Abandoned Truck to Expedition Truck | The Full Build | Destination Adventure

Going into this project, I thought I would be embarking on the next season of travel with a new rig and nothing more, but that could not be further from the truth. I am leaving with so much experience, knowledge, pride, gratitude and a whole lot more grey hair. This build was an ambitious undertaking, and became more of a project that I had anticipated, but it also turned out so much better than anticipated.
Nearly one year ago, this build went into the early stages of planning. This was my fathers old work truck when he owned a small logging company. When the company sold, the truck got parked inside a shop, and it sat there for nearly two decades. I always wanted to buy this truck off of him, but he wouldn't let it go. Once we had the conversation about an expedition truck build for my business, he was happy to donate the truck, an the plan was officially in motion. Over the summer travel season, before the build was announced, I began to arrange the logistics. Researching other builds, researching the truck, making connections and arranging sponsors. Once the first snow fall came, the motorhome was in the shop and the build was under way. Looking back now, I am thankful I didn't know what I was getting myself into, but I am so happy and proud to have pushed through to the end. And now I have an expedition truck that is ready, and capable of long term remote travel.
The candidate truck for this build is a 1995 Dodge Ram 3500 Cab & Chassis, powered by a 12 valve cummins engine. I wanted this particular truck not only because it was my Dad's old truck, but because of the drivetrain. A 12 valve cummins is an engine that can get more than a million km, it is completely mechanically operated and it gets remarkably good fuel economy. I also needed a one ton truck to handle the weight of the living quarters and storage, because this is not a camping rig, it is home. The truck needed some pretty big repairs from the last season it served in the bush, but the larger concern came from the fact that it had sat for so many years. Because of this, it is a low milage truck for the age, and it is nearly rust free, but anything rubber had dried out. The engine got new seals, but is otherwise stock. I did a complete front end rebuild, replaced nearly every bearing and every seal, rebuild both axles and differentials, new U-joints front to back, and anything that was showing wear got replaced or rebuilt.
Getting the truck mechanically sound took a couple of months, and then it was time to look into the task of mounting the living quarters and the storage boxes. Lucky for me I had some amazing sponsored support on both of these tasks, and this is where the truck really began to come to life. The camper was going to be mounted inside a cradle, and positioned 21 inches behind the cab, leaving enough room for a pass through storage compartment, and leaving the final product nicely balanced over the rear diff. Stinger Welding, out of Prince George was helping with this portion, and they were more than capable. They designed and build a three foot frame extension, with a six inch drop to get to the back of the camper, where they then built a bumper and trailer hitch for the boat. Leaving the shop, the truck looked like a frankenstein machine, but it was solid and ready for storage compartments, so I was off to Prince Rupert.
Harbour Machining, out of Prince Rupert was my sponsor for the storage boxes, and they had a plan that far surpassed my wildest expectations. I arrived with a need for storage boxes, and a place for the outboard to ride upright and accessible. I left with a world class set of boxes that turned the truck from a plain truck build to a show piece. Not only did they look amazing, but the functionality was 100%. By the time I left Prince Rupert, we all had a pretty good idea of just how capable the truck was going to be, but I still had a lot to finish.
Batteries, airbags, solar, heat, water, plumbing, generator, air conditioner, fridge... the list goes on and on, but day after day things began to get checked off. Finally the list is nearly complete, and the only things left are aesthetic. The truck is rock solid, it is reliable, and it is capable of very remote travel and self sufficiency for weeks at a time. Everything I need to comfortably live, travel and produce the show is contained within this truck, and built custom to the needs of myself and the channel. At this point, I trust this truck to take me anywhere, and I can't wait to see where we will go with it.
Thank you all so much for your patience during this time of infrequent uploads, and thank you so much to everyone that helped to make this build possible.
If you wish to help support the channel, please consider taking a look at the Patreon Page or the Merch line. Most of all, thank you for enjoying!
Patreon: / destinationadventure
Merch Line: destinationmerch.com/

[@melissarose7909]

Can’t imagine how it feels to have so many skilled people want to be a part of this project bc they believe in you and what you are doing. Can’t wait to see what this new rig brings!!

[@Destination_Adventure]

It is incredibly heartwarming.

[@MakinEndsMeet69]

You know it seemed every now and then your videos pop up on my feed, I have to say every video that I have watched has been quite impressive. I hope and pray that all your Ventures goes smoothly, may God bless you and your family always.

[@user-ph7zx7jz5z]

his personality and his passion is all soooo real

[@waynekaczmarek946]

Me too. Its gonna be great though

[@marvinrandolph3731]

ABSOLUTELY HILARIOUS 😂😂😂😂😂 ENTERTAINING AND EDUCATIONAL TOO

[@marybethwylie]

I love watching people smarter than me do what theyre passionate about. This is fascinating!

[@Destination_Adventure]

It was so interesting watching the pros when I was in the shops. Much better than watching me struggle through hahaha. Thank you for enjoying:)

[@endangeredgnome5337]

Perfectly covered the build.

[@endangeredgnome5337]

Perfectly covered the build.

[@dennistidwell7188]

I agree totally, I try to learn something new each day.....

[@messybench]

Watched this not knowing what to expect. I'm a convert. As a retired industrial fabricator, I can appreciate the amount of work and talent this took. Stinger and Harbour really shined. Great job.

[@henrykahil9275]

Thank ya Sir! Can't wait for the next adventure in the Dusty Wagon(i just made that up😘😆). Seriously though, stay safe and much love mate

[@keikun6969original]

I don't know you, I've never met you and never even seen your channel before today. Is it strange that I feel oddly fulfilled and proud?

[@bob_frazier]

This is so personal, that's what makes it so special. A job very well done, Dustin.

[@Destination_Adventure]

Thank you very much.

[@captbob1494]

Mécanicien engineer are the best in the word was 23 years on ship good mechanic experience after that u can do everything.

[@UnwindingRoads]

Sorry my previous comment was for another vid. This one started right after and it posted here. Thank you KZbin algorithm!! This was an awesome video. Love that you got dad's truck!!

[@Sommersole86]

Ur dad really made me cry.... You have an awesome father!

[@glennforister84]

Looking forward to seeing where this old boy takes you. Keep on adventuring Dustin ...✌❤🍄🍻

[@Destination_Adventure]

Cheers amigo 🍻

[@jaimeestevens1711]

Epic build video. It hit all the right notes. Techy build things, comedy relief, humanity, talent showcase, and the soundtrack is a masterpiece! Safe travels, Dustin!

[@Destination_Adventure]

Thank you so much.

[@sharlettedavidson81]

What an amazing build ,,, congratulations,,,,she is a unicorn…🦄

[@darthgabez2735]

2gen dodges have history. They are literally the definition of family trucks. They always have a story to tell whether its rusting away or fully intact. They will never leave you hanging. Its also a good truck to start working on because of ease of parts and knowledge.

[@iainpaton1865]

First class video friend thank you. Your dad's old truck has a great new life to it you and your team done a great job 🎉😊please keep the great videos coming friend from Scotland.

[@rogerjustice8835]

Man those 12 valve dodges run forever, I’ve owned a 3/4 ton 12 valve for 25 years. Absolutely the best truck I’ve ever owned, simple and reliable, great choice for an expedition rig.

[@muslimsilverstacker1472]

My new favorite channel. Absolutely fantastic content in every way. Binge watching all night.

[@marybethwylie]

Your Dad is the coolest! I love him!

[@mikerobbins3334]

Hats off to the skilled tradesmen that built awesomeness. And you too. Nice to see a plan come together better than planned!

[@tavitaafamasaga1074]

Always had an interest in a basic but reliable rig like this , just to get away and do something out of your own comfort zone is healing ... a joy to watch after watch the last video when he went out to some remote place by a small boat then a slow but long drive to meet a lovely couple staying off grid with family ties to how that place was built 🏞️💯

[@tylerphillips3667]

This is so amazing. I got my grandpa's 1999 2500 24v Cummins. Its the one in my profile picture. He talked about it the same way your father talks about yours. It has 101,000 miles. I always wanted it all throughout my life. I rode around in the middle seat with my grandpa driving and my dad riding passenger as a kid, hauling antique cars and tractors with it. One day down the line it became mine. Could never be more proud to have it. Awesome to see someone out there like you understands. Great thing you are doing. Keep goin dude!

[@montyforster3370]

Loved rewatching this segment. Sitting here at 5am in Forestgulch AB. Im so uplifted by your voice and too that of your pas. Wishing i was still living out there.

[@rays2877]

And that was a great video ! I'm a retired millwright, I really appreciate what those boys did.

[@billsauer3164]

Your dad is awesome 👍👍 No wonder you're such a humble dude. Apple's don't fall far from the tree

[@natalielobo]

Congratulations!! And huge thanks to your sponsors for helping out...love this channel

[@Destination_Adventure]

Thank you so much. :)

[@rootbox]

Freakin FABULOUS!!!

[@Jasontodd74]

We are ready for the new videos. Appreciate all the work by you and all the sponsors. Big fans from the U.S. and I am very happy for you!! Can’t wait for what’s next.

[@Destination_Adventure]

Can’t wait to get back on the road.

[@rustynail2205]

Let’s whip it!!! So ready for this.

[@Destination_Adventure]

I’m ready too. Ready to be back on the road.

[@Nancy-xs9pm]

You and everyone that helped to achieve this rig should be proud of their work. Have to say we have enjoyed seeing it develop however are pleased it is time to hit the road and start the adventures again. Thank you for all the well produced videos and looking forward to what comes next. Safe travels.

[@Destination_Adventure]

I am also very excited to be getting back on the road. Thank you for enjoying.

[@junecarabeo1367]

Beautiful!! Awesome!!! Masterpiece!!! Salute to all of you!!!! The best!!!!

[@Glenn-em3hv]

My first vehicle was a 66 Dodge pickup with a Slant 6 and it was pretty beat up! The doors would fly open and my brother got ran over when he fell out going around a corner! He chased it down and got in it and passed out after it hit a fence and the police threw him in jail thinking he was drunk!!!😊 Nowadays they would be sued but my parents were not that way!!! I had to push start it everywhere because the starter was always out and id have fun jumping it in the Arizona desert!!! It never failed me and always got me home! The 3 on the colume was fun and it would burn the tires for a city block!!! Loved that old truck!

[@beckybarker9780]

Dustin you have a kick ass family, and they all are so sweet. I love all of your attitudes. Keep up the awesome work.

[@mick00000000002]

Wow very moving in heart. I appreciate it . ) no words. Yes ukranie. I'm ten years ago I used a translator. And I pay for to to Frances. She lived in kiev. I understand very well. For the company that shows love and care and communicates to each other open. I loved it. Ps I did go back to watch this. On a time limits. I will allways watch every thing you do. God bless. Mick Australia)

[@calldon4688]

Dustin, this video shows what you're capable of. What a fantastic job. I'm soooo looking forward to your upcoming adventure videos! Thank you for doing what you do!!

[@Destination_Adventure]

Thank you very much. I’m excited for adventure content again.

[@JohnBrough-rh9dd]

​@@Destination_Adventure🎉❤

[@pierrejobin6113]

You are Hall craftsman, and you did a outstanding job

[@daspolecat]

When the TIG welder finished a bead and then held the tip in place and let the aluminum cool in the Argon/Helium gas so it wouldn't oxidize was the little detail that told me 'This man knows his job.' Highly skilled craftsmanship. I loved watching this video.

[@Awsom47Merc]

* Yes Sir ! We've been following the build right along Dustin but good "All In One" finish. Good Luck from the wife and I . Can't wait to see the off grid vids .

[@Destination_Adventure]

Thank you very much.

[@marklaity5436]

Man, are they talented and passionate Tradesmen. The world needs more of them, but unfortunately the young people of today are moving away from the trades. Great video as always Dustin, looking forward to see where you go for your first trip.

[@YoungerOlderElder]

TU for sharing - onwaord! I look forward to what unfolds.

[@drue6360]

YUSSSSSS CUMMINS IS AS RELIABLE AS THEY COME

[@chriscordova2680]

Love watching this whole build all over again...but that ending!!! "NOW LET'S WHIP IT!!!!!" Let the Adventure's begin....

[@albertpourhakopian8201]

Best episode yet

[@doggonenomads]

Dang man, I'm excited for you! Right in time for Summer!

[@minustaco42zero24]

WOW I'm super early and excited to see this rig come together

[@mikemichaud5048]

I'm exhausted from just watching you move the fuel tank! awesome video, awesome truck. I admire your talent! happy trails sir! my hat is off to the fabrication guys; you are a heck of a team!

[@Destination_Adventure]

Ya, the fuel tank removal was a dumpster fire. Hahaha

[@2strokecarbtuningportingin187]

Best video I have watched on KZbin EVER. GOD BLESS ALL THE GREAT GUYS THAT HELPED YOU ALONG THE WAY. WOW ALL SUPER TALENTED FABRICATORS WELDERS AND MECHANICS. ❤

[@LittleMountainRanch]

Absolutely fantastic! Amazing work, Dustin!

[@Destination_Adventure]

Thank you so much.

[@SlowRoamers]

Dude, I really dig how you matched the music with the impact and hammer while taking off the boxes. That was a really nice touch.

[@nickf0811]

Well, new favourite KZbinr

[@ShiryouOni]

Incredible! I rarely watch a whole video of this length but you managed to put together a great overall viewing experience. Thanks!

[@lifewithconnie3738]

DUSTIN!!! 😳😳😳wow WOW. Everytime I see a new video up I grin, drop everything, and watch. This one is Aaah-mazing! Truly a work of blood sweat and tears all the way through. I love how you put it all together in one beautiful video! Watching you work on the truck brings back memories of sitting in my own garage watching and talking to my husband as he wrenches away on different trucks, before he passed away @33. Miss those days very much , and I watch these videos through tears, but happy ones. Now I am excited to see you do your adventures again!!!! I will live vicariously through you again!!!

[@Destination_Adventure]

Thank you so much, and I am sorry for your loss. Too young. I am excited to finally have the project wrapped up.

[@elisekuhn762]

😮😊

[@V.I.Outdoors]

Whip it Dustin!!!!🤟🤟😎👌👏🍻 Can't wait to see where you take us 👊👍

[@tyson1fan487]

Your name should be Jack!!! You're truly a Jack of All Trades!!! This was entertaining and very creative.

[@chrismccaskell7156]

Good luck on your adventures can't wait for videos.

[@FLMegan]

Let's whip it!! Can't wait!!!🎉❤

[@Destination_Adventure]

It’s finally that time :)

[@Herrdeskrieg]

Congratulations she looks amazing. Now to the next adventure!

[@robertking5701]

Amazing build. She's gonna take you everywhere you want to go worry free. Can't wait to see the videos.

[@DeannasDailys]

So happy for you Dustin!!!

[@Destination_Adventure]

Thank you very much.

[@jdhiv4]

I'm glad autoplay (raw juices on my hands) got me to this video and you! Cheers!

[@TokyoCraftsman]

I was sold on your channel when your dad said "That truck deck is Skookum"! I live in Japan, but I'm from Kelowna. Cheers!

[@blkmoon5596]

What a great story. Thank you for sharing with us all and I am looking forward to watching all your videos

[@marybethwylie]

Your editing though 🤤

[@kenwalz7231]

Great to be watching you again! You always do cool shows and sure remind of what I did when I was young and crazy! Now I'm happy watching you do it! Thanks for Posting! I believe all we get to take with is us is the memories.....WE should be leaving rich!

[@heathermcdermid3673]

Dustin thank you so much for putting out the extended version of the build episodes. So much love and enthusiasm went into this project and I thank you so much for sharing the build and the people that made it reality for you. And now, let's whip it. ;-)

[@chrisackerley1842]

I am totally amazed your dad owned that truck for as long as he did and ran it as hard as he did without the killer dowell pin working its way loose.

[@AvivaHadas]

Having watched along the way, I did not mind rewatching - that's saying something!

[@NorthernBeardedOne]

You make it look so easy bud! Can't wait to see Expo Cookin' Show in the new beast!

[@elizabethmcintosh5238]

Good review. Lovely legacy.

[@gorillagoldhunters]

Goooood morning Vietnam!!!!!!!

[@davestevens4263]

I thought I was lost at first , w we sit I’ve seen everything after this , how did I miss the initial build. Ok I’m not tripping. Woo hoo good to see you back with a different set a travel accommodations . Once again props to that fab shop that absolutely killed your build . Great fabricators & great humans . Thank you guys for what u done did ! Lol

[@johnyx6754]

Not only you know about cars, but you also know how to make videos.... Congratulations you and the entire team 👏

[@edwardashworth5195]

Was great to meet you on Thursday in Williams Lk the setup looked fantastic and your help Re the e-bike was nice. Thanks again from the bumper couple

[@Destination_Adventure]

Thank you for making the trip over.

[@sharong8511]

I’m so happy for you, Dustin! Your new rig is absolutely beautiful. You’ve worked really hard to get here and we’re so proud of you. Well done! With grateful thanks for sharing your adventures with us. S & D 😊

[@Destination_Adventure]

Thank you so much Sharon and Dorothy. Always a treat to see you both following and enjoying.

[@darinkagolob7668]

Sorry missed Mick Thursday in WL BUT it was great to meet you in person ☺️. So looking forward to watching everywher you go with your expedition truck/camper and swell boat! 🤘

[@Destination_Adventure]

Thank you so much for stopping by. :)

[@jasondavis4385]

she's a real beaut! truly an amazing build! top notcch!

[@jasondavis4385]

one of my favorite fab vlogs ever!

[@TomJones0065]

Man all this work has been EYE OPENING! And Wonderful all in itself! I too want to travel " More of a Need" and These Videos you have, I have Been BINGE WATCHING! And MAN, This came a PERFECT TIME!!! All in one video, MAN YOU GOOD!! Inspiration as ALWAYS! I could HUG you right now, well you know what I mean! THANKS SO MUCH, I AWAIT The Ventures AHEAD! You Are THE MAN!! THANK YOU!!!

[@Destination_Adventure]

Thank you so much for such a nice comment, and thank you for enjoying.

[@nicholasdickson3891]

So pumped to see the first official adventure with the new rig!

[@Destination_Adventure]

Can’t wait to make it

[@donmcmillon428]

I have enjoyed the build series.

[@gascantx]

Turned out very well! Nice job! Can't wait to see where you go. 🙂

[@Spielmanjon]

The welders and crafters of the cabinets and cradle for the camper are amazing. Too bad they are so far away from me! I can't wait until you and this beast get underway! So excited!!

[@Destination_Adventure]

Adventures cooking asap :)

[@CantTakeJake]

How come I've just found this channel that part where you removed the last tool box to the music was awesome. You guys deserve 1,000,000 subscribers. #road to one million

[@dorabort6622]

Great video! So much went into the truck and it has turned out very special! Thanks

[@briankendall65]

🎉🎉🎉🎉🎉🎉 I am totally blown away By the Great Team Spirit...#brothersalign 💯🏆👈 #BuildStrong I'm here in the Philippines and I am So missing North America..😂

[@arlenecampbell16]

Wow!!! I am awed at all that has transpired. Can't wait until you begin your travels and what is coming next on Destination Adventure.

[@spongebobsqueeze]

I could watch this video all day. Truly a success story. I am so excited for you and cannot wait for your new adventures.

[@laurencebourne9242]

What an impressive video. The truck build was awesome to watch. Having all those people around you making this dream come alive was heart warming. Have loved watching your content and can’t wait to see where you go from here. Much love from Australia ❤

[@1slippery2]

Wow, what a project! It will allow you so much more freedom.

[@mitch60609]

Love your videos you make me feel him right there with you. I’m really happy about your build and watch most of your adventure so far it feels like I’m there. Thank you for sharing. We love you.

[@p-zee]

you rock the party with that rig

[@michaeldarragh354]

So much respect, you are an amazing person. Thanks for sharing!

[@-MoistPalone-]

First time stumbling upon a video of yours. Watched it start to finish. Can I just say what an absolute pleasure it was. Well done Boss.

[@Frindleeguy]

That's awesome, I wish I could get my hands on 'my dad's old anything'. I have memories, but he wasn't able to leave anything. His old 7.3 is never far from my memories, and it's why I worked my way up to a big diesel truck. Very cool, very happy for you to get that truck to play with!

[@lonely_trans_girl]

I love the Mick bits! You're hilarious 😂❤ Can't wait to see the places this thing takes us 😍 Going to Bella Coola next week on my motorcycle because of your video of the Heckman Pass! This channel is inspiring me to see and do the things I've always wanted to but found excuses not to. One of my favorite channels frfr! ❤️👍

[@montyforster3370]

Yes the Freedom Trail as the locals call it. Don't be looking over the edge there fella. I always chuckle at my grampas story about driving my grandma out one year (she taught school there) and how he mimicked her screaming out his name and lot of "slowers") thrown in. Enjoy the community as it has a lot of history. I've been der and dun Dat glorious trip. Thanks for reading.

[@montyforster3370]

PS. Just go into the shops and get a locals intro into the history. Ask the olders if they recall Miss Mabel. What a hoot.

[@Destination_Adventure]

You’ll love the trip down there, especially on a motorbike. Have a blast.

[@apostatepostbox2821]

HOOOO, IT'S HAPPENING! I am way excited for what comes next!

[@Destination_Adventure]

IT’S HAPPENING. :)

[@Jayking-_487]

MasterCaft fabrications right there!!! That Cnc cutting table is next level!!! Exceptional work!! Awesome video!!🎉🎉🎉

[@Step_Dad68]

I love that all the videos I see in this genre is always filmed in bc. We live in a beautiful Provence

[@julieten2774]

Job well done. Can't wait to see where your adventures take you and the videos you share with us.

[@kevinsiler7185]

I'm a newbie to this channel and the guys that built your boxes and frames are awesome. God bless the Blue collar working guys .

[@genxstrong5645]

All i have to say is WOW !!! Those boxes are awesome 💯😎

[@kevinwilliams9380]

Ya know something, would be good to take your dad along on one of your adventures, I'm sure it would give him some precious memories. Give us a chance to get to know him a little more as well. Good build, by yourself and by stinger welding.

[@dustinbillings22]

I just started watching you're video's, and I grew up in the area of this car. I don't have much history on the car for you, except its been there since early 90's. The family bought the land and built the beautiful house, Then the cocktail appeared, them the yellow submarine. On the foot hills opposite side of the house, is a smiley face in the trees. I am also close with my grandmother, they are very knowledgeable. Love then very much. Love your video's, very inspirational, i appreciate your respectful ways, OH and i love your choice of music in your video's. ~Dustin~ Next time you are out this way again look for a fishing hole called southlake. Enjoy!

[@tycro23]

I think we have to see the Harney Davidson one last time 😜

[@sharlettedavidson81]

Oh hey Dustin….Mick is a unicorn as well…..just saying ….🦄….can’t get enough of that one…😍😅😂🤣😍