Colorado Z71 Projects - Yakima Overhaul HD install

After installing the RetraxOne XR tonneau cover (https://youtu.be/StbxjAHOpbI) the Yamika Overhaul HD rack was ready to be installed. I chose the Yamika Overhaul HD as it was compatible with certain tonneau covers, is height adjustable and configurable. Many 'overland' style racks I looked at dd not work with tonneau covers and certainly not retractable ones. This is a simple install video showing how easy it was to install on the RetraxOne XR.

I got all the parts from REI. Here are the links to what I got. Yakima OverHaul HD Truck Rack https://www.rei.com/product/150180/yakima-overhaul-hd-truck-rack Yakima 60" HD Bars MD - Pair https://www.rei.com/product/150182/yakima-60-hd-bars-md-pair Yakima Tonneau Kit 1 https://www.rei.com/product/150203/yakima-tonneau-kit-1

Colorado Z71 Projects - RetraxOne XR install

With the Line-X spray in bed liner installed it was on to the next project which was the installation of the RetraxOne XR tonneau cover. This obviously is going to give us a secure, water proof (mostly) storage area. 

As I knew I wanted to get a rack for our kayaks and I have decided on the Yamika Overhaul HD I had the choice of two tonneau covers that would work with the Yamika rack. The Pace Edwards Ultragroove and the Retrax Pro or One XR. 

I went with the RetraxOne XR as it has the lock on the top and the Pace Edwards has the lock on the inside which meant you had to open the tailgate to unlock it. As we'll have bikes on the tow hitch carrier sometimes that would have proved problematic. I also went with the One over the Pro due to cost and I didn't require the weight limit of the Pro.

The install was easy after watching the official install video and below is a short video of my installation.

Stay tuned for more updates and installs on the Chevy Colorado Z71 Trail Runner.

First updates to the Chevy Colorado Z71 Trail Runner

I've only owned the Colorado for a few weeks, but already have done some updates and changes to it. After researching for so long I knew exactly what I wanted and needed to do to the truck to get how we wanted. 

I'll be doing short regular updates on the coming days of what's been done it it. The first two changes are documented in the video below.

These are two important updates to improve the ground clearance and protect the bed. Please subscribe and check back for videos of the other updates.

Reviving the blog and big update

After not posing anything for a couple of years I am reviving this blog and will be uploading more content and creating videos to accompany them. 

I really want to use this platform to be creative and document the trips we take and also the tools and gear we use. I enjoy watching this type of content on YouTube so want to make my own. The first big update is revealed in the video below and stay tuned for the other updates to follow.

How to Hike the Appalachian Trail: Free Kindle book today 13th Jan 2017

If you are thinking of hiking the AT there is a guide available today only for free.
https://www.amazon.com/dp/B01NBR1GNE/
Well worth the download as free :)

CABELA'S XPG RGB II headlamp review

Here is a brief review I did on the CABELA'S XPG RGB II headlamp I recently purchased. Good lighting is always needed when traveling and exploring and headlamps are great to keep your hands free.

ENTER TO WIN A $500 CABELA'S GIFT CARD

Exploring the American Frontier requires clothing and gear and one of the best places to get that stuff is at Cabela's. At the moment Outdoorhub are doing a $500 gift card competition so if you like the idea of that click the link below to enter.

http://www.outdoorhub.com/cabelas-summer-gift-card-giveaway/ 

I've entered and hope I win :)

Mountain Man Breakfast in a Dutch Oven

A few weekends ago I did some campfire cooking in my yard and made a very tasty breakfast in my cast iron Dutch Oven. Here is a video of the recipe and results.

 

Dutch Ovens are a great way to cook when camping or even at home in the yard and there are tons of great recipes and YouTube channels about Dutch Oven cooking.

Outside Online tests the Chevrolet Colorado 4WD Z71 Diesel Truck

Outside Online have reviewed the Chevy Colorado 4WD Z71 Diesel truck and claimed it's the only truck you'll need to own. With it's low level torque and high fuel economy it can cope with most jobs given to full size trucks. But with it's smaller size it's better round town and it certainly is stylish.

This is the truck I'd want to own, but at a cost of about $42K for the Z71 diesel I don't think I'll be driving one off the lot any time soon. Maybe in 5-10 years I can get a used model, but until then I'll have my sights set on a Nissan Frontier.

How to be a Dirtbag Road Tripper in 5 Easy Steps

This article has some great tips and advice for those heading out on an adventure. http://dirtroadtrip.com/blog/lifestyle/how-to-be-a-dirtbag-road-tripper-in-5-easy-steps/#comment-3284
Having traveled around the US in a budget a couple of times I know what its like to watch your pennies every day. I used to plan my Amtrak and Greyhound trips to be over night to save on accommodation and save time for exploring destination. Also cheap Ramen noodles can be filling and tasty if you add some fresh peppers and mushrooms, which doesn't add much cost.

4WD vs AWD whats difference?

Outside magazine do a great job explaining 4WD vs AWD in this online article. The terms differential and locker always confused me and now make more sense. Having a AWD Chevy Equinox I found the last paragraph really interesting and a useful trick to know.

American made gear

Exploring the American Frontier requires good quality gear and what better way to explore than by using US made products. This is a great list of the top US made gear.
http://www.outsideonline.com/2093631/gear-special-made-usa
While not gear its great to see Wyoming Whiskey Small Batch Bourbon listed as that's my favourite.

Good value GMRS radios

REI are currently selling in their 4th July sale the Midland T51VP3 2-Way Radios with Charger for $34.83 which is a very good price for these great little radios. They work on GMRS and FRS and are USB charged which I like. GMRS does require a license, but there is no test to pass just a fee to pay. I have a set of these which I got at full price and it's very temping to get a second set.  There are great to take when exploring with others and you have no cell coverage and need to stay in contact.

Act soon though as sale ends tonight.

https://www.rei.com/product/895969/midland-t51vp3-2-way-radios-with-charger

Born on the 4th July

On 4th July, when American celebrates it's Independence Day I am launching a new site called American Frontier. Since first traveling to the USA in 1992 I've explored many great places and still have more to see. This site will be a place to document and share past and future adventures. It will also be a place to share and document website articles and videos to do with overlanding, hiking, outdoor cooking, hunting and exploring.