Hey bud, 2 things. you gotta let the coils warm on a diesel before you can start it. Second, in the winter it's sleet, in the summer it's hail. Two completely different forms of ice. :)

When you're in the mountains, often there are no guardrails. This is so the snow lows can push all the snow over the edge. The little poles are so they know where the edge of the road is when it's covered in snow. :) Safe travels

So glad to see you travelling with a companion in less that ideal weather conditions.

"Oh. I was wondering where the waffle went!" 😅😂🤣

😊Ethan, I made a post a while back on your transmission issue vids and told you then I was the owner of the top Ford Power Stroke shop in SW Missouri for 18 years. I was known as Mr. Power Stroke and Diesel Darrell and 7.3L Power Strokes was my specialty, but we did work on all diesels. That being said, when you turn your key on, I am sure you know you have a glow plug light on your cluster you are supposed to wait to go out before attempting to start, especially in cooler weather. Letting that light go out in warmer weather is not that detrimental, but in that cold weather it is a must and I suggest leaving the key in the on position for another 15-20 seconds after the light goes out, before you attempt to start the engine. Most people do not know this, but that light has nothing to do with actual cycling of the glow plugs and they are still activated even after the light is out and they continue to cycle up to 2 minutes, even after the engine has started. By leaving the key in the on position for an additional 15-20 seconds after the glow plug light goes off before trying to start, it will heat the cylinders even more and give you an easier start up with less injection clatter and smoking. Also, are you running any kind of fuel treatment in that colder weather? Hotshot's Secret has some decent fuel additive for the winter, and they also have an oil additive I would suggest running to help keep those HEUI injectors clean and free of oil coking. The oil additive cleans and prevents oil stiction of the poppet valves and will also help with cold starts. And just to be clear, Hotshots Secret is just one of many oil and fuel additives out there, and everyone has their own opinions on which is best. Archoil, Rev-X, Stanadyne, Stiction RX, Opti Lube and Howes are some of the other brands that have products for either fuel or oil or both. Hotshots Secret is one of the ones I know worked excellent not only for myself but a lot of my Customers with 500,000+ miles on their engines. Also, I prefer running only Motorcraft oil and Motorcraft filters in my 7.3L Power Strokes. Again, if you have any questions at all or need any help, please feel free to message me and I will be happy to help you anyways I can. I love watching and following along with your adventures and hopefully I may get to meet you on the road some day, after I get my camper van finished up and start traveling myself. Stay safe out there and take care...

Why don’t you and your friend just join forces and share one camper? That way you can keep each other warm, use 1/2 of the propane, etc. anyway, please keep wearing those gray pants…..they look amazing on you! 😍😍😍😍😍😍😍

OK...speaking on behalf of everyone who's a "mommy" or "daddy" here...CHILD...you are NOT dressing for the weather!! Where are your gloves??? No wonder your hands are freezing...silly. I'm glad you and your friend both got unstuck...he seemed to have way more difficulty than you did. And what happened to your 4WD? Scary to think, because when those systems break, they are expensive to fix. Have you thought about sliding locks for your cabinets? Probably better than having to clean up everything that falls out whenever you go over a series of bumps! And you're a brave soul...my fear of heights wouldn't let me enjoy those spectacular mountainside views! Great video, as always! 💖💖💖💖💖

Growing up in Vermont, many people carry kitty litter to use as traction if you get stuck.

dude, you have WAAAAY more guts than anyone I know!! Impressive how you stick to something and just go with it! I'm pretty sure I'd have said "the HELL with this" a long damn time ago!

Hi Ethan hope you don’t mind me suggesting a couple of pointers that may help you. When you’re starting your engine when cold wait while the glow plug heater symbol on your dash goes out before cranking the engine over. Also your leisure batteries shouldn’t drop less than 50% if gel or acid type. If lithium never less than 20% using them too low will spoil them. The glow plug heater symbol is just above your low fuel symbol.

Cold starting a diesel without waiting for the glow plug light to go out will always make them rattle and bark at you. They also need to be warmed up good before you move them. They can idle for hours no problem.🇨🇦

dude, you need to install a relay switch to your house battery to connect to your CAR battery so that you can switch that when needed and charge your house battery by your trucks alternator.

Wow that snow was beautiful ..You're beautiful. What more could a viewer ask😊

I had a good laugh for a second, when there wasn't a waffle in there . . .

I am glad that you and your friend got un-stuck. Peaches is so cute. Stay warm the both of you.

As someone already has mentioned, make sure the glow plug light goes off before trying to start truck. Diesels do not like cold weather. You should think about getting a small generator as a emergency backup power source. On cold night you could plug the diesel engine into it and be able to charge your batteries. As always, love your videos. Please stay safe.

Goodness, Peaches must be over-the-moon that she can do car adventures with her human everyday! I noticed that she was as keen as a bean sittin up front co-piloting .

I’m so happy you’re camping with a friend in those arctic conditions, much safer that way. Might be a good idea to buy some snow socks for your rear tyres: they’re simple to fit and should prevent you tumbling down a cliff when it’s icy 😮. Fantastic video Ethan, you made me shiver seeing you so cold 🥶❤️🥰

Please don't take offense, a lot of people confuse hail and sleet. Hail is produced by severe thunderstorms, sleet is ice pellets produced from winter storms when snow passes thru a warmer layer of air and re freezes as sleet.

Those "poles sticking up " are not intended to act as a guardrail of any sort; they are intended to tell the road snowplow crews where the edge of the road surface is *and* how deep the snow is, (on the roadway). 😮😮

Perhaps you should invest in a diesel heater for your camper

I just watched a video from Bob Wells where he talks about RVers and van nomads dying in snowstorms. Please be careful, Ethan.

Someone whom I've known since childhood lives in Prescott, AZ. I'm glad you've found yourself a new friend (the van guy). Try to stay warm for the rest of Winter. I've decided I really don't like cold weather. Not a fan of hot weather either.

Should I ever decide to live in a van during winter, all I need to do beforehand is study the comment sections of your videos, particularly this one here. There's just so much valuable advice people are sharing!! Even I can't help but feel grateful although the advice is meant for you. 😊

6:40 Grieg's "Morning" in the background is hilarious.

From South Africa tyres laddie tyres let them down ....low ! Double the length of the footprint (look what the length of the footprint is at start, then air-out until its double by eye. Doing this will have the effect of halving the weight on the van, and double the traction.... You're welcome Warren

Here’s some advice from South Dakota. Keep those mats that you use for your front door, in your truck. Use them under your tire when you’re stuck. Best advice to give you! Your awesome!

I think you do spend a lot of time by yourself but it was good to see you had your friend over for dinner...

We got about 6 inches of snow in central Kentucky the other day. It is so beautiful, but so cold. It's only 8 degrees right now. Stay safe and warm out there Ethan ❄️♥️

Can’t say I’m a regular viewer, but I like your posts - entertaining. When I was in HS we were required to take Latin or Greek for two years and then two years of a Romance language; my Latin teacher was a Jesuit priest - rumour was he killed an opponent while boxing - and that led him to become a priest. Anyway, he was acerbic and we had a student that always had so much melodrama (excuses really) so this priest started to refer to his tales as the ‘Perils of Pauline’. Your story reminds me of that. Perils of Pauline was a serialised silent film with different situations that Pauline would find herself. Anyway, long way around the barn to say enjoy your clips. 😁👍🙏🏻

I love snow!❤❤❤❤

Cold weather tip: having a space blanket under you when sleeping. Usually I do something like space blanket -> fleece blanket -> sheet -> me -> fleece blanket -> duvet. And wool socks + a beanie. Space blankets do rip pretty easily, so finding something like a reflective car window screen or a picnic blanket with a reflective/insulated back works okay too. Obviously the absolute best option is an insulated sleeping pad, but nobody's got money for that in this economy.

Glad you have a travel companion, as traveling alone cannot be the safest.

Ethan - you poor baby first you're friend got stuck and then you get stuck but you both okay Peach's sure love s the snow thanks for sharing this Ethan and till next time be safe and keep making memories ❣️🤠

You are very brave. It’s a good thing you have peaches to keep you company. I really enjoy your videos. Thank you. 🙏

Ethan, there is a lot of good advice on here. Take it, damn it, take it lol. As for me, well, I'm here in New Hampshire watching you and glad that you are still posting. Thanks.

Glad You and Peaches Have a Friend each to travel with!

Yeah snowing and freezing temps kinda a drag when camping however part of the adventure. I can't give you anymore advice except what others have pointed out about your glow plug, on your dash that is. Important good advice by others. Also I know it's your channel glad you have someone with you and a friend for peaches to run with, who is he? I noticed you're very careful about showing his face or naming him by name. He is a great guy pulling you out and for sticking with you in your Hazzard travels, willing to do this as I would not. Glad you're not alone. I pull a 5th wheel with my husband and could never boondock in the outdoors like this. The 5th wheel wouldn't hold up to the abuse and it's just too big. Enjoy your show keep up the videos and enjoy them .

Outstanding video as usual, Ethan. As others have mentioned, please dress for the weather (gloves, heavy socks), etc. I’m amazed at how well you handle stressful situations. Your calm demeanor is highly admirable. As a fellow full-time RVer, I actually learn a lot from your videos. Keep them coming. I love seeing you and look forward to your adventures. ❤

I know you are limited on space, but here is a trucker winter tip if you keep a bucket of sand, salt(winter or pool salt) and kitty litter mixture, you put a scoop behind and in front of the stuck tires. It will help you get the grip you need to get out of the stuck situation

The poles on the side of the road are to help you during a snow storm (blizzard) to show you where the road is, so you don't drive off the side... In Iowa, they put show "fences" where the snow may build up mounds. Try camping at Zion National park or the Arches.

You should get a higher battery capacity Ethan it will make things a lot easier when you have a larger reserve. Also solar lights inside just sit the small solar panels at the windows.

Really enjoy the videos, and am mesmerized by the idea of living/traveling in a truck camper. Keep the adventures coming.

It seems like just the blink of an eye ago I was 20. Now I’m almost 60. I love my life and my family. But if I had it to so all over again, I’d live my life a little closer to the kind of adventures you are having. I wish you all the best, and I’m cheering you on. Live your life YOUR own way. Never forget that you’re an amazing person.

Yup.......Hi Ethan...check the engine cold start procedure...ignition on and wait until the glow plug light goes out before spinning the engine on its starter.......happy travels

You need to get a heated oil dip stick. It will help you start your truck. Also, check to see if you have enough anti freezer in your radiator.

Ethan I know what you're going through I'm a long haul trucker, driving Washington Oregon Wyoming, Utah Idaho, And California is home. Love every video you make You always make me laugh You're fantastic Thank you for your content

Glad to see you are not travelling alone in the snow. As it says in the book of Ecclesiastes: 4:9 Two are better than one; because they have a good reward for their labour. 10 For if they fall, the one will lift up his fellow: but woe to him that is alone when he falleth; for he hath not another to help him up.

I have a relative who added a small wind turbine to their 5th wheel…. He said it helps on overcast/rainy/snow days

In a pinch you can use your floor mats for traction.

Loved the video. Please be careful out there. Beautiful young man like yourself HAS to keep everything safe

You are wild and calm all at the same time. I love it. So.... I subscribed today!

We use a Little Buddy propane heater for emergencies...doesn't need any electricity. You really should have one in the truck.

Your engine alternator should be wired into your solar battery setup, so that you can charge the batteries using it as a generator when you cannot get enough sunlight to charge your batteries. Most RV engines have at least a 130 amp alternator, many have a larger one than that. You really need to stay at lower elevations in the winter; higher elevation, lower temperature.

I'm so relieved you're traveling now with a companion and a backup vehicle. Silly we haven't met but still i worry for you like a mother. 🥰

Always remember to keep at least four old potato sacks to jam under the wheels,,,, great for traction. Also keep an old piece of carpet to cover the engine when it’s freezing, stay warm,,, get some long johns

You need to be careful and more prepared for winter camping.

Throughout all the tribulations you seem to be having a good time x

Prescott is so beautiful!

I love you Ethan. I wish I was like you and had the courage to do what you do. Kisses from Brazil. 😊

Keep kitty litter in your camper. I live in Chicago and it has helped me out, more so when I'm stuck on ice.

What everyone is saying about the glow plug light is 100% correct. What I don’t think that they have mentioned is that if you don’t wait for that light to go out, you will eventually burn out the glow plugs and they are terribly expensive.

Those “little tiny poles” you refer to @11:55 are guides for the snow plows so they don’t drive over the cliff when the road is covered with snow.

is your friend camera shy???

Slow and easy wins the race!

Don’t let that truck run out of fuel. It is a big pain to get a diesel running again after that.

GREAT STORY TELLING... 🙂

76 miles away (1 hr 40min) in Phoenix the high temp today (01/28/24) is 78F, 78F thru Thursday. I don't know why people stay in the snow either. Prescott will still be there to visit in June so we stay home by the pool until then. I enjoy your travels though.

That strange noise you heard at night was an owl … which if big enough could pick up a small dog. Be careful. 😮😊

Cant belive arizona has snow like that

I am so glad to see you haven't such a good time. Especially in the conditions that you're in and saying all of those beautiful things you're saying

I’m just glad to see you’re not completely by yourself on this journey for obvious reasons.

You should get a wood stove (small one) installed. They work really good and fuel is basically free!

Have you looked into a Diesel Heater ? Not as efficient as propane but very small and blows a LOT of heat, can draw it's fuel from your main truck tank and set to never use all your fuel. All very easy to do. (12VDC and regular Diesel). I love my heater. (28' Class A for 3 years). Other thoughts - Gloves - double check how you start your truck - . Keep up the great work bud.

One more idea is get a wibasko bunk heater installed in your camper I uses a small amount of diesel from your tank to keep your whole living area warm and pulls very little power. Thanks for your videos. Best wishes.

You should get your 4x4 working or invest in a good set of tire chains for back two tires. I'm thinking around $200.00 a set, Tractor Supply usually have them. They are sized to your tire size. PS. Don't go up into Canada during winter roads up there are all ice. Love you, be careful baby. I've the same truck. 2000 F250 SD 4x4 7.3 diesel

@ethantravels there is antifreeze that you pour into your tanks and toilets. we do that in our caravan. a must when it's freezing. just like in the car with the coolant. recommends using these agents in your tanks and toilets. the frost can do serious damage otherwise. good luck.

Winter wonderland and cars don't mix. Snow booties for Peaches, her feet get frostbite too. 🏂

I'm so glad u have company

I enjoy watching your videos. I'm thinking of getting an rv and traveling.

Add some fuel additive for the cold to prevent fuel from gelling.

Once you get that four wheel drive fixed that truck will be a beast in the snow and off roading👍🏻. Another great video Ethan, keep up the great work ❤

Glad you had your boyfriend there to help you. Your so cute❤

Another good one with some tense moments

❤ I like, when people get together in travel, much more than when people travel by themselves.

Those sounds when its cold are normal for a diesel. You'll likely find your truck will start easier in the cold if you wait for the glow plug light to go out before starting. Your 4 wheel drive doesn't seem to be working either. I noticed that in another video. Your truck looks to have manual locking hubs on the front are they in the 'lock' position? You should have been able to drive out of that ditch no problem. Your videos inspire me to get out and go camping!

Hey Ethan. Hope your warm!❤❤❤ Hope you have something good to smoke. Pebbles is so cute. So are you! 🎉🎉🎉 Glad you have a friend to help you. ❤❤❤🎉🎉🎉🎉🎉🎉😊😊😊

Let your glow plugs recycle a couple times before starting a diesel. Very hard on engine to start cold.

Thanks for your videos. I am seeing some beautiful country that I have never seen before.

Your copilot is so dog-gone cute! I admire your problem-solving skills, and your courage. Happy trails, and thanks for sharing!

When will you introduce us to your friend?

Can you please get some winter survival gear. It's dangerous AF. You need a spare 12v battery full charged, emergency spare propane tank, battery power heated clothes or electric blankets. Your water tanks will freeze if you have no power... (electric heating pads for water tanks and waste water tanks is critical for freezing temps) so a gasoline electric power generator is essential. Gloves, wool socks, omg. Literally you'll need about $10,000 for proper winter gear. The glow plugs on your truck need to be preheated with electricity too. You need a multitude of power sources, back ups of back ups for the backups. Its your lifeon the line in freezing temps. Be careful🙏

As a mechanic , i'm still laughing . But just keep moving . 😄

This is why people go RVing in the summer or in the south. Sorry to hear about all your troubles. Please move south. Florida is great this time of year. Good luck Ethan!

Hey Ethan from the UK. Love your videos 🤗🤗🤗 xx

Ethan, you need to connect a charge line from your truck to the batteries in your RV. Be sure to select a non-critical fuse, and a circuit that TURNS OFF/DISCONNECTS when your engine/alternator is off. I’d suggest letting a mechanic do it. By circuit that turns off, cigarette lighter circuits usually don’t function when the engine is off, but done light circuits always work. You only want to charge your camper battery when the engine is on, you do not want the camper battery to drain your trucks engine battery. I’m so sorry if I’ve over-explained this, no offense intended. Best of luck! 🥰

Great video. Peaches is so cute.

if you guys are ever in Florida stop in and see us! Reilly and Frankie in Florida!

Enjoy watching

How fun! I hope you get to snuggle with your friend and the dogs to stay warm.