Living in a truck camper in Montana: a blizzard and freezing temps -20F(-29c) | Will my truck start?

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  • Опубліковано 30 вер 2024
  • This was certainly a fun week! Traveling up to a secluded spot, I found myself in a complete white out in the dark. After arriving, temps plummeted to around -20 F (-29c). Not the coldest I've been in, but it certainly puts everything to the test. As many of you know, starting a diesel in these temps without being plugged in is a risky endeavor; find out if I get stranded up on the mountain!
    Then, we traveled further north to try and get some good shots with my main camera. The subzero temps were a challenge for all my equipment as well.
    After that, we headed south for another night on the mountain, followed by some decent conditions for snowmobiling.

КОМЕНТАРІ • 99

  • @kennethmitchell2478
    @kennethmitchell2478 2 роки тому +5

    Three things I loved in this video. (1) That red flannel coat is soooo nice. (2) A glorious Cummins cold start. (3) A snow covered pup.

    • @downbytheriver501
      @downbytheriver501  2 роки тому

      Thanks man! Yeah, I love that coat. I always get excited when it’s cold enough to wear it. I felt bad for my truck. It was very angry that morning! Hardest cold start I’ve ever had in it.

  • @DaihatsuMiraWalk-Through
    @DaihatsuMiraWalk-Through Рік тому +1

    I can relate to the cold, I grew up in New Hampshire, camped in the winter in Pittsburg NH and snow mobiled in the White Mountains.
    Catching up on a lot of your older videos!

  • @ДенисЗубрицкий-х1ф
    @ДенисЗубрицкий-х1ф 2 роки тому +3

    It would be great to install a diesel heater in the camper, for example Webasto. This will solve many problems, including with condensate. As they say in Russia: one heating system is good, but two are better) It is strange that the manufacturer does not offer such an option. Diesel heater is the best solution!

    • @downbytheriver501
      @downbytheriver501  2 роки тому

      I’ve also contemplated this as a potential resolution to the condensation issue!

  • @fin1964
    @fin1964 Рік тому +1

    Assume footage, the Dog, had a great time Playing in the snow Great Red Coat

    • @downbytheriver501
      @downbytheriver501  Рік тому +1

      Thanks! It’s a Filson. They don’t make them anymore like this. Got a great deal on it. Very warm and cozy, makes me look forward to the colder temps! And it’s made in the USA!

  • @Arizona_Skin_Walker
    @Arizona_Skin_Walker 2 роки тому +2

    I had the two variants of rona and after that, I had immunity, never took the shots, I've haven't gotten sick in the last year.
    I feel great.

  • @lkmassaro
    @lkmassaro 2 роки тому +2

    What make and model front bumper is that? Looks great. Are your emission systems intact?

  • @sheerkhanful
    @sheerkhanful 2 роки тому +2

    Supposedly those catalytic propane heaters output lots of moisture, is that your experience with them?

    • @downbytheriver501
      @downbytheriver501  2 роки тому

      Definitely.

    • @downbytheriver501
      @downbytheriver501  2 роки тому +1

      I have to lift my bed, open all the cabinets and use a fan to get rid of the moisture buildup every 4-5 days in the winter. More so with the catalytic. Thanks for the sub!

  • @Retired-nohurry
    @Retired-nohurry 2 роки тому +3

    Might be time for a small generator to use on the the block heater or maybe a tarp over the hood and your propane heater to warm the engine.

    • @downbytheriver501
      @downbytheriver501  2 роки тому

      Yeah I have a 2200 Honda but I was really hoping to not use it. In hindsight I should’ve plugged it in for a couple hours prior, but I’ve found in the colder temps, the Honda will throw an oil code several times before staying on. Probably because the oil is too thick in these temps and it really doesn’t appreciate it!

  • @KennyOfAllTrades
    @KennyOfAllTrades 2 роки тому +2

    The sound of your steps tell the story of how cold it really is! Beautiful scenery 👌

  • @mattl721
    @mattl721 2 роки тому +1

    what up grades have u done to ur truck to manage the weight of the camper?

    • @downbytheriver501
      @downbytheriver501  2 роки тому

      Only thing done thus far has been a set of timbren/torklift(?) stable loads. other than that, I've upgraded the wheels and have higher payload capacity tires on. Handles really well!

  • @hateskatz
    @hateskatz 2 роки тому +2

    You got some lovely shots there! Daisy like to use her nose as a snowplow too. :). Hope you start feeling 100% again soon!

  • @kccarrtheoregonhillbillyhi4803
    @kccarrtheoregonhillbillyhi4803 2 роки тому +2

    Great video thanks for sharing

  • @originalmamagrizzly2478
    @originalmamagrizzly2478 2 роки тому +1

    What??? We do NOT have to “limit growth” to save the planet!! There is literally enough of everything for everyone! It’s a distribution problem! That’s it!!

    • @downbytheriver501
      @downbytheriver501  2 роки тому

      Ummm? Not sure I brought up this issue at all. And I side with you, btw.

    • @downbytheriver501
      @downbytheriver501  2 роки тому

      Still waiting for that reply. Did you mistakenly post on my channel for another?

    • @michelebullock9867
      @michelebullock9867 2 роки тому

      I think you are referring to the radio station announcer?

    • @downbytheriver501
      @downbytheriver501  2 роки тому

      @@michelebullock9867 That was Joe Rogan interviewing one of his good friends, Jordan Peterson. In that brief clip, Jordan was discussing his opposition's stance on limiting growth and how preposterous he believes it was. I never said a word during that brief video clip. 🙃 No worries on the miscommunication. You should really check out that podcast. you can find it on Spotify via "The Joe Rogan Experience." Jordan is a very intelligent guy and has a lot of knowledge to dispense to us all. Take care.

    • @Icutmetal
      @Icutmetal Рік тому

      Huh? Where’d that come from?

  • @bhager1945
    @bhager1945 2 роки тому +2

    Just found the channel, really impressed by where you take that heavy camper..I'm sure you've crossed through our spot along the Salmon River...Gives me inspiration to go farther with our 8-11 exse dry NL. Sure like to visit with you about your truck suspension..

    • @downbytheriver501
      @downbytheriver501  2 роки тому +1

      Thanks for the sub and welcome! I’d be willing to bet I may have passed by your place on the salmon, yep. I’ve been expanding my exploration further west into Idaho. Been to just about every part of central to west Montana over the last 2 decades and find the remoteness of central Idaho fascinating.
      My truck is basically stock. Only thing I’ve done aside from upgraded wheels and tires is torklift stable loads on the rear. Have wanted a hellwig sway bar for some time now, but for the most part it is very stable with just that slight addition to the rear. Thanks for watching!

    • @bhager1945
      @bhager1945 2 роки тому +2

      @@downbytheriver501 next time you're down this way drop me a line, might be cool to talk NL/truck camper stuff her on the creek..We have some roads you'd like..

    • @downbytheriver501
      @downbytheriver501  2 роки тому

      @@bhager1945 will do, thanks!

  • @modizzle2221
    @modizzle2221 2 роки тому +1

    Living the dream!

  • @kthom89
    @kthom89 2 роки тому +1

    Only thing is I'm a southern boy I do not like snow I do not like cold

    • @downbytheriver501
      @downbytheriver501  2 роки тому +1

      And I don’t like heat, we are in our perfect spots now, eh? Anything above 85 for me sends me up into the mountains if I can help it.

    • @kthom89
      @kthom89 2 роки тому +1

      Give me 95° I am happy

    • @downbytheriver501
      @downbytheriver501  2 роки тому

      @@kthom89 noooooooo! Unless you’re engaging in water sports!

  • @Serf_dumb
    @Serf_dumb 2 роки тому +1

    Hoo me??? Already subbed 🤡
    Those weather conditions aren't for me but fun to live vicariously...thanks!

    • @downbytheriver501
      @downbytheriver501  2 роки тому +1

      It’s a bit chilly but I love the difficulties and beauty the seasons present. That and I’m not a hot weather guy so I can’t handle hot temps. Thanks for the sub!

    • @Serf_dumb
      @Serf_dumb 2 роки тому

      @@downbytheriver501 will stop waiting for the "living in a truck camper in death valley during summer" episode. Thanks for the content!

    • @downbytheriver501
      @downbytheriver501  2 роки тому

      @@Serf_dumb yep that would be horrendous! I don’t think my air conditioner could keep up to that heat. I do love Death Valley in the winter though. Nice and cool.

    • @Serf_dumb
      @Serf_dumb 2 роки тому

      @@downbytheriver501 yeah it's on my growing list of places to visit. Continued safe travels & to a speedy Rona recovery!

  • @northerniltree
    @northerniltree 2 роки тому +1

    Keep your 2200 Honda generator inside on those cold nights, and it will run no problem no matter how cold it gets. A 1500W hair dryer under a moving blanket will warm the engine in about 1-2 hours time. Just be sure the hair dryer intake isn't too near the blanket. This is for years how I start my diesel equipment in remote areas during severe cold snaps. The hair dryer works great, and lasts damn near forever!

    • @downbytheriver501
      @downbytheriver501  2 роки тому

      Yeah I'll definitely be doing that on these really cold nights. thanks for the tip!

  • @goldy3582
    @goldy3582 2 роки тому +1

    Luv the vid👍

  • @terminald7064
    @terminald7064 2 роки тому +1

    This video is killin it! Great job buddy ❤️❤️❤️

  • @kalanbunch7023
    @kalanbunch7023 2 роки тому

    1 min into the video I knew you were at Fairy Lake. I live in Bozeman in a Truck camper. Maybe Ill see ya around.

    • @downbytheriver501
      @downbytheriver501  2 роки тому

      Not in Bozeman very often if I can help it, but I do go to that area quite a bit! What are you rolling in so I can keep an eye out?

  • @kenj.8897
    @kenj.8897 Рік тому

    LOL who's having more fun you or the dog ? Good luck in dog, you not so much. Just pulling your leg, good times

  • @latineyes4u
    @latineyes4u Рік тому

    I live in Upstate Ny ….Syracuse exactly, so this weather is normal to me 😩 when I walk all you hear is crunch too 😂

    • @downbytheriver501
      @downbytheriver501  Рік тому

      Not 100% sure where syracuse is without looking at a map but a few years ago I visited placid lake area and wow it’s beautiful up there!

  • @alexs3946
    @alexs3946 2 роки тому +2

    Love it! What tire pressures are you running in the snow?

    • @downbytheriver501
      @downbytheriver501  2 роки тому +1

      I was at full pressure because through the majority of the video, I was traveling on roads that didn’t have much snow. That plus I don’t think I would air down in winter conditions because if I had to air down to get further, I probably wouldn’t risk it! Maybe if I got stuck I would though. Thanks!
      Also, I run 60 front, 80 rear when I’m on smooth roads.

  • @Canterbury92
    @Canterbury92 2 роки тому +1

    Wow man haven’t checked in a while glad to see your still out, awesome your gig is getting big. Keep on trucking!

    • @downbytheriver501
      @downbytheriver501  2 роки тому

      Thanks Jon! It’s been a slow growth but I think most of that is because of my inconsistencies with dropping videos. That and I’m no looker, hahaha

  • @BillSprague
    @BillSprague 2 роки тому +1

    It’s great to see you and Zeda out having fun on my Sunday afternoon. I told you we’d be here when you got back. The time lapse was beautiful! Get well soon, Brother. That ‘Rona has a grip on you for sure. Thanks for another great video.

    • @downbytheriver501
      @downbytheriver501  2 роки тому

      Thanks bill! Yeah it just doesn’t want to vacate. That Damn bum!

  • @carmas54
    @carmas54 2 роки тому +1

    While you were going up in the roof of the TC I was thinking how placing a suction cup handle and how that would help with helping getting up there

    • @downbytheriver501
      @downbytheriver501  2 роки тому

      That’s a great idea actually.

    • @carmas54
      @carmas54 2 роки тому

      @@downbytheriver501 hey… I was change the bed sheets in my TC the other day and I notice a great big puddle of water under the mattress . Have you noticed that as well? I can only assume it’s from condensation

  • @originalmamagrizzly2478
    @originalmamagrizzly2478 2 роки тому +1

    Love that pup!

  • @viorikarapatska8290
    @viorikarapatska8290 Рік тому

    When is -20 snow is doing like this when it law temperature

    • @downbytheriver501
      @downbytheriver501  Рік тому

      Yep! You probably know the sound when it gets that cold 😊

  • @stevenpringle7813
    @stevenpringle7813 2 роки тому

    Love the dog, "This ones for you Greta" and Jordan Peterson on the Radio. Oh, and the sled action as well. Which Northern Lite do you have and how tall are you? Why can't you use the furnace in the camper and how do you keep the tanks from freezing if you are just using a space heater? How bad is the condensation in the camper in temperatures like that. Thanks.

    • @downbytheriver501
      @downbytheriver501  2 роки тому

      I have the 2020 NL 9’6 LE. I think I’m just shy of 12’. I can’t use the forced air heater only because it uses so much of my batteries that I’d have to drive for many hours or break out he genny every other day just to keep it running. Hoping to have that remedied by this winter though. Mostly because my batteries are shot due to an unfortunate wiring situation

    • @downbytheriver501
      @downbytheriver501  2 роки тому

      I drycamp in the winter. It’s too much of a hassle to have running water during the coldest months. As far as condensation, yep. It’s my second biggest problem when winter camping. Thanks for watching!

    • @stevenpringle7813
      @stevenpringle7813 2 роки тому

      @@downbytheriver501 It runs on propane but I guess the blower uses the batteries? How long do the batteries last when running the propane furnace?

  • @Nimesh222
    @Nimesh222 2 роки тому +1

    Glad to see you back man !

    • @downbytheriver501
      @downbytheriver501  2 роки тому +1

      Thanks buddy! Trying to juggle this illness with work and this channel has proven to be pretty hard.

  • @CHASNTRUCKS
    @CHASNTRUCKS Рік тому

    Nice setup!

  • @Overitall805
    @Overitall805 Рік тому

    Amen to JP...

  • @TheJoslynJourney
    @TheJoslynJourney 2 роки тому +1

    You're making my husband jealous of all that snow! I'm ok with living vicariously through your videos. :D

    • @downbytheriver501
      @downbytheriver501  2 роки тому

      The sad part is that this year has been a terribly low season. I went out riding today and managed to find about 1.5 feet of fresh from the last storm. That was just enough to cover the rocks that attacked me while sidehilling in a gully. No damages other than a bruised shin and ego, though! Thanks for watching.

    • @TheJoslynJourney
      @TheJoslynJourney 2 роки тому

      @@downbytheriver501 Just 1.5 ft.... We almost never get that much in a single snowstorm in central IL. Dang rocks...but glad you came out well! Looking forward to future videos!

    • @downbytheriver501
      @downbytheriver501  2 роки тому +1

      @@TheJoslynJourney thanks! Yeah, it’s actually not much for out here in the west in the mountains. When it gets to 3-4 feet of fresh, that’s when it gets much more fun! It’s like riding through a cloud.

  • @kthom89
    @kthom89 2 роки тому +1

    Beautiful scenery

  • @CHASNTRUCKS
    @CHASNTRUCKS Рік тому

    A generator and a block heater would help a lot.

    • @downbytheriver501
      @downbytheriver501  Рік тому

      I agree. Didn’t expect it to get that cold at night and wanted to see if it would even start in those temps in case of emergency when I didn’t have the generator handy. She was very angry. Much like Greta. *HOW DARE YOU!*

  • @vanlifesueuk5938
    @vanlifesueuk5938 2 роки тому

    I had covid pneumonia last november and I'm still breathless after the slightest activity. Hoping to get my van back on the road this weekend and be full time living in it again by May. Not a huge fan of driving in snow though.

    • @downbytheriver501
      @downbytheriver501  2 роки тому

      Oh wow I’m sorry to hear that! I am almost wondering if I have a slight case of that as well. Lungs just haven’t quite recouped yet. Hope you get better and get out on the road soon! Take care.

  • @50spudman
    @50spudman 2 роки тому

    Cool sled shots at the end. 👍✌️

    • @downbytheriver501
      @downbytheriver501  2 роки тому +1

      Thanks 🥔 man! It’s my favorite pastime. Usually don’t post too much sledding vids though because the GoPro batteries die so quick in that weather and it’s a PIA to deal with.

  • @afj3rd
    @afj3rd 2 роки тому

    Awesome! I enjoyed the ride along,thank you for making it possible!

  • @marie-clauderoy2601
    @marie-clauderoy2601 2 роки тому

    Zeda est devenue grande! C'est plaisant de vous voir ! Je connais très bien le son de ces pas dans la neige puisque je demeure dans le Grand Nord du Canada! ;) Est-ce que tu vis à temps plein dans ton véhicule?

    • @downbytheriver501
      @downbytheriver501  2 роки тому +1

      Oui, elle l'est bien sûr ! Oui, je vis à plein temps dans mon camping-car. Merci d'avoir répondu !

  • @johntsan742
    @johntsan742 2 роки тому

    I just have to laugh @10:58. What a great set up you got.
    Happy camping and stay safe.

    • @downbytheriver501
      @downbytheriver501  2 роки тому

      Thanks! Yeah, she is a powder hound. Hope you have a great day and weekend, sir.

  • @yooperdog
    @yooperdog 2 роки тому

    Great video. We've had a few people try and go down seasonal roads that only sleds have been on, and needless to say they don't get very far. Hope you feel better and get to a 1000.

    • @downbytheriver501
      @downbytheriver501  2 роки тому +1

      Yep, I’ve seen folks that have done that too. Thanks for the kind words!