Thanks Matt for the shout out! It was very nice meeting you, and for us it was a great adventure and a great story. Glad you got ahold of us. Happy trails 😊😊😊

I really hate we missed you, thank you for the heads up on the great campsite though! On a good note, we left the site clean enough that you couldn't tell if we were there or not. 😁

PSA, regardless if, but especially if, you overland, carry a box of essential parts, hand tools, & fluids for your vehicle. There’s nothing scarier than being broke down, but having the ability to get back running is the most rewarding feeling in the world. Drive belt, spark plugs, fluids, vital sensors, etc can save you from being completely stranded.

It happened to me last summer, in crown land with the nearest auto parts at 1 hr, by car. A very nice retired couple who happen to live nearby drove me to the town and back. The gentleman stayed with me to help and to make sure everything was ok. Those people are priceless. All part of the adventure.

I think these reviews are very helpful. Most of us would never have access to the breadth of products so we rely on people like you to help us. Of course, if I see a reviewer that only has positive things to say about everything then I disregard their opinion. Keep it up!

It was nice to get to talk to you for a minute at Moore Overland Expo. My son-in-law and I spent two days and nights after we left the expo in the Ozark National forest exploring and camping. I see why you love this area so much. Thank you for all you do and great video, as always .

It's great to have friends you can rely on. Way to go David!! That was a great camp spot though. Your honesty is what built your reputation. Never felt like you push a product just because. Thanks Matt

Love how y’all upload constant content. By far my favorite KZfaq channel!

How ironic I haven’t seen one of your videos in a little while and I click on this one. I just change my serpentine belt last week. I am very grateful for my decision now. Mine had 97000 miles on it

I don't need a rooftop tent because my off road trips are different than yours. I operate out of a base camp for several days up to a couple of weeks. But I enjoy the reviews. I learn something from your experience that I find helpful in my trips. I trust your reviews and hope you continue them so I can broaden my knowledge base without spending the dollars necessary because I don't get to try out "stuff" and no one cares about my opinions anyway. Great job with the video as usual.

I think I’ve said this before. I absolutely trust your reviews. I believe you to be totally honest. Looking forward to the TopOak video. My budget does not allow for an expensive tent. But I do not want junk either. Always great videos.

Matt, I have loved your channel since the beginning. The number 1 issue is cost. Most of us are blue collar guys and gals and we stress over how much gas is going to cost us, that being said, I love Ferraris' but I can't afford one. Cars and coffee is in the morning and I will be there because I love exotic cars, that being said I will never own one. I am not jealous of those who can and am glad just to see what is possible. You show us what is possible. We may not be able to afford it but it's nice to see, like the Canadian made heater. I am so glad you showed us that a quality quiet diesel heater is available. I have purchased gear on your recommendation and have never been disappointed. Cheers!

Just wanted to say, Rooster's badge, from All Roads Taken, will be the first on my truck as I just started getting into overland last month!

We missed meeting you and Cara at the expo! Loved seeing your two jeeps first in the Story Tellers area. You always have the best information on overlanding and products. Thanks for all you share.

I do the same on trails. Even the gravel road parts of trails. Throw it 4H, hit the Offroad+ button and disconnect the sway bar. It doesn’t matter if I need 4H or not. I want the sway disconnect because it definitely smooths it all out and then the Offroad+ button changes the way the gas pedal and gears feel. More pedal response and holds gears longer!

Not the guy just sitting there as you pass his turkey decoy😂

Awesome video Matt. I’ll never forget when I had to change a axel in January on day 4 lol. Fun times.

I appreciate your honest reviews.

Good thing you were close to friends and auto parts stores... Imagine if you were on one of your more remote adventures. Sounds like a good idea for another video: "Top ten auto parts to carry into the backcountry" 1) Engine belt; 2) wiper blades; 3) wiper fluid; etc. I'm positive your list and video would be awesome! 😃

Always enjoy watching your channel, was so pleased to have got the opportunity to meet you in person at the Moore Expo in Springfield…

Glad to see everything worked out for you. Good thing you caught it quickly! This I why I always carry a spare belt. Typically I replace it before it shows signs of excessive wear then just keep the old one as a trail spare.

I love that you give your honest opinion. Thanks for being real😊

Loved the video as usual, absolutely loved the sticker for Rooster! Very classy move by that company and u guys

You have ALWAYS been my "go-to" channel for overlanding Because of the fact that you are straight forward and Extremely Genuine!!! Just like another guy that I believe you know quite well, Brad from TrailRecon, He's my "go-to" channel for off-roading/rock crawling for the same exact reason.

Live the dream . It’s hard and takes allot of work. As long as your honest about your corporate relationship and your opinion of product your good. I purchased a product once based on your opinion because of my observation of your integrity. I often use your Chanel to gain information on products and usage. so sorry you had issues on the trail but your view is much better than my desk😂glad it turned out and thank you for your content 👍

Just watching currently lol and I couldn’t help but notice the hunter to the left in the trees where the turkey decoy was lol all decked out and hard to see but he is definitely there

That’s soooo wonderful for that badge!!!! What a great idea. Our animals, sorry, our families should never be forgotten. They should do that for more dog breeds just in general. For a price of course. As far as review content. Being paid while receiving a ‘conversation’ of its pros and cons is bad. If a company wants to pay or not while being open to constructive criticisms I think is good and remains at least mostly genuine. Being objective in reviews as well as subjective together is a good review.

On your left across from turkey decoy 435-450 on video looks like a hunter in the woods lol

34:48 Just up that hill is where we went camping for the Solar Eclipse weekend! During the eclipse, we drove down to the open spot and watched it. Surprisingly, there weren’t many people in that spot during the eclipse but there were several at the bridge. I love this spot!

Watching you guys definitely helps me figure out different things I want for our Jeep’s. Just like people go fishing with us and normally put the gear we use on our boats on their personal boats. You guys are out there doing this stuff just about daily and if it’s not good for overlanding you say it and lets people that enjoys doing it for recreation a good base line to go on.

Love your product reviews! Your circumstances and work are a benefit to everyone enjoying this hobby. I’m a weekend warrior at best and not only trust but need your feedback on equipment before I spend way too much on something useless or way to little on something very important. Keep it up! You basically helped me build out my gladiator 😂. I know I DMd you and your wife a lot about my lift kit and tires.

You should potentially look into a TazerJL Mini, in regards to the swaybar disconnect. It allows you to do it in 2wd up to 30mph, or more if you have the disconnect option set up to a button (Mappable on the steering wheel.)

Sorry we missed ya! Next time buddy great spot! We probably left less than an hr before ya.

Great video and discussion. I know you had to get whatever belt you could. (Your Wife is awesome to get you a new belt!). I’ve always preferred the HD Green coated serpentine belts. I think you do a great job on product reviews, and keeping transparency. I’m also very selective in who I work with too. To put into your kit bag; you can also force the jeep into Cool Down mode with your Tazer since the Gladiator and JL fans are electric if temps start getting too high.

It depends on the channel and transparency of the KZfaqr. Much more could be said, but it is nice to see items used in real life too.

Thank you for doing the one thing most of yall youtube overland celebrities (like it or not you are one) would be afraid to do. You showed that not everything goes according to plan. I appreciate all y’all do.

Having someone who actually uses the items, is valuable. Keep it up

Matt, I think you do great reviews. I got my first fridge from one of your reviews. It was a Setpower. It worked great. The day I loaded it up for Moore Expo, I broke the lid on it. So at Moore I bought a Iceco APL55. After watching you run yours in the back of your jeep I knew it would work for me. Keep doing your Reviews they help all of us!

Matt, one of the things that drew me to your channel was your honesty and integrity. You will review both high end and economy gear. I’ve found you to be honest in your reviews.

Since serpentine belt broke and you're at 90,000 miles I would highly highly recommend replacing your idler pulley and tension pulley i've seen many of these break on jeeps.

The gear reviews are outstanding! Keep them coming, I don't have the time or money to try stuff that doesn't work out.

We went out there this past weekend for the 1st time to Bub’s cabin. Whadaya know, Bub was actually on the chainsaw cutting some brush in his yard! He gave us the tour and we had a great little chat. Has anyone here tried big poppas bbq in Lamar? We passed by it on the way out but didn’t stop. Put that serpentine belt on a scheduled maintenance plan Matt, and it sounds like time for some bushings :-) I just put energy suspension poly bushings on the JKUR and i like em so far. Thanks for taking us along!

To be honest I don’t always watch the reviews, not because I don’t like them just that product isn’t something I’m interested in. But the ones I do watch are helpful. Knowing the price points and the quirks are helpful. Especially when on a budget. They help us make informed decisions on what too and what not to purchase. As far as sponsorships, and free items….. it shouldn’t cost you to inform us about products. Love the content, keep it up!

Matt regarding sway bar disconnect, I have a 2020 Glad Rubicon and you can engage and disengage the sway bar in 2 wheel drive on fly. If you use a JSCAN or Z-Automotive Tazer. Because I already had a OBDLink MX+ OBD2 Bluetooth Scanner for my Ram I purchased JSCAN software and a security by pass cable which works with OBD2 MX. It allows me to disconnect the sway bar in 2H on the fly which is really cool. In 4H & 4L you do need to be stopped before disconnecting/connecting. It also allows me to use the rear locker or rear & Front locker in 2H, change TPMS, calibrate speedo for tire size changes and a does much more other really cool stuff. I have no hands on experience with the tazer, however my understanding is that it does more then JSCAN. Both have there differences and pros and cons. Overall, it's one of those things, once you have it. You can't live without it.

Ripped a valve stem off my JT on the DBBB right before Easter. Easy fix but I sympathize with the broken belt

Matt, just keep up with your honest reviews. Whether you’re paying for the accessory or it’s given to you, we know you’re keeping it real. Thanks for doing that for us all.

That campsite by the bridge is awesome. Stayed there a week before you! The sharp fire poker was there for us too. Haha.

We all forget things every now and then, but gas, that's a big one! I forgot to get gas 2 months but at least it was a short local trail and I had 1/2 a tank. I was still extremely nervous though. Not a good feeling. 🤙

In answer to your question about your access to gear to review - personally I rely upon KZfaqr’s access to review gear to assist me in making decisions about which gear to purchase. I appreciate and enjoy your content, whether it’s focused on gear or a trail to take. Also, your videography is stunning. Thanks for such great content! Happy trails to you.

Sometimes things don’t go our way. It’s how we respond and adapt to those circumstances that dictates the overall outcome of the trip. You handled it well Matt. Curious to hear why you weren’t able to connect with the others. Hopefully it was just a miscommunication issue and not a mechanical one.

As usual, you’re good natured under all circumstances including your broken belt event. I’ve always bought used vehicles including my 2004 Wrangler LJ. One of the things I always buy is a new drive belt: but not to carry as a back up but rather to install it while I’m home to be sure it is the correct belt and carry the old one as a back up knowing that it definitely fits in case the new one fails while on the road or like your case on the off road, road.

I always change my belt every 30,000 and always carry a spare, and the tools to change it. Love your videos

I like the fact that you get to try different things out for a while. My opinion is that when you get an upgrade maybe just hand the old down to someone that might be getting started in overlanding instead of selling them. Maybe at a patrion get together or something. But I wonder, the tent you have now looks like it takes longer to set up compared to the I camper.

I believe that your opinions hold more weight than others. You’re an industry professional who is honest and expresses your thoughts clearly. You disclose if you bought something yourself or if the company gave it to you. You actually use the gear you review instead of strapping it to your Jeep for a video, giving a short review, and not really putting it through its paces. You also are an amazing ambassador because you’re a real person. You take time at expos and shows to be genuine with people and educate. Lots of appreciation for what you do.

Always high quality videos 🔥

I don’t think most people mind. We watch and check it out and if we like it we might buy it, if not we pass. I think it just easier when KZfaqrs are honest on all of it, which you have been!

If you continue to bring an honest opinion and are up front with whether it’s something you purchased or not, then the reviews are of value. I also like the long term reviews to see if it’s still something being used, adds value and is standing up to the use.

Keep your opinions honest as you have done so far. It's great to see the different choices. Also. . . My JTR has 97K miles. I think I'll change the belt too.

Matt, it's easier for people to give honest opinions about things that they have not bought. When you're given something to review that you have not paid for, you literally have no dog in that fight. You do not have a personal position with that product. BUT, when you review something that you purchased with your own money, quite often a thing called "confirmation bias" creeps into the review. In other words, you have to defend your purchasing decision. The unbiased reviews are the ones where you're given stuff for free. You're on the right track. Keep it up!

Been there, done that. A spare belt is part of my off road fluids and parts box

We value your opinion Matt and we know your honest about it , that’s what counts . I couldn’t sleep at night if I wasn’t honest with those around me … even myself , love your videos … and sorry I’m late on your video lol

That medallion of Rooster is awesome! And yes, some days are easier than others after losing our fuzzy buds. So, in addition to the belt and burger, did you get an extra Roto-Pax, or two, of gas? :))

When I replace a drive belt I always throw the old One in with the tools. For times like this! Customers have thanked me. Oh and diesel fuel will eat up a drive belt. 😂

I have purchased things based on your reviews. I have also not purchased things based on your review’s. I would say most people appreciate the reviews and trust your opinions

Free products are fine as long as you explain the terms there is nothing anyone can say. I like being able to see different tents somewhere I trust to give me good data.

Matt. IMHO i think what your doing with the channel and products you acquire is exactly what people need. Being contracted to use a product is a bit awkward, but you remain honest about the product, thus saving ME money. Your doing great! Very happy for both of you. Please keep Jeepin! PS if your being contracted to run something that isn't very good, how does that work? Stay safe.

Immediately adding spare belts to my road gear bag, thanks!

I believe the Ikamper is not actually the best but it’s what I have and it works for me.

Great reminder to replace the belt(s) before they leave the chat! 👍🏻

Matt, your channel is one that I watch every episode of. Along with TrailRecon, Blacksheep, Coddiwomple, and OffThe Grind, your content is always helpful and educational, and usually pretty entertaining. I have watched your creative skills grow but one thing that has NEVER seemed different is your honesty. I don't always agree with you but I know your reviews are always your honest take. There was the time you were talking about a company that sounds a lot like "Fluff and hungry" and you were harsh. Did that keep me from buying one of their products? No, but your revoew made sure I was careful and aware of what I was buying. Okay, so product endorsements and sponsorship is part of your channel. So what - Bills have to be paid. But as long as you continue to be honest and openand objective, you'll be fine. There is another channel that I used to watch, but his sponsorships started to feel like he was schilling. So I don't watch him anymore. As simple as that. You and Cara just keep doing what you're doing.

Thanks!

Great episode! Congrats on 100k subs, by the way!

Well Matt, part of the reason I follow your channel is because I believe you are honest about your reviews. Your transparency makes your reviews credible and carry some weight. I thank you for that. I can't say that for all tubers. With that said. It was great to meet you at the expo. I'm hoping I'll have enough notice to make it to your next patreon event. Aka the guy with the goofy looking hammock.

Tent looks pretty sweet bud👍🏻

Rig’s starting to sound like a Sherman Tank with all the squeaks and rattles, lol.

Matt, excellent video, I think it is important to share when things do not go well or as planned, probably more important than showing a great trip where everything APPEARS to go well. Oh, look at that Ozark Overland is human and does have to overcome issues.....I think it makes it more attainable for the rest of us. On the other point of getting gear for free and doing a video on it, if you include the type of commentary every now and again like you have in this video, about being honest and truthful and talking about the short comings of a product or what you do not like about a certain product, I think that is invaluable and vividly illustrates that you are being honest and transparent (I really think that term is way overused these days).

You just found out why I recommend changing serpentine belts at 60K miles. Keeping a spare in the tool bag along with a U-joint is a good idea too.

Another reason to never wheel alone. Not everyone carries star link. But glad you have help coming!

I caught a slice onmybelt on my 21 Gladiator on a pre inspection check before a long CO trip. Only had 5,000 miles on the truck. Just happened to see it, it was a pain! Over 2 hours to change that stupid belt.

we were just out there last weekend! and the water was way down.

Living the dream!

Glad to see you got help when you needed it. As far as gear goes, I generally will not buy something if I see that someone else got it for free. Obviously I can't do that with everything so there are exceptions. I may also remove branding if I paid full price depending on what it is.

Days like this is why you pack a fishing rod! While you wait, see what swims there!

Just traded in my 23' Tundra for a Gladiator. Can't WAIT to go wheel it in Moab next week 😬

Even though you have ‘only’ 90,000 miles, think of the hours the engine has been running instead of just miles. Compared to someone who drives mostly on the interstate (I know, you do that a lot as well), you put lots of very slow miles on that Jeep, and it probably has the equivalent hours as a non-offroader does at 200,000 miles. Probably a good time to replace the hoses and thermostat as well, or at least bring them with you, along with some training on how to perform those repairs (need the necessary tools too!). The belt on my JT Diesel looks brutal to change, but only 24,000 miles so far, so I’ve got a ways to go before I worry about that! Regardless, thank for the reminder to keep up on our maintenance!

Matt, love your backyard! Just spent a few days down there....just awesome! You are so lucky! Qurestion? What is the combination ditch light/GMRS antenna mount your using on the driver side? Keep up the outstanding work buddy!

I feel you bro! My wife and I just headed out for a local camping spot and my transmission started acting up and made a run for home. Made it! Love your channel! Will you be at Expo East? Would love to meet you and wife at there.

Me and my husband we are very interested in this love watching your u tubes anything can share to us for beginners

Everyone needs to know a David! Hooray for that guy!

The look on the turkey hunter's face!!

Matt, just stay honest and review, give both the pros and cons as you see them. Part of honest is knowing how you acquired what you are reviewing. Also no issue with you adding vendors response to any issues you find. Bottom line is just continue doing what you are doing. Safe travels

To answer your question, yes, I feel knowing a YT'er has been given or is sponsored by a vendor or manufacturer does jade my view of the review. However, knowing you haven't been encouraged by said sponsors one way or another helps. Believing you are an honest person helps. But even more, the success of the YT reviewer plays an even larger part, in my mind. I don't think you're hurting for the sponsors or the $, so you can afford to be honest. New YT'ers who are just getting into it and trying to turn it into $ maker, I take their reviews with a huge grain. Hope that helps! Love your content. It's been a major point of encouragement in my own efforts to get into overlanding.

That belt that was too long was for the E-Torque engine. That's the one I have. I have 51k on my Jeep. Maybe I should at least keep a spare, like I do with my YJ.

That campsite beside the creek where you were supposed to meet up is where we did a video at a few weeks ago. Started there and then wheeled over to a spot on the river for night 2. Both spots are really cool.

You are one of the few channels I actually trust when it comes to reviews (there are a few others in various categories).... as for ikamper contracting you for 6 months of use and review... IMO that is somewhat minimal for a GOOD review. A good reviewer also has to use multiple products in the same category to get a solid base. I know a guy who was singing the praises of a low end product because it was the only one he had ever used and it did the job (barely) In all honesty, some of your reviews have felt commercial, but the vast majority of your content has been excellent. I am also somewhat jaded when it comes to some products and am NOT a fan of "Overland Tax". I am a DIYer and I hate seeing the "you have to get this $3000 product"... that some weekend warrior with a hand full of basic tools can build in a day or so for $500 (I am NOT pointing a finger in your direction here... even with stupid expensive things like roof top tents, you frequently post videos showing friends who are comfortably camping in hammocks or other options proving you do NOT have to have a RTT to be an overlander despite so many in overland social media who seem to think it is the entry requirement for being an overlander) I also see a lot of "get this must have product for $1000" when I know you can accomplish the same, if not better for $600, but it won't have the word overland on it next to a drawing of a compass. It darn near brought tears of joy watching one of your gear reviews not long ago and seeing you pick up a $30-40 item and say "this out preforms this $500 object for our needs on the trail, it has all these features that are superior to the more expensive item... just don't waste your money"... I am quite sure the makers of the high dollar product would not be happy if they saw your video, but I was glad you where honest with us about it.

No issues with reviewing “free” gear. It’s advertising for the company on a platform that directly markets their users….plus you get to play with some cool stuff!

For me, it depends on the person providing the review. I feel like your reviews are fair and unbiased so I tend to listen to your reviews. There are other people that I get the impression they are influenced by the sponsorship or free item.

this happened to us with an old bronco....lost the alternator, power steering and the water pump/fan...this was back before internet and cell phones...we cracked the radiator cap and let it boil, we also stopped once in a while and dumped water on and topped up the radiator to keep it cool....we were able to drive for half an hour like this just on the battery...ford 302

Use the sponsors to your benefit; ultimately, it becomes our benefit. I am extremely happy that you (and those like you) are given the opportunity to make money doing this, it allow us to see exactly how these product work (or don't work) and gives you the ability to live YOUR dream - This creates enthusiasm, energy and time which naturally shows, making for an even more enjoyable experience for us. . . I'm of the opinion that these nay-sayers, the ones who condemn any profit you make as nothing more than ignorance and envy; the type of person that will complain regardless of your actions / words, their only joy is misery. They have zero understanding of the time and effort it takes to do what you do and they certainly have no desire to understand. ***As a side note: Yes; there are some who take sponsorships only for the money and will say whatever they think that company wants them to say. I also think these "creators" are easily spotted and discounted -- In short; Rock on, Brother! (David / Middle Tennessee)

Good friend/wife right there.