No Engine, No Problem | The Winter Overhaul | Destination Adventure

Building a rig that is capable of full time living, and capable in any location and condition is a big undertaking. Doing it on a budget with an older rig brings even more challenge to the table, but this truck is turning into an adventure rig unrivalled by any million dollar rig. The 12 valve cummins and NV4500 five speed transmission are an unbeatable combination. Maintaining stock power, and addressing the handful of failure points, will give you a drivetrain that can handle a lot of load and will be reliable for more than a million miles.
Last season, we fixed all of the existing oil leaks, covered the KDP, and deleted the PCM, leaving a strong reliable engine. The transmission had been rebuilt and the fifth gear issue remedied. Throughout the first travel season, I was able to identify so issues creeping up, which are most likely a product of the truck having sat for so many years. The clutch and flywheel have been on the list for quite some time, and the new South Bend kit made a huge difference. The clutch release is smooth and forgiving now, and the backlash has basically disappeared. The old control arms, though a nightmare to remove, seem to have been the issue behind our front end issues. This is a big relief, since it was the only part of the front end that hadn't been addressed.
The final checkmark would finally hit the To Do List when the engine was no longer leaving puddles of oil behind, but this job got drastically larger than I had hoped. A quick observation once the engine was thoroughly cleaned revealed a leaking head gasket. Luckily it was only pushing out oil, and not experiencing any cross contamination of coolant. Once the head was removed I was able to inspect the cylinders, and I am so happy to say that this engine has a lot of life left in it, so it is time to get the vital components in tip top shape. The Tappet cover was beginning to leak, so was replaced with the upgraded Billet Tappet cover, which seals using an O-Ring instead of a gasket. The turbo was completely rebuilt, and new injectors ordered. I got the head decked and new valve seals installed, and on the reinstall every seal and gasket was replaced. I upgraded from head bolts to head studs, which should keep my engine nicely sealed for a million km to come.
The engine fired easily after bleeding and is running beautifully. Next week we will take a closer look into the hiccups and upgrades that happened over the past month of work.
If you have been enjoying this channel, and would like to help support the upcoming projects and videos, please consider taking a look at the Patreon page or the Merchandise line.
Patreon: / destinationadventure
Merch: destinationmer...
Ready to start exploring the waters? Get your hands on a DA certified adventure boat.
Swellfish: swellfish.co/D...

[@JohnHill-qo3hb]

Dustin, I think we watch whatever you show us because we want to know what is involved with the making of "our" adventure video series, like you, we are in it for the long haul. Maintenance of the machinery used to make the videos is as important as the adventure without one, the other doesn't happen. Your Dad left you probably the most important tool for you to live this life of adventure that you share with us, take care of the truck, it will take care of you. Looking forward to the new season in "The Outback".

[@Destination_Adventure]

Thank you so much :)

[@donaldmickunas8552]

Dustin, I love watching you work almost as much as while on your adventures. You take your time, pay attention to details, and are disciplined in all you do. These are qualities that I rarely see these days. For these reasons and more, I am a huge fan.

[@Destination_Adventure]

I really appreciate that, thank you.

[@jburnett8152]

I love that there are those who enjoy these shows. ❤

[@johnjensen8470]

Brother I’ve been in the auto repair business for 20 years and I can’t tell you how impressed I am with your willingness and determination to do it yourself. Your content has been a bright spot in my week for the past couple years (found the channel during the pandemic) and I’m so excited to see what comes next! God Bless from New Jersey!

[@kevinSmith-hw8ui]

Total respect! Never had anyone do any work for me and I'm old. People are afraid to do things DIY, and as you often say, "Let's Whip it!". My wife says, "I can't do that" and I ask her, "have you tried?" NO, she said.

[@Ari-jj9op]

Disassembling that engine is like watching a nightmare in real time. Bravo!

[@Destination_Adventure]

Hahahaha I agree.

[@pappysproductions]

Gives me anxiety 😫 😅

[@ADVRider78]

Warms my heart seeing you work on the truck with your dad. I've lost mine way too early. Good job on the repairs, looking forward to the coming season.

[@laurastreifel5157]

Thanks for the update. I was worried why I hadn't seen anything from you in a while. It is so nice to see your Dad helping you out. You are so lucky to have your Dad & Grandad in your life. Can't wait to see your next adventure.

[@paulsiniak2061]

Good job Dustin, me and the GF appreciate your work, humor and thirst for adventure. Good to see your Dad in video.

[@Destination_Adventure]

Thank you.

[@flyovercounty1427]

Head gasket!?! DANG it! Time for fixing… truth be told I enjoy these videos more than the “footage” touring trashed and vandalized abandoned places. The scenery, travels by land and water, historical information, and camping segments are the best part of your videos. The Best. Thank you.

[@stephenrrose]

Dustin! I will watch any of your videos as long as you make them! Great Job on the major projects! You working with your Dad and hearing some of his advice is priceless. It brought back memories of me helping my Dad change out a clutch pressure plate and install a small block on another vehicle. Priceless times and enjoy having him around! Take care!

[@Destination_Adventure]

I appreciate that, thank you. Happily forcing my dad into projects. Hahah

[@parkerottoackley6325]

Don't worry,,,spring is just around the corner

[@montyforster3370]

Danged excited as to where you take us next. With yoyr flair for the outrageous i can only guess. Cheers man. Yoo Hoo

[@pappysproductions]

Weather we're into builds or not , doesn't really determine weather we watch your videos. It's the quality and entertainment that you master, that brings us back. I belive alot of us would probably watch a tutorial of you explaining how paint drys 😂

[@medionlvr]

patience? heck, every episode is fascinating

[@lifewithconnie3738]

Dustin!!!! I absolutely love watching these “fix-it” videos. Can’t wait to follow you in a new season of travel. You are my favourite channel!!!!! I know I say it often-BUT! If you’re ever in the lower mainland - could you do a “MEET AND GREET”? I can guarantee there would be a lot of people who would love to meet you face to face. You could sign all the merch we’ve bought from your website!!! I need a cap! Thanks 😊

[@Destination_Adventure]

I really appreciate that, thank you. I will give some thought into the meet and greet :)

[@oxygen454]

Defiantly! I would be down for a meet and greet in the lower mainland!

[@bryancohn9406]

The spots on the flywheel are both, areas that have over heated and raised up. The clutch disc material has stuck to the flywheel and causes the shuddering. The shudder is the disc gripping and slipping on the flywheel, never a good thing. The pressure plate is likely glazed or has similar over heated spots that are raised up. All new parts will fixer' right up! BTW, it's pronounced "Luke" like the name, you had it right and then wrong! :)

[@Destination_Adventure]

I knew one of the two were right. Hahaha

[@ziptiesnbiasplies]

Nice work hippy!

[@outofcloudsmusic]

I shoulda known ol' Peg would be watching this!

[@camshaftP16]

Nice to see your dad come out and help. I always appreciated when my dad would share his wisdom with me. As a long time heavy duty mechanic I see your doing good with your repairs, the rig will be safe and reliable.

[@ibMoose2u]

I have my beloved 2001 Dodge 2500 5.9HO 6spd manual that I had built for me at the factory! She stayed stock until I got ready to retire in 2018. I then put an Edge computer in her, S&B air filter, Banks exhaust/air brake/air intake, bigger turbo, FASS fuel system and AirLift bags. I also redid the entire front end with beefier parts to get rid of that wander and wobble earlier Dodge’s are infamous for. She tows my 11k travel trailer with ease! I love the computer for fuel economy when not towing which is around 28mpg doing 65mph here in the hills of Montana and for the extra power when towing. The air brake is probably my absolute favorite, such peace of mind when starting a steep grade, especially towing, and hear that air brake’s guttural sound as it keeps forward momentum at bay!! I love the detail and care you put into your girl Dustin!! What a fun video though I can only imagine that it was a bit of stress for ya!! Bravo!

[@earlwarren2265]

Its really super to see you working with your dad. Be sure to include him with as much as he wants to be involved with.

[@danielcarroll5667]

Nice to see a Father and Son work together , can you imagine how much $$ that would have been if you weren't capable of doing it yourself ? Great job Gents !

[@orbnaes]

We get adventures and working on a old truck, I don't know what more one could ask for!

[@Destination_Adventure]

🍻

[@Rayden440]

As a diesel mechanic, you did well for never worked on a diesel before. Another skill added to your belt 👍 PS. Your mechanical pump and injectors will tolerate much more abuse. I wouldn't recommend cleaning the lines like that if you had a newer electronic injection or common rail system.

[@carycoombe3380]

Really brave of you stripping down to your socks to step into the engine compartment.

[@evileyeball]

The way your dad worked along side you with his hands was giving me strong vibes of my grandfather (Except with him it was always wood as apposed to mechanics) This was a great video.

[@terrorbulyfe]

I’m not gonna lie, I watch your channel for the destination content and filmography. When I saw what this video was about on a rebuild of an engine, I thought I was gonna be bored and keep this on in the background. Gotta admit, I wasn’t bored. Basically, you can’t make a boring video. Well done sir!

[@b4566bb]

My wife and I just absolutely love you!🎉😊. Thanks again for sharing your adventures It's just fantastic!🎉🎉🎉🎉

[@blueman5924]

Wow. What a big job. Your “get er done” skillset is so broad. 👍 Nice to see your dad again too. Happy trails ahead. 🍁🤙

[@Destination_Adventure]

Got er done :)

[@peterandersen1378]

I now know what “put yer foot into ‘er” means😂🇨🇦👍🏻✌🏻

[@shawnburnett22]

I cant believe you didnt let Mick help on the repair ,,,,,more Mick ,,,more Mick

[@chunkylover53ataol]

Your video production is as always fantastic, no matter what the subject you are filming. Thanks for a great episode.

[@Destination_Adventure]

Thank you.

[@jedharding3492]

That 1/2" socket wrench moving around on top of the driver side battery around 24:00 mad me a little nervous! Definitely one of my favorite adventures of yours so far!! Stellar work.

[@johnmclaren7059]

Fantastic Dustin! Another check mark on the “to do list “DONE👍 Nice to see your dad also giving you a hand ! We can’t wait for your next up coming adventure now that the ol’ girl will be ready to purr down those gravel roads ! Cheers brother and stay safe 👍🇨🇦

[@jbpyper]

Nice Job! Not an easy job. As a father, Love seeing you working with your dad. I’ve had the pleasure of imparting my skills and lack there of, to my own son. Value added all the way around!

[@lhollybow]

Good job for a "couple of armatures' lol/ Got her purring like a house cat.

[@luckyedwards4870]

Very impressive Dustin, these kind of repairs r not small or simple, and have lots of possibilities for mistakes, but u pulled it off, way to go. I know I'm biased, bn I have the same truck as u, (except mines a 1998), but I just luv watching these repair vids u do. Very interesting and entertaining. More power to u, Dustin, keep'er goin. 👍👍👍

[@ex_yz]

I feel like its a good thing mick didn't get a chance to muck around the shop during the overhaul :D

[@cornrichard]

That is the manliest manual engine crain I have ever seen.

[@Destination_Adventure]

Old schoolie 🤘🏻

[@gregruckstuhl4268]

Love seeing your dad pop by it's like watching twins but one with a Beard and the other shaved 😅😎👍 amazing determination X2 I send all the best thoughts and feelings and I will see you soon on the next Destination adventure 💝😁

[@offshack]

Not me sitting here hoping and dreaming that Dustin's spring/summer adventure will be the Dempster to Tuk.... I made the drive to Inuvik 25 years ago and have dreamed of it ever since.

[@Destination_Adventure]

😉

[@dereksanders1939]

Patience? How dare you. I have a very limited time here on my couch doing absolutely nothing. It is guys like you not uploading enough content that really try my patience. Seriously though, After watching some of your videos I feel like I was there as well. When you work on the truck I am exhausted and feel a great sense of accomplishment. I just don't have to get the grease off my hands. You are quite the inspiration for Many. Kudos from Jist below you in Spokane.

[@Bradsgarage]

Pilot bearing is where the shudder was coming from.

[@randybooth9192]

Dustin im surprised mick never showed up to help.. seems he only comes for the easy jobs not the heavy lifting🤣 thanks for keeping us entertained man🤘

[@busterbrown5851]

Dustin, a big part of your front tires cupping, is due to the weight of the truck, most likely to far over the rear axle. As you drive, especially at highway speeds, the front end of the truck is bouncing up and down slightly, which deforms the tires, which only exaggerates as the problem gets worse. I drive a flatbed dodge 5500, and carry heavy loads often, and the only way i get any life out of a set of tires is by rotating them constantly.

[@busterbrown5851]

@Destination_Adventure

[@Destination_Adventure]

The weight definitely contributes, and front tires will be somewhat of a consumable. lol. The rig is nicely balanced though. She’ll get new boots this spring, so we’ll see if it wears a bit better with the upgrades. Even a little improvement will be good. lol.

[@endangeredmarmot4518]

Nice work, D. I love the sound of a well running 12 valve.

[@Destination_Adventure]

Such a distinct sound.

[@paultthompson]

I really like the truck maintenance videos. Great work! Keep the videos coming!

[@rwilli296]

It is so good to see how committed you are to your viewers!. You are very talented.. Thank you

[@davidthomas9267]

Great DIY job. Probably couldn't find a shop to do that good of a job anyway. Spring is coming!!

[@user-mn6rh9ok9t]

The joys of having a garage. Where will you be off to come the warm weather 🤔

[@arnicus208]

Should’ve had Mick help with these projects; always entertaining! I have that headlight. Absolute money, for the money.

[@peterrafferty6418]

So looking forward to your new adventures, and where it takes you,with new scenery and open roads,safe travel and exploring,watching you from Galway,Ireland,

[@Paddy_Roche]

I really enjoyed that Dustin. Great to see your Dad again too.

[@user-cd3ui2vt3p]

I like this show love watching you fix your truck your very brave and strobe and smart at fixing your truck by yourself mostly your grandpas a good helper ❤

[@ryankeegan695]

That finger slice was gnarrrlllllyyy

[@NotSureJoeBauers]

Awesome work Dustin. You're dads a real good old boy logger type. Kind of guy whose just about seen everything and done everything out in the bush.

[@Thenomadicbrewer]

Great to see that you got head gasket work completed. Looking forward to the season of adventure ahead.

[@kjf63]

I’m not the least bit mechanical, I can barely check the oil. I have no idea why I enjoy your shop videos as much as I enjoy your adventure videos…but I do! 😊

[@lyndonhamby7432]

I have South Bend dual disc clutch in my 05 3500 Cummins. For 11 years Flawless. Can’t beat ‘em 💪🏻👍🇺🇸

[@wshaw4527]

Great content, just enough without delivery too much detail. I am probably your dad’s age and I know he must be proud of the work you did!

[@ronteljeur]

Get 'er done! A wise investment of time and content that those thinking of following in your path need to understand. Being seriously stuck in the middle of nowhere would not be fun. I'm just happy to see an episode of yours on my video list!

[@robroaring7175]

Hey mate, Although I love the outdoor adventures, the workshop vids are a very close second. Behind the science vids are vital to show people that it isn’t all roses when pursuing a van life. I really like seeing both sides. The adventures, and the work to make it possible. Keep up the great vids. It’s a Sunday morning treat to see your vid has dropped when I wake up. Cheers from Tasmania.

[@gsdfan8455]

I suppose Mick was off somewhere getting drunk instead of helping. 😁

[@jrrockett]

That Flywheel doesn't look like it was replaced last time. Toast-tee

[@michalsrandoms8749]

She sounded beautiful. Having been around diesel engines in the military, that sounded better than most of the HMMWV's (humvee) that I have driven.

[@AdventureAwaits1111]

Thank you for taking the time to video the overhaul. Doing these kinds of jobs in "the barn" are never really fun. I felt your pain with the suspension links, i know those jobs, and got the scars to prove it. Lol. Stay safe, and happy trails 👍

[@kenbaxter536]

My favorite method of fan clutch removal!!!

[@my81shovelhead]

Love that u show the maintenance part of destination adventure and that youre doing it getting dirty and hanging with your dad.bet hes showing u things u didnt even know.my dad was a mechanic and whenever we got to work on something together he always had a trick or shortcut hed learned from 50 years of working on cars .anyway cant wait for spring to get here and see your new adventures and hopefully soon ill be taking my old truck camper out as well.thanks again

[@Nancy-xs9pm]

Garage time or on the road, you always make it enjoyable. We always come away having learned something. Thanks for what you bring to us.

[@Destination_Adventure]

I appreciate that, thank you.

[@KrazyMitchAdventures]

18:40 I found this online about 12v Cummins There are two different versions of the 2nd Gen Cummins. The first is a 12-valve engine featured in 1994 through 1998 Dodge trucks, and it is very similar to the 1st Gen engine. The second version is a 24-valve engine and is featured in the 1998.5 through 2002 Dodge trucks

[@sashakokesch4137]

Excellent video my friend! It was fun to get something with my tag built for your truck and put on there! We will plan out some more kool stuff to fab for you really soon!

[@Destination_Adventure]

Been stepping on these babies for weeks and they’re still there. Destination Adventure approved. lol

[@JeffWinter1]

Fascinating. Amazing how a few things snowball into major rebuilds. Apparently a dirty air filter on a diesel can destroy a turbo so keep a couple of spares around.

[@001jacksun65]

You are a Lucy man to have your dad helping you, Mine wouldn't get his hands dirty LOL. I bet that pilot bearing had someting to do with your clutch chatter and hot spots. Good luck and God Bless

[@riverrockfab]

I was thinking the same thing, it must be fun for your dad to watch you mess with his old rig. It’s nice to see you taking care of it, and the motor is in great shape. It makes complete sense for you to build it right the first time, we all rely on our vehicles… but especially you. You need this thing to work all the time when you’re remote. Good work, its fun to watch! 😊

[@stevenbridge]

That was the best sounding cummins I've ever heard. Congratulations! Looking forward to the new trail blazing.

[@craigbenson398]

Well done, thanks for showing the repairs and related struggles. You have the : I can do it gene.

[@silverlance65]

Dustin Porter is a trooper , great job !!!

[@cesarovermars6431]

24:57 nicely matched with the music

[@joepowers8824]

Good job man. The best part about having your hands and every part of the wrenching. Is you know every square inch of that thing now. Anything that could possibly happen you know how to fix it and you know right where to go to fix it. Absolutely love it can't wait for some more videos

[@Tempest_Overland]

I worked on and F550 that had a similar wear issue with a big service bed on the back. His problem was that the front end was WAY oversprung with all the weight on the rear axle, he had 7000lb coil springs, we swapped in a set of 4800lb front springs from a non plow prep F550. It ended up improving his ride quality, and no more cupping like that. So if you happen to still experience that every other lug wear, try to find some softer front springs!

[@2times2is4]

Love that you can be your own mechanic. I really enjoy the down time and the preparation for the spring and summer trips.

[@mitch500]

This guy is very smart. If youre doing remote adventures like him you absolutely need to know how to wrench. its what can get you pout of a bad situation fast. I 100 percent wouldnt venture off road if you can turn a wrench.

[@Destination_Adventure]

Thank you very much. I agree, it is very important to have at the very least basic mechanical knowledge if you’re going remote. Even with a newer rig. 😊

[@duncanmuir9275]

Dustin, can't wait for your adventures this spring and summer!!!

[@peggybaker69]

Wonderful job Dustin, Enjoyed watching you taking it about, awesome job putting it all back together.

[@jamespeart9922]

Great work. Next thing I think you need is a winch. Reliability is paramount for remote excursions, but I'd still be worried about you getting stuck out there with no one around for hundreds of KMS.

[@chrisbruce8972]

Nice to see u & ur father working together

[@StarlightGazer-pv3qx]

Woo that sounds beautiful!!! That's not a easy job who knew you had so much talent 😜 Great work !! 👍

[@user-cd3ui2vt3p]

I’m watching your show you take apart your whole engine and it’s SUSPENCEFULL ITS SO REAL and I only watch real life shows and it’s so good it always works again after your amazing ❤

[@adriannicholson8819]

when you put that all back togever make sure your oil pump is in the right place 3 dot group

[@toddtraficanti4832]

Love ALL your adventures, even the shop work. I did miss seeing Mic hope he’s doing ok. Working on vehicles is something I did in high school and hated it but it was a love hate relationship as I’m sure you can appreciate it. Looking forward to the next installment of adventure. 👍🏼👍🏼

[@oldinuselesshancox5194]

Greetings from the other side of this gem, thanks for your company while I’m sitting under a tarp in a peace of scrap bush where locals ( some) seem to feel it’s a place for all their rubbish looking forward to your coming season as we all know it’ll be dam good ( no cuz to help?) hope he’s well 😂 stay safe and healthy brother 👍🏼🤙🏼🖖🏼

[@Destination_Adventure]

Stay warm friend, and thank you for enjoying. Happy to have you along for the journey. 🤘🏻

[@alanvanreed6878]

Dustin ...... you are absolutely fearless ....... very much impressed. I am guessing that a lot of this confidence comes from working around you dad and others ........and you learned from being around a shop getting stuff ready for logging etc etc Best Thoughts Alan Boston

[@davevmey]

Really enjoy your regular videos. I have great respect for how involved you are in the maintenance of your rig. You know your stuff. This could be a great help if you ever break down on the road.

[@NorthernRetreat]

Very interesting. Enjoyed the rebuild but sure looks like a lot of work. Can't wait for these remote locations.

[@Cam.Klingon]

You should invest in a topside creeper to make working on the engine compartment much easier.

[@davidbarnsley8486]

I glad it was you doing that job on the floor there Dustin That flywheel is definitely toast I hope the new bits work well 👍👍🇦🇺 That dust in the intake is a real problem Might need a snorkel to get it up out of the engine bay Dustin the diesel mechanic 😂😂

[@krishilgersom8132]

Great job on the repairs. Your old man seems like a great wealth of knowledge. Most old loggers are lol. Don’t take those times turning wrench’s with him for granted, trust me you never know when it’s the last time. That old Cummins should be rock solid for a pile more Klms now.

[@beachtimehawaiibth7222]

Love the prep videos and always impressed by the knowledge as the average person doesn’t know how to do a clutch, repair/bleed a broken brake line, and do an upper end head gasket…..maybe a video on your background of how you learned mechanics and even throw in some interviews of people who taught you along the way perhaps? Nice boards…shout out to SK customs!

[@kaineleeabel]

Much respect man for spinning your own wrenches

[@Charger1908]

I would gave done all your bushings in polyurethane that way no deflection ever. And they last a very long time. If you have an aftermarket air cleaner that’ll be your dust problem. The factory air box is the best way to go so you don’t “dust” your motor. There’s a lot of other improvements to your engine you could have done since it’s apart. You’ve got the p pump which is more desirable and you can turn it up for much more power. You should use “Right Stuff” gasket sealer it’s the best out there.

[@ksokie63]

Hey Dustin 👋, great video on maintenance and how to just do what need done. Keep warm and have a great week ahead👍

[@Dcb96]

Sure love this content just as much as your travel content. You sir are a very talented cinematographer! Thanks for your attention to detail. Also, your soundtracks for each video continue to blow my mind, love hearing some Josh Garrels. Great job!