Allochris's ultimate buildup thread!!!

[allochris]

Hi, I'm new to this forum here!

Long story short, I have been building my version of expedition vehicle since the beginning of feb 07.

It's a mixture of 4wheelcamper & Supercamper. The main purpose of this build is for long distance travel both summer/winter (North&South America), including remote off-pavement access, while still remaining useful on a daily basic living in a city without the weight & space occupied by the camper.

Vehicle Spec.:
-1991 Toyota X-Cab 4x4 22re @ 317xxxkm
-33x9.5r15 BFG AT/KO, 4.88 ratio, Supra LSD in the rear 3rd
-no body lift
-1.5" Ball Joint Spacer, 2" longer shackles + 1 Add-a-leaf + AirLift Airbags
-Dual Batteries setup (Optima Redtop & Motomaster Nautilus Deep Cycle 125min @ 75ah)

Build-up Goal:
-Budget: $3000CAD for everything, all loaded with accessories.
-Gross vehicle weight all loaded (Camper/gear) <=5000lbs
-Flat-Deck to accomodate a removable camper & for general hauling purpose
-Removable Pop-top Camper (Aluminium Frame, sleep 4 adult, inside running water with sink & shower,

Ultimate Wishlist:
-Auxillary tank opposite of stock gas tank on driverside
-VW 1.9L TDI engine swap with 2 tanks bio-diesel setup
-ACME Adapter (http://www.acmeadapters.com/)

I'll let the pictures do the rest of the talking now.
:jumping:

[pskhaat]

Where 'dem pics? And why not consider a 2L instead of the VW diesel? (No I don't want to hear that 2L parts are too hard to find :) )

Oh yea, and welcome!

[allochris]

http://i92.photobucket.com/albums/l37/allochris/CIMG8372.jpg
http://i92.photobucket.com/albums/l37/allochris/CIMG8408.jpg
http://i92.photobucket.com/albums/l37/allochris/CIMG8366.jpg
http://i92.photobucket.com/albums/l37/allochris/CIMG7228.jpg
http://i92.photobucket.com/albums/l37/allochris/CIMG7349.jpg
http://i92.photobucket.com/albums/l37/allochris/CIMG7337.jpg
http://i92.photobucket.com/albums/l37/allochris/CIMG7389.jpg
http://i92.photobucket.com/albums/l37/allochris/CIMG7394.jpg
http://i92.photobucket.com/albums/l37/allochris/CIMG7397.jpg
http://i92.photobucket.com/albums/l37/allochris/CIMG7405.jpg

[allochris]

Flat-deck Part is almost complete.

Weight b4 flat-deck with stock box/28" spare/full gas tank: about 3800lbs

Weight after flat-deck with full size 33"x9.5" spare/hi-lift/second deepcycle battery: about 4000lbs

Therefore, I have about 1000lbs left for my camper including gear. I think I can achieve my weight limit.

I will tig camper-frame with 1.5" AL 6063-t6 square tubing mostly, with al siding sheets on the outside, 1.5" insulation foam in the middle, & 3mm wood sheets inside. The pop-top roof is made of a sandwich of AL 22g sheet on top, nida-core 16mm plain, & 2mm wood sheet inside, all glue together with epoxy/resine.

About the pop-top roof mechanism, can owners of 4wheelcamper send me pictures of the plywood/piano hinge mechanism to set the roof up in place?

I really need to figure that one out soon. Please send me pictures of your pop-top mechanism asap. I prefer the ones without the sizzors round tubing with crank mechanism.

Oh yeah, did I mention the project completion deadline: it's in 4 WEEKS!!! :Wow1: Why, cause I need to start travelling by May 1st, 2007!

[allochris]

Lay-out of base of pop-top roof:
http://i92.photobucket.com/albums/l37/allochris/CIMG7247.jpg

Lay-out of camper frame:
http://i92.photobucket.com/albums/l37/allochris/CIMG7248.jpg

[allochris]

Where 'dem pics? And why not consider a 2L instead of the VW diesel? (No I don't want to hear that 2L parts are too hard to find :) )

Oh yea, and welcome!

I don't know, it could be anything really.

All I really what is:

-diesel with great gas mileage for LONG distance travel
-bio-diesel convertible
-cheap to swap
-cheap & great parts availability

Other suggestion?

[pskhaat]

Matches few of your req's but there's always the Cummins 3.3B

http://www.everytime.cummins.com/every/applications/images/b33_hi3qtr.jpg

[DaveInDenver]

Where 'dem pics? And why not consider a 2L instead of the VW diesel? (No I don't want to hear that 2L parts are too hard to find :) )

Well, Scott, those parts ARE harder to find. Some of them are in the NA system, some aren't (basic 2L parts are there, 2L-T and 2L-TE specific parts are not). This is pretty much why I stuck with my 22R-E, all the listings match and getting parts isn't all that hard. Internal parts for the 22R are starting to get in short supply from Toyota, I can't imagine any 2L parts will be far behind. Most of the internal engine parts for the 22R are either completely gone or under about 20 pieces left in the whole North American parts system. There have been no long blocks for a while, short blocks are under 25 now, most of the piston, ring, crank and rod bearing sizes are gone. Used to be 3 sizes of piston/rings, now only a few 0.10mm are left and that's it. The 22R-E has been out of use only since 1997 (we last got it in 1995) and it's looks very much like it's going out of production. We only got the 1L/2L from 1984 to 1986. The 2L is the same generation as the 22R and so it's demise can't be long, either. The inline 4 cylinder Toyota world has gone to the 2/3RZ and 1KZ, so swapping to a 2L does not buy you much time. Add to that the expense (~$2800 + $500 S/H for a half cut) and the headaches of swapping from a RHD wiring harness to LHD, it didn't make much sense to me (and this coming from a guy who is committed to rebuilding my 22R-E as completely as possible). The advantage to going 22R->2L is that it fits with minimal problem and bolts to the tranny without moving it, very valid points. But the parts aren't all that easy (there is zero aftermarket here in NA for the L motors, at least there is a huge 20/22R aftermarket). Personally going with a more modern, currently available in NA diesel, be that a Cummins, VW, Benz makes just about as much sense. It's more of a pain to fit, but parts will be easier to find.

[pskhaat]

I didn't want to hear that about the 2L! LOL. Had no idea the 22R series was in such new parts decline. Interesting. The 5RZ is/was a sweet engine albeit gasoline.

[DaveInDenver]

I didn't want to hear that about the 2L! LOL. Had no idea the 22R series was in such new parts decline. Interesting. The 5RZ is/was a sweet engine albeit gasoline.
There are plenty of parts available for the R-motors, just that Toyota seems to be getting out of the spare internal parts biz. That isn't a problem, since there are lots of aftermarket suppliers that should keep them going for a while. But since we got very few L-motors, once Toyota clears out spare parts, you'd be stuck calling international Toyota dealers and hoping for the best.

BTW, what's a 5RZ? You've mentioned that one before and I'm just not familiar with it. There is 5VZ-FE, the 3.4L V6 in Hilux, 4Runner, Taco, T100, etc. There are the 1/2/3RZ-FE, the 2.0/2.4/2.7L 4 cylinder in the Taco. Just never heard of a 5RZ. The 3RZ-FE is a nice engine, that is true. So is the 5VZ-FE.

[allochris]

Hi!

Finally got started welding the camper itself today. Note that it's my first time tig welding aluminium, i'm pretty happy with my result afterall.

What I use for my AL 6061-T6 1/8" tubings:

Miller Syncrowave 250, Argon, AL 4043 2.4mm filler rod, Zirtung 2.4mm electrode, amperage set at 125Amps, gas at 17cfh, stainless steel brush that only touches aluminium, and oh, my helmet.

This is about 4hrs of work today:

http://i92.photobucket.com/albums/l37/allochris/CIMG7414.jpg

http://i92.photobucket.com/albums/l37/allochris/CIMG7415.jpg

http://i92.photobucket.com/albums/l37/allochris/CIMG7416.jpg



:kewl:

[allochris]

AND ya, i actually bought the jetta turbo diesel! One day, at time & money allow, hopefully I will be able to run WVO with this engine on my truck!

http://i92.photobucket.com/albums/l37/allochris/CIMG7423.jpg



I got another 5hrs shop time today. Finally welding is almost 70% done, just missing all the additional support & brackets, & door. Here u go. & ya, i'm getting pretty good tigging this aluminium. Steady & cleaness is key!

http://i92.photobucket.com/albums/l37/allochris/CIMG7442.jpg

http://i92.photobucket.com/albums/l37/allochris/CIMG7437.jpg

http://i92.photobucket.com/albums/l37/allochris/CIMG7436.jpg

[gjackson]

I know a guy who put the VW 1.9 tdi into a Series Land Rover. HP and torque doubled over stock and so did his MPG. Win win win!

Your build is looking pretty sweet so far!

cheers

[big sky trapper]

VERY nice so far. I'm sitting here at 3 am drawing up something very similar for an 85 long box. and been drooling over something of a scalled down version from here. http://www.toyotamotorhomes.com/ There are a few that have some serious potential. The pop up design will be a good wind load saver as well. Look foward to following this one.

[allochris]

Can owners of 4wheel camper post pics of their pop-top roof mechanism? I really like their design of roof support with foldable panels without the use of internal bar-scissors.:REOutIceFishing:

[Redline]

Very nice, ambitious project. I strongly support your use of a VW 1.9L turbo-diesel (TDI). The 1.9L TDI in my wife's 2000 Golf has been a great little engine for 80k. Economy is great, even when driving hard/fast, and performance is good (5-speed).

For your application I would consider some performance modifications for the engine. You should have more torque/power available with few if any penalties when you're not using the extra juice. You will work that little engine harder with that weight and less aerodynamics, but I'll bet you will still be in the 30-MPG range on the highway at around 65-MPH. My guess is that 25-MPG will be quite low for your completed rig (depending on your driving style & gearing) and 30-35+ may be achievable. Can't wait to see the finished project in a few weeks!

[allochris]

actually it's a canadian AAZ 1.9L (not TDI). For the difference, I really don't know anything yet until i have time to do my research sometime after the summer. My gearing right now is on 4.88 & 33" tires. Do anyone by any chance can guess what the rpm is going to be at around 65mph?

Oh ya, thanks for reminding me the project completion date is in a few weeks......:drool: (despite that I won't be able to do much next 1-2wks...) oups...

& ya, can owners of 4wheelcamper be generous enough to get me some details pics of their extend-able roof mechanism? I need this asap. Thanks.

[allochris]

more pictures:

http://i92.photobucket.com/albums/l37/allochris/CIMG7453.jpg

http://i92.photobucket.com/albums/l37/allochris/CIMG7449.jpg

http://i92.photobucket.com/albums/l37/allochris/CIMG7452.jpg

:tent:

[kcowyo]

About the pop-top roof mechanism, can owners of 4wheelcamper send me pictures of the plywood/piano hinge mechanism to set the roof up in place?

I really need to figure that one out soon. Please send me pictures of your pop-top mechanism asap. I prefer the ones without the sizzors round tubing with crank mechanism.


I have the pics I've taken, posted in this thread starting on page 3 (http://www.expeditionportal.com/forum/showthread.php?t=1322).

If you need something more specific, let me know and I'll see what I have. The camper is closed up in storage right now but I took several before putting it away for the winter.

Looking good so far!

[big sky trapper]

Excelent work so far...

But looking...On the front leading edge of your camper where it comes over the cab of the truck. Will there be enough room factored in with rear frame flex so that the camper will not contact the cab and bind? Is this a concern??

I have a boat rack on one of my yoda now thats built very simmilar and I made it to tight in that area and really have to watch how I drive it off road to keep rubbing.

just a thought

But looks like its going great .

[allochris]

Thanks KCOWYO!

I've got a couple questions on your setup for ya:

-How much clearance btwn your camper & the cab?
-How's the flex on your truck off-road?
-About how thick is that foldable plywood? What kind of material?
-How are the metal bars lock in place to keep the wood straight? manually or automatic?
-How steady do you find about your roof support design? (Especially when it's ready windy/stormy with wind blowing sideway)
-Can you actually drive (ok, really slowly) carefully with the roof up?
-Is there anything you would like to change about the interior lay-out? (Like where things are & their dimension & such?)


Thanks,
-chris

[kcowyo]

Thanks KCOWYO!

I've got a couple questions on your setup for ya:

-How much clearance btwn your camper & the cab?
-How's the flex on your truck off-road?
-About how thick is that foldable plywood? What kind of material?
-How are the metal bars lock in place to keep the wood straight? manually or automatic?
-How steady do you find about your roof support design? (Especially when it's ready windy/stormy with wind blowing sideway)
-Can you actually drive (ok, really slowly) carefully with the roof up?
-Is there anything you would like to change about the interior lay-out? (Like where things are & their dimension & such?)


Thanks,
-chris

I have 4-5 inches between the top of my cab and the bottom of the cab-over. Never measured it but that's a good eyeball guess.

The trucks' flex? I have airbags and adjustable shocks on the truck, so not tons of flex like with aftermarket leaves and coils. But I get around OK and the camper handles it just fine.

Re the material, it's a thin pressed board, maybe 1/4 inch thick. I will defer to Ben Burnett for more specifics. He used to own Four Wheel Campers and now manufacturers another slide in camper, All Terrain Campers (https://www.allterraincampers.com/). Give him a call or email, tell him KC in Wyoming suggested you contact him. He can give specifics and he's very generous with helping out.

I've been in some strong winds and the roof and camper do very well, no problems. The one issue I've had was trying to close it up on a windy morning. Because of the way it's designed and so airtight, in a strong wind I struggled to get the fabric sides to pull in. But when opened in high winds it did fine. Swayed me to sleep.

I've never driven with the roof up at all. I probably wouldn't go anymore than a few feet to find a more level spot in a campsite. It is strongly advised by FWC to not drive with top up.

I really like the interior layout of the FWC. A big window on the passenger side really helps when backing up or making lane changes. Most of the options and weight are on the driver's side but I adjust for that by keeping the airbag at a higher PSI than the one on the passenger side. I wish the roof opened a little higher (6'1) to allow more room to sit up while in bed reading. The galley, water tank, propane tank, auxillary battery, etc. are all easy to work with and to work around.

You might check this link (http://www.wanderthewest.com/forum/showthread.php?t=353)for some ideas and scan the rest of the board for interior options and photos.

[allochris]

The trucks' flex? I have airbags and adjustable shocks on the truck, so not tons of flex like with aftermarket leaves and coils.

A big window on the passenger side really helps when backing up or making lane changes.



Wow thanks!

Actually I meant the frame flex of the truck, not the springs.

& I'm so glad you mentioned the importance of backup viewing angle. I assume the window on the back door helps a lot too?

[allochris]

Wow thanks!

Actually I meant the frame flex of the truck, not the springs.

& I'm so glad you mentioned the importance of backup viewing angle. I assume the window on the back door helps a lot too?

Oh, btw, did you ever use it in the snow??? I;m wonder how well your roof can hold when lots of snow gets pile up on top?

About how heavy do u think your roof is?

[kcowyo]

I wouldn't have a clue to gauge how heavy just the roof is....maybe 70 - 100lbs? That's a wild *** guess based on no real knowledge, sorry.

The roof is rated to hold 1,000lbs when opened. Given the surface area and inquiring about it here to some other owners, we guessed that's in the range of 2-3 inches of wet snow. Certainly not a lot of snow. I would keep a Sno-Rake on board if at all possible, especially with the wet Spring snows happening lately.

The window in the rear door helps your view also. You just have to get used to the narrower view out of the back. Make it as big as possible for yourself. You might want to add an exterior light on the rear outside wall also. That helps quite a bit for backing up in the dark and offers good light in camp around the back of the rig.

[Kermit]

Great build up, can't wait to see it finished.

[Kevinj110]

So amazing. Cant wait to see more. Great build up

[allochris]

The roof is rated to hold 1,000lbs when opened.



Are you serious? 1000lbs capacity when opened, hold only by the plywoods at both ends? That&#180;s some serious design they have!

Got a couple more question here...

1)At 70 to 100lbs, is your roof light enough that anyone like my mom would be able to lift it? I figure you lift the roof up in 2 sequences? By lifting and locking the back end first and then the front end, right?

2)Btw, I can see that having those foldable plywood panels up at front-rear do prevent side to side movement. Question is, how do they prevent the roof from pivoting forward or backward, kind of like a rectangle, collapsing into a parrallelogram, then totally flat?

3)For the aluminium looking bar attached to the folding panel, are their sole purpose only to prevent the panels from folding? or do they do more than just that...?

4)For the roof vent, according to your setup, where do you think is the best place to mount it, directly right above your cooking stove or elsewhere? Tell me also the opening direction you would like it to face too.

You are the man! Thanks a lot.:beer:

'chris

[CLynn85]

Wow, cool buildup. Home-made campers seem to be few and far between these days.

As for driving with the top up, I've heard tales of Ben, former FWC proprieter, driving down the interstate at 80mph with the top up and another employee in the back. :bowdown:

[allochris]

This is the layout. It's basic, cause i want to keep it light & simple.

-Top sleeps 2 with slide-out bed, 3' extension

-Bench on the right sleep 1, or 2 when bench slide-out over the walkway.

-Skis/fishing rod/dirty stuff storage compartment under the bench (where milk crates are).
Accessible by 2 outside lockable storage doors + inside by opening the 2 covers of the bench sit.

-31"x18" Window by the rear right corner

-The removable washing plastic tub at the rear left corner is used as a shower/bucket-toilet base

-Shower hose is manually attached to the outlet of the sink tap when in use, and curtain will be used to enclose the area)

-A white cabinet sits right next to the tub, with a sink/tap on top

-a table sits on top of the white cabinet, all the way to the front wall, also with a pivoting rear end that serves as the wall btwn shower & sink or an extension of the table over the tub

-Front of the cabinet under the table area will be empty to accommodate my 32"x18" plastic storage box

-Rear door will get a window through it

-Front slider window enable access to the cab. (Yes, I'm thin enough!)

http://i92.photobucket.com/albums/l37/allochris/CIMG7464.jpg

http://i92.photobucket.com/albums/l37/allochris/CIMG7471.jpg

and... i'm still missing the top roof...

http://i92.photobucket.com/albums/l37/allochris/c.jpg

[kcowyo]

Got a couple more question here...

1)At 70 to 100lbs, is your roof light enough that anyone like my mom would be able to lift it? I figure you lift the roof up in 2 sequences? By lifting and locking the back end first and then the front end, right?

Yup, two steps, the rear then the front. There is a cross support on the ceiling at both ends. In a crouched position, I put one shoulder under it and stand up. Then push the bi-folding wall out with a free hand till it snaps into a locked position. Because you stand up to open it, not just push it up with your arms, I would say any normal size adult of either gender should be able to do it.


2)Btw, I can see that having those foldable plywood panels up at front-rear do prevent side to side movement. Question is, how do they prevent the roof from pivoting forward or backward, kind of like a rectangle, collapsing into a parrallelogram, then totally flat?

I dunno. But I'll attach a few more interior pics to help you get a visual. Parallelogram? I didn't know there was gonna be geometry questions on this quiz.....


3)For the aluminium looking bar attached to the folding panel, are their sole purpose only to prevent the panels from folding? or do they do more than just that...?

The goldish color aluminum square trim pieces are probably the answer to your previous question. They keep the end walls rigid. The silver triangle bar at the front, that snaps to a loop on the ceiling is used to push out the front wall when lifting, since it's a bugger to reach over the bunk.


4)For the roof vent, according to your setup, where do you think is the best place to mount it, directly right above your cooking stove or elsewhere? Tell me also the opening direction you would like it to face too.

Mine is in the center, more or less over the center aisle, past the end of the bed. The hinge is towards the front of the vehicle so it opens towards the rear. That's how you'll want it because when your driving, the wind helps force it closed, where if it opened to the front, the wind at 60mph would rip it open and off.

I like it there because I usually leave it slightly cracked or wide open while I sleep depending on the weather. If it were over the bunk and I left it open and it started to rain during the evening, my bed would get soaked probably before it woke me. If it rains as I have it now, it would just drip onto the floor. And a tip, try to leave it cracked while you sleep. Helps reduce condensation in the morning.

I like the layout, you're doing some great work and making good time doing it. :clapsmile

[allochris]

Wow thanks, I think i finally understand the mechanism now. If you didn't post those picture, I would never be able to understand how your setup would keep itself up from falling forward or backward. (I didn't see that there are a 2nd layer of plywood at each end.)

I attached a picture below to summarize what I understood. Correct me if i'm wrong.

Btw, how high is your whole setup on the truck, from ground to highest point of roof? And inside from floor to ceiling when collapsed?

I have to squeeze mine to 7feet max outside to avoid expensive over-size BC ferry charge...in sacrifyzing head room space with unopened roof, that only leaves me about 44" inside height.:peepwall:

Thanks again.

http://i92.photobucket.com/albums/l37/allochris/RoofMechanism.jpg

[kcowyo]

Yes, you've got it. Glad those pics helped.

The rear wall with the snap sling is snug. I believe this helps the rear wall from bending in (collapsing), in the event of a stiff wind. The two pieces can't seperate and bend in with the snap sling in place.

The triangle bar snap sling over the bunk is merely to keep the pushbar up and out of the way when opened. I still knock my head on it occasionally. Basically the two ends slip into the gold square trim. It just flops around. You can see in the pic with the camper 1/2 opened, it lays flat. It's sole purpose is to act as a pushbar to push the front wall open over the bunk. Then snap it up to the roof to keep it out of the way. It provides no support at all.

I'll have to measure heights for you. I can do that over lunch and post back up this afternoon.

[kcowyo]

Btw, how high is your whole setup on the truck, from ground to highest point of roof? And inside from floor to ceiling when collapsed?

I have to squeeze mine to 7feet max outside to avoid expensive over-size BC ferry charge...in sacrifyzing head room space with unopened roof, that only leaves me about 44" inside height.:peepwall:


When closed, on the outside, the body of the camper is 48". Add in another 3-4" for the roof vent. Inside when closed is closer to 46" and it's OK. I can sit in there and make lunch when it's closed up. When opened, there is 6'1 interior height. I would assume on the outside when opened up, 6'3-ish....?

The camper is off the truck right now so I'm not sure how tall the whole set up is. I'll bet over 7 feet but less than 8 feet.

[allochris]

Finally, all the welding is now done. I ran out of shop time with the tig machine, so I had to use a mig spool gun with 4043 Al Wire to finish up the roof & additional reinforcement frame work. btw, i really hate to mig aluminum! Tig is the only way to go!

The total camper framework is about 170lbs, that's including the roof & the 4 legs i've made for the camper to stand on its own.

The flatdeck framework, with rear bumper, including wood is about estimated @ 300lbs.

As u see the roof is a sheet of 3mm plywood + 16mm nidacore honeycomb sheet. There will be a sheet of 20g Al sheet over the top. Yes, i can stand right in the middle of the roof!

Tomorrow is putting up the wall & siding.



http://i92.photobucket.com/albums/l37/allochris/CIMG7495.jpg

http://i92.photobucket.com/albums/l37/allochris/CIMG7496.jpg

http://i92.photobucket.com/albums/l37/allochris/CIMG7497.jpg

http://i92.photobucket.com/albums/l37/allochris/CIMG7498.jpg

http://i92.photobucket.com/albums/l37/allochris/CIMG7503.jpg





:cheers:

[StumpXJ]

Not sure how I missed this thread, but it looks great man! It makes it that much better when you build it yourself! Very cool design. :clapsmile

~James

[erin]

very cool, i will be watching this one. looks like a strong design

[allochris]

today progress.

http://i92.photobucket.com/albums/l37/allochris/CIMG7507.jpg

http://i92.photobucket.com/albums/l37/allochris/CIMG7506.jpg

http://i92.photobucket.com/albums/l37/allochris/CIMG7509.jpg

http://i92.photobucket.com/albums/l37/allochris/CIMG7514.jpg

http://i92.photobucket.com/albums/l37/allochris/CIMG7515.jpg

http://i92.photobucket.com/albums/l37/allochris/CIMG7519.jpg

http://i92.photobucket.com/albums/l37/allochris/CIMG7518.jpg

http://i92.photobucket.com/albums/l37/allochris/CIMG7516.jpg

[StumpXJ]

looking good! Sweet hat by the way!

~James

[Brian894x4]

That is coming together so awesome. Back when I had my truck, that would have been my dream set up!!

Can't wait to see how it turns out when you're done.

[p1michaud]

Wow,
that is coming along nicely. Job well done! :victory:

Cheer :beer:,
P

[allochris]

sorry for not being able to tune in with the news on the camper.

Since last update i left montreal to Toronto and just barely finished up the camper in a week time with my dad. we were quite skepticle about the roof raising mechanism as we built it but at the end we got it dial on the same day of my departure! my roof weights 95lbs & it supports my weight on top & me(150lbs) hanging under it too when it's pop-up! The whole camper shell/roof/bench weight about 550lbs.


I did take the rest of the construction pictures but unfortunetly i don't have them with me on the road to showjust yet.

Last monday night i finally packed up the truck and left toronto @ 11pm. The drive out across canada from toronto to vancouver was quite a trip. we were 2 people, 100lbs dog http://i92.photobucket.com/albums/l37/allochris/CIMG7579.jpg

, gear packed truck/camper, 220lbs ish furnisher to deliver, and a 22 foot long sailboat/trailer (650lbs).

http://i92.photobucket.com/albums/l37/allochris/CIMG7573.jpg
http://i92.photobucket.com/albums/l37/allochris/CIMG7589.jpg

With about half a tank (36L ish), weigh station scale showed 1090kg front axle, 1600kg rear axle, and 240kg trailer axle. Front tires @ 38psi, rear @ 48psi.

The gvwr is 2425kg, does that mean i over loaded my truck?

Driving against the strong head winds btwn regina/medicine hat was quite a feat! With an old 325xxxkm 22re pulling a 6000lbs truck & sailboat, it was pretty much 85-90km/h in 4th gear everytime uphill is involved.

Going into the rockies wasn't hard actually, as it turns out that calgary is kind of higher than the base of the rockies mtns.

http://i92.photobucket.com/albums/l37/allochris/CIMG7609.jpg
http://i92.photobucket.com/albums/l37/allochris/CIMG7617.jpg
http://i92.photobucket.com/albums/l37/allochris/CIMG7626.jpg
http://i92.photobucket.com/albums/l37/allochris/CIMG7629.jpg
http://i92.photobucket.com/albums/l37/allochris/CIMG7632.jpg
http://i92.photobucket.com/albums/l37/allochris/CIMG7639.jpg

[allochris]

We had no trouble driving down the steep kicking horse pass with the boat either, i'm just glad that i put in new front discs b4 i left montreal.

http://i92.photobucket.com/albums/l37/allochris/CIMG7644.jpg

Aside from being really good on time, (toronto-calgary : 48hrs) we got lucky not having to wait for the transcanada hwy 1 closure due to mud-slide closesure 65km west of golden, bc, near roger's pass. We've met people waiting outside Tim horton's in golden for 3days straight and we've only waited for 10mins!

http://i92.photobucket.com/albums/l37/allochris/CIMG7645.jpg
http://i92.photobucket.com/albums/l37/allochris/CIMG7646.jpg
http://i92.photobucket.com/albums/l37/allochris/CIMG7648.jpg
http://i92.photobucket.com/albums/l37/allochris/CIMG7650.jpg


driving downhill from roger's pass

http://i92.photobucket.com/albums/l37/allochris/CIMG7653.jpg
http://i92.photobucket.com/albums/l37/allochris/CIMG7654.jpg

through the revelstoke/3 valley gap, shuwswap, okanagan was definetely a blast, as it's all downhill until we had to climb a couple mtns on the coquihalla hwy, ranging from 200m al to 1400m al & again and again for at least 5-6 times. Of course, that involved lots of 3rd & even 2nd gear at some place just to get us rolling up the hwy! Finally, after we climbed the last hill, we pretty much descended 1400m the whole way down the coquihalla hwy to hope in about 30mins time.

I don't know how we did Toronto-Vancouver in 3days with all that load, seems crazy to me, and that's including a sleep-over at a friend's place in calgary!

http://i92.photobucket.com/albums/l37/allochris/CIMG7665.jpg

The difference in engine performance wise b4/after this drive:
-louder coolant rushing sound when starting out in 1st gear with heater core opened (warm air)
-constant up and down rpm while idling (700-1500rpm)
-starting to burn oil. Did oil change just b4 the trip with 5w30. during the drive (4600km) i've put in about 2L of oil. is this acceptable


Gas mileage:
-(b4 trip, no camper/boat, just flat deck): 11.5-12l/100km

-best during trip: 12.9l/100km
-average: 13l/100km
-worst: 15l/100km
-whole trip: 4700km Toronto/Vancouver, $700Cad burned into the atmosphere

Gas price: (ouch!)
Toronto cheapest: 1.06
sault st marie: 1.09
winnepeg: 1.199
Medicine hat: 1.1
Calgary: 1.17
Field: 1.18
Golden: 1.259
Hope: 1.22
abbosford: 1.18
vancouver: 1.27

Animal:
-Saw a moose in Northern Ontario
-rolled over a road-kill (big bird of some kind...) oups...didn't see it.
-white tail fox in the prairies
-bugs non-existant except estern alberta

[Grim Reaper]

The difference in engine performance wise b4/after this drive:
-louder coolant rushing sound when starting out in 1st gear with heater core opened (warm air)
-constant up and down rpm while idling (700-1500rpm)
-starting to burn oil. Did oil change just b4 the trip with 5w30. during the drive (4600km) i've put in about 2L of oil. is this acceptable




The Idled flakes when brakes applied? Base idle is set too high. Adjust it down to 800 RPM and it should fix that. That's the screw right on the top of the throttle body. Don't mess with the linkage stops that will screw up the TPS setting. The screw in the top of the throttle body is a air bypass.

My 22RE does not like 5W30 for long drives and drinks it. According to my 86 4Runner owners manual 5W30 is not recommned in temps above 50f. Towing I would recommend a 20w50 and so does my Machine shop that built my engine. The factory manual says that 20w50 can be run as long as the minimum temp stays above 10F.

Stay away from 10w40. most are bad news with a high content of paraffin wax and it does a number on the rings.

Nice build. Look forward to seeing the rest of the build pics!

[allochris]

the up down idle happens sometime when we were pulling into towns waiting at a stop lights from driving on the highway non-stop at the range of a tank of gas. (also when brake pedal is not depressed). At every stop I did re-adjust my idle back to 750-800ish, however i'm just wondering why it keeps changing from stop to stop. In calgary though, after a 7hrs rest, the engine started on 1st turn of the key and idle right at 750rpm.

Oil wise, i meant 10w30. (typo),.

I will look into 20w50. What do you mean 10w40 doing something to the rings? (cause i just those all last summer long!) My oil consumption did increase!

Thanks.

[Grim Reaper]

Trying to find some of the relevant links but let me put it this way there is a line in the owners manual on my Suburban that if I run 10W40 they will void the warranty. :yikes: GM feels that strong about the oil.


What the deal is there is really two main base viscosities for engine oils. As I recall it is 10 or 20 and 50. To make a multi viscosity oil they add thinner agents to the 50 to make a 20w50 and for the thinner oils they add a thickening agent (mostly Paraffin wax) to make the 10w40. To get that 40 they have to add a LOT of paraffin. When the oil gets burned by blow by at the rings if makes a hard residue and it starts to collect in the ring grooves and jams the rings making the blow by worse.

The 5w30 you are running is probably helping clean it out. Might want to run a flush next oil change and go to a 10w30 or a 20w50 or even a synthetic. Synthetic 10W40 is usually ok because they can formulate the viscosity without using the paraffin.

On the throttle surge you might have some deposits around the butter fly that needs to be cleaned out. The brake peddle also sends a signal to the ECM. When the ECM see's the brakes and the throttle IDL both closed it goes into a fuel cut mode to prevent deceleration back fires. If the RPM's are over 900-950 it puts the ECM into a conflict and causes the idle surge.

Toyota's PVC design sort of sucks and with the oil you were running and burning all the oil vapors get run through the intake and make a residue that gums up the throttle and sometimes doesn't let the throttle fully close. In fact I need to clean mine out this weekend for this exact problem from the 5w30 the local dealer put in mine despite me asking for 10w30. You might have the TPS adjusted down enough that even though the throttle is slightly propped open it may still be closed enough to trip the IDL circuit and put it into conflict. Also a worn out throttle shaft amy also cause it to hang. :(

http://www.4crawler.com/4x4/CheapTricks/TPS/index.shtml is how to check and adjust the TPS.

[kcowyo]

'chris -

I think you did an amazing job on your camper build. It looks outstanding. Love the aerodynamic shape of the roof, great design. I've seen the various build stages your truck has gone through, from the red sled, to camo to camper. Many thoughtful hours and hands on fabrication. Just great, great stuff.

Congrats again on such a well designed and well crafted build! :clapsmile

[allochris]

here u go, pictures of the week long construction thanks to the help of my dad and mom.

http://i92.photobucket.com/albums/l37/allochris/CIMG1223.jpg

http://i92.photobucket.com/albums/l37/allochris/CIMG1352.jpg

http://i92.photobucket.com/albums/l37/allochris/CIMG1477.jpg

http://i92.photobucket.com/albums/l37/allochris/CIMG1484.jpg

http://i92.photobucket.com/albums/l37/allochris/CIMG1450.jpg

[allochris]

http://i92.photobucket.com/albums/l37/allochris/CIMG1512.jpg

http://i92.photobucket.com/albums/l37/allochris/CIMG1513.jpg

http://i92.photobucket.com/albums/l37/allochris/CIMG1505.jpg

http://i92.photobucket.com/albums/l37/allochris/CIMG1519.jpg

http://i92.photobucket.com/albums/l37/allochris/CIMG1464.jpg

[allochris]

http://i92.photobucket.com/albums/l37/allochris/CIMG1548.jpg

http://i92.photobucket.com/albums/l37/allochris/CIMG1550.jpg

http://i92.photobucket.com/albums/l37/allochris/CIMG1557.jpg

http://i92.photobucket.com/albums/l37/allochris/CIMG1556.jpg

[Redline]

You are quite the builder! What an accomplishment and in a relatively short period of time too. :-)

[Bella PSD]

Very cool build. I am very happy to see someone else building his own camper. I started my camper build about the same time in March. I am building the inside now. Also finishing some of the outside as I go. I have been interrupted several times this summer camping in it. But that’s a good thing....And I have been interrupted building a military trailer with a roof top tent. My camper is slow go but its getting done.

Are you going to use a 12V fridge?
What about a porta potty?
Gray water tank for the sink?
What about heat for winter camping? (propane)
How are you finishing the floor off?

Keep it coming….looks awesome!

Louie

[Kermit]

Allochris:

If you don't mind me asking, how much money do you have into your camper? Any estimates on how much it weighs? Just the shell, without the interior goodies.

Thanks

Kermit

[allochris]

wow, it's been one busy summer i haven't had to chance to get near a computer! currently involved in rebuild a house back in Toronto...

anyway, long story short...I've put in about $2500 into material alone, but that's both flat-deck & camper. & oh, price in Canadian of course.

Big items are:
-Aluminum tubing for Camper (670)
-Flat-Deck/rear bumper/tow-bar/tail lights (350)
-Complete Auxillary battery setup (170)

Others are:
-Al sidings (125)
-1.5" foam (50)
-plywood (200)
-windows 2x (80)
-access doors 2x (50)
-water pump (40)
-electrical & hardware (too much to list...)
-welding supply (tungsten/AL rod/gas/cutting disc...) (200)

The camper is now finished for summer use only. My budget is $3000 so i have $500 left to winterize & completely finish it up with a bottom floor.

Weight! it's pretty decent, in the 500-600lbs range, including all windows/doors/bench/table/sink/100lbs roof (oops)...

I'm about 4136lbs with empty flat deck, and 5192lbs loaded with gear in the camper + a 400lbs trailer hooked up to it. Gas mileage with my 334xxxkm old 22re, 4.88, 5spd, 33x9.5 tires is: flat-deck only (11.5L/100km) & camper loaded (12.5L/100km)

[Kermit]

Not bad at all, about half a Four Wheel Camper shell. Looks like you have more space too, since it is on a flat bed.

Very cool, nice work.

[BajaTaco]

Hey good to see you post up again. I was wondering about you the other day and wondering how your travels were going. Keep it up!

[allochris]

Bella psd, you have to show us your progress!!!

My travel had ended since last August working in Toronto. I've been back in school since september in montreal. hopefully i'll find time again to finish up the winterization of the camper before the snow comes! I'll show you guys couple pics of the camper standing on its own legs parked at my parent's driveway in Toronto!!!

Thanks!
-chris

[Bella PSD]

Chris,

Not much in the last month. Mostly planning the inside. I really need to get the money together for a 12V fridge to build the inside around. The rear fiberglass is getting $$$ and alot of time but will be very strong. Also starting on moving my spare tire to the rear bumper.(building a swing out) I I do not think I will beat the snow!!! I was hoping for some winter camping.:(

Love to see pictures on its legs!!

Louie


Bella psd, you have to show us your progress!!!

My travel had ended since last August working in Toronto. I've been back in school since september in montreal. hopefully i'll find time again to finish up the winterization of the camper before the snow comes! I'll show you guys couple pics of the camper standing on its own legs parked at my parent's driveway in Toronto!!!

Thanks!
-chris

[allochris]

Here are some pictures of the camper on its legs that i promised a long long time ago. In fact, i've put the camper back on the truck yesterday for the winter.

http://i92.photobucket.com/albums/l37/allochris/01%20Truck%20Pics/P1110086.jpg

http://i92.photobucket.com/albums/l37/allochris/01%20Truck%20Pics/P1110084.jpg

http://i92.photobucket.com/albums/l37/allochris/01%20Truck%20Pics/P1110083.jpg

Merry Christmas everyone.

-chris:26_7_2:

[Ruffin' It]

Mine used to do that when the coolant was low. Check that too.


The Idled flakes when brakes applied? Base idle is set too high. Adjust it down to 800 RPM and it should fix that. That's the screw right on the top of the throttle body. Don't mess with the linkage stops that will screw up the TPS setting. The screw in the top of the throttle body is a air bypass.

[dieselcruiserhead]

That's pretty cool, looks like your plate says SKI NAKED? :) My parents live up in Montreal off Mont Royal and Avenue du Parc. Very cool build :)

[allochris]

So ya, skipping forward more than a year....winter is about to begin again. This time I am in the process to complete the camper for the winter season. I am planning to quite possibly live in this for the next 4 months in Revelstoke, BC.

The camper modification has already began 3-4 days ago.

To do list for completion in 1-2 weeks time:

-Modify Pop-top mechanism to A-Frame (For snow-slidding ability)
-Removable Hard Shell - Insulated
-Insulate roof
-Make slide out bed
-Add additional bench
-Modify counter top
-Install the Camco 57331 Olympian RV Wave-3 3000 BTU LP Gas Catalytic Heater

[allochris]

Roof Insulation:
http://i92.photobucket.com/albums/l37/allochris/01%20Truck%20Pics/DSCF7405.jpg
http://i92.photobucket.com/albums/l37/allochris/01%20Truck%20Pics/DSCF7408.jpg
http://i92.photobucket.com/albums/l37/allochris/01%20Truck%20Pics/DSCF7416.jpg
http://i92.photobucket.com/albums/l37/allochris/01%20Truck%20Pics/DSCF7418.jpg
http://i92.photobucket.com/albums/l37/allochris/01%20Truck%20Pics/DSCF7425.jpg

A-Frame Roof-Top Modification:
http://i92.photobucket.com/albums/l37/allochris/01%20Truck%20Pics/DSCF7401.jpg
http://i92.photobucket.com/albums/l37/allochris/01%20Truck%20Pics/DSCF7434.jpg
http://i92.photobucket.com/albums/l37/allochris/01%20Truck%20Pics/DSCF7433.jpg
http://i92.photobucket.com/albums/l37/allochris/01%20Truck%20Pics/DSCF7444.jpg
http://i92.photobucket.com/albums/l37/allochris/01%20Truck%20Pics/DSCF7446.jpg

[allochris]

Who has the Camco 57331 Olympian RV Wave-3 3000 BTU LP Gas Catalytic Heater? (http://www.amazon.com/gp/product/B000BUV1RK/ref=ox_ya_oh_product)

I just bought this from amazon online but I will only receive on the evening before my departure date across the country.

Can anyone let me know what part i need to successfully hook this heater up? (i.e. Hose, adapter, regulator, propane tank...etc)

[Jnich77]

Sweet build!!!!! I love to see people build cool campers in there driveways!!!!

[UHAULER]

Great, I've been putting off insulating the roof and putting a headliner in my camper because it's been 30-45* outside and then I see pics of you working outside in the snow. I guess I will have to come up with another excuse why I can't get off my butt and start working on it.

[allochris]

Yes, your bare fingers will get acclimatized to the -10c (12-15f) temperature pretty quickly....They work best when u don't feel anything anymore....A little Reggae/South american music helps...:sombrero:

[allochris]

http://i92.photobucket.com/albums/l37/allochris/01%20Truck%20Pics/DSCF7447.jpg

http://i92.photobucket.com/albums/l37/allochris/01%20Truck%20Pics/DSCF7450.jpg

[allochris]

http://i92.photobucket.com/albums/l37/allochris/01%20Truck%20Pics/DSCF7466.jpg
http://i92.photobucket.com/albums/l37/allochris/01%20Truck%20Pics/DSCF7479.jpg
http://i92.photobucket.com/albums/l37/allochris/01%20Truck%20Pics/DSCF7478.jpg
http://i92.photobucket.com/albums/l37/allochris/01%20Truck%20Pics/DSCF7471.jpg
http://i92.photobucket.com/albums/l37/allochris/01%20Truck%20Pics/DSCF7476.jpg

[allochris]

http://i92.photobucket.com/albums/l37/allochris/01%20Truck%20Pics/DSCF7515.jpghttp://i92.photobucket.com/albums/l37/allochris/01%20Truck%20Pics/DSCF7517.jpghttp://i92.photobucket.com/albums/l37/allochris/01%20Truck%20Pics/DSCF7520.jpghttp://i92.photobucket.com/albums/l37/allochris/01%20Truck%20Pics/DSCF7524.jpghttp://i92.photobucket.com/albums/l37/allochris/01%20Truck%20Pics/DSCF7532.jpghttp://i92.photobucket.com/albums/l37/allochris/01%20Truck%20Pics/DSCF7528.jpg

[spencyg]

What kind of set-up time would you be looking at with all of the side panels? Love the concept...curious about the implementation!

Your motivation is stronger than mine...the minute we start getting the white stuff I play hibernating bear for the winter...

Kudos!

Spence

[mcgovski]

Wow! I just found this thread...awesome!!!!!
congrats and keep up the great work!

Chris

[allochris]

What kind of set-up time would you be looking at with all of the side panels? Love the concept...curious about the implementation!

Spence

Realistically, I am hoping to be able to assemble it within 10 minutes when I get enough practice.

Then add another 10 mins to tear-down.

If set-up and tear-down time is an issue though, it isn't a problem either since:

-the camper already has ample sleep-able space already with the roof down
-The raised roof & panels are being designed to withstand 40km-50km of city driving. (hopefully!)

[allochris]

Your motivation is stronger than mine...

Motivation is definitely fueled by the westbound cross-continent departure in exactly 8.5 days!!!:smiley_drive:

[allochris]

http://i92.photobucket.com/albums/l37/allochris/01%20Truck%20Pics/DSCF7569.jpghttp://i92.photobucket.com/albums/l37/allochris/01%20Truck%20Pics/DSCF7571.jpghttp://i92.photobucket.com/albums/l37/allochris/01%20Truck%20Pics/DSCF7572.jpghttp://i92.photobucket.com/albums/l37/allochris/01%20Truck%20Pics/DSCF7579.jpg

[allochris]

http://i92.photobucket.com/albums/l37/allochris/01%20Truck%20Pics/DSCF7586.jpghttp://i92.photobucket.com/albums/l37/allochris/01%20Truck%20Pics/DSCF7591.jpghttp://i92.photobucket.com/albums/l37/allochris/01%20Truck%20Pics/DSCF7597.jpghttp://i92.photobucket.com/albums/l37/allochris/01%20Truck%20Pics/DSCF7601.jpghttp://i92.photobucket.com/albums/l37/allochris/01%20Truck%20Pics/DSCF7602.jpg

[java]

keep up the great work!

[allochris]

7 days count down! :eek:

http://i92.photobucket.com/albums/l37/allochris/01%20Truck%20Pics/DSCF7608.jpghttp://i92.photobucket.com/albums/l37/allochris/01%20Truck%20Pics/DSCF7610.jpg

[allochris]

http://i92.photobucket.com/albums/l37/allochris/DSCF7647.jpghttp://i92.photobucket.com/albums/l37/allochris/DSCF7648.jpghttp://i92.photobucket.com/albums/l37/allochris/DSCF7641.jpghttp://i92.photobucket.com/albums/l37/allochris/DSCF7653.jpghttp://i92.photobucket.com/albums/l37/allochris/DSCF7651.jpghttp://i92.photobucket.com/albums/l37/allochris/DSCF7649.jpg

[Funrover]

Nice build!

[allochris]

just a quick update. it's has been a wk or 2 since i last posted. i drove 4500km westbound from toronto to revelstoke for the ski season. Once again no problem with the truck now at 365xxxkm! (despite the heater is not so warm at -30c in Regina, SK). Anyway, it has been raining here in town & the camper is sealling pretty well despite all the joints. The only problem i did not forsee is condensation especially with 2 people living the camper! The heater is working very well, so is the spare battery, coleman stove all plumb to a 20lbs propane tank. I even manage to drive the camper with the panel up daily up to 50km/hr in the city street. the cops didn't bother me at all, so i figure i'm saved for now. Just gotta take it easy on bumpy road due to vibration. gotta go now, pictures with come soon.

[allochris]

Today: Rain Day = Pictures time!!!

Bed:
http://i92.photobucket.com/albums/l37/allochris/01%20Truck%20Pics/DSCF7670.jpg
http://i92.photobucket.com/albums/l37/allochris/01%20Truck%20Pics/DSCF7669.jpg
http://i92.photobucket.com/albums/l37/allochris/01%20Truck%20Pics/DSCF7728.jpg


Propane/heater/stove/sink:
http://i92.photobucket.com/albums/l37/allochris/01%20Truck%20Pics/DSCF7686.jpg
http://i92.photobucket.com/albums/l37/allochris/01%20Truck%20Pics/DSCF7688.jpg
http://i92.photobucket.com/albums/l37/allochris/01%20Truck%20Pics/DSCF7721.jpg
http://i92.photobucket.com/albums/l37/allochris/01%20Truck%20Pics/DSCF7684.jpg
http://i92.photobucket.com/albums/l37/allochris/01%20Truck%20Pics/DSCF7677.jpg

Bench:
http://i92.photobucket.com/albums/l37/allochris/01%20Truck%20Pics/DSCF7675.jpg

[allochris]

3rd Drive out across Canada!

Toronto, ON - Revelstoke, BC: 3990KM (3 days)

Total Weight: 2650KG (5768Lbs)
-Front Axle: 1240KG
-Rear Axle: 1410KG

Overweight: 2650KG - 2427KG = 223KG (490Lbs)

Gas Mileage:
Best: 10.49L/KM
Worst: 16.12L/100KM
Average: 13.19L/100KM

Oil Consumption:
Oil Stick from Full to Low: ~1000km

Temperatures:
+8c to -30c

Gas Price:
89 octane: from $1.03/L to $1.10/L

Ontario:
http://i92.photobucket.com/albums/l37/allochris/01%20Truck%20Pics/DSCF7773.jpg

Manitoba:
http://i92.photobucket.com/albums/l37/allochris/01%20Truck%20Pics/DSCF7794.jpg
http://i92.photobucket.com/albums/l37/allochris/01%20Truck%20Pics/DSCF7795.jpg

Saskatchewan:
http://i92.photobucket.com/albums/l37/allochris/01%20Truck%20Pics/DSCF7807.jpg
http://i92.photobucket.com/albums/l37/allochris/01%20Truck%20Pics/DSCF7817.jpg
http://i92.photobucket.com/albums/l37/allochris/01%20Truck%20Pics/DSCF7825.jpg
http://i92.photobucket.com/albums/l37/allochris/01%20Truck%20Pics/DSCF7827.jpg

Alberta:
http://i92.photobucket.com/albums/l37/allochris/01%20Truck%20Pics/DSCF7834.jpg
http://i92.photobucket.com/albums/l37/allochris/01%20Truck%20Pics/DSCF7835.jpg
http://i92.photobucket.com/albums/l37/allochris/01%20Truck%20Pics/DSCF7838.jpg

[Crooked Beat]

sorry for not being able to tune in with the news on the camper.

Since last update i left montreal to Toronto and just barely finished up the camper in a week time with my dad. we were quite skepticle about the roof raising mechanism as we built it but at the end we got it dial on the same day of my departure! my roof weights 95lbs & it supports my weight on top & me(150lbs) hanging under it too when it's pop-up! The whole camper shell/roof/bench weight about 550lbs.


I did take the rest of the construction pictures but unfortunetly i don't have them with me on the road to showjust yet.

Last monday night i finally packed up the truck and left toronto @ 11pm. The drive out across canada from toronto to vancouver was quite a trip. we were 2 people, 100lbs dog
, gear packed truck/camper, 220lbs ish furnisher to deliver, and a 22 foot long sailboat/trailer (650lbs).

http://i92.photobucket.com/albums/l37/allochris/CIMG7573.jpg

With about half a tank (36L ish), weigh station scale showed 1090kg front axle, 1600kg rear axle, and 240kg trailer axle. Front tires @ 38psi, rear @ 48psi.

The gvwr is 2425kg, does that mean i over loaded my truck?

Driving against the strong head winds btwn regina/medicine hat was quite a feat! With an old 325xxxkm 22re pulling a 6000lbs truck & sailboat, it was pretty much 85-90km/h in 4th gear everytime uphill is involved.

Going into the rockies wasn't hard actually, as it turns out that calgary is kind of higher than the base of the rockies mtns.



Is that an Albacore in the photo? I thought most Albacores were in Ottawa or Toronto?

[allochris]

Yes, I was towing it out for a guy from Barrie to Vancouver for gas money!

[jeeper92]

holy **** that looks cold as f!!!:Wow1:

[Bella PSD]

Great thread - thanks for posting! I'm curious where & how the condensation occurs - I assume it's on the metal frame parts that stay cold because of a thermal bridge to the outside - but maybe everywhere in that climate? What's your heating & ventilation Anyway I be interested in more details if you have the time, Thanks. Peter

Me too!

Thanks
Louie

[fisher205]

Using a catalytic heater and propane stove they put out moisture and CO. A direct vent furnace will help eliminate that. I had a Wave heater like Chris' in my Alaskan and had condensation problems. I went with an Atwood Everest now. It uses more electric for the fan and is a lot noisier than the Wave. My Alaskan originally had a outside vent catalytic heater but I couldn't find replacement parts. They are out there but hard to find.
Brad

[allochris]

Thanks for the questions!

Most of my condensation is not actually coming from the heater since I don't even turn it on at night. (Not cold enough outside!) It occurs pretty much whenever my gf & I are inside.

As my roof has some exposed metal structure acting as thermal bridge from outside to inside, there's 1 of the places where water droplet starts forming. When it's cold enough, it also freezes too!

Second, condensation occurs where the frame Al square tubings are sandwiched between my Al siding & inside plywood. Next time, I would spray fill all the frame tubings after the welding process to eliminate this occurance. Since houses also have a layer of vapor barrier, I would also add a layer between my 1.5" foam & inside plywood.

As for when the pop-top is setup, condensation occurs along the top & bottom of the panels. This is also where the close-cell foam seal are located at the joint between the top of the panel & the bottom of the roof frame, as well as the bottom of the panel & the top of the camper shell.

Condensation also occurs on the Al u-channels that are used to butt-joint the panel together, since AL has zero insulation properties.

For ventilation, I have 2 windows, two 3" vent (1 of these has a computer fan build-in for exhaust).

Overall, the condensation is manageable with a rag to wipe off the buildup condensation. I have never camped in a real camper either in zero to -10c weather, I wonder how those camper get wet inside, or inside the walls...

I'll post some pics later on.

[allochris]

Some random pictures:

http://i92.photobucket.com/albums/l37/allochris/01%20Truck%20Pics/PB190148.jpg

http://i92.photobucket.com/albums/l37/allochris/01%20Truck%20Pics/PB190151.jpg

http://i92.photobucket.com/albums/l37/allochris/01%20Truck%20Pics/PB190153.jpg

[Jean-Seb]

Great build ! Funny to see some pics of my own area lol. Enjoy your trip !

[EuroJoe]

This is a great build flatbeds are the way forward! (IMO)

[The Adam Blaster]

Really great build thread Chris, I enjoyed reading through it!

I'm curious about the route you took though...
It seems like you went north of the Great Lakes back and forth between TO and BC correct?
I've travelled between Windsor and Edmonton several times myself, and if you cut through the U.S. it seems to save about 12 hours worth of driving. From TO to Windsor it's 4-ish hours, but you'd still save about 8 hours worth of driving, plus gas is much cheaper in the U.S.

[allochris]

oh i know about the shortcut thru the states. it's just that i didn't feel like passing thru the states & back with my camper packed with 8 months personal belongings & get searched at the customs on both sides....that's why.

[mangymarmot]

Love it!!! Keep the pics and adventure coming! I'm living vicariously through you!

[The Adam Blaster]

oh i know about the shortcut thru the states. it's just that i didn't feel like passing thru the states & back with my camper packed with 8 months personal belongings & get searched at the customs on both sides....that's why.

I wasn't sure if that was in your mind or not, but I do understand.
I've driven between Windsor and Edmonton a few times now and it is a hassle almost every time I go through the border, because I always have a significant amount of gear with me.
Last time getting through the Detroit side, I had to explain to the brder guard what my camp stove was for, it went like this:

Border Guard: Can you open up these boxes on the back. (This was not a question...)
Me: Sure. Do you want me to pull off to the side so I don't hold up the rest of the line of cars?
BG: No, they can wait.
I unstrap the action packers on the hitch rack, and open the boxes.
He rifles through some of the stuff, stops at the camp stove, and points...
BG: What is that?
Me: It's a camping stove. (I open the lid.)
BG: What is it for?
Me: (In my mind I'm slapping my forehead with the palm of my hand and internally rolling my eyes...) I use it for cooking food when I'm camping...
BG: Ok. You can close everything up now.

I have had issues on both sides of the CAN/US border, but I tend to get hassled more on the US side. Ah well, pretty hard to avoid borders legally with our passion for travel. :)

[EuroJoe]

my favourite border guard question is;

him - what do you do?

me - I'm an engineer,

him - can you prove it?

me - no

him - ok carry on

back to the awesome build!

[allochris]

So my gf & I already have been in Revelstoke for a month now. About 2 weeks ago my original Aisin water pump finally gave up too at 365722km! Luckily only after 3 down days at a friend's home garage, the engine was running again. Due to the recent lack of fresh snow, we are contemplating on traveling to Vancouver island to pickup & fix up our stolen nissan pathfinder from last September. Hopefully we can squeeze in some backcountry skiing on the Duffey Lake Road area in the coast mountains, through the crazy Sea-2-Sky Hwy with the Olympics in Whistler, to Squamish and Horseshoe Bay, & off we go on the BC ferry.

Some Pics in Revelstoke:
http://i92.photobucket.com/albums/l37/allochris/01%20Truck%20Pics/DSCF7856.jpg
http://i92.photobucket.com/albums/l37/allochris/01%20Truck%20Pics/DSCF7857.jpg
http://i92.photobucket.com/albums/l37/allochris/01%20Truck%20Pics/DSCF7858.jpg
http://i92.photobucket.com/albums/l37/allochris/01%20Truck%20Pics/DSCF7859.jpg
http://i92.photobucket.com/albums/l37/allochris/01%20Truck%20Pics/PB260355.jpg
http://i92.photobucket.com/albums/l37/allochris/01%20Truck%20Pics/PB260351.jpg
http://photos-f.ak.fbcdn.net/hphotos-ak-snc3/hs191.snc3/19848_313068371067_595486067_5050362_3835992_n.jpg
http://i92.photobucket.com/albums/l37/allochris/01%20Truck%20Pics/PB260357.jpg
http://photos-d.ak.fbcdn.net/hphotos-ak-snc3/hs191.snc3/19848_313068386067_595486067_5050363_2389651_n.jpg
http://photos-a.ak.fbcdn.net/hphotos-ak-snc3/hs171.snc3/19848_313068401067_595486067_5050364_7238795_n.jpg

[dentedvw]

I believe I recognize that white fiberglass shelled Ford bus from another forum. I think it's for sale soon. :sombrero:

Skoolie.net, IIRC.

http://i92.photobucket.com/albums/l37/allochris/01%20Truck%20Pics/PB190151.jpg

[mikes350]

Nice build up , I'm in Revy and planning a camper for my tundra now, think i could have a peek at yours . if your still around that is

[Every Miles A Memory]

Man, this is one amazing, inspiring, jaw dropping thread

First I was amazed you were building it in the snow at the very start. Then I notice you build almost the entire thing in the snow multiple times and do it in record time.

When people are using excuses about money, time and weather affecting their travel agenda, here you have Chris who goes out no matter what the weather it, builds one of the sweetest Home Made campers I've seen in years and does it all for net to nothing and again, in record time

You my friend are one true Overlander:Wow1: Keep it Up!!

[The Adam Blaster]

For lack of a better term, I sort of used this thread as inspiration to "man-up" and actually work on my Cherokee in my un-insulated, un-heated garage a couple of times in the last month.
It's been below freezing, but I figured if a guy can build a camper in an open lot, surely I can do some work on my Jeep inside my garage!

P.S. The Jeep has been in there for 2.5 years... ughhh.....

[allochris]

I believe I recognize that white fiberglass shelled Ford bus from another forum. I think it's for sale soon. :sombrero:

Skoolie.net, IIRC.

http://i92.photobucket.com/albums/l37/allochris/01%20Truck%20Pics/PB190151.jpg

i am so jealous of their woodstove setup....There's no other better way to suck up all the moisture from the interiour + the ability to dry off any wet ski boots/ clothings....

[allochris]

Nice build up , I'm in Revy and planning a camper for my tundra now, think i could have a peek at yours . if your still around that is

let me know where u are at so i can swing by when i'm back in town. we're on the island recovering my gf's nissan right now. we should be back within 1-2 wks.

[allochris]

So we took off from Revelstoke & was on our way to Vancouver Island. Did a stop at the Coquihalla Summit for a ski tour & continued on to the island to retrieve our other stolen truck.

Hwy 5 Coquihalla Summit:
http://i92.photobucket.com/albums/l37/allochris/01%20Truck%20Pics/PC090044.jpg
http://i92.photobucket.com/albums/l37/allochris/01%20Truck%20Pics/PC090065.jpg
http://i92.photobucket.com/albums/l37/allochris/01%20Truck%20Pics/PC090073.jpg


Last couple days we drove up to North Island to ski tour at Mt. Cain. This ski hill opens only Fri-Sun so we had the whole mountain for ourselves for a couple days...To top it off the stormy weather died off the 1st afternoon we arrived & we sure had some good turns in the adjacent backcountry area.

Mt Cain:
http://i92.photobucket.com/albums/l37/allochris/01%20Truck%20Pics/PC170041.jpg
http://i92.photobucket.com/albums/l37/allochris/01%20Truck%20Pics/PC170186.jpg
http://i92.photobucket.com/albums/l37/allochris/01%20Truck%20Pics/PC190385.jpg
http://i92.photobucket.com/albums/l37/allochris/01%20Truck%20Pics/PC190393.jpg
http://i92.photobucket.com/albums/l37/allochris/01%20Truck%20Pics/PC170196.jpg
http://i92.photobucket.com/albums/l37/allochris/01%20Truck%20Pics/PC170159.jpg
http://i92.photobucket.com/albums/l37/allochris/01%20Truck%20Pics/PC170156.jpg

[mangymarmot]

beautiful pics!

[dustboy]

Those are REAL mountains! Nice pix. Curious to see what you find on Van Island, I was there last summer.

I've been following your build, my truck is turning out along similar lines so far, at least the flatbed aspect.

[allochris]

It has been a couple weeks since I last came on line. After we left Vancouver Island with the recovered Nissan, we took the ferry back over to the mainland & was skiing mainly in Squamish/Whistler/Pemberton/Duffy Lake Road for a couple weeks. On our way back to Revelstoke just last week my toy just hit 370000km!!!

http://i92.photobucket.com/albums/l37/allochris/01%20Truck%20Pics/DSCF8558.jpg

After a few days of skiing/climbing/hot-springing in Revelstoke, my camper is now back to Kamloops parked for the next 3 weeks while we are using the Nissan to explore northern BC for the next 2 weeks. Plans are Smithers/Terrace/Stewart/Hyder. Hopefully we'll have enough time before I have to bus down south to pick up my truck for reforestation work this spring.

[Schattenjager]

What a FUN thread! Thanks for taking the time to keep us updated - glad to see you're back!

[allochris]

So winter & spring have already come & gone!

For those who are interested here's a photo album of ski touring in Northern BC. (Including: Smithers, Stewart, Hyder, ...)

http://www.facebook.com/album.php?aid=209210&id=595486067&l=1d84c07f6f

http://sphotos.ak.fbcdn.net/hphotos-ak-snc3/hs432.snc3/24902_415702706067_595486067_5536738_3830466_n.jpg
http://sphotos.ak.fbcdn.net/hphotos-ak-snc3/hs446.snc3/25582_419025126067_595486067_5618248_1449025_n.jpg
http://sphotos.ak.fbcdn.net/hphotos-ak-snc3/hs432.snc3/24902_418859796067_595486067_5614245_1100425_n.jpg
http://sphotos.ak.fbcdn.net/hphotos-ak-snc3/hs446.snc3/25582_419025186067_595486067_5618257_1640085_n.jpg

[allochris]

When mid-april came I had to travel all the way south to Princeton for another spring tree-planting season.

http://i92.photobucket.com/albums/l37/allochris/01%20Truck%20Pics/DSCF0063.jpg
http://i92.photobucket.com/albums/l37/allochris/01%20Truck%20Pics/DSCF0072.jpg
http://i92.photobucket.com/albums/l37/allochris/01%20Truck%20Pics/DSCF0046.jpg
http://i92.photobucket.com/albums/l37/allochris/01%20Truck%20Pics/DSCF0346.jpg

And of course being within the Okanagan radius, many antiques or imports can be seen easily on the road these days...

http://i92.photobucket.com/albums/l37/allochris/01%20Truck%20Pics/DSCF0267.jpg
http://i92.photobucket.com/albums/l37/allochris/01%20Truck%20Pics/DSCF0256.jpg
http://i92.photobucket.com/albums/l37/allochris/01%20Truck%20Pics/DSCF0283.jpg

[Billhilly]

Hey Chris,
Been watching your build over the last couple of years and have been really enjoying the photos of your build, and travels you've been posting. You have finally prompted me to join up here. I have really admired the way you (and your partner) have 'got it done'! You have built a camper from scratch, run up tens of thousands of kilometers, taken in some incredible scenery, and done some amazing hiking trips. In a couple of decades you won't have to worry about wishing you had got out and visited some of the great places in your country. The recent photos from Northern BC are great. Some great scenery, and real soul food.
Very briefly, I spent three years in BC in the late eighties, early nineties based east of Kelowna up Highway 33. I worked building log homes and met a great and diverse group of people. This group that was based in the Okanagen, now live all over BC from Creston in the south, to Smithers in the North. I have been lucky enough to visit Smithers three times, the last time in '05. As stated I have watched your build, and travels, but I got a kick out of the photos and map of your Babine Traverse. My friends from Smithers live right at the top of Driftwood Road east of Smithers. (Not sure if you started there or Smithers Landing Road). Anyway I think the internet is great. I can sit here in rural New Zealand and veiw your photos of places I have been! Only ever did a short hike in that area in late '98 when I was visiting. First photo is fall of '98, second is the veiw of the Telkwa's from my friends place, was Spring '05.
Hope your summer is going well. Things will be warming up in the Okanagen I guess! Thanks again for the great photos. My goal before this decade is up is to get back on Canadian soil and do a road trip from Vancouver to Prudhoe Bay, via Smithers and the Cassiar Highway. Gotta have dreams!
Have a good one!

Bill.

[allochris]

'chris -

I think you did an amazing job on your camper build. It looks outstanding. Love the aerodynamic shape of the roof, great design. I've seen the various build stages your truck has gone through, from the red sled, to camo to camper. Many thoughtful hours and hands on fabrication. Just great, great stuff.

Congrats again on such a well designed and well crafted build! :clapsmile

just dug up some old pictures of the red sled (http://i92.photobucket.com/albums/l37/allochris/img001.jpg) to camo (http://i92.photobucket.com/albums/l37/allochris/img002.jpg) lol...

[Humvette]

Wow great build. I would love to do something like that some day.

[allochris]

So ....wow, winter is back! I guess I gotta do something about this...http://i92.photobucket.com/albums/l37/allochris/Winter%202011/DSCF2707.jpg

After packing it up w/ ski touring gear & off we went south-bound from Smithers. We did ended up with a very lucky accident just south of Prince George. (Slid off the hwy on compact glazed ice into the ditch of opposite traffic, & luckily managed avoid oncoming traffic & flipped the whole truck forward onto its roof doing a front flip upon impact into snow bank. Luckily, we had zero injury & truck & camper has zero damage, other than a messy cab & camper with stuff everywhere!)

(Finally upload these 2 pics off my cell phone:)

http://i92.photobucket.com/albums/l37/allochris/van%20action/towa.jpg

http://i92.photobucket.com/albums/l37/allochris/van%20action/tow2.jpg

After relaxing for a day, we continued heading south thry the Duffy Lake Rd. (Hwy 99) towards Vancouver to pick up new tires. I'm going up 1" from 33x9.5 to 33x10.5r15 bfg at this time. http://i92.photobucket.com/albums/l37/allochris/Winter%202011/DSCF2732.jpg

Vancouver Chinatown:
http://i92.photobucket.com/albums/l37/allochris/Winter%202011/DSCF2733.jpg

Duffy Lk Rd.:
http://i92.photobucket.com/albums/l37/allochris/Winter%202011/DSCF2737.jpg
http://i92.photobucket.com/albums/l37/allochris/Winter%202011/DSCF2736.jpg
http://i92.photobucket.com/albums/l37/allochris/Winter%202011/DSCF2728.jpg

[stomperxj]

Great pictures.... No leaks or anything yet? After 2 winters how is the overall structure holding up?

Nice camper :)

Jess

[allochris]

Great pictures.... No leaks or anything yet? After 2 winters how is the overall structure holding up?

Nice camper :)

Jess

The truck was sitting upside down on the snow for 3hrs. No leak at all, except just a little of brake fluid sipped thru the rubber cap. I had a redtop starting battery & it seems like my spare marine (liquid) battery also didn't leak much since it's working just fine.

The camper structure is holding well after the crash! I really didn't expect it to survive a roll-over at all. Luckily it happened in snow! :Wow1:

[allochris]

Finally arriving at Rogers Pass near Revelstoke for some skiing:

http://i92.photobucket.com/albums/l37/allochris/Winter%202011/DSCF2776.jpg

http://i92.photobucket.com/albums/l37/allochris/Winter%202011/DSCF2763.jpg

http://i92.photobucket.com/albums/l37/allochris/Winter%202011/DSCF2761.jpg

http://i92.photobucket.com/albums/l37/allochris/Winter%202011/DSCF2779.jpg

http://i92.photobucket.com/albums/l37/allochris/Winter%202011/DSCF2793.jpg

http://i92.photobucket.com/albums/l37/allochris/Winter%202011/DSCF2811.jpg

http://i92.photobucket.com/albums/l37/allochris/Winter%202011/DSCF2813.jpg

http://i92.photobucket.com/albums/l37/allochris/Winter%202011/DSCF2816.jpg

http://i92.photobucket.com/albums/l37/allochris/Winter%202011/DSCF2817.jpg

http://i92.photobucket.com/albums/l37/allochris/Winter%202011/DSCF2855.jpg

[Mc Taco]

Wow! Glad to hear that you guys are all okay. And the truck survived too.

Those are some epic pictures! Thank you for posting them.

[allochris]

Spotted an old school toyota chinook camper in revelstoke today!

http://i92.photobucket.com/albums/l37/allochris/Winter%202011/DSCF3131.jpg

http://i92.photobucket.com/albums/l37/allochris/Winter%202011/DSCF3133.jpg

:costumed-smiley-007

[mangymarmot]

Glad to hear no one was injured and that your vehicle is still running. How many miles/kilos do you have on your rig now??

[Dale]

I am in the design phase of my camper build and considering a side hinge panel top with folding solid sides like yours OR an Alaskan style pop up. I prefer your style due to its simplicity and not having to configure a system to raise an Alaskan style roof. I plan on this being a three season camper; late fall, dead of winter and early spring. How well does your configuration keep out rain and strong wind? Do you have issues with water melting on your gear when the ice covered side panels are folded in? I figured you have run your camper through the ringer by now and maybe have some suggestions if you were to rebuild. thank you for any insight.

[allochris]

It's been snowing tons lately in Revelstoke & we skied lots of lines at Rogers Pass lately. Now we're near Naskups hot-springing on down days.....I spotted 2 more 80's Toyota Chinook Campers today in Naskups. One is a 4wd & the other is a 2wd. Pics coming soon~! :sombrero:

http://i92.photobucket.com/albums/l37/allochris/Winter%202011/DSCF3261.jpg

http://i92.photobucket.com/albums/l37/allochris/Winter%202011/DSCF3264.jpg



mangymarmot: Yes thank god no one was injured. Truck mileage: 376000km!!!

Dale: When I uninstall my removable panels, I actually wipe them clean b4 putting them away since they are always covered with dirt & mud & salt from driving in the winter road. The panel setup are surprisingly wind resistant, surely up to 60km/hr wind since I do drive with it setup in town. As for the vibration, I do only drive on smooth road with the top up.

[allochris]

http://i92.photobucket.com/albums/l37/allochris/Winter%202011/DSCF3171.jpg

http://i92.photobucket.com/albums/l37/allochris/Winter%202011/DSCF3161.jpg

http://i92.photobucket.com/albums/l37/allochris/Winter%202011/DSCF3159.jpg

http://i92.photobucket.com/albums/l37/allochris/Winter%202011/DSCF3158.jpg

http://i92.photobucket.com/albums/l37/allochris/Winter%202011/DSCF3037.jpg

http://i92.photobucket.com/albums/l37/allochris/Winter%202011/DSCF3022.jpg

http://i92.photobucket.com/albums/l37/allochris/Winter%202011/DSCF3020.jpg

http://i92.photobucket.com/albums/l37/allochris/Winter%202011/DSCF3187.jpg

http://i92.photobucket.com/albums/l37/allochris/Winter%202011/DSCF3194.jpg

http://i92.photobucket.com/albums/l37/allochris/Winter%202011/DSCF3197.jpg

http://i92.photobucket.com/albums/l37/allochris/Winter%202011/DSCF3200.jpg

http://i92.photobucket.com/albums/l37/allochris/Winter%202011/DSCF3205.jpg

http://i92.photobucket.com/albums/l37/allochris/Winter%202011/DSCF2994.jpg

http://i92.photobucket.com/albums/l37/allochris/Winter%202011/DSCF2887.jpg

http://i92.photobucket.com/albums/l37/allochris/Winter%202011/DSCF2885.jpg

[java]

amazing scenery! thanks for the pics.

[stomperxj]

Incredible photography... Thanks for sharing. Keep em comin!!

[Overland Hadley]

My girlfriend and I were both very quiet as we looked at your pictures, we miss the mountains. Make a couple turns for us. :beer:

[mtnbike28]

I have always loved your truck and pictures. Thanks for keeping us updated!

[allochris]

It has been snowing lots at Rogers Pass lately. Enjoy!

Fortitude (Me) :
http://vimeo.com/20084872

Fortitude (Angelina) :
http://vimeo.com/20084681

Teddy Bear Trees (Me) Part 1:
http://vimeo.com/20000659

Teddy Bear Trees (Me) Part 2:
http://vimeo.com/20000387


Fortitude Pics:
http://i92.photobucket.com/albums/l37/allochris/Winter%202011/DSCN7592.jpg

http://i92.photobucket.com/albums/l37/allochris/Winter%202011/DSCN7577.jpg

http://i92.photobucket.com/albums/l37/allochris/Winter%202011/DSCN7590.jpg

http://i92.photobucket.com/albums/l37/allochris/Winter%202011/DSCN7585.jpg

[allochris]

After all the snow, we've been hit w/ high pressure system last whole week. With the alpine avalanche danger on the moderate side, lots of bigger alpine lines have been skied lately under bluebird days...

North Face of Mt Green:
http://i92.photobucket.com/albums/l37/allochris/Winter%202011/DSCF3364.jpg

http://i92.photobucket.com/albums/l37/allochris/Winter%202011/DSCF3389.jpg

http://i92.photobucket.com/albums/l37/allochris/Winter%202011/DSCF3399.jpg

http://i92.photobucket.com/albums/l37/allochris/Winter%202011/DSCF3405.jpg

http://i92.photobucket.com/albums/l37/allochris/Winter%202011/DSCF3408.jpg

http://i92.photobucket.com/albums/l37/allochris/Winter%202011/DSCF3413.jpg

[Billhilly]

As always just really jealous! Great photos as usual. Was talking to my buddy in Invermere just last week (he's a Paramedic there). Looks like you've been having some nice days.
Can't believe you (and the truck) came away from that Prince George crash with hardly a scratch! Obviously don't need to tell you, but have fun!

(Me having lunch by one of the avalanche tunnels in Rodgers Pass. Mar. 05).

[vanisl4runner]

I don't know, it could be anything really.

All I really what is:

-diesel with great gas mileage for LONG distance travel
-bio-diesel convertible
-cheap to swap
-cheap & great parts availability

Other suggestion?

Hello Allochris...I saw that you were looking at putting a diesel in your truck...I am also thinking about doing the same with mine...I'm Planning a Mercedes 5 cylinder 617 turbo diesel engine...It is a very basic swap if you get it out of the older pre 1985 mercedes diesels. This was before they had Engine computers so it makes for a very easy swap...Good HP...Good Torque and Good for lond distance travelling...They run smooth and quiet...Just thought I'd let you know...When I start mine in the next year Ill put some pics up of the swap

[vanisl4runner]

sorry I have some things mixed up...I believe that the mercedes 617 is in fact not a turbo...I do know that the motor I do want is the Mercedes 5 cly turbo diesel that they put in their cars...Just thought I should clarify

[allochris]

Cool vanisl4runner, I will keep an eye out following your swap in the near future. My 377xxx km 22re piston rings are burning 1L oil / 1000km now a days. I can't wait until summer to figure out what my next step of action is going to be... Diesel would be sweet!

Oh, btw, we left Revelstoke a week ago heading south into the Kootenies. We skied up Mt Brennan near Retallack for some amazingly deep tree skiing for 2 days, following by a day at Whitewater backcountry & 2 days of tree skiing awesomeness at the Kootenay Pass.

We are now in Nelson thinking of heading towards Kootenay National Pass just south of Castle Junction for some burnt forest skiing. We might swing by Banff/Canmore to visit friends & head west thru Kicking Horse Pass for more skiing at Rogers Pass before heading to the coast next week.

8cm fresh overnight....gotta go!

[vanisl4runner]

Yup the swap will happen hopefully this fall. The old mercedes cars with the correct motor can be picked up in good running order for around 500-900 bucks...So pretty cheap for a good motor. I havent noticed any burning in my 22re. It has 389,xxx and counting. Runs smooth and always reliable...Didnt start one day though but that was a hoky wiring issue from the last owner. There is a company that makes the adapter plate for the swap and sells a proper fly wheel to bolt onto the mercedes engine. The kit is designed to use the toyota starter and 5 speed transmission. Everything else though, like where you want to mount everthing, is up to you. I plan on doing it so that it looks like the 1985 toyota 4runner came with the 5 cylinder Mercedes turbo diesel from the factory. Hey sounds like some good travelling your up too...If your pulling through Kelowna send me and email from here...I'd like to see your rig to get some ideas for my next one.

[vanisl4runner]

All the talk of skiing and fresh powder is making me miss my home mountain on Vancouver Island...Washington and Cain...The two best places in the world. No Money for skiing right now because of school...waaaaaaaaaaaaaa

[DzlToy]

OM617 IS is a turbo charged engine unless you got a very very early model that was NA.

They will run forever and can be made to make ungodly power with the right mods, though reliability tends to suffer when you are making 450hp from them.

[will1]

Hey Allochris, I've been following this thread from day 1 and I'm impressed with your fabrication skills, your courage, your photographs and your zest for life! You've done a GREAT job here, please keep it up!

Vanis, I don't understand how the Mercedes 5 cyl 617 would be a desirable swap when one of the primary stated objectives is "a diesel engine with great gas mileage for LONG distance travel."
I've owned an MB 240D (616 4 cyl engine) for several years now and, though incredibly reliable and incredibly cheap to maintain, the mileage I'm getting has always been far from good for a diesel - I average about 20 miles per gallon, 50/50 city/hwy, driving it mostly like your grandma would.
Certainly, the 5 cyl 617 gets even worse mileage....and that's not just me - I've been on several MB forums for several years now and the relatively poor mileage thingy has been a common experience for all who have shared their experience on those forums.
Just my 2 cents here....which I hope will help.

[12valve]

Hey Allochris, I've been following this thread from day 1 and I'm impressed with your fabrication skills, your courage, your photographs and your zest for life! You've done a GREAT job here, please keep it up!

Vanis, I don't understand how the Mercedes 5 cyl 617 would be a desirable swap when one of the primary stated objectives is "a diesel engine with great gas mileage for LONG distance travel."
I've owned an MB 240D (616 4 cyl engine) for several years now and, though incredibly reliable and incredibly cheap to maintain, the mileage I'm getting has always been far from good for a diesel - I average about 20 miles per gallon, 50/50 city/hwy, driving it mostly like your grandma would.
Certainly, the 5 cyl 617 gets even worse mileage....and that's not just me - I've been on several MB forums for several years now and the relatively poor mileage thingy has been a common experience for all who have shared their experience on those forums.
Just my 2 cents here....which I hope will help.

My 84 300d turbo (617, 5cyl) gets 33mpg consistently...

Hijack off.

[allochris]

Truck talk aside, I just got in Toronto for a few days celebrating dad's 60th bday & got some downtime to make my 1st movie of our season so far. Enjoy!



http://vimeo.com/21181058


I'll be flying back to BC next tuesday & we'll continue the 2nd half of our season in BC's northern coast until end of April!


Photo Album:
http://s92.photobucket.com/albums/l37/allochris/Winter%202011/

:coffeedrink:

[mangymarmot]

I'm very jealous. Awesome videos! Please post more adventures and pictures.

[allochris]

So...where r we now? Just back in Smithers last night!!!

Last wk after I flew back to Vancouver from Montreal/Toronto for a week, I headed back up to Squamish for some mountain-biking, ski toured whistler backcountry http://i92.photobucket.com/albums/l37/allochris/Winter%202011/DSCF4128.jpg

, then & up the Cayoosh glacier at Duffy Lake Road.http://i92.photobucket.com/albums/l37/allochris/Winter%202011/DSCF4155.jpg

& drove back to Smithers for our Northern Tour coming up for April!!!

Distance covered so far in the last 2 months (~7500km):
http://i92.photobucket.com/albums/l37/allochris/Winter%202011/SmitherstoVancouver.jpg

Truck celebrated its 380000km on our drive past Williams Lake too!
http://i92.photobucket.com/albums/l37/allochris/Winter%202011/DSCF4199.jpg

[Billhilly]

Great pictures as usual. I guess Smithers is starting to warm up a little. Have a beer at the Alpenhorn for me!

Bill.

[allochris]

Went up to Hudson Bay Mountain yesterday & Hankin today with 10-15cm fresh!!!

http://i296.photobucket.com/albums/mm189/cdworak/Hankin%20Mountain%20March%2030%202011/DSCF4288.jpg

http://i296.photobucket.com/albums/mm189/cdworak/Hankin%20Mountain%20March%2030%202011/DSCF4249.jpg

http://i296.photobucket.com/albums/mm189/cdworak/Hankin%20Mountain%20March%2030%202011/DSCF4240.jpg

Oh...& got to rotate my tires for the 1st time to get them ready for our possible trip up to Anchorage & Inuvik!!!

[vanisl4runner]

allochris...I did treeplanting in smithers for windfirm...Good spot to treeplant...not to hot and such a great crew to work with...they start mid may

[allochris]

It's official! Leaving Smithers 2morrow!

Trip plan for next 3 weeks time:

http://i92.photobucket.com/albums/l37/allochris/Winter%202011/SmitherstoInuvik.jpg

We'll hit up:
-Ningunsaw Pass
-White Pass
-Tombstone
-Kluane National Park
-Richarson Mountain Range
-Inuvik

Hopefully truck will run smoothly on our next ~8000km...:smiley_drive:

Since I'm not building any custom campers right now & I don't know how I can link this thread to the "In Progess Expedition" Page, I will just continue posting here to keep this alive.

[Billhilly]

Well that should fill three weeks in!
Funny thing is that the Cassier Highway at about 750k is nearly as long as each of our islands. So to rack up 8000k down here you'd be doing a lot of trips up and down! I'm guessing once you've done the Dempster Highway you'll be eyeing up a trip to Prudhoe Bay.
I have just shown my two daughters some pictures along the Dempster and we all agree how isolated (and small!) it is down here. I have told then for a long time that i'm going to the diner at Coldfoot to have reindeer sausages. They are not impressed!

[jrueppel]

Great photos! Good times! All looks like an adventure and a half!

[allochris]

Finally checking in at Skagway, AK after spending 3 days skiing at Ningunsaw Pass near Bell 2, 1 day at Cassiar near Jade City, 3 days at WhitePass. We had amazing luck with weather & following winter snow. Snow condition in the alpine at amazing right now with winter conditions everywhere we went.

Tommorrow = Down day in Skagway waiting for ferry to Haines. Then we'll ski Haines Pass till Friday.

It turns out the iceroad from Inuvik to Tuk is still open usually until 3rd wk of April, so we'll extend out drive to the Beauford Sea!

Pics will come!

[Bike_Mech]

I was in Skagway about a month ago, also waiting for the ferry. The whole town was pretty much shut down during the offseason, but the brewery was open(great beer and salmon sandwich).

Did you find a place to camp in Skagway? We couldn't and ended up spending a couple nights in a hotel.

-Chris


Finally checking in at Skagway, AK after spending 3 days skiing at Ningunsaw Pass near Bell 2, 1 day at Cassiar near Jade City, 3 days at WhitePass. We had amazing luck with weather & following winter snow. Snow condition in the alpine at amazing right now with winter conditions everywhere we went.

Tommorrow = Down day in Skagway waiting for ferry to Haines. Then we'll ski Haines Pass till Friday.

It turns out the iceroad from Inuvik to Tuk is still open usually until 3rd wk of April, so we'll extend out drive to the Beauford Sea!

Pics will come!

[allochris]

Finally got back in Whitehorse after checking out Haines & skiing at Haines Pass for 3 days! Once again we had amazing 1ft winter fresh powder on 3 Guardsmen north bowl & Nadahinni Glacier.

We are now reorganizing for our drive up north. Hopefully we'll be able to get to Tuk & back to Inuvik b4 the iceroad gets shut for the season.

Ok, some previews:

Kitwanga Jct:
http://i92.photobucket.com/albums/l37/allochris/Winter%202011/th_DSCF4515.jpg (http://s92.photobucket.com/albums/l37/allochris/Winter%202011/?action=view&current=DSCF4515.jpg)

Bell 2 (Ningunsaw Pass):
http://i92.photobucket.com/albums/l37/allochris/Winter%202011/th_DSCF4766.jpg (http://s92.photobucket.com/albums/l37/allochris/Winter%202011/?action=view&current=DSCF4766.jpg)
http://i92.photobucket.com/albums/l37/allochris/Winter%202011/th_DSCF4728.jpg (http://s92.photobucket.com/albums/l37/allochris/Winter%202011/?action=view&current=DSCF4728.jpg)
http://i92.photobucket.com/albums/l37/allochris/Winter%202011/th_DSCF4668.jpg (http://s92.photobucket.com/albums/l37/allochris/Winter%202011/?action=view&current=DSCF4668.jpg)
http://i92.photobucket.com/albums/l37/allochris/Winter%202011/th_DSCF4665.jpg (http://s92.photobucket.com/albums/l37/allochris/Winter%202011/?action=view&current=DSCF4665.jpg)
http://i92.photobucket.com/albums/l37/allochris/Winter%202011/th_DSCF4811.jpg (http://s92.photobucket.com/albums/l37/allochris/Winter%202011/?action=view&current=DSCF4811.jpg)

Cassiar:
http://i92.photobucket.com/albums/l37/allochris/Winter%202011/th_DSCF4841.jpg (http://s92.photobucket.com/albums/l37/allochris/Winter%202011/?action=view&current=DSCF4841.jpg)
http://i92.photobucket.com/albums/l37/allochris/Winter%202011/th_DSCF4880.jpg (http://s92.photobucket.com/albums/l37/allochris/Winter%202011/?action=view&current=DSCF4880.jpg)

WhitePass:
http://i92.photobucket.com/albums/l37/allochris/Winter%202011/th_DSCF5074.jpg (http://s92.photobucket.com/albums/l37/allochris/Winter%202011/?action=view&current=DSCF5074.jpg)
http://i92.photobucket.com/albums/l37/allochris/Winter%202011/th_DSCF5137.jpg (http://s92.photobucket.com/albums/l37/allochris/Winter%202011/?action=view&current=DSCF5137.jpg)

Skagway:
http://i92.photobucket.com/albums/l37/allochris/Winter%202011/th_DSCF5159.jpg (http://s92.photobucket.com/albums/l37/allochris/Winter%202011/?action=view&current=DSCF5159.jpg)
http://i92.photobucket.com/albums/l37/allochris/Winter%202011/th_DSCF5170.jpg (http://s92.photobucket.com/albums/l37/allochris/Winter%202011/?action=view&current=DSCF5170.jpg)
http://i92.photobucket.com/albums/l37/allochris/Winter%202011/th_DSCF5227.jpg (http://s92.photobucket.com/albums/l37/allochris/Winter%202011/?action=view&current=DSCF5227.jpg)
http://i92.photobucket.com/albums/l37/allochris/Winter%202011/th_DSCF5200.jpg (http://s92.photobucket.com/albums/l37/allochris/Winter%202011/?action=view&current=DSCF5200.jpg)

Haines:
http://i92.photobucket.com/albums/l37/allochris/Winter%202011/th_DSCF5334.jpg (http://s92.photobucket.com/albums/l37/allochris/Winter%202011/?action=view&current=DSCF5334.jpg)

Haines Pass - Nadahinni (Ptmargins):
http://i92.photobucket.com/albums/l37/allochris/Winter%202011/th_DSCF5410.jpg (http://s92.photobucket.com/albums/l37/allochris/Winter%202011/?action=view&current=DSCF5410.jpg)

Haines Pass - 3 Guardsmen:
http://i92.photobucket.com/albums/l37/allochris/Winter%202011/th_DSCF5448.jpg (http://s92.photobucket.com/albums/l37/allochris/Winter%202011/?action=view&current=DSCF5448.jpg)

Kluane Lake - Sheeps:
http://i92.photobucket.com/albums/l37/allochris/Winter%202011/th_DSCF5507.jpg (http://s92.photobucket.com/albums/l37/allochris/Winter%202011/?action=view&current=DSCF5507.jpg)


Bike Mech: The camping in Skagway is great! All you needed to do is drive less then 10 mies out of town to Dyea & they have great city run campground right off the bay by the water. April is great to visit AK, as we are litterally the only one on the road & places everywhere we go.

[allochris]

We've just made it to Inuvik!!! wow, civilization here! especially since driving through eagle plains area as there was nothing but snow, wind, dirt road, & little tress there...

Truck is running smoothly, zero problem so far. Temp's are actually nice, in the minus single digit celcius.

Hopefully the ice road to Tuk will be open tomorrow!:smiley_drive:

ps: it's nice to see that every local here has dark hair like me lol...

[allochris]

Iceroad to Tuk should be re-opening right now as we speak after snow removal from heavy snow drifting. we drove out on it in Inuvik last night & wow it looks like it's going to be a fun 194km drive one way on pure ice!!!

Apparently everyone in town here is also going up too due to a open class snowmobile race later this afternoon. it's over 100miles or something! :bike_rider:

http://i92.photobucket.com/albums/l37/allochris/Winter%202011/th_DSCF5770.jpg (http://s92.photobucket.com/albums/l37/allochris/Winter%202011/?action=view&current=DSCF5770.jpg)
http://i92.photobucket.com/albums/l37/allochris/Winter%202011/th_DSCF5772.jpg (http://s92.photobucket.com/albums/l37/allochris/Winter%202011/?action=view&current=DSCF5772.jpg)
http://i92.photobucket.com/albums/l37/allochris/Winter%202011/th_DSCF5773.jpg (http://s92.photobucket.com/albums/l37/allochris/Winter%202011/?action=view&current=DSCF5773.jpg)
http://i92.photobucket.com/albums/l37/allochris/Winter%202011/th_DSCF5774.jpg (http://s92.photobucket.com/albums/l37/allochris/Winter%202011/?action=view&current=DSCF5774.jpg)

[Billhilly]

Well I don't really know what to say. I've stated my jealousy before....
By my reakoning Tuk is around 69N, I'm about 40S, so I rolled Google Earth south to see how far I'd have to go to get to 69S. Past Auckland Island at 50S, past MacQuarie Island (54S), right down to the next continent! The coast of Antartica starts about 68S! You my Toyota driving friend have just driven to Antartica! In fact if you drove from somewhere round the border between CA/OR to Tuk would be the same as driving from my place to Antartica! To cool.
Have a safe trip South.

[allochris]

We just got back in Inuvik from Tuk! It was just amazing driving (& tow-skiing) in the middle of Mackenzie River & along the shoreline of Beauford Sea for ~200km, all this on pure ice at 80-90km/hr on 2wd!!! (seriously, any car w/ decent tires can do just fine!)

I am now on my 3600km trek southward-bound due for return to work in beginning of May in Princeton http://maps.google.ca/maps?f=d&sourc...,73.652344&z=3!

I guess winter have to end eventually...

pics will come...

ps. Don't have to be that jealous...Gas price are just really....expensive here. it's $1.68cad/Liter in Inuvik.:Wow1:

[Ray Hyland]

Great adventures Chris. I watched your Vimeo video, looks like you guys found some great powder. Also great to see you guys digging a pit.

I am just down the road from you in Sunshine Valley, you should pop in some time when you are driving through, I'd love to look at your cool camper. You can find me easily because it is the only house with a Defender in front of it. And if you are around next winter I can take you up Silvertip Mtn when I put the tracks back on.

Cheers

[allochris]

Here are a few group emails Catherine sent out to our friends about our trip:

1) April 9th, 11', Smithers - Bell 2 - Cassiar - Watson Lake:

"After leaving Smithers early in the morning, we drove to Ningunsaw Pass, just north of Bell 2. We skied three days there, every day of which was warm and sunny in the morning and turned into overcast and blustery in the afternoon. Chris and I were both happy to find winter-like conditions for skiing and amazing terrain with quick access to the alpine.

We then drove to Cassiar which is an abandoned mining village about 20km off the highway down a road just north of Jade City. Cassiar is an abandoned mining town. The road to the town is lined with falling down electricity lines on short poles or even scrawny dead trees. The town is dominated by a huge mountain of aggregate (mining waste), which we later found out is probably mostly asbestos. I'ma assuming the town has a caretaker because the road is plowed, and there were three horses and three dogs who came and checked out our truck while we were skiing. We could see them gathering around the truck from the mountain, and later we visited with the horses and one of the dogs. The snow pack was shallow and very decomposed, so we decided not to stay in Cassiar for the night. I think it would have been pretty spooky anyhow. The town is very quiet, but when the wind picks up it moves all the old twisted metal and wires from the abandoned buildings and equipment. The metal is very vocal, howling and clanging. Chris and I went to check out the abandoned equipment and when we got closer I saw giant rusted cable cars hanging from towers and buildings and buildings that were partly demolished leaving twisted metal and asbestos falling out."

2) April 12th, 11', WhitePass - Skagway:

Chris and I are in Scagway right now. We just finished spending three days in White Pass skiing. Every day we got fogged out or whited out or some combination of the two, which was terrible luck for us. We would leave the truck in beautiful endless visibility, then the clouds would come in, and then when we got back to the truck, great visibility again! Argh!!! Yesterday we sat in a hole in the snow next to a rock for 90minutes waiting for it to clear enough to finish going up Cleveland Glacier. Even so, we had poor visibility on our way back. I guess that's what it's like skiing in Alaska.

So, did I tell you WE'VE BEEN SKIING IN ALASKA!?!?! Way too cool! Tomorrow we're catching the ferry to Haines where we're going to ski for a few days before going back to Whitehorse.

Skagway is at sea level, and White Pass is at 800m elevation. It's pretty amazing the difference in season between these two places! White Pass is still in full winter- not even the spring conditions that we experienced further south. Cold cold wind and fresh dry powdery snow. Scagway on the other hand is on the verge of spring. The snowline is at treeline, and the trees are near budding. I'm looking forward to spending a night and day on the ocean, walking around, and stretching my legs.

3) April 17th, 11', Skagway - Haines - Haines Pass:

''Since my last e-mail, we have seen some pretty amazing mountains, and met some some cool people. The day we spent in Scagway was warm, sunny, and relaxing. Chris and I did laundry, and I sat on a tupperware bin in the street with my laundry hang-drying on a fence. It was pretty funny because it looked like I was selling clothes! I just can't imagine this peaceful village being over-run by thousands of cruise ship tourists in just a few weeks! In the evening we caught a ferry to Haines, Alaska. While we were waiting for the ferry (still basking in the calm sun), we watched an enormous black cloud boiling in the distance. We waited in the ferry line-up for a good 90minutes, and just before we started boarding, the winds from the storm entered the bay creating big waves and whitecaps. It hit us with such a sudden force- I would guess that the winds were blowing about 70km an hour! The boat was rocking; the cars were being splashed by the waves breaking over the loading ramp! The most exhilirating part of this adventure was that, while debarking, the ferry got smashed into and dragged across a barrier meant to keep boats out of a shallow gravel spit area of the bay. All the employees (apparently) rushed to the side to see what kind of damage had been incured. All this time, I was enjoying the gloriously hot and free showers on board and being amused by the water washing from side to side over my feet!

Chris and I arrived in Haines in the dark, around 11pm, and drove to Chilkoot Lake, where we camped for the night. We woke up the next morning to find ourselves next to the most beautiful mountain lake I have ever been to. Very comparable to Lake Louise, surrounded by tall glacier covered mountains. Haines Village is a neat little town on the edge of the ocean. It's in a similar setting to Chilkoot Lake, but on a much bigger scale. All around, across the water, and behind, are sparkling massive glaciers and steep mountains, with steep cliffs dropping sharply to the water.

That day we drove to Haines Pass where we found our friends who we had met in White Pass, and made a new friend. Again, we got whited out the next day, on an attempt to go to Nadahini Glacier. So we called it a day and on our way down we encountered flocks of white ptarmigan in the scrubby bushes. They're funny birds who sound like a cross between a turkey, chicken, and a chipmunk. They watched us with cautious curiousity while going about their business of eating the leaves on the bushes and hanging out. Yesterday we finally had a blue-bird day and were able to enjoy some real skiing on the Three Guardsmen Mountain. Some great powder turns with great access off of the highway. This place is worth a re-visit, and I hope I'm not offending any locals by saying that I liked it better than White Pass.

Chris and I spent last night in Destruction Bay and woke up to find a herd of mountain sheep on the slope above us! I counted 21 in all, and we were later told that they're ewes and young rams and that the "bachelor herds" won't regroup with them until later this spring.

So that's about it! Now we're back in Whitehorse, and if we don't dawdle too long here, we're hoping to leave for Dawson City tonight and make it to Tuktuyuktuk in a few days before the ice roads melt.

A big hug to all of you! And thank you for bearing with my e-mail if you actually managed to read it in full! (I know long e-mails aren't too common these days...)"

4) April 22nd, 11', Whitehorse - Dawson City - Eagle Plaines - MacPherson - Inuvik - Tuktoyatuk:

The speed limit on the Mackenzie Ice River Highway from Inuvik to Aklavik and Tuktoyuktuk is 90km/hr. Most locals here ripped past our cautious 60-80km/hr at a "comfortable" 120km/hr yesterday on our way to Tuk. Intimidating, considering we were driving on pure ice! About 100km from Tuk, the road suddenly ended and we had to wait for 90minutes with a bunch of locals for the grater to finish clearing the road. They had a snow storm with high winds earlier this week that filled in the road and they weren't able to finish clearing it until yesterday. It was important for them to clear it, because Tuk hosted an open class sled race in their harbour that many people wanted to get to. When we got there, the men were about 3/4 of the way through their 29 laps (100miles) of the Formula 1 style race. I realized that the locals have a true passion for speed when I sat with Chris on the edge of the course and the first few sleds whizzed past us at 160km an hour, many leaning on one ski past our corner just a few feet from where we sat! The women's race started a little later in the evening and they had to do 75miles. The temperature dropped from -10 to -20 by the time they finished their race! Boy they're tough!

After my last e-mail, Chris and I drove to Dawson City, a mining town of historic false-fronted buildings linked by boardwalks. Dawson City was our last stop before entering the foreboding Dempster Highway. This is the highway where you're warned to carry two spare tires (we have one, and we're driving on brand new tires), to carry jerry cans, and to gas up at every stop possible. We didn't have any problems, fortunately, and made it to Inuvik in two days of driving. Since we have arrived, we have found that we're driving the oldest vehicle in town by a good 15-20 years (our Toyota is a '91)!

The highway is simply a raised gravel strip, sometimes used as an emergency airstrip, buit on perma-frost. The vegetation is limited to black spruce, white spruce, willow, birch, and tundra. The black spruce grows in the poorest conditions, and the other trees can only grow near water where more soil has been deposited on top of the permafrost. For this reason, the black spruce is often "drunk" because it can't root very deeply and falls over and becomes contorted as it tries to straiten and reach for the sun. Chris and I were surprised to find forests growing as far north as about 100km south of Tuk because the Mackenzie Delta provides better growing conditions for the trees.

The landscape here is broad and open. The sky is huge and you can see for many kilometres. As we were driving up, we enjoyed spotting the mountain ranges glittering on the horizon hundreds of kilometres away. We crossed the Ogilvie Range (which incudes Tombstone Park) and the Richardson Range, and we saw some (probably?) big Alaskan mountains far off in the West. All very beautiful mountains, but too bare for skiing, and super rockey & faceted (=sugar snow). We might do a lap in Tombstone on our way home, just to say we did, if we have the time!

Speaking of skiing, Chris skied a Pingo today! (http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Pingo) I also towed him for about 20km at 60km/hr on the ice highway. After finishing being towed, Chris said "Ski-touring should be this easy!"

[allochris]

For those who are interested in gas price:

Gas Prices (April 5-22)

Tuktoyuktuk 1.47 (April 22)
Inuvik 1.68
Fort McPherson 1.60
Eagle Plains Hotel 1.55
Dawson City 1.47
Whitehorse 1.30
Teslin 1.30
Watson Lake 1.31
Deese Lake 1.50
Bell 2 1.45
Hazelton 1.20 (April 5)

We are now on our way south!

[spressomon]

Amazing thread! Thanks!!!

[allochris]

We just made it all the way back to Smithers after 4 days of driving from Inuvik. We managed to catch the Dawson International film festival, quick visit with a skiing friend in Whitehorse, camping in beautiful Atlin, & checking out Kitangow historial village just north of Kitwanga.

Unfortunately & surprisingly, I suspected we've been driving with a blowing headgasket at cyl #4 since we were on our way back across the Richarson mountains. The exhaust & coolant temp looks normal while driving. Although as soon as I restart engine after turning off engine (ie. gas-up, quick stop), lots of white smoke comes out of the exhaust but it eventually gets burn off w/in 1 min or so.

Coolant Temp looks normal still, but I do hear bubbling from the expansion tube into the expansion tank. It's been drinking coolant too. Oil cap is now suspended with milky shake deposit, & spark plug #4 is in fact...wet!

Now my question is, can I keep driving it another 2 days to Princeton (at normal coolant temp) & hope that the headgasket don't completely give up & let all the coolant rushing into cyl #4.?

If so, should I unplug sparkplug wire #4 to disable cyl #4, or just keep cyl #4 running to burn off the excess coolant?

[Billhilly]

Just talked to a guy I know who has been a mechanic his entire life. We have the same motor down here too. So yes, either blown head gasket, or cracked cylinder head. Don't remove the spark plug. You can drive it, but just be gentle. There is no guarantee, yes it could get worse, but it is a Toyota!
Keep an eye on the temp levels. If it gets hot, just stop and let it cool down and top the water up (carry lots!). And keep an eye on the oil as well. So sludgy on the oil cap but the oil is still oil coloured aye?

I would add, just be careful starting it first thing in the morning. If it was getting real bad (leaking into the cylinder) that could be a real bad thing as you crank it over, so if it showed any signs of resistance to starting, stop! Remove the plug and then wind it over. I would actually (carefully) check the water level in the radiator itself just to make sure. I burst a heater hose in an old Toyota I had (actually saw all the steam pour out the back of the car) but the temp gauge didn't move so I continued driving to the nearest town. At the gas station pouring water in wondering where it is all going, then notice it was running past my feet! Temp qauge won't work when there is no water at all! Take it easy.

[Ray Hyland]

if the oil is turning milky that's a bad sign. Pop into a mechanic in Smithers and get them to take a look. If you cant afford to fix it there and want to limp it home, at least change the oil to give a bit more protection in the engine while you are driving home.

[allochris]

Thanks a lot, luckily Smithers is my truck's temporary home so I don't nessaryly have to limp elsewhere really.

I'm thinking of just simply leaving the truck stored here at least the next 2 months until I finish work down south by early July. If I get time in July between contracts I would sure hope to put another 22re in, either off some junkyards or a reman? With increasing diesel price, I don't see a point in diesel conversion anymore unless I'm running WVO or running a half-cut D4D ($$$).

Oil from dip stick are actual oil colour, only oil cap are milk shake. I did pop the plug out just to see how much water shoots out after initial cranking with plug in & firing. & yes it's an decent amount as I've been adding about 4L water to the rad since Kitwanga, last 134km. Water level was well below the top fins row.

Thanks for the tips about the coolant sensor not able to send coolant temp if there's no coolant btw.

Anyway, if any of you have some suggestion/contact please don't hesitate to let me know? Whether another 22re (my preference) or rebuild?

-Chris

Btw, we finally skied the 7000' of Hudson Bay Mountain this morning in Smithers! We hit it perfectly with good timing with the clouds rolling in from the west & softening melt-freeze crust. It's spring time!

(Pic is off the internet & there's actually way more snow all the way down to the bottom of avy path...)
http://i92.photobucket.com/albums/l37/allochris/Winter%202011/hudsonbay.jpg

[Billhilly]

Good that you don't have to drive another 1000k. Sounds like you have a fairly decent leak/crack going on. Can't see a diesel being worth it. That would require diff ratio changes etc would it? If you have a little time on your side you could keep an eye out on Criagslist etc. Might find something second hand for the right money. Do you know any good mechanics in Smithers?

So with something like Hudson Bay Mountain, what altitude (where did) you drive to/park at. And then how many hours of climb time, and then how many hours of ski time (back to where)? Oh, and where are the pictures!

[allochris]

If you have a little time on your side you could keep an eye out on Criagslist etc. Might find something second hand for the right money. Do you know any good mechanics in Smithers?

I've been checking out car-part.com today & will pop by a junkyard next week in Prince George to check out their toyota selection. As for mechanic in Smithers, i actually have no idea since I don't live here (my stuff do though!). If I go for another 22re, I'll just do everything myself as I imagine it will a relatively straightforward swap.


So with something like Hudson Bay Mountain, what altitude (where did) you drive to/park at. And then how many hours of climb time, and then how many hours of ski time (back to where)? Oh, and where are the pictures!

7000: (excerpt from John Baldwin "Exploring the Coast Mtns on Skis")
Elevation gain : 1400m
Start (ski hill parking lot): 1500m
From ski hill, ski up S ridge of Hudson Bay Mtn, continue to the last flat portion of ridge at 2350m, then ski down a ramp into Simpson Cr for 500m verticle drop, then head up N into the col btwn Kathlyn Pk & a peak W of it. At the summit of Kathlyn Pk (aka: 5000), ski 1700m down the Glacier Gulch Rd.

We had 2 cars, so we park 1 at Glacier Gulch & drove another up the hill. We started skinning at 7am & skied down the 1st 2000ft by 10am, bootpacked up to Kathlyn Peak (2350m) on the 2nd climb by 11am, then skied down to our other car at 12pm. 5hrs mission car to car. 5 of us were hauling, but we had a 20mins break in btwn ski. It's a scenic descent over-looking the Bulkley Valley with a consistant 30-35 degree pitch. Snow warmed up significantly half way down the alpine, not to mention the heavy isothermic snow mush below treeline at this time of year.

Pics will come as I still have to sit down & start looking though them!!!

[Jeremysp1993]

Im not sure if you had this question already, but how much was the siding on the outside? I am making my own camper http://www.expeditionportal.com/forum/showthread.php?t=60336
and i need some siding soon. Thanks!

[allochris]

Im not sure if you had this question already, but how much was the siding on the outside? I am making my own camper http://www.expeditionportal.com/forum/showthread.php?t=60336
and i need some siding soon. Thanks!

I got 4 sheets for $125. They are odd size that the width just happend to fit the height of my camper (not 4x8). I can't remember how many square footage I got but the base of my camper is about 7'x7', + a bit on roof top & under cab-over section.

[Funrover]

So many great pics, thanks for sharing!

[Billhilly]

If I go for another 22re, I'll just do everything myself as I imagine it will a relatively straightforward swap.
Yeah, it shouldn't be to hard. Remember to allow time/money for clutch work if it needs doing while you are in there.


7000: (excerpt from John Baldwin "Exploring the Coast Mtns on Skis")
Elevation gain : 1400m
Start (ski hill parking lot): 1500m
From ski hill, ski up S ridge of Hudson Bay Mtn, continue to the last flat portion of ridge at 2350m, then ski down a ramp into Simpson Cr for 500m verticle drop, then head up N into the col btwn Kathlyn Pk & a peak W of it. At the summit of Kathlyn Pk (aka: 5000), ski 1700m down the Glacier Gulch Rd.

We had 2 cars, so we park 1 at Glacier Gulch & drove another up the hill. We started skinning at 7am & skied down the 1st 2000ft by 10am, bootpacked up to Kathlyn Peak (2350m) on the 2nd climb by 11am, then skied down to our other car at 12pm. 5hrs mission car to car. 5 of us were hauling, but we had a 20mins break in btwn ski. It's a scenic descent over-looking the Bulkley Valley with a consistant 30-35 degree pitch. Snow warmed up significantly half way down the alpine, not to mention the heavy isothermic snow mush below treeline at this time of year.

Thats one heck of a way to fill the morning in! You'd be ready for lunch after that. Thanks for the explanation. I see your photos and imagine in alot of cases there is alot of uphill before the downhill! Explaining this one (on a mountain I know) puts things in perspective. So 30-35 degree pitch over nearly 1700m drop, how does that compare to stuff you've skied this season? Middle of the road, we ski much steeper most of the time or?

Here's a shot from by Driftwood School. I believe it covers your mornings route.

[allochris]

Remember to allow time/money for clutch work if it needs doing while you are in there.

Actually I just got my clutch done 2 Falls ago b4 my last year ski season, that's why I'm determined to do an engine swap rather than a complete truck swap...



So 30-35 degree pitch over nearly 1700m drop, how does that compare to stuff you've skied this season? Middle of the road, we ski much steeper most of the time or?

Actually most fun & some what steep slopes we skied are in the 30-40degree range on open alpine face/bowl all season long. Unless you start descending chutes & couloirs, you probably won't go into 40s ...

Today we came back early bailing our 14hrs Babine Traverse mission from New Babine Lk Rd below 4 Lakes to Winter Parking Lot. The pressure & ceiling was coming down fast as soon as we first poped into the alpine at 11am...Too bad we couldn't see any goats or sun!

[allochris]

Finally got some time to sort out the pics. Here is the album: http://s92.photobucket.com/albums/l37/allochris/Winter%202011/Smithers%20-%20Tuktoyuktuk/

Some preview:

Dawson City:
http://i92.photobucket.com/albums/l37/allochris/Winter%202011/th_DSCF5617.jpg (http://s92.photobucket.com/albums/l37/allochris/Winter%202011/?action=view&current=DSCF5617.jpg)
http://i92.photobucket.com/albums/l37/allochris/Winter%202011/th_DSCF6460.jpg (http://s92.photobucket.com/albums/l37/allochris/Winter%202011/?action=view&current=DSCF6460.jpg) (Gas up at McKenzie Petrolium: it's 10cents less than everywhere else in Dawson, it's 24hrs card-lock but accepts credit card. Just south of town, west side of hwy.)
http://i92.photobucket.com/albums/l37/allochris/Winter%202011/th_DSCF6472.jpg (http://s92.photobucket.com/albums/l37/allochris/Winter%202011/?action=view&current=DSCF6472.jpg)
http://i92.photobucket.com/albums/l37/allochris/Winter%202011/th_DSCF6467.jpg (http://s92.photobucket.com/albums/l37/allochris/Winter%202011/?action=view&current=DSCF6467.jpg)

Tombstone/Eagle Plains - Dempster:
http://i92.photobucket.com/albums/l37/allochris/Winter%202011/th_DSCF6442.jpg (http://s92.photobucket.com/albums/l37/allochris/Winter%202011/?action=view&current=DSCF6442.jpg)
http://i92.photobucket.com/albums/l37/allochris/Winter%202011/th_DSCF5631.jpg (http://s92.photobucket.com/albums/l37/allochris/Winter%202011/?action=view&current=DSCF5631.jpg)
http://i92.photobucket.com/albums/l37/allochris/Winter%202011/th_DSCF6211.jpg (http://s92.photobucket.com/albums/l37/allochris/Winter%202011/?action=view&current=DSCF6211.jpg)
http://i92.photobucket.com/albums/l37/allochris/Winter%202011/th_DSCF6221.jpg (http://s92.photobucket.com/albums/l37/allochris/Winter%202011/?action=view&current=DSCF6221.jpg)
http://i92.photobucket.com/albums/l37/allochris/Winter%202011/th_DSCF6234.jpg (http://s92.photobucket.com/albums/l37/allochris/Winter%202011/?action=view&current=DSCF6234.jpg)
http://i92.photobucket.com/albums/l37/allochris/Winter%202011/th_DSCF6347.jpg (http://s92.photobucket.com/albums/l37/allochris/Winter%202011/?action=view&current=DSCF6347.jpg)(Look how thick the gravel is to build the road on a swamp!)
http://i92.photobucket.com/albums/l37/allochris/Winter%202011/th_DSCF6242.jpg (http://s92.photobucket.com/albums/l37/allochris/Winter%202011/?action=view&current=DSCF6242.jpg)(Are these the ice-road truckers? At Eagle Plains)



NWT - Dempster:
http://i92.photobucket.com/albums/l37/allochris/Winter%202011/th_DSCF5704.jpg (http://s92.photobucket.com/albums/l37/allochris/Winter%202011/?action=view&current=DSCF5704.jpg)
http://i92.photobucket.com/albums/l37/allochris/Winter%202011/th_DSCF5705.jpg (http://s92.photobucket.com/albums/l37/allochris/Winter%202011/?action=view&current=DSCF5705.jpg)
http://i92.photobucket.com/albums/l37/allochris/Winter%202011/th_DSCF5791.jpg (http://s92.photobucket.com/albums/l37/allochris/Winter%202011/?action=view&current=DSCF5791.jpg)
http://i92.photobucket.com/albums/l37/allochris/Winter%202011/th_DSCF6350.jpg (http://s92.photobucket.com/albums/l37/allochris/Winter%202011/?action=view&current=DSCF6350.jpg)

Inuvik to Tuktoyatuk - Ice Road:
http://i92.photobucket.com/albums/l37/allochris/Winter%202011/th_DSCF5852.jpg (http://s92.photobucket.com/albums/l37/allochris/Winter%202011/?action=view&current=DSCF5852.jpg)
http://i92.photobucket.com/albums/l37/allochris/Winter%202011/th_DSCF5824.jpg (http://s92.photobucket.com/albums/l37/allochris/Winter%202011/?action=view&current=DSCF5824.jpg)
http://i92.photobucket.com/albums/l37/allochris/Winter%202011/th_DSCF6089.jpg (http://s92.photobucket.com/albums/l37/allochris/Winter%202011/?action=view&current=DSCF6089.jpg)
http://i92.photobucket.com/albums/l37/allochris/Winter%202011/th_DSCF6100.jpg (http://s92.photobucket.com/albums/l37/allochris/Winter%202011/?action=view&current=DSCF6100.jpg)


Tuktoyatuk:
http://i92.photobucket.com/albums/l37/allochris/Winter%202011/th_DSCF5983.jpg (http://s92.photobucket.com/albums/l37/allochris/Winter%202011/?action=view&current=DSCF5983.jpg)
http://i92.photobucket.com/albums/l37/allochris/Winter%202011/th_DSCF5951.jpg (http://s92.photobucket.com/albums/l37/allochris/Winter%202011/?action=view&current=DSCF5951.jpg)
http://i92.photobucket.com/albums/l37/allochris/Winter%202011/th_DSCF5901.jpg (http://s92.photobucket.com/albums/l37/allochris/Winter%202011/?action=view&current=DSCF5901.jpg)
http://i92.photobucket.com/albums/l37/allochris/Winter%202011/th_DSCF6011.jpg (http://s92.photobucket.com/albums/l37/allochris/Winter%202011/?action=view&current=DSCF6011.jpg)
http://i92.photobucket.com/albums/l37/allochris/Winter%202011/th_DSCF6042.jpg (http://s92.photobucket.com/albums/l37/allochris/Winter%202011/?action=view&current=DSCF6042.jpg)
http://i92.photobucket.com/albums/l37/allochris/Winter%202011/th_DSCF6069.jpg (http://s92.photobucket.com/albums/l37/allochris/Winter%202011/?action=view&current=DSCF6069.jpg)(Skied a Pingo in Tuk!)

[allochris]

http://i92.photobucket.com/albums/l37/allochris/Winter%202011/th_DSCF6083.jpg (http://s92.photobucket.com/albums/l37/allochris/Winter%202011/?action=view&current=DSCF6083.jpg)(Beauford Sea is pretty big & flat!)


Atlin:
http://i92.photobucket.com/albums/l37/allochris/Winter%202011/th_DSCF6478.jpg (http://s92.photobucket.com/albums/l37/allochris/Winter%202011/?action=view&current=DSCF6478.jpg)
http://i92.photobucket.com/albums/l37/allochris/Winter%202011/th_DSCF6497.jpg (http://s92.photobucket.com/albums/l37/allochris/Winter%202011/?action=view&current=DSCF6497.jpg)
http://i92.photobucket.com/albums/l37/allochris/Winter%202011/th_DSCF6514.jpg (http://s92.photobucket.com/albums/l37/allochris/Winter%202011/?action=view&current=DSCF6514.jpg)

Gitanyow:
http://i92.photobucket.com/albums/l37/allochris/Winter%202011/th_DSCF6575.jpg (http://s92.photobucket.com/albums/l37/allochris/Winter%202011/?action=view&current=DSCF6575.jpg)
http://i92.photobucket.com/albums/l37/allochris/Winter%202011/th_DSCF6562.jpg (http://s92.photobucket.com/albums/l37/allochris/Winter%202011/?action=view&current=DSCF6562.jpg)

[Billhilly]

Shame about the Babine Traverse. Smithers is slowly coming into Spring I guess.

Thanks for sharing your photos!

I was thinking the other day after you talked about Tuk that I had seen it before somewhere (and the Pingo's). A couple of years ago on TV down here Billy Connelly (Scottish comedian) did a series called 'Journey to the edge of the world' (which I recorded). He started in Nova Scotia, then Newfoundland, Baffin Island, and the NW passage. Came ashore at Tuk in the Fall, by boat to Inuvik, then hitched a ride with Bill The Fruitman (from Smithers) down the Dempster. Got out below the Artic circle, choppered into Tombstone, then continued south. Anyway he came down through Dawson City and then down the Cassier Highway and went and stayed with Nancy Ball (then 75) in Glenora, before continuing south. Great show, but not as good as your pictures.

Another great winter nearly done for you both huh? Summer is on it's way. I need to get another load of firewood in!

[java]

22re swap is way easy. find a new one and drop it in. love all the new pics. id love to get up that way soon.

[allochris]

22re swap is way easy. find a new one and drop it in. love all the new pics. id love to get up that way soon.

i imagine so, but finding a good one might be harder than the swap.

[java]

i imagine so, but finding a good one might be harder than the swap.

hard to find up there? my truck was stolen and the motor toated and i found one pretty quick for 600. but that was a couple years ago. i dont think there are any major differences between US and canadian models. if thats the case there is a big toyota wrecking yard in WA. Nix99, might be worth a try

[allochris]

Tried Nix99, they got nothing 4 me.

Update: I've just found two 22re available right here in Smithers junkyard!

First 22re has 330xxxKM from an 89. Water pump, throttle body are missing, & distributor is pulled out. It has headgasket & timing chain done about 2 years ago. The guy actually had it running around town until he went into the ditch last winter. The yard is asking $500 for it.

Second one is arriving next week. Don't have much details about it but the yard says it's supposed to be completed w/ low mileage. Goes for $750.

Option 3: Spend $1000 locally just for a headgasket job on my existing engine, & keeping the oil burning issues unfixed.

Option 4: Spend $1400 (asking price) for a drop in 22re rebuilt by a guy from a shop down in Vancouver. + ~$150 for me to tow it up here. (I'm going to see him next Friday.)

Option 5: Spend $2122 tax-in for a reman. at http://www.canadaengines.com/ ($1900 for a reman. + $336 core charge + $224 shipping)

Option 6: Spend $2400 at Disturbed Industries in Vancouver to rebuild my engine.

Option 7: $3000 to rebuilt mine locally at Enjoy Machine.

Option 8: To do the rebuilt myself (except machining) like Kewlynx suggested. I just need to figure out the total cost and when I'll have the time & place & resource to do it though...

Option 9: $650 for a 2.4l diesel eng, clutch and 5 spd trans. (http://www.usedvictoria.com/classified-ad/24L-toyota-diesel-pu-engine-clutch-and-trans_14075730) I'm afraid i'll be way underpowered with my camper total at near 5800-6000lbs though...

[DzlToy]

dep on the 2LT2 specs, you could be better off. A 22RE only had about 115 hp and 140 TQ if I recall correctly. Maybe turn the pump up slightly on the diesel for a bit more power, better intake and exhaust or something else simple/bolt on.

Toyota diesel are notoriously underpowered or conservatively tuned, they will take a lot of mods and still live a long life.

[allochris]

All right, now i just arrived in Vancouver & I'll be off searching for an engine here next couple days.

A cool Unimog setup sighting in Surrey shopping mall parking lot last Tuesday evening:
http://i92.photobucket.com/albums/l37/allochris/Winter%202011/DSCF6629.jpg

[nucktaco]

if you take a look on BC4x4.com you shouldnt have a problem finding a good used motor for a decent price.

[allochris]

A little update:

I've found 1 freshly rebuilt 22re in Whistler for $1200. Haven't check it out yet, but it has plastic chain guide.

Yesterday I went check out the $1400 one in Langley. This guy in his early 60s surely does this for a living. He sells about 2 of these every month apparently. All stock (plastic guide as well), except the 0.x10" crank machining he mentioned about? (I had no idea what that meant though)

Looks like if he sells the one below before I might buy mine in July, I could get him to put in the metal chain guide this time.

http://i92.photobucket.com/albums/l37/allochris/th_DSCF6678.jpg (http://s92.photobucket.com/albums/l37/allochris/?action=view&current=DSCF6678.jpg)
http://i92.photobucket.com/albums/l37/allochris/th_DSCF6681.jpg (http://s92.photobucket.com/albums/l37/allochris/?action=view&current=DSCF6681.jpg)
http://i92.photobucket.com/albums/l37/allochris/th_DSCF6683.jpg (http://s92.photobucket.com/albums/l37/allochris/?action=view&current=DSCF6683.jpg)
http://i92.photobucket.com/albums/l37/allochris/th_DSCF6684.jpg (http://s92.photobucket.com/albums/l37/allochris/?action=view&current=DSCF6684.jpg)
http://i92.photobucket.com/albums/l37/allochris/th_DSCF6679.jpg (http://s92.photobucket.com/albums/l37/allochris/?action=view&current=DSCF6679.jpg)
http://i92.photobucket.com/albums/l37/allochris/th_DSCF6682.jpg (http://s92.photobucket.com/albums/l37/allochris/?action=view&current=DSCF6682.jpg)
http://i92.photobucket.com/albums/l37/allochris/th_DSCF6686.jpg (http://s92.photobucket.com/albums/l37/allochris/?action=view&current=DSCF6686.jpg)
http://i92.photobucket.com/albums/l37/allochris/th_DSCF6687.jpg (http://s92.photobucket.com/albums/l37/allochris/?action=view&current=DSCF6687.jpg)
http://i92.photobucket.com/albums/l37/allochris/th_DSCF6680.jpg (http://s92.photobucket.com/albums/l37/allochris/?action=view&current=DSCF6680.jpg)

[allochris]

Fast forward a couple months, I'm back in Smithers this week to work on my truck! I've been having an amazing summer working May & June in Princeton, BC & July & August in Dawson, YT.

May & June:

http://i92.photobucket.com/albums/l37/allochris/Summer%202011/th_DSCF6708.jpg (http://s92.photobucket.com/albums/l37/allochris/Summer%202011/?action=view&current=DSCF6708.jpg)

http://i92.photobucket.com/albums/l37/allochris/Summer%202011/th_DSCF6713.jpg (http://s92.photobucket.com/albums/l37/allochris/Summer%202011/?action=view&current=DSCF6713.jpg)

http://i92.photobucket.com/albums/l37/allochris/Summer%202011/th_DSCF6718.jpg (http://s92.photobucket.com/albums/l37/allochris/Summer%202011/?action=view&current=DSCF6718.jpg)

July & August:

Album Link: http://s92.photobucket.com/albums/l37/allochris/Summer%202011/

http://i92.photobucket.com/albums/l37/allochris/Summer%202011/th_DSC00146.jpg (http://s92.photobucket.com/albums/l37/allochris/Summer%202011/?action=view&current=DSC00146.jpg)

http://i92.photobucket.com/albums/l37/allochris/Summer%202011/th_DSC00437.jpg (http://s92.photobucket.com/albums/l37/allochris/Summer%202011/?action=view&current=DSC00437.jpg)

http://i92.photobucket.com/albums/l37/allochris/Summer%202011/th_DSC00414.jpg (http://s92.photobucket.com/albums/l37/allochris/Summer%202011/?action=view&current=DSC00414.jpg)

http://i92.photobucket.com/albums/l37/allochris/Summer%202011/th_DSC00085.jpg (http://s92.photobucket.com/albums/l37/allochris/Summer%202011/?action=view&current=DSC00085.jpg)

http://i92.photobucket.com/albums/l37/allochris/Summer%202011/th_DSC00101.jpg (http://s92.photobucket.com/albums/l37/allochris/Summer%202011/?action=view&current=DSC00101.jpg)

http://i92.photobucket.com/albums/l37/allochris/Summer%202011/th_DSC00282.jpg (http://s92.photobucket.com/albums/l37/allochris/Summer%202011/?action=view&current=DSC00282.jpg)

http://i92.photobucket.com/albums/l37/allochris/Summer%202011/th_DSCF6169.jpg (http://s92.photobucket.com/albums/l37/allochris/Summer%202011/?action=view&current=DSCF6169.jpg)

http://i92.photobucket.com/albums/l37/allochris/Summer%202011/th_DSCF6163.jpg (http://s92.photobucket.com/albums/l37/allochris/Summer%202011/?action=view&current=DSCF6163.jpg)

http://i92.photobucket.com/albums/l37/allochris/Summer%202011/th_DSCF6056.jpg (http://s92.photobucket.com/albums/l37/allochris/Summer%202011/?action=view&current=DSCF6056.jpg)

http://i92.photobucket.com/albums/l37/allochris/Summer%202011/th_DSCF6102.jpg (http://s92.photobucket.com/albums/l37/allochris/Summer%202011/?action=view&current=DSCF6102.jpg)

http://i92.photobucket.com/albums/l37/allochris/Summer%202011/th_DSCF6148.jpg (http://s92.photobucket.com/albums/l37/allochris/Summer%202011/?action=view&current=DSCF6148.jpg)

http://i92.photobucket.com/albums/l37/allochris/Summer%202011/th_DSCF6143.jpg (http://s92.photobucket.com/albums/l37/allochris/Summer%202011/?action=view&current=DSCF6143.jpg)

http://i92.photobucket.com/albums/l37/allochris/Summer%202011/th_DSCF6062.jpg (http://s92.photobucket.com/albums/l37/allochris/Summer%202011/?action=view&current=DSCF6062.jpg)

http://i92.photobucket.com/albums/l37/allochris/Summer%202011/th_DSCF6258.jpg (http://s92.photobucket.com/albums/l37/allochris/Summer%202011/?action=view&current=DSCF6258.jpg)

All in all, amazing summer working & exploring new scenery in the Yukon.

Engine work has begun!

I just started prepping the blown engine overhaul process today. I got it tow to a shop in town & we'll be R&R-ing all day tomorrow!

http://i92.photobucket.com/albums/l37/allochris/th_DSCF6270.jpg (http://s92.photobucket.com/albums/l37/allochris/?action=view&current=DSCF6270.jpg)

http://i92.photobucket.com/albums/l37/allochris/th_DSCF6277.jpg (http://s92.photobucket.com/albums/l37/allochris/?action=view&current=DSCF6277.jpg)

http://i92.photobucket.com/albums/l37/allochris/th_DSCF6278.jpg (http://s92.photobucket.com/albums/l37/allochris/?action=view&current=DSCF6278.jpg)

http://i92.photobucket.com/albums/l37/allochris/th_DSCF6289.jpg (http://s92.photobucket.com/albums/l37/allochris/?action=view&current=DSCF6289.jpg)

http://i92.photobucket.com/albums/l37/allochris/th_DSCF6283.jpg (http://s92.photobucket.com/albums/l37/allochris/?action=view&current=DSCF6283.jpg)

[allochris]

Today's progress!

Ready for removal:
http://i92.photobucket.com/albums/l37/allochris/th_DSCF6291.jpg (http://s92.photobucket.com/albums/l37/allochris/?action=view&current=DSCF6291.jpg)

Out she goes:
http://i92.photobucket.com/albums/l37/allochris/th_DSCF6294.jpg (http://s92.photobucket.com/albums/l37/allochris/?action=view&current=DSCF6294.jpg)

Empty bay:
http://i92.photobucket.com/albums/l37/allochris/th_DSCF6295.jpg (http://s92.photobucket.com/albums/l37/allochris/?action=view&current=DSCF6295.jpg)

New rebuilt engine all dressed up:
http://i92.photobucket.com/albums/l37/allochris/th_DSCF6297.jpg (http://s92.photobucket.com/albums/l37/allochris/?action=view&current=DSCF6297.jpg)

In she goes:
http://i92.photobucket.com/albums/l37/allochris/th_DSCF6299.jpg (http://s92.photobucket.com/albums/l37/allochris/?action=view&current=DSCF6299.jpg)

Reassembly:
http://i92.photobucket.com/albums/l37/allochris/th_DSCF6300.jpg (http://s92.photobucket.com/albums/l37/allochris/?action=view&current=DSCF6300.jpg)

[allochris]

All fixed!

http://i92.photobucket.com/albums/l37/allochris/th_DSCF6301.jpg (http://s92.photobucket.com/albums/l37/allochris/?action=view&current=DSCF6301.jpg)

Just need to break-in 500km now + hot valve adjustment. It idles dead-on upon initial startup.

Question:

-Is the valve cover gasket re-useable? Silicon needed?
-What's the valve clearance setting at hot?

[Billhilly]

Good news on the truck front! Ready to fight another day.
Can't really help with your questions. Some rubber valve cover gaskets were reusable.
Sounds/looks like you have had a great summer. I hear the locals in Smithers are a little testy about the lack of sunshine as fall rush's up on them!
So which direction will you head this winter?
Have a good one.

[mangymarmot]

Nice work. Can't wait to see more adventures in the camper.

[allochris]

Just got back in Smithers again after a short 2 weeks contract working in the middle of nowhere again! (http://www.findmespot.com/mylocation/?id=60gkj/53.09476N/124.81895W) & it snowed!!! 3" of fluff!!!

Smithers today:

http://i92.photobucket.com/albums/l37/allochris/Summer%202011/th_P3120006.jpg (http://s92.photobucket.com/albums/l37/allochris/Summer%202011/?action=view&current=P3120006.jpg)

http://i92.photobucket.com/albums/l37/allochris/Summer%202011/th_P3120013.jpg (http://s92.photobucket.com/albums/l37/allochris/Summer%202011/?action=view&current=P3120013.jpg)

http://i92.photobucket.com/albums/l37/allochris/Summer%202011/th_P3130050.jpg (http://s92.photobucket.com/albums/l37/allochris/Summer%202011/?action=view&current=P3130050.jpg)


Work near Tascha Lake:

http://i92.photobucket.com/albums/l37/allochris/Summer%202011/th_P3110074.jpg (http://s92.photobucket.com/albums/l37/allochris/Summer%202011/?action=view&current=P3110074.jpg)

http://i92.photobucket.com/albums/l37/allochris/Summer%202011/th_P3060023.jpg (http://s92.photobucket.com/albums/l37/allochris/Summer%202011/?action=view&current=P3060023.jpg)

http://i92.photobucket.com/albums/l37/allochris/Summer%202011/th_P3050022.jpg (http://s92.photobucket.com/albums/l37/allochris/Summer%202011/?action=view&current=P3050022.jpg)

http://i92.photobucket.com/albums/l37/allochris/Summer%202011/th_P3050020.jpg (http://s92.photobucket.com/albums/l37/allochris/Summer%202011/?action=view&current=P3050020.jpg)

http://i92.photobucket.com/albums/l37/allochris/Summer%202011/th_P3050015.jpg (http://s92.photobucket.com/albums/l37/allochris/Summer%202011/?action=view&current=P3050015.jpg)

http://i92.photobucket.com/albums/l37/allochris/Summer%202011/th_P3030002.jpg (http://s92.photobucket.com/albums/l37/allochris/Summer%202011/?action=view&current=P3030002.jpg)

http://i92.photobucket.com/albums/l37/allochris/Summer%202011/th_P3090048.jpg (http://s92.photobucket.com/albums/l37/allochris/Summer%202011/?action=view&current=P3090048.jpg)

http://i92.photobucket.com/albums/l37/allochris/Summer%202011/th_P3090065.jpg (http://s92.photobucket.com/albums/l37/allochris/Summer%202011/?action=view&current=P3090065.jpg)

http://i92.photobucket.com/albums/l37/allochris/Summer%202011/th_P3090064.jpg (http://s92.photobucket.com/albums/l37/allochris/Summer%202011/?action=view&current=P3090064.jpg)

http://i92.photobucket.com/albums/l37/allochris/Summer%202011/th_P3090058.jpg (http://s92.photobucket.com/albums/l37/allochris/Summer%202011/?action=view&current=P3090058.jpg)

http://i92.photobucket.com/albums/l37/allochris/Summer%202011/th_P3090050.jpg (http://s92.photobucket.com/albums/l37/allochris/Summer%202011/?action=view&current=P3090050.jpg)



I drove 150km today, 350k more to go before oil change & valve adjustment. I'm leaving Smithers to Victoria this Friday/Sat, it'll be engine's first road trip again!

[allochris]

Finally took apart my old engine. That was fun!!!

http://i92.photobucket.com/albums/l37/allochris/th_P3140008.jpg (http://s92.photobucket.com/albums/l37/allochris/?action=view&current=P3140008.jpg)

http://i92.photobucket.com/albums/l37/allochris/th_P3130031.jpg (http://s92.photobucket.com/albums/l37/allochris/?action=view&current=P3130031.jpg)


Have a look, I can't really see obvious cause for cylinder #4 failure.

http://i92.photobucket.com/albums/l37/allochris/th_P3130014.jpg (http://s92.photobucket.com/albums/l37/allochris/?action=view&current=P3130014.jpg)

Head 1 & 2:
http://i92.photobucket.com/albums/l37/allochris/th_P3130015.jpg (http://s92.photobucket.com/albums/l37/allochris/?action=view&current=P3130015.jpg)

Head 2 & 3:
http://i92.photobucket.com/albums/l37/allochris/th_P3130016.jpg (http://s92.photobucket.com/albums/l37/allochris/?action=view&current=P3130016.jpg)

Head 3 & 4:
http://i92.photobucket.com/albums/l37/allochris/th_P3130017.jpg (http://s92.photobucket.com/albums/l37/allochris/?action=view&current=P3130017.jpg)

Block 1 & 2:
http://i92.photobucket.com/albums/l37/allochris/th_P3130023.jpg (http://s92.photobucket.com/albums/l37/allochris/?action=view&current=P3130023.jpg)

Block 2 & 3:
http://i92.photobucket.com/albums/l37/allochris/th_P3130024.jpg (http://s92.photobucket.com/albums/l37/allochris/?action=view&current=P3130024.jpg)

Block 3 & 4:
http://i92.photobucket.com/albums/l37/allochris/th_P3130011.jpg (http://s92.photobucket.com/albums/l37/allochris/?action=view&current=P3130011.jpg)

What are these!?!
http://i92.photobucket.com/albums/l37/allochris/th_P3130035.jpg (http://s92.photobucket.com/albums/l37/allochris/?action=view&current=P3130035.jpg)

[mtbikerTi]

Judging by how clean #4 is it looks like a blown head gasket.

How's the camper holding up?

[allochris]

Camper is holding great after all these years of use & 1 roll over!

This coming week I hope to:

-Paint the camper interior
-Spray foaming inside of the frame's AL tubing to cut down on condensation in minus temp.

I also got around:

-Upgrading the 30psi gas shocks to 60psi assisting the roof pop-top maneuover.
-Replaced the burned out incandescent rear signal lights to LEDS (But now I have to figure out a permanent way to slow down the flasher speed)


Since I left Smithers, I put on about 2000km on the 2nd batch of oil (5w30). Valves are adjusted hot (well hot initially ...) at intake 0.08 & exhaust at 0.12.

When I hit about 3000km I'll put in the 3rd oil change, using stock toyota filter. This one will go for 5000km, throughout the winter. Should I go 5w30 or 10w30?

Oh I forgot, I just spend under $100 to give the truck a new look to go along with the new engine!

http://i92.photobucket.com/albums/l37/allochris/th_P3300006.jpg (http://s92.photobucket.com/albums/l37/allochris/?action=view&current=P3300006.jpg)

http://i92.photobucket.com/albums/l37/allochris/th_P3300007.jpg (http://s92.photobucket.com/albums/l37/allochris/?action=view&current=P3300007.jpg)

(Not to sure about the front grill yet...)

[mtnbike28]

Congrats on being back on the road!

[Overland Hadley]

Congrats on being back on the road!

x2!

[camperman]

x3! And yours rictures of landscapes awesome! You have a talent to become a photographer
And happy trails :victory:

[allochris]

So fall is here in Princeton & burning work has begun last week! Snow has come & gone, but we need more snow to keep burning though!

http://i92.photobucket.com/albums/l37/allochris/fall%202011/th_PICT0121.jpg (http://s92.photobucket.com/albums/l37/allochris/fall%202011/?action=view&current=PICT0121.jpg)

http://i92.photobucket.com/albums/l37/allochris/fall%202011/th_DSCF6535.jpg (http://s92.photobucket.com/albums/l37/allochris/fall%202011/?action=view&current=DSCF6535.jpg)

http://i92.photobucket.com/albums/l37/allochris/fall%202011/th_DSCF6517.jpg (http://s92.photobucket.com/albums/l37/allochris/fall%202011/?action=view&current=DSCF6517.jpg)

http://i92.photobucket.com/albums/l37/allochris/fall%202011/th_DSCF6488.jpg (http://s92.photobucket.com/albums/l37/allochris/fall%202011/?action=view&current=DSCF6488.jpg)

But I finally got to "address" my camper roof condensation problem. Sprayed foam all the aluminium tubings & retaped my the roof insulation, & repainted the inside. Hopefully this will be enough!

[java]

Glad it got a transplant! I'm sure you will enjoy it for a lot more years now

[GabAlmighty]

Wow, just went through your build thread.

Awesome work you've got here, your old motor has sure had a good life and i'm sure the new one will see even more cool things. I wish my 3.0 was as good.

Also, i'm truly jealous of your gas mileage. Right now with 33x12.5 (yes they're bigger but not that much bigger than yours) tires i'm averaging around 15-16L/100km which is atrocious on a daily driven 4runner (120km's a day).

[allochris]

New to me motor update: It turns out it's a bit less powerful than my old engine. don't really know why, but my old engine had 220psi compression & stock is 178psi -ish. Gas mileage went up a bit, to 14L/100km, mostly due to higher driving rpm & heavy pedal to compensate the slower motor.

Other than that, winter is here! Snow was great today in Smithers area. Boot height & creamy snow~!

[28.]

Awesome thread and great pictures..

[allochris]

Ah ha! It's been a while! I guess "real" life finally caught up with me this winter....Nevertheless, we managed to get out a couple time though.

January:
Our annual memorial ski tour - Paul's Ridge, Squamish, BC
http://i92.photobucket.com/albums/l37/allochris/th_DSCF7113.jpg (http://s92.photobucket.com/albums/l37/allochris/?action=view&current=DSCF7113.jpg)

February:
Mount MacDonald, Rogers Pass.
http://i92.photobucket.com/albums/l37/allochris/th_DSCF7175.jpg (http://s92.photobucket.com/albums/l37/allochris/?action=view&current=DSCF7175.jpg)

http://i92.photobucket.com/albums/l37/allochris/th_DSCF7183.jpg (http://s92.photobucket.com/albums/l37/allochris/?action=view&current=DSCF7183.jpg)

http://i92.photobucket.com/albums/l37/allochris/th_DSCF7186.jpg (http://s92.photobucket.com/albums/l37/allochris/?action=view&current=DSCF7186.jpg)

http://i92.photobucket.com/albums/l37/allochris/DSCF7194.jpg

Puff Daddy, Rogers Pass:
http://i92.photobucket.com/albums/l37/allochris/th_DSCF7146.jpg (http://s92.photobucket.com/albums/l37/allochris/?action=view&current=DSCF7146.jpg)

http://i92.photobucket.com/albums/l37/allochris/th_DSCF7149.jpg (http://s92.photobucket.com/albums/l37/allochris/?action=view&current=DSCF7149.jpg)

http://i92.photobucket.com/albums/l37/allochris/DSCF7224.jpg


March:

Working at the Hydro BC Northwest Transmission Line Project, Ningunsaw Pass north of Bell 2, BC:
http://i92.photobucket.com/albums/l37/allochris/th_IMGP9316.jpg (http://s92.photobucket.com/albums/l37/allochris/?action=view&current=IMGP9316.jpg)

http://i92.photobucket.com/albums/l37/allochris/th_IMGP9142.jpg (http://s92.photobucket.com/albums/l37/allochris/?action=view&current=IMGP9142.jpg)

http://i92.photobucket.com/albums/l37/allochris/th_IMGP9138.jpg (http://s92.photobucket.com/albums/l37/allochris/?action=view&current=IMGP9138.jpg)

http://i92.photobucket.com/albums/l37/allochris/th_IMGP9698.jpg (http://s92.photobucket.com/albums/l37/allochris/?action=view&current=IMGP9698.jpg)

http://i92.photobucket.com/albums/l37/allochris/th_IMGP9711.jpg (http://s92.photobucket.com/albums/l37/allochris/?action=view&current=IMGP9711.jpg)

http://i92.photobucket.com/albums/l37/allochris/th_IMGP9734.jpg (http://s92.photobucket.com/albums/l37/allochris/?action=view&current=IMGP9734.jpg)

My work vehicle: Tundra. I'm actually not too impressed with it. Gas pedal is way too touchy. It makes the truck feels like race car. It's big/bulky. Maybe I'm too used to my mini-truck...
http://i92.photobucket.com/albums/l37/allochris/th_IMGP9610.jpg (http://s92.photobucket.com/albums/l37/allochris/?action=view&current=IMGP9610.jpg)

A curious marten.
http://i92.photobucket.com/albums/l37/allochris/IMGP9489.jpg

http://i92.photobucket.com/albums/l37/allochris/th_Untitled.jpg (http://s92.photobucket.com/albums/l37/allochris/?action=view&current=Untitled.jpg)

Rainbow Mtn, Whistler Backcountry:
http://i92.photobucket.com/albums/l37/allochris/th_P6120033.jpg (http://s92.photobucket.com/albums/l37/allochris/?action=view&current=P6120033.jpg)

[allochris]

April:

-My rear 3rd blew up just before my move!!!
http://i92.photobucket.com/albums/l37/allochris/th_P6280051.jpg (http://s92.photobucket.com/albums/l37/allochris/?action=view&current=P6280051.jpg)

-Moving time again...from Victoria, BC to Saskachewan!!! (Notice the sweet neightbord's Fuso!):

http://i92.photobucket.com/albums/l37/allochris/th_P7050093.jpg (http://s92.photobucket.com/albums/l37/allochris/?action=view&current=P7050093.jpg)

http://i92.photobucket.com/albums/l37/allochris/th_P7050096.jpg (http://s92.photobucket.com/albums/l37/allochris/?action=view&current=P7050096.jpg)

Pemberton:
http://i92.photobucket.com/albums/l37/allochris/th_P7100029.jpg (http://s92.photobucket.com/albums/l37/allochris/?action=view&current=P7100029.jpg)

Savona, BC:

Truck finally made it to its 400000km!!!
http://i92.photobucket.com/albums/l37/allochris/P7110051.jpg

http://i92.photobucket.com/albums/l37/allochris/th_P7110068.jpg (http://s92.photobucket.com/albums/l37/allochris/?action=view&current=P7110068.jpg)

http://i92.photobucket.com/albums/l37/allochris/th_P7110057.jpg (http://s92.photobucket.com/albums/l37/allochris/?action=view&current=P7110057.jpg)

Rogers Pass:
http://i92.photobucket.com/albums/l37/allochris/th_P7110080.jpg (http://s92.photobucket.com/albums/l37/allochris/?action=view&current=P7110080.jpg)

http://i92.photobucket.com/albums/l37/allochris/th_P7110075.jpg (http://s92.photobucket.com/albums/l37/allochris/?action=view&current=P7110075.jpg)

http://i92.photobucket.com/albums/l37/allochris/th_P7110076.jpg (http://s92.photobucket.com/albums/l37/allochris/?action=view&current=P7110076.jpg)

Last few turns on Bow Summit @ Ice Field Parkway in the Canadian Rockies!!!
http://i92.photobucket.com/albums/l37/allochris/P7120098.jpg

http://i92.photobucket.com/albums/l37/allochris/th_P7120103.jpg (http://s92.photobucket.com/albums/l37/allochris/?action=view&current=P7120103.jpg)

http://i92.photobucket.com/albums/l37/allochris/th_P7120109.jpg (http://s92.photobucket.com/albums/l37/allochris/?action=view&current=P7120109.jpg)

http://i92.photobucket.com/albums/l37/allochris/th_P7120144.jpg (http://s92.photobucket.com/albums/l37/allochris/?action=view&current=P7120144.jpg)

Drumheller, AB!!!
http://i92.photobucket.com/albums/l37/allochris/th_P7130169.jpg (http://s92.photobucket.com/albums/l37/allochris/?action=view&current=P7130169.jpg)

Biggest dinosaur on earth apparently!
http://i92.photobucket.com/albums/l37/allochris/P7130194.jpg

The Hoodoos:
http://i92.photobucket.com/albums/l37/allochris/th_P7130212.jpg (http://s92.photobucket.com/albums/l37/allochris/?action=view&current=P7130212.jpg)

http://i92.photobucket.com/albums/l37/allochris/th_P7130209.jpg (http://s92.photobucket.com/albums/l37/allochris/?action=view&current=P7130209.jpg)


Drive Summary (Victoria, BC - Saskatoon, SK):
Current mileage on new rebuilt engine: 13186km
Distance: 2511km
Gas Mileage: 13.72L/100km (Combined City & Hwy)
Truck Scale weight: ~6000lbs
Total fuel cost: $442.85
Average 87 octane fuel price: $1.264/L

[Billhilly]

Hey Chris!
Good to see you again. Was wondering how your winter was going (gone!). You've covered some ground again. (Natasha (friend from Smithers) spent her Summer cooking at a camp out from Bell II, interesting to see it mentioned here again. She will have spent most of the winter based in Pemberton again). Always interesting to see your photos. Just jealous as usual. And you can add competent Toyota mechanic to your CV by now too!
So long gone to Saskachewan eh! That'll be a little different/flater?! Never dull huh?
Oh, don't want to hijack, but I have actually have a photo for you....well two, from two weeks ago. Looks like your kind of country.
Google Earth 43 42'38''S 170 05'03''E
Safe travels.

[allochris]

Ya, it would be nice to meet your friend someday. Does she cook at fire camps up there in the summer?

As for Saskachewan, let's just see how long I will be here with my new "job". I wouldn't say long gone as my partner still has 1 more year for her master in Victoria. My new job has lots of travel component in it so at least that is something I'm familiar with. And don't be jealous, cause I'm actually still sleeping in the camper at work parking lot lol.

About the mechanic/CV thing, maybe I'll just wait until my transmission goes...(cause I think that's pretty much the only part I haven't changed yet!)

Would love to come visit NZ one day! My old collegue is from there too! Would be amazing to hike in the mtns with sheepies grazing on the land....

[Billhilly]

To be honest, I can't remember who she was cooking for.
I see some more miles being clocked up between Victoria, and Saskachewan. Only one more year though.
Long story, but we managed to get away for thirteen days. Flew to Christchurch, rented a horrible white campervan, and did 2500k around the West and South of the South Island. Good times. Never been down there. But next time I want 4X4! The Southern Alps were pretty cool. You would both love Queenstown and all that was going on there.

[Petrolburner]

Just finished reading your thread, awesome! :Wow1:

[allochris]

So here it was, the famous May Long Weekend that I never had off from work since 2006 during tree-planting season. This year definitely feels like a jail break! I had 3 days, no destination, but I knew I wanted to check out the lakes & rivers in northern Saskatchewan. Throw in my kayak, overnight gear, bike, & food, off I went! Solo mission!

Route Map: http://i92.photobucket.com/albums/l37/allochris/maymap.jpg

Day 1: Saskatoon to Prince Albert to Weyakwin Lake.
A very uneventful drive in the prairies along farm fields up half way between Prince Albert & Prince Albert National Park, then farm land suddenly disappeared & “REAL” boreal forest appears! Trees are all skinny & about 20-30m tall. Mix of 85% spruce forest.

http://i92.photobucket.com/albums/l37/allochris/th_DSCF7567.jpg (http://s92.photobucket.com/albums/l37/allochris/?action=view&current=DSCF7567.jpg)

From the paved Hwy 2 North, I instinct-ly hopped on the gravel road 916 West & Rock Lake Road North and ended up camping at a gravel pit near Weyakwin Lake.

http://i92.photobucket.com/albums/l37/allochris/th_DSCF7659.jpg (http://s92.photobucket.com/albums/l37/allochris/?action=view&current=DSCF7659.jpg)

http://i92.photobucket.com/albums/l37/allochris/th_DSCF7575.jpg (http://s92.photobucket.com/albums/l37/allochris/?action=view&current=DSCF7575.jpg)

http://i92.photobucket.com/albums/l37/allochris/th_DSCF7588.jpg (http://s92.photobucket.com/albums/l37/allochris/?action=view&current=DSCF7588.jpg)

That night around 11:30pm, I saw my first “real” northern lights show in the sky! It lasted so long I stood out freezing my butt for well over an hour taking pictures. Lacking a tripod, I struggled between shivering and keeping the camera leaning steady against a kayak paddle & a stick! Amazing!

http://i92.photobucket.com/albums/l37/allochris/th_DSCF7649-1.jpg (http://s92.photobucket.com/albums/l37/allochris/?action=view&current=DSCF7649-1.jpg)

http://i92.photobucket.com/albums/l37/allochris/th_DSCF7647-1.jpg (http://s92.photobucket.com/albums/l37/allochris/?action=view&current=DSCF7647-1.jpg)

http://i92.photobucket.com/albums/l37/allochris/th_DSCF7609.jpg (http://s92.photobucket.com/albums/l37/allochris/?action=view&current=DSCF7609.jpg)

http://i92.photobucket.com/albums/l37/allochris/th_DSCF7608.jpg (http://s92.photobucket.com/albums/l37/allochris/?action=view&current=DSCF7608.jpg)

http://i92.photobucket.com/albums/l37/allochris/th_DSCF7615.jpg (http://s92.photobucket.com/albums/l37/allochris/?action=view&current=DSCF7615.jpg)

http://i92.photobucket.com/albums/l37/allochris/th_DSCF7641-1.jpg (http://s92.photobucket.com/albums/l37/allochris/?action=view&current=DSCF7641-1.jpg)

[allochris]

Day 2: Weyakwin Lake to Lac La Ronge to Stanley Mission.

Slept in really late, got up at 10:30am, back-tracked, & drove north on the Hwy 2. I saw my first black bear in SK! It was about 2 years old, hanging out on the road side until it saw me & fled into the bush.

On my way to check out the Montreal River x-ing on the gravel road 165 West, an overheated GMC Blazer flagged me down. After donating a bottle of water into their expansion tank, I continued west to check out the river. It looked paddle-able! Not too small. Next time!.

Continued north on the paved Hwy 2 for another 52KM, I arrived in a pretty town Lac La Ronge. First Nations are the 99% of the people I see here. And of course, there is the North Mart, serving the northern First Nation communities as always!

http://i92.photobucket.com/albums/l37/allochris/th_DSCF7668.jpg (http://s92.photobucket.com/albums/l37/allochris/?action=view&current=DSCF7668.jpg)

http://i92.photobucket.com/albums/l37/allochris/th_DSCF7671.jpg (http://s92.photobucket.com/albums/l37/allochris/?action=view&current=DSCF7671.jpg)

http://i92.photobucket.com/albums/l37/allochris/th_DSCF7676.jpg (http://s92.photobucket.com/albums/l37/allochris/?action=view&current=DSCF7676.jpg)


Not satisfied enough, I continued further north on Hwy 2. 80km of dirt road later via 915 East, I finally ended up in Stanley Mission! The town houses a decent size First Nation community. It’s pretty here & it resembles Tuktoyatuk in a way or another (w/ the exception of the lack of dogs here). Young kids were playing everywhere in the street. Some were on foot, others were on bikes, and of course, doubling on quads.

http://i92.photobucket.com/albums/l37/allochris/th_DSCF7690.jpg (http://s92.photobucket.com/albums/l37/allochris/?action=view&current=DSCF7690.jpg)

http://i92.photobucket.com/albums/l37/allochris/th_DSCF7704.jpg (http://s92.photobucket.com/albums/l37/allochris/?action=view&current=DSCF7704.jpg)

http://i92.photobucket.com/albums/l37/allochris/th_DSCF7691.jpg (http://s92.photobucket.com/albums/l37/allochris/?action=view&current=DSCF7691.jpg)


Seeing the bright white Holy Trinity Anglican Church (Stanley Mission Provincial Historic Site) across the water, I decided to paddle across to check it out. On the way back, wind gust suddenly picked up & it was a struggle paddling against the wind & waves to ferry across the river.

http://i92.photobucket.com/albums/l37/allochris/th_DSCF7720.jpg (http://s92.photobucket.com/albums/l37/allochris/?action=view&current=DSCF7720.jpg)

http://i92.photobucket.com/albums/l37/allochris/th_DSCF7725.jpg (http://s92.photobucket.com/albums/l37/allochris/?action=view&current=DSCF7725.jpg)

http://i92.photobucket.com/albums/l37/allochris/th_DSCF7740.jpg (http://s92.photobucket.com/albums/l37/allochris/?action=view&current=DSCF7740.jpg)

http://i92.photobucket.com/albums/l37/allochris/th_DSCF7741.jpg (http://s92.photobucket.com/albums/l37/allochris/?action=view&current=DSCF7741.jpg)

http://i92.photobucket.com/albums/l37/allochris/th_DSCF7742.jpg (http://s92.photobucket.com/albums/l37/allochris/?action=view&current=DSCF7742.jpg)


I camped at the boat launch that night. Despite the chill factor (around 5°C), I took out the lawn chair and gladly enjoyed a book under the setting bright orange sun.

[allochris]

Day 3: Stanley Mission to Nipekamew Sand Cliffs to Narrow Hills Provincial Park to Saskatoon.

After my fail attempt to wake up in the middle of the night to look at northern lights, I got up earlier next morning to get some driving time in for the return trip to Saskatoon. I back tracked south to Lac La Ronge on Hwy 2, then took the gravel road 165 East. There is surprisingly lots of logging and tree-planting activities happening up here. I stopped by the Nipekamew Sand Cliffs. To my surprise, it was very un-impressive. The 1st cliff was nothing more than a 10m tall sandy river bank eroding into the river. However, this river looks paddlable...all the way to Lac La Ronge!

http://i92.photobucket.com/albums/l37/allochris/th_DSCF7745.jpg (http://s92.photobucket.com/albums/l37/allochris/?action=view&current=DSCF7745.jpg)

http://i92.photobucket.com/albums/l37/allochris/th_DSCF7746.jpg (http://s92.photobucket.com/albums/l37/allochris/?action=view&current=DSCF7746.jpg)


Continuing east on the gravel road 165, I saw another bear. It was far away but it was big! I couldn’t distinguish whether it was a brown bear or a grizzly, but it ran into the bush pretty fast!

http://i92.photobucket.com/albums/l37/allochris/th_DSCF7763.jpg (http://s92.photobucket.com/albums/l37/allochris/?action=view&current=DSCF7763.jpg)

Finally hitting the paved 916 South, I continued to Narrow Hills Provincial Parks. From there, I hopped on the gravel road 120 South, passed by Candle Lake (cottage country for Prince Albert / Saskatoon ppl), and took the paved 55 South back to Prince Albert then Saskatoon.

Overall:

Total: 1273KM (Dirt/Gravel: ~450KM)
Gas: $222 @ $1.259-$1.299/L
Gas Mileage: 13.41L/100km (16.91mpg)
Recon: Tons of lake paddling opportunities. But limited rivers paddling opportunities and ease of access for drop-in/take-out. Montreal River and Nipekamew River are potential routes. All others one are too small in size!!!

Priceless:
1) Northern Lights
2) Paddling across the Churchill River to the Stanley Mission Church
3) Tons of Bumpy Long dirt road
4) 2 bears + a possibly lynx sighting
5) A pair of passed out First Nation Grandpa & Grandma in the over-heated GMC Blazer backseat

[fisher205]

Chris,
Check out the Churchill River. I fly in fish it around Pine Island out of Otter Lake. Great Walleye fishing and huge Northerns. Friends are going next weekend, I ust couldn't swing it this year. The old Trading Post Fort Robinson in Lac LoRange is worth checking out.

Brad

[allochris]

All right, we did a nice road/canoe trip last long weekend in North-Eastern SK / Manitoba.

Here's what Cat wrote about our trip:

In our last e-mail we wrote to you about driving on the frozen Mackenzie River in the Northwest Territories at 100 km/hr. This time, we left our down jackets at home, packed our bug nets and sunscreen and paddled down (and up) the Sturgeon-Weir River at a modest 7 km/hr. This was definitely a nice pace to enjoy the beautiful scenery and diverse wildlife of northern Saskatchewan.

http://i92.photobucket.com/albums/l37/allochris/Chris%20and%20Cats%20July%202012%20Long%20Weekend/DSCF8113.jpg

Our original plan was pretty ambitious: 50km paddling down the Sturgeon-Weir River (with 4 portages) starting at the Leaf Rapids + 35km paddling across Amisk Lake ending at Denare Beach, near Flin Flon MN in 3 days. Had the river actually had some current, this may have been doable, but after a late start on Saturday, and a stormy forecast for late Sunday/Monday, we decided to backtrack on the second day. Paddling upstream was not difficult and we had a strong wind in our favour most of the way. Our travel distance ended up at about 36km (nice leisure pace ).

It was nice to simplify our trip and take it easy because visiting northern Saskatchewan by canoe is a completely different experience for me (Cat) who has spent most of her life in BC's mountainous landscapes. The sky is open, and the forests are super dense, mostly spruce, poplar, and bushes. http://i92.photobucket.com/albums/l37/allochris/Chris%20and%20Cats%20July%202012%20Long%20Weekend/th_DSCF8153.jpg (http://s92.photobucket.com/albums/l37/allochris/Chris%20and%20Cats%20July%202012%20Long%20Weekend/?action=view&current=DSCF8153.jpg) The water is marshy and home to a lot of creatures including lots of bugs which means that the fish and waterfowl are fat and plentiful. Most exciting of all, there are pelicans here! Cat had no idea there were pelicans in this part of the world. They're big, majestic birds and we encountered a group of about 150 hanging out at the Scoop Rapids. http://i92.photobucket.com/albums/l37/allochris/Chris%20and%20Cats%20July%202012%20Long%20Weekend/th_DSCF8179.jpg (http://s92.photobucket.com/albums/l37/allochris/Chris%20and%20Cats%20July%202012%20Long%20Weekend/?action=view&current=DSCF8179.jpg) The Scoop Rapid is a class 4 rapid with a big hole at the end. The pelicans spend their time in the rapids catching fish and letting the current and back eddies take them around in circles. http://i92.photobucket.com/albums/l37/allochris/Chris%20and%20Cats%20July%202012%20Long%20Weekend/th_DSCF8164.jpg (http://s92.photobucket.com/albums/l37/allochris/Chris%20and%20Cats%20July%202012%20Long%20Weekend/?action=view&current=DSCF8164.jpg) In addition to the pelicans, we also saw big beavers who would watch us for a few moments then disappear under the water with a big Splash! of their tails. http://i92.photobucket.com/albums/l37/allochris/Chris%20and%20Cats%20July%202012%20Long%20Weekend/th_DSCF8207.jpg (http://s92.photobucket.com/albums/l37/allochris/Chris%20and%20Cats%20July%202012%20Long%20Weekend/?action=view&current=DSCF8207.jpg) http://i92.photobucket.com/albums/l37/allochris/Chris%20and%20Cats%20July%202012%20Long%20Weekend/th_DSCF8193.jpg (http://s92.photobucket.com/albums/l37/allochris/Chris%20and%20Cats%20July%202012%20Long%20Weekend/?action=view&current=DSCF8193.jpg) We were surprised to encounter a lot of bald eagles, perched in the trees watching us as we floated past. http://i92.photobucket.com/albums/l37/allochris/Chris%20and%20Cats%20July%202012%20Long%20Weekend/th_DSCF8134.jpg (http://s92.photobucket.com/albums/l37/allochris/Chris%20and%20Cats%20July%202012%20Long%20Weekend/?action=view&current=DSCF8134.jpg) We also saw ducks, loons, and lots of other water fowl that we couldn't name. Some of the birds still had small babies, and one species of bird-babies run on top of the water when they're scared. It's really funny to watch them scurrying across the water with mom/dad swimming and flying circles around them to round them up.

Our paddling was good. This was Cat's first canoe-camping trip, and Chris' first in about 6 years. Chris steered most of the time, and we even managed to run the Leaf Rapids (class 2) in an empty canoe (after portaging our gear), which was an exhilarating ride. Cat got some nice air over the waves, in the front of the canoe!

We camped in a sunny exposed spot hoping for a breeze to keep the bugs away. The sunset was glorious purple and red. http://i92.photobucket.com/albums/l37/allochris/Chris%20and%20Cats%20July%202012%20Long%20Weekend/th_DSCF8260.jpg (http://s92.photobucket.com/albums/l37/allochris/Chris%20and%20Cats%20July%202012%20Long%20Weekend/?action=view&current=DSCF8260.jpg) And as soon as the light was gone, black clouds of mosquitoes came out and decided to show us what they're truly capable of. With the impending storm, we both helped feed/breed quite a few mosquitoes in the time it took us to hang our food bag and make a dash for the protection of our tent.

The next day was hotter than the first and we slowly paddled up stream to the truck. A dip in the water was so tempting, but we saw too many big fat leeches swimming around so we settled for dunking our hats. Cat tried steering and we spent about an hour zigzagging up the stream. Finally we switched back and settled into a nice rhythm and paddled back. We had a good long swim near the Leaf Rapids later in the day where the current had a stronger flow, and then we paddled the final 2km back to the truck. http://i92.photobucket.com/albums/l37/allochris/Chris%20and%20Cats%20July%202012%20Long%20Weekend/th_DSCF8275.jpg (http://s92.photobucket.com/albums/l37/allochris/Chris%20and%20Cats%20July%202012%20Long%20Weekend/?action=view&current=DSCF8275.jpg) http://i92.photobucket.com/albums/l37/allochris/Chris%20and%20Cats%20July%202012%20Long%20Weekend/th_DSCF8267.jpg (http://s92.photobucket.com/albums/l37/allochris/Chris%20and%20Cats%20July%202012%20Long%20Weekend/?action=view&current=DSCF8267.jpg) http://i92.photobucket.com/albums/l37/allochris/Chris%20and%20Cats%20July%202012%20Long%20Weekend/th_DSCF8149.jpg (http://s92.photobucket.com/albums/l37/allochris/Chris%20and%20Cats%20July%202012%20Long%20Weekend/?action=view&current=DSCF8149.jpg)

That night we drove past Flin Flon and camped on Simonhouse Lake in Grass River Provincial Park. The next day it poured torrents and we were glad to be driving and not canoeing, as we drove down through the Pas, across to Nipawin, and then down to Saskatoon. http://i92.photobucket.com/albums/l37/allochris/Chris%20and%20Cats%20July%202012%20Long%20Weekend/th_DSCF8332.jpg (http://s92.photobucket.com/albums/l37/allochris/Chris%20and%20Cats%20July%202012%20Long%20Weekend/?action=view&current=DSCF8332.jpg) http://i92.photobucket.com/albums/l37/allochris/Chris%20and%20Cats%20July%202012%20Long%20Weekend/th_DSCF8325.jpg (http://s92.photobucket.com/albums/l37/allochris/Chris%20and%20Cats%20July%202012%20Long%20Weekend/?action=view&current=DSCF8325.jpg) http://i92.photobucket.com/albums/l37/allochris/Chris%20and%20Cats%20July%202012%20Long%20Weekend/th_DSCF8344.jpg (http://s92.photobucket.com/albums/l37/allochris/Chris%20and%20Cats%20July%202012%20Long%20Weekend/?action=view&current=DSCF8344.jpg) http://i92.photobucket.com/albums/l37/allochris/Chris%20and%20Cats%20July%202012%20Long%20Weekend/th_DSCF8360.jpg (http://s92.photobucket.com/albums/l37/allochris/Chris%20and%20Cats%20July%202012%20Long%20Weekend/?action=view&current=DSCF8360.jpg)

http://i92.photobucket.com/albums/l37/allochris/JulyRoadTrip.jpg

Hugs to all of you!

Cat and Chris

[allochris]

ah ha@!
We r back!
Bringing this thread alive!
We r in Smithers cooking a feast for the next week + packing up the camper right now...
We'll leave tomorrow/Sunday for another ski adventure alaska bound!!!
Duration: 22 days!
Destination: Unknown! (But whereever the powder is good!!!)
Starting mileage: 417042km
Excitment: Super!!!

[Overland Hadley]

Congratulations on shoving off on another journey. Have a safe and memorable trip. Look forward to photos on the other side.

[Billhilly]

Destination: Unknown! (But whereever the powder is good!!!)
Starting mileage: 417042km


Hey Chris!
Was thinking about you two just the other day and wondered about PMing you to make sure you were all right! Have an outstanding time. Not much snow in BC anyway huh? Looking forward to the pictures. Oh, and love the starting mileage!
You can't have an 'expedition' in a vehicle with that many k's on the clock can you!?!

[allochris]

Checking in from Valdez! AK coast just got hit by a storm but tomorrow weather is looking fine for touring at Thompson Pass.

5-6 days touring at the Ningunsaw Pass was amazing. Still with amazing winter snow quality.

Truck is doing great! But mostly thanks to the Discoverer Studded tires!

Wow I love how mtns just keep getting bigger & bigger!!! :smiley_drive:

[catmandu]

Glad to see you are still using your rig. One of my favorite campers on this forum. I have always marveled at your continued use and great trips.

[allochris]

checking in from Anchorage on our return journey. We had a couple amazing days ski touring at Thompson Pass skiing steeps & winter pow & made great friends! Then we hopped over to Seldovia for some skiing & ocean time for Easter. We just did a fast lap today in Turnagin Pass & spring is here! (Still tons of winter snow up high though!)

[allochris]

We originally planned to go down to the lower half of BC to ski, but when we started hearing and reading about buckets of rain falling at high elevations in much of BC, an idea started brewing between us. Chris spoke, "Do you want to go to Alaska, Cat?" A day and a half of packing later, we hit the road, on our way for a grand adventure to the Great North.

Here's our story!

Day 1-7 Smithers to Whitehorse:
We skied a glorious five days in Ningunsaw Pass, just north of Bell 2. We are so lucky to have our own Roger's Pass just in our backyard, with no crowd to share with. We made friends- a friendly group of five from Terrace staying in a portable wood-stove warmed wall tent tucked away in the forest by the creek. On days two and three a fierce storm hit which left us with fresh winter snow and cross-loaded slopes to watch out for. We played safe in the trees skiing north-facing slide paths in unconsolidated storm snow. On the fifth day, after watching the Terrace highway crew heli-bomb the slopes above us, we had our first summit of the season (and Cat's first sunburn) on a beautiful blue-bird day.
http://i92.photobucket.com/albums/l37/allochris/Alaska%20Adventure%202013/Chris%20and%20Cats%20Alaska%20Adventure/th_3nin_zps3f1aa507.jpg (http://s92.photobucket.com/user/allochris/media/Alaska%20Adventure%202013/Chris%20and%20Cats%20Alaska%20Adventure/3nin_zps3f1aa507.jpg.html) http://i92.photobucket.com/albums/l37/allochris/Alaska%20Adventure%202013/Chris%20and%20Cats%20Alaska%20Adventure/th_4nin_zps7aa478dd.jpg (http://s92.photobucket.com/user/allochris/media/Alaska%20Adventure%202013/Chris%20and%20Cats%20Alaska%20Adventure/4nin_zps7aa478dd.jpg.html) http://i92.photobucket.com/albums/l37/allochris/Alaska%20Adventure%202013/Chris%20and%20Cats%20Alaska%20Adventure/th_15nin_zpscd2cadec.jpg (http://s92.photobucket.com/user/allochris/media/Alaska%20Adventure%202013/Chris%20and%20Cats%20Alaska%20Adventure/15nin_zpscd2cadec.jpg.html) http://i92.photobucket.com/albums/l37/allochris/Alaska%20Adventure%202013/Chris%20and%20Cats%20Alaska%20Adventure/th_18nin_zpsd900db20.jpg (http://s92.photobucket.com/user/allochris/media/Alaska%20Adventure%202013/Chris%20and%20Cats%20Alaska%20Adventure/18nin_zpsd900db20.jpg.html) http://i92.photobucket.com/albums/l37/allochris/Alaska%20Adventure%202013/Chris%20and%20Cats%20Alaska%20Adventure/th_GOPR0041_zpsa369b8d1.jpg (http://s92.photobucket.com/user/allochris/media/Alaska%20Adventure%202013/Chris%20and%20Cats%20Alaska%20Adventure/GOPR0041_zpsa369b8d1.jpg.html) http://i92.photobucket.com/albums/l37/allochris/Alaska%20Adventure%202013/Chris%20and%20Cats%20Alaska%20Adventure/th_GOPR0051_zps869cdb13.jpg (http://s92.photobucket.com/user/allochris/media/Alaska%20Adventure%202013/Chris%20and%20Cats%20Alaska%20Adventure/GOPR0051_zps869cdb13.jpg.html)

A day later we arrived in Whitehorse. After a good shower & a soak in the pool, the Alaska Highway took us further north.

[allochris]

Day 7-12 Whitehorse to Valdez to Anchorage:
"Do you have any oranges or apples or any of that stuff?" the US customs officer asked us, and that was how we arrived in Alaska! Chris' first observation was that the road was so well paved that we could finally drive faster than 36mph without having to worry about endo-ing over the bumpy roads.

http://i92.photobucket.com/albums/l37/allochris/Alaska%20Adventure%202013/Chris%20and%20Cats%20Alaska%20Adventure/th_21akhwy_zps0fbe1796.jpg (http://s92.photobucket.com/user/allochris/media/Alaska%20Adventure%202013/Chris%20and%20Cats%20Alaska%20Adventure/21akhwy_zps0fbe1796.jpg.html) http://i92.photobucket.com/albums/l37/allochris/Alaska%20Adventure%202013/Chris%20and%20Cats%20Alaska%20Adventure/th_23akhwy_zps8216f292.jpg (http://s92.photobucket.com/user/allochris/media/Alaska%20Adventure%202013/Chris%20and%20Cats%20Alaska%20Adventure/23akhwy_zps8216f292.jpg.html)

The drive to Valdez takes you over the spectacular Thompson Pass then through a narrow gorge just wide enough for two cars to pass through. Suddenly you pop out on the other side and into Valdez, tucked away at the end of Valdez Sound and surrounded almost 360 degrees by towering snow-covered mountains protruding from the ocean.
http://i92.photobucket.com/albums/l37/allochris/Alaska%20Adventure%202013/Chris%20and%20Cats%20Alaska%20Adventure/th_43thom_zps2fe806eb.jpg (http://s92.photobucket.com/user/allochris/media/Alaska%20Adventure%202013/Chris%20and%20Cats%20Alaska%20Adventure/43thom_zps2fe806eb.jpg.html) http://i92.photobucket.com/albums/l37/allochris/Alaska%20Adventure%202013/Chris%20and%20Cats%20Alaska%20Adventure/th_28valdez_zps34af9a4e.jpg (http://s92.photobucket.com/user/allochris/media/Alaska%20Adventure%202013/Chris%20and%20Cats%20Alaska%20Adventure/28valdez_zps34af9a4e.jpg.html)

Every day that we skied Thompson Pass was epic. We arrived at the tail end of a storm that brought 64 inches of snow in three days. The snow was like nothing we had ever experienced before- dry, creamy, cornstarch like consistency- and we enjoyed how fast we could float over it. On our first day we had to manage periods of white-out, but on our second day we had great visibility (and more sunburn for Cat) which allowed us to get up high onto an alpine ridge and ski a nice steep Alaskan line. Although the majority of the ski/snowboard culture in Valdez and Thompson Pass is machine-assisted (sled or heli), we were happy to make friends with some fellow ski-tourers from Australia and Whitefish, Montana. We squeezed in a half day of skiing on our third day, which included a spectacular ski-out through a frozen cascade waterfall canyon, and then we hit the road again.
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The six hour drive to Anchorage was spectacular! Scenic views of the endless mountains and glaciers of the north-facing Chugach mountains.

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[Billhilly]

Outstanding!! What a fantastic way to spend 20 odd days huh. I Googled Thomson Pass and found it holds all sorts of records for snow fall. Cool place to go skiing!
Where is the second to last picture taken?
Great photo's as always. Safe driving.

[Overland Hadley]

Outstanding!!

x2!

[allochris]

Where is the second to last picture taken?


http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Matanuska_Glacier

[allochris]

Day 12-18 Anchorage to Seldovia:

Our home sweet home on the road takes us to many amazing places, and Seldovia is no exception. We went to Seldovia to visit our friend Jeff, but our contact with him was sporadic since we weren't traveling with a cell phone. The magic of Seldovia began when we found Jeff taking the same ferry as us from Homer back to Seldovia. The voyage from Homer to Seldovia is not unlike the ferry ride from Horseshoe Bay to Nanaimo. The white mountains loom out of the water, and some of the small islands are dotted with homes. We had fun experiencing the vehicle loading system of the ferry which puts four vehicles on a ramp, rotates them 120 degrees, and lowers them into the belly of the boat. We arrived in Seldovia in the late afternoon and found a small wooden fishing village decorated with buoys and other beach combing finds. As we drove away from town, along the coast, then up into the mountains, we were greatful to have Jeff to guide us to his home. We arrived at his tiny cabin perched at the bottom of some slopes and took off for an evening pre-dinner ski right in his backyard to stretch out our legs. There are many tiny homes in Seldovia. Jeff's cabin is a beautiful 8x16Ft home with an added entry way for cooking and extra storage. The cabin was built to fit on a trailer, and he milled all of the wood himself. The space is cozy and comfortable, and the wood stove provides ample heat.
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Over dinner we learned that we had good timing arriving on a festive weekend: the weekend of the annual Mo'fo, a small local Homer and Seldovia ski-touring party that has a history of over 30 years. The Mo'foers hiked up all sorts of
stuff (including a chainsaw, three kegs of beer, camping gear, and one group even had a wood stove!) to the treeline 1000' above Seldovia. Every year they crown a new Mo'fo ("king"") and Fa'fo ("queen") who will host the next year's party. The selection of the Mo'fo and Fa'fo are decided by some competitions like slalom skiing, beer chugging, jumping off a booter, and a whiskey scramble. We felt so honoured to join in on this event, and everyone was very welcoming and happy to have "team BC" at their party.
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The next day we branched off from our usual ski-touring routine. Jeff's friend Nancy picked us up in her boat, and boated out to an island where we were invited by their friends for a seafood feast and a sauna. It was breathtaking to see the surrounding mountains and snow-covered active volcanoes from the water, and we enjoyed a dip in the Alaskan Pacific Ocean between sauna rounds. Good company, sweating, a full belly, and ocean air are so repleneshing for the body and the soul.
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Cat spent the next day walking and sunbathing next to the ocean, while Chris and Jeff went up high in search of powder. Cat enjoyed the tranquility of the afternoon. The cries of two ravens calling to each other echoed in the bay, and a sea otter dove for mussels and clapped them together while floating on his back.
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Chris and Jeff skinned up from the tidal flats to the summit of a mountain and skied back down to the water. Spectacular! The views from up high of the mountains and volcanoes stretching over and beyond the Cook Inlet were stunning.
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[Billhilly]

It's a big'un! I've seen pictures of the Salmon Glacier and thought that was pretty cool. Your's wins!
Can't wait to see the rest of the photo's.

[allochris]

Day 18-21 Seldovia to Anchorage to Smithers

Seldovia was the turning point of our great adventure. The return home began with our last-minute arrival at the ferry as they were putting the loading ramp away. We were each secretly a little excited by the prospect of spending an extra five days in Seldovia while waiting for the next ferry. Unfortunately, the ferry people graciously let us on. We enjoyed the sunset during the ride back to Homer, and we drove with fellow Mo'foer Anthony back to his house-sit in Soldotna where we sank into a deep sleep in the first real bed of the trip.
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We interrupted our drive back to Anchorage with a three hour ski-tour at Turnagin Pass. The day was hot, and we chose not to summit due to a sunbaked wind loaded slope hanging above our skin-track despite the close peak beckoning to us. "Ski for tomorrow," Chris said, and we laughed during the ski down when a snow ball took off flying in the air and turned into a startled ptarmigan.
http://i92.photobucket.com/albums/l37/allochris/Alaska%20Adventure%202013/Chris%20and%20Cats%20Alaska%20Adventure/th_106turnagin_zps0967a697.jpg (http://s92.photobucket.com/user/allochris/media/Alaska%20Adventure%202013/Chris%20and%20Cats%20Alaska%20Adventure/106turnagin_zps0967a697.jpg.html) http://i92.photobucket.com/albums/l37/allochris/Alaska%20Adventure%202013/Chris%20and%20Cats%20Alaska%20Adventure/th_GOPR0016_zps12f7821f.jpg (http://s92.photobucket.com/user/allochris/media/Alaska%20Adventure%202013/Chris%20and%20Cats%20Alaska%20Adventure/GOPR0016_zps12f7821f.jpg.html)

As our journey began, so it ends. Our first stop in Anchorage was to an autoparts store to stock up "cheap" parts (compared to Canada anyway). Chris came out with arms full of boxes and amazingly managed to replace the pitman arm in 30 minutes right in the store parking lot, with a borrowed 32mm socket at 9:30pm. After a good sleep in the camper next to a dog park, we loaded up on gear at REI, where the tax-free low prices were too difficult to resist. And then we hit the road for our four-day drive back to Smithers. Gladfully, we stopped by Ningunsaw Pass again on our way south for a fun short afternoon ski, where we've found spring skiing condition along w/ massive glide cracks opening up on mid-slopes to navigate around.
http://i92.photobucket.com/albums/l37/allochris/Alaska%20Adventure%202013/Chris%20and%20Cats%20Alaska%20Adventure/th_DSCF6569_zps9257c27a.jpg (http://s92.photobucket.com/user/allochris/media/Alaska%20Adventure%202013/Chris%20and%20Cats%20Alaska%20Adventure/DSCF6569_zps9257c27a.jpg.html) http://i92.photobucket.com/albums/l37/allochris/Alaska%20Adventure%202013/Chris%20and%20Cats%20Alaska%20Adventure/th_DSCF6052_zps528dd7c5.jpg (http://s92.photobucket.com/user/allochris/media/Alaska%20Adventure%202013/Chris%20and%20Cats%20Alaska%20Adventure/DSCF6052_zps528dd7c5.jpg.html) http://i92.photobucket.com/albums/l37/allochris/Alaska%20Adventure%202013/Chris%20and%20Cats%20Alaska%20Adventure/th_G0270001_zps775ce0b2.jpg (http://s92.photobucket.com/user/allochris/media/Alaska%20Adventure%202013/Chris%20and%20Cats%20Alaska%20Adventure/G0270001_zps775ce0b2.jpg.html) http://i92.photobucket.com/albums/l37/allochris/Alaska%20Adventure%202013/Chris%20and%20Cats%20Alaska%20Adventure/th_GOPR0589_zps07721fba.jpg (http://s92.photobucket.com/user/allochris/media/Alaska%20Adventure%202013/Chris%20and%20Cats%20Alaska%20Adventure/GOPR0589_zps07721fba.jpg.html) http://i92.photobucket.com/albums/l37/allochris/Alaska%20Adventure%202013/Chris%20and%20Cats%20Alaska%20Adventure/th_DSCF6638_zps11db31fd.jpg (http://s92.photobucket.com/user/allochris/media/Alaska%20Adventure%202013/Chris%20and%20Cats%20Alaska%20Adventure/DSCF6638_zps11db31fd.jpg.html) http://i92.photobucket.com/albums/l37/allochris/Alaska%20Adventure%202013/Chris%20and%20Cats%20Alaska%20Adventure/th_DSCF6644_zps30879360.jpg (http://s92.photobucket.com/user/allochris/media/Alaska%20Adventure%202013/Chris%20and%20Cats%20Alaska%20Adventure/DSCF6644_zps30879360.jpg.html) http://i92.photobucket.com/albums/l37/allochris/Alaska%20Adventure%202013/Chris%20and%20Cats%20Alaska%20Adventure/th_DSCF6668_zpse9564101.jpg (http://s92.photobucket.com/user/allochris/media/Alaska%20Adventure%202013/Chris%20and%20Cats%20Alaska%20Adventure/DSCF6668_zpse9564101.jpg.html)

This trip to Alaska was quite a tease and we are both wondering why we don't just go live there!

Pics:
http://s92.photobucket.com/user/allochris/library/Alaska%20Adventure%202013/Chris%20and%20Cats%20Alaska%20Adventure

Movie:
http://vimeo.com/63797585

Password:
Alaska

[ober27]

I loved the build of your camper. Now I really enjoy seeing how you use it. So, do you have any idea how many nights you've spent in the camper so far? Keep the stories and photos coming.

Darin

[Billhilly]

Thank you for the password.

[allochris]

So, do you have any idea how many nights you've spent in the camper so far?


Funny you asked....cause I do have some sort of a tally....it's somewhere in the neighborhood of 230-260 nights since May 07'... !!!

[washington taco]

I lost track of this thread, good to see you are still out there living the dream!!!!

[mangymarmot]

Hey Chris n Cat,

Thanks for all the cool pics! Just wondering if the WAVE heater is sufficiently keeping you two warm during your winter travels? I'm living in my camper here in Vail, CO area and know my WAVE could be warmer on those really cold nights.

Have you modified your camper since your first season?. Do you have any pics?. Just trying to get ideas for my next build. Keep feeding us those awesome pics!

[allochris]

Hey Chris n Cat,

Just wondering if the WAVE heater is sufficiently keeping you two warm during your winter travels? I'm living in my camper here in Vail, CO area and know my WAVE could be warmer on those really cold nights.

We usually use the heater after skiing to dry our gloves, socks, liners, and skins etc. Then we would leave it on just until we hit the bed, so we actually sleep with it off with us tucked into our down bags. That way we just sleep better without worries of burning the camper down or carbon monoxide (Yes, we always crack the window & have C0 alarm but those AA batteries die too fast in freezing temp. They wouldn't last any longer than 4-7 days.) I remember we left the heater on overnight only once with the camper popped up cause it was really cold out...around -20F below! But if we sleep w/ the camper down (not popped-up), we never leave the heater on while sleeping because the footbox of my sleeping bag is too close to the heater and could melt! Therefore, I've only refill the propane tank (20lbs) once so far!!!

What I really like, is that I can turn it on in the morning and feel the radiant heat pourring out of it w/in 60secs. It's just like sitting in front of a burning wood stove!!!

Another usefulness I've found is when I need to pullover to sleep right away after a long drive in freezing temp, the camper in the back is usually cold like a deep-freeze (actually much colder). I would just run in the back, turn on the heater, get back in the front cab for a few minutes to get ready for bed, then crawl back in the pre-heated bed!!! It's amazing how small space (w/ the top down of course) warms up so quickly!!!

One other observation is that the loft is usually 5-10c warmer than the bottom while the heater is on & when the top is popped-up. So now I wonder how big your camper is, where you sleep in it, and how insulated the roof is?

[mangymarmot]

Our camper is your average hard sided slide in camper with a slide out. The bed area is over the cab. The walls are 2 inches thick and the windows are thermopaned. We installed the Wave heater to cut down on our camper furnace use. The furnace cycles on and off in really cold temps.

We've been living full time in our camper the last couple years here in the mountains.

I'm hoping to build a smaller expedition style camper in the future. I was thinking a Wave heater would be sufficient for a small camper.

Thanks for all the information and documenting your build and travels for us!