/ So Far, Twin Lakes brought me to TEARS! Of course, it's not quite like 60 yrs ago, Loved Bishop and Tom's Place, BACK THEN ... Thank you, Thank you, Thank you ...And the HITS just keep on comin ...
Nice the way you stayed positive In the face of adversity. Also love the historical commentary on the small towns you visit.
Love a positive woman, well done, no drama 👏
thanks for takin' us along, again, dear lady. I never want these to end. May you be blessed and guided wherever you go!
Kat,
A good rule of thumb when traveling like you do. Before you start your day, is to do a walk around and check each tire for any possible trouble, and left the hood and look for anything tripping or wet spouts that shouldn't be there and make sure your belts are not frayed. Do this every time and it will help you to stay off the side of the road.
I love going through the woods to get to the alpine with the smell of the pines.
I wish I was with you!!
Kate you are sparkling 💖, glad you are back out doing what you love.
When My kids were young, we went to Twin Lakes every summer. They are in their 40s now and still talk about it!
So glad you’re safe & so easily able to get back on the road! Man, beautiful footage Cat👍🏼. I’ve never been in Bridgeport or seen Twin Lakes. It’s now on my next trip to the Sierras list 🌲🦌🐿🌲. Happy & safe travels. 🥾🥾🥾
Thanks for another delightful sojourn among the wonders of the natural world. Relieved that you're back on the road again, and safe...Cheers.
So glad you’re showing the good with the bad. You have such a good attitude, things don’t usually go as planned, that’s just the way it is, plan B.
Disregard any negative comments.. Your adventures give so many people joy, keep on trucking’!
Your podcasts are my "going to church" on Sunday mornings! Thanks.....
Another beautiful video. Thank you. So sorry for your truck issue, very thankful for the favor shown to you by everyone. I love the Forrest. So refreshing to walk a trail winding through trees. Blessings
With not as much spare time on my hands lately, I've taken to watching your videos at 1.5x speed and, I have to admit that I like them even more at that speed. 🤣
PS- Sometimes a car repair could be your guardian angel saving you from a worse fate ahead, never know.
I scream you scream,we all scream for, thanks for another fabulous adventure. Your ending comment couldn't have more appropriate. Contenued safe travels .
Hello Catherine, this is part of life on the road and things happen. All turned out well and beautiful and incredible scenery compensated for all your worries. Keep on trucking with a big smile !!!
Here's my unfailing logic to answer your question. I prefer to be above tree line and in order to get there I have to travel through the sub-Alpine twice , once on the way up and once on the way back... so there, I get to enjoy it all !
Hello 👋 Catherine, it is very good to see you 😀 again. I'm sorry to hear about your vehicle challenge. The Eastern Sierras, along 395, is my absolute. To answer your question, I prefer the forested areas with an abundance of small lakes and streams. All the best to you for your good health, safety and trouble free 🚗 driving. Yes, see you soon. 🤗
Just a recommendation,
Always carry a spare fan belt, fuel filter and a tire plug kit. Especially diesel trucks.
So glad the shop took care of you….
I prefer the Mountains and whatever comes with them.
This is the perfect answer. I am the same way.
that's funny, i wish i could have said that like you did. short and sweet.
I love that area and the soft serve ice cream is great!
Yay!
I do look forward to the Sunday mornings with coffee and your calming videos.
The idler pulleys are usually the first thing to break on those year ‘s gm diesel trucks . There are two of them on the truck . Hope they replace both of them for you . If one goes the other one may not be far behind .
Great video. I often tell people my biggest fear isn't bears, snakes, or anything like that; it's breaking down on the road far from home. Sounds like you had luck (and very helpful people) on your side! Love that scenery.
One thing I appreciate most about you Cat is your optimism and positive attitude. Nothing goes the way we plan, Shit happens, and we must learn to adapt in every circumstance and situation. I remember when you first started out and had problems with you RIG and there was others along the way. It's takes a moment for something to go wrong... or right :) I'm glad to see the issue wasn't too serious. You're really look happy living the life/dream and I'm envious of the roads you've travelled. Until next time, take care.
Cat, I love it all...highlands. lowlands, woods, deserts, if it's in my camper....I love it!
Hello Catherine from Minnesota! I am so glad you received the help you needed. Steve, Tina and Rusty took great care of you how wonderful! Thank you for your candid video I learned from a mechanical stand point. You have been a inspiration to me since I started following your channel so much so that my husband gave me my first lesson today backing my Lance and Ford truck out of the driveway and I took a 1hr trip to get used to driving it. I am planning a camping trip with a GF about two hours away in August. My husband was surprised I had an interest in driving the rig. He has tried in the past to peak my interest to drive it but I always declined. You were the one that sparked my interest and I thank you! for that😊. Stay safe and God Bless You.
Since you asked......I prefer the sub-alpine 10 to 12 thousand ft elevation. I just got back from CO where I spent two weeks in that environment. Love it.
Dear Catherine, glad to hear that all went well with your truck assistance. If I were you, I won't stay in my car along the highway but step aside far from the highway to wait for the assistance. You never know what could happen getting bumped by another car. Stay safe and all the best.
I made my first visit to Mammoth last weekend and I broke down on 395. I too was told that repair shops were slammed with work, so I became a a tad discouraged but worked things out myself.
We also hike Devil's Postpile late last Saturday and there were hardly anyone there. The broader Mammoth area is so utterly delightful.
This is reality! Thanks for keeping it real. Not everyday on the road is peaches and cream. Love the videos, your footage is always gorgeous! Keep ‘er rollin’
Why am I not surprised that you're so good at making lemonade? So glad everything worked out. Beautiful footage, as always! Your videos are my time of much needed ZEN. Much love from Michigan! XO
Oh my! Those mountains are very special! 👍😏💜🇨🇦
You are living such an awesome life. I grew up visiting Mammoth Lakes and the surrounding areas every summer as I was growing up and it's my favorite place on Earth. Thank you for posting these. I now live in So. Carolina and am living vicariously through your videos.
Leave it to you to provide an excellent example of grace and contentment when presented an unexpected obstacle. Not only are your videos beautiful and inspiring, but your spirit is so uplifting…., especially during a time when our world seems so inundated with unhealthy distractions. It is just outstanding to watch someone not get all ‘bent-out-of-shape’ with a life event that was unplanned, possibly expensive, and time consuming. Your balance and spirit (in addition to your video/photographic skills and talents) are such positive attributes that just keep us watching and wishing we could travel with you (sometimes - we don’t want to spoil the solitude)! Thank you for taking along your travels. Be safe!
Thank you so much Jim!
Rock on, Catherine. You're the picture of adaptability and cool. You've learned a lot about that in this Nomad Life, for sure.
For sure!
I punched a hole in my fuel tank in the middle of the Mojave with zero cell phone service and 49 miles away from the closest gas station lol.....luckily you were on a major highway and had cell service for the tow. Love the videos Cat......
So sorry to hear you broke down, thankfully you weren’t in the campground when it happened. That would have been tricky to get you out of there.. seems things happen for a reason in exactly the right place. They’re still good people out there. My dad was a true lover of the Sierra’s Bridgeport being his favorite. Gorgeous area. Thank you Cat for the beautiful video ❤️
We LOVE Robertos! Its always crowded. I think that's a good thing!
There’s nothing like the Eastern Sierra! I just came back from a backpacking trip over there and it was incredible. It’s definitely my absolute favorite place in the entire California. Thank you for uploading this beautiful video, I can’t wait to go back!
Very beautiful scenery and flowers....must have been so relaxing after that scare with the truck. Good for you. Thanks for taking us along!
its nice to know theres always someone to get you back on the road
All things in the universe happen for a reason...one may never know the reasons, perhaps you were not meant to go on the backpacking trip...but the main reason is you keep moving forward and let the universe unfold in front of you...and as the song goes "THATS LIFE" 😊😊
Just came back from a 5 day trip near the ghost town of Sacramento, Colorado. The meadow I camp in is 11,400 feet in elevation so near tree line. The best of both worlds where you have open vistas and flowers of the alpine, yet can enjoy the beautiful trees nearby. Plus the trees offer some protection from high winds. Just ensure the trees are in groves and healthy as you would not one to blow down on your camp.
_Glad things worked out for your rig. The most important things to carry are new serpentine belt/ extra belts, and wiper blades, jump box of some sort, and a little antifreeze, always. They don't take much room. It Will save you, and you don't have to wait on parts. Those things can be done on the side of the road._
It was also the pulley in this case. Not sure how involved that is.
@@CatherineGregoryAdventures hmmm, maybe the idle wheel/ tensioner? That would make sense if that freezes up it can break the belt or burn through it to.
Yep, definitely carry a serpentine belt with you, even if you can’t change it yourself it will put you at the front of the queue at the shop. Idler pulleys usually aren’t too expensive to carry along, but tensioners can be a bit to expensive to have in your “just in case” kit. If you do want to tackle a belt roadside, get a cheap harbor freight belt remover bar and whatever size socket it needs. take a picture of the belt (before it breaks) and keep it on your phone. The belt path is never as obvious as you would like.
@@journeywithstu7199 Absolutely! : )
Alpine has always been my favorite.Best camera shots in my book anyway. Tree 🌳camping is fine with the right person along,hint hint 😉
So sorry about your truck. Your videos are like moving post cards, just amazing. That last lake looked like Norway. Please stay safe and enjoy the great outdoors. Thanks so much for sharing your life. Be well.
I prefer any part of the mountains. My favorite tree is the aspen. So the perfect camp spot would be high elevation in a grove of aspens
While the high country has a special beauty and the alpine zones are spectacular my favorite is the arid areas. I love the desert it makes me feel so good.
Oh no! At least your break down was not too serious, and you seemed to have great people helping. On your question, I just love anything in nature but I am very partial to the forest. Gotta have the wind in the trees and the smell of the forest. I always look forward to your Sunday video!
I agree wholeheartedly with your decision to spend more time at each of your future stops. I find that the two parts of the equation are the travel, then the camping…it’s nice to have a bit of a longer break between them. I feel it helps me enjoy each even more! Take care!
If I ever hit the road again, I'd love to stay put in CA for a couple of years.
So much much beauty in our state.
Have a safe wonderful adventure. 🙏🙏
As inconvenient as it was, I'm glad it wasn't three weeks!
I passed through the same area thrice last year during the height of the plandemic. Roads were empty, towns were empty… it was so nice!
That drive through there is always so beautiful and serene.
I live in Ridgecrest! Most people I know have a good opinion of Rusty Warren's garage. You found out what a helpful guy he is. Glad you didn't get stuck here too long.
A majority of "guys" have grease under their fingernails. Myself included and we always run into "learning experiences" that we will gladly share. :O) You were in a real fix in the heat of the day and you really lucked out. Getting the service as fast as you did in the middle of nowhere means something. Thoughts are that at least you were able to visit your family before the problems started. Wishing you better days going forward. Dale
Staying put for a while is a wonderful plan! My husband and I in our retirement go and stay in a VRBO for two weeks at least....out west of course....we love living like locals....we like to do less and see more! So upsetting to see my beloved Alabama hills burning. Good luck.🍀 I love anywhere out west that gets me out of the house for a few weeks.
Your scenic shots are out of this world!!! AWESOME video; thanks for sharing it all.
Beautiful scenery. Glad everything worked out with the truck.
Sorry about the break down but that is life on the road. And yes you made it work out just fine seeing so many new and beautiful places. Thank you for the journey.
I best like hikes that encompass both the woods and above the treeline. So much to see and enjoy!!
Thank you Catherine.
BEAUTIFUL LIFE
BEAUTIFUL PEOPLE
I'LL SEE YOU IN THE CLOUD' S
from Chula Vista California.
Blessings.
Glad the truck was fixed so fast. Really enjoyed the rest of the video; the hiking, poking around town, and the road shots!
Always carry a spare belt with you especially where you travel, and learn how to put it on. you could be on your way in 15 minutes. You Tube Video would show you how to do it Once you know how you never forget. Would save you a lot of money and time. Live and learn!
It was also the pulley. Even if I had the spare belt and replaced it myself with the steering seizing and the brakes not working , I would have wanted a mechanic to check it out. I wasn’t aware it all tied into the belt. I will carry a spare however because they didn’t have the part at the garage. That’s why I had to wait all day. They had one delivered. The first one that was sent was the wrong one, so yes...love and learn.
That is a tough question, or choice to make. They are both so unique in their own manner, and both terrific places to spend time in; but the Alpine gives you the vastness of the beauty unobstructed, while the forests give you a close up of all the beauty that resides within. Can't make a choice... it's a tie.
After hiking above tree line on a hot dry day then I sure do appreciate the reprieve of the dark forest to lay my head. Been to all those places along the 395 corridor and can’t wait to go back.