This One is A Tear Jerker... What to Do with this International Travelette and Kenworth Rollback Bio

Merlin tries to get the International Travelette running that he picked up from his cousin Paul at Fab Rats. He discusses his Kenworth truck that he inherited and it is a real tear jerker.
‪@FabRats‬ ‪@KenworthTruckCo‬ ‪@MerlinsOldSchoolGarage‬

[@cdnroofer]

Merlin, you should be at 2million + subscribers by now. Your an amazing mechanic, fabricator, and family oriented man. Paul is beyond lucky to have you as a cousin. Keep on keeping on!!! Cheers from Oshawa Ontario Canada

[@carstengrove6214]

The guy in a absolute genius when it coming to cars and motors so fun to watch

[@russellamos5720]

J.H. was an awesome guy. We are blessed to have known him. He thought very highly of you and would be very proud of what you have done with this truck.

[@chevelleranch7481]

Great truck and a greater story. Its very obvious the impression he left on you. I'm glad you have the truck to carry on his memory with , and you did him proud! I have a very similar story and history with a cousin who I just lost this last Thursday. A great guy gone way too soon. Cancer sucks.

[@MerlinsOldSchoolGarage]

❤️🏁😊

[@codyjensen13]

I miss Frost a lot. Learned so much working with him in St. George.

[@mrmongo6722]

Amazing story about your Uncle and it's a great thing that you are keeping his legacy around by restoring his old truck.

[@craigclark3279]

My hat is off to you Merlin. Great job on your restoration . RIP to yours and Paul's uncle. I fell your pain /sadness. Good people.

[@srcazier]

My daughter was married to Jeff Knowles. Jeff always talked about Jesse Frost. He had the highest regard for Jesse, Jesse always had the answer, the part, the truck, the whatever. Thanks for that great tribute to Jesse, and for the story.

[@bryanmitchell5790]

Glad you have good memories with your uncle, and I’m glad he was able to teach you and Paul all the stuff that he did, interesting story interesting guy, and it looks like you’ve got some really good use out of the repurposed truck

[@Wizzard033]

That's how you honor him, sharing your memories and stories. He lives on through you, Paul, and now countless others who learn and gain confidence from the knowledge you share. Thanks for sharing and peace to you and your Family.

[@carlstanoyevic3070]

What a great memory and an honor to a man that mean’s so much love to you and Paul. I love watching both of your channels. Thanks for sharing.

[@Derf1313]

Great way to keep a memory alive, not only every time ya look at it, but anytime ya share the stories, Thanx for including us !

[@markphillips9454]

Thank God for the great ones that come along and help us, impacting our lives in a positive way. Sad when they go. But part of them stays with us forever 👍

[@joseros8794]

That Kenworth is an heirloom!! No amount of money, could justify selling it!! Love the sentiment and your content!!

[@golfmike304]

I just keep getting amazed at this family. So cool that you had a mentor like Jesse in yours and Paul's life. You are an amazing man in your own right. As is Paul. I am in awe every time you all build and make something out of nothing. And your mechanical mind is truly just astounding. I am so thankful I found this channel. Keep up the good work. I'll definitely keep watching.

[@IR-nq4qv]

The Kenworth has certainly come a long way from being vandalized and left abandoned in a gravel pit. "Not everyone gets the opportunity to experience, learn from, relate to and reflect upon some of the ties that bind us. Sometimes life is unfair, but in this instance, its good to see a brother who didn't squander his opportunity when it presented itself as we come to realize how short and precious life is. This video is a testimonial and I hope that it inspires strong family values in others. If it means anything Merlin, I am confident in saying, your uncle would be so proud right now, the love and respect would be mutual. This video is an assurance that his memory will always live on. Thanks for sharing

[@davidwoermansr]

Growing up my dad always stressed 2 things 1 never stop learning till you stop living and 2 knowledge is like money you can't take it with you when you go so spread it around to those willing to learn and earn it help those that need and deserve it

[@shanes_bs2659]

I love hearing the stories of where your trucks come from. Your uncle sounded like an interesting guy.

[@TheMuddyfun]

What an awesome way to keep a part of your uncle around. My dad passed when I was 20. I got most of his tools, I can hear him chuckling with me when I'm out working on something.

[@ashleyfarmer1991]

Awesome story. The feelings, love, passion and memories of loved ones passed are always touching to hear. Your uncle would be proud of the things you have done to his truck and the ways you use it. Thanks for sharing.

[@roostingthe6520]

You and Paul are great people!

[@Camoburb]

Love those trucks. Would look awsome in a 4x4 with some 35s. Just don't see them that straight and clean. That LS 6.0 or a 12v cummins would be great in there as well. Your work on your uncles truck is great tribute to a good man that definitely left a legacy in those around him to continue to grow and live on. Well done.

[@psg6314]

A few years ago my family restored my uncle's 68 mack dump truck and gave it to him on his 80th birthday you should have seen the look on his face when I brought it around the corner great video and keep up the good work God bless from GA

[@davehollingsworth3007]

What I like about you Merlin is your love of family. Just to hear you talk about the rollback and your uncle.....Brings back memories of people I cared deeply for and were taken from me.~ !

[@PapaBear143]

Well done, Merlin. Quite a tribute. ❤

[@lindabrown2211]

Great job on the old kw. You and Paul are lucky to have had such and inspirational person in your lives. Thanks for sharing and reminding people like myself to be thankful every day for family and friends.

[@rtalways]

So many of us are sharing your tears, We are lucky he guided you! Thank you for honoring him and keeping his truck on the road.

[@cayminlast]

Thank you for sharing the story of your uncle Jesse. All the projects, adventures and stories on your channel, educate, enlighten and make our lives richer, thanks.

[@JerryStaton]

Great story about your uncle Merlin. I just lost my brother 3 days ago, your memorial helped me to remember a lot of things about our growing up together. The story really helped me deal with my grief. God bless you buddy and God Bless my Brother, William Louis "Louie" Staton.

[@ronland1821]

What a great story. Your uncle sounded like a great guy. Love your videos and details about all your projects. Thanks for sharing.

[@John-bx8km]

This is the best way to remember a driver and his rig. My hat's off to you Merlin. Every rig that runs great will keep on running great if the person behind the wheel treats it as such.

[@billrichmond4922]

Thanks for sharing the story about your uncle, I'm sure the time you and Paul spent with him had as big an impact on him as it did the two of you. I know he is proud of the way you both pay it forward.

[@blackjacktz1]

Probably one of the best stories I have heard from your videos and I listen to your videos and talked to you about several other stories but yes one of the best. Thank you for sharing!

[@cvoyag8er]

Thanks so much for sharing that wonderful mentor with us, personalizing your uncle for us. His gifts shine through your life now, and Paul's, benefiting probly most of us who watch. Great legacy, respect Merlin.

[@garythompson2101]

Great piece of history about this truck, your uncle and family. I have a Chevy that was my uncle's, who was the Chevy dealer, then my dad's and now mine. There is something special about keeping them in the family and running.

[@CabinCruiser]

Pretty cool and great story. Reminds me of the first cement mixer I learned on and drove for a year before they gave me a newer truck. I think it was a '74 also, a Kenworth with I think a 3206 Cat if I remember correctly. Definitely a kidney killer. Those tough old trucks took some tough old ombres to man 'em day after day. What a great trip down memory lane every time you get behind the wheel. 👍

[@bobwood3665]

Love the story and the history and the new knowledge on the motor building and so you know you are teaching a old 63yrs old dog new tricks thanks and keep them videos coming

[@leonardowelch2580]

Pretty cool story. Everyone needs a uncle like that. I was lucky enough to have a uncle as well. Lost him way to soon. At least we got to spend some time with them. God bless you and yours

[@larryisreal8150]

Thank you Merlin not only for sharing the back story also this priceless truck! Beautiful!

[@williamfurniss8709]

@7:25 "Longer than a polig's clothes line..." Sprayed water out my nose. Thanks Merlin!

[@shirleyallen6072]

Thank you for sharing your Uncle’s Influence and honoring his life expectancies with us.

[@albertdehn8381]

So sorry for your loss thanks for sharing 👍😀

[@jamestsmith4500]

This is the first time a You Tuber has really pulled at my heart strings. Thank you for sharing the story on the history of the rollback and your uncle.. Keep on trucking. I enjoy your channel...

[@jcnpresser]

Love the old roll back, that thing is cool! Even cooler is the memories you have and make with it!

[@deebodixon494]

So sorry to hear about your uncle! God Speed and God Bless him and your family! That truck could not end up in any better hands than yours! 💯👊🏾👊🏾🙏🏾✌🏾

[@ortonkb]

Your uncle Jessie was an incredible man I actually got my CDL from him I think it took longer for the truck to build air and do the pre trip than I did driving we went about 3 miles made a left turn and a 2 right turns and he said let’s head back to the yard I was so nervous thinking I did something wrong and I remember him saying I have done enough Of these test to know if a guy can operate a truck and you can operate a truck what a relief that was

[@stephenlewis8143]

That was a compelling and heartfelt tribute to your uncle , who mentored you and others (apparently) along the mechanical pathway. What a powerful connection between you and he & it's as if he is still 'with you" when you speak about & ride that vehicle you have so cared for. The photos of him and the rig long ago, offer a glimpse of a real person that impacted your life & that you now honor. We are lucky to hear your story & narrative & better understand the layers of human connection that sit behind the paint, fabrication, body work, tow deck & nuance of the vehicle, that now has a home with you.

[@SeattleMK2GLI]

Thanks for sharing the story of your Uncle and his truck. That was pretty special.

[@craigluhr3034]

A great story about your uncle. Its nice to have good memories. Try "406 Garage". I believe he is in Oregon. He has a youtube channel. He should have everything you need for that IH.

[@haroldphipps3457]

He would probably buy it off him today, if he hasn't already!

[@KRAVER_]

Great story Merlin about your uncles old Kenworth. When i was young my Father drove a similar truck, 18 wheeler. bring back a lot of old memories every time i see one. Thanks !!

[@robertkeime4907]

Great story …… very interesting. Thanks for sharing

[@clivehorridge]

I’ve always had old vehicles since a teenager, but never knew their history. But once mine, I’d run them till they couldn’t be saved. I currently adore my old diesel Land Cruiser, and I’ve had it for 16 years, longer than any other vehicle, wouldn’t part with it for the world. There’s something about old stuff, can’t quite explain it, but you Merlin, hit the nail on the head with this Kenwood. Thanks for its history, hard though it was for you to tell, it proves it’s real. God bless you and what you do. ❤️🇷🇴

[@williamdundon9770]

Love the the story of your uncle. I had one like him my self. That Kenworth is beautiful your lucky to have that as a memory of him. Thanks for sharing your life.

[@CorvetteBill364]

Great Video Merlin. I commend you on restoring the KW to your vision of what your Uncle would have wanted. Big piece of your heart and memories ya will never forget.

[@briangardner1204]

Great story and tribute to your uncle. Thanks for sharing

[@matthouse8499]

Family is no doubt the most important thing we have in this world, and life is way to short , thank your Merlin , my condolences for your family's loss God bless.

[@harrytaylor6854]

thanks you for sharing this story sir Merlin well done

[@thomaslyon2112]

Very cool!😢 your uncle lives on in that kenworth. 👍I’m sure he’s proud of you.

[@travisfulk2237]

Cool old truck really enjoy hearing old stories and seeing old pictures

[@moparman1962]

Merlin...you did it again...you created an interesting, history-laden, real-content, heartfelt video. Keep on truckin'. ;)

[@kalaehina814]

Thanks for sharing the story about the Kenworth, I already liked the truck, but now I know the back story, it makes even more admirable. Thanks Merlin!

[@steveschmitt2849]

Thanks for sharing Merlin, it seemed he was quite an uncle and teacher. Stay safe.

[@elizabethpedro3103]

Paul is beyond lucky to have you as a cousin. Keep on keeping on!!! Cheers from Portugal

[@albertorozco5981]

Sorry for your loss. Its very clear you loved him very much. Your all a very close knit family.

[@johnperun232]

Merlin What a very nice story Our MENTORS are a great place in our LIVES and OUR HEARTS 💕 I have missed my Uncle Vito for about 20 years, What a Great way to Remember your Uncle to find a rebuild and upgrade to your own personal, A GREAT 👍Video Thanx for All of your content Have a Great Day 👍 God Bless You and your Family God Bless America 🇺🇸🇺🇸🇺🇸

[@charlesalden9167]

Loved the history of your uncles truck . Sounds like an amazing man sorry for your loss Merlin glad you kept his memories alive with the truck. This is why your videos are so amazing because you show things nobody else does along with your automotive creations ( DR FRANKENSTEIN) & your knowledge on everything ❤

[@dryroasted5599]

Cool story about your uncle and how he inspired you. I love that you pick up other people's dreams and good intentions and finish them just the way that they would have.

[@michaelguglielmo2749]

Nice memories that go with that KW , absolutely a keeper! 👍

[@HDYaqui]

God Bless your Uncle! 🙏🏽💕🙏🏽

[@stephenpoe2037]

You saved a nice old truck ! And it's useful family air loom. Thanks for sharing !

[@donaldmartin5649]

Merlin people are now aware of what kind of man you are. You showed what you thought of your uncle. You built a great tribute to your uncle. After finding Paul's and your U Tube channels and seeing what great people you are I think I'm going to plan a trip out west to hopefully meet you and Paul. I'm a 70 year old retired coal miner from Pennsylvania. The farthest west I have been is Texas when I was in the army stationed at Ft. Hood. If another Wrecker games is planned for next year maybe I'll plan my trip to be there for that. I'm sure your Uncle was and is proud of the men his two nephews turned out to be.

[@LJC5865]

Thanks for taking the time to post..I enjoy all you do it's good to be there.

[@stacenhartland9777]

Those ol timers will be remembered for generations! For this reason, awesome memories! Thxs for sharing!

[@TheOldaz1]

Sad stories, first the inter, then Jesse. Great you did his truck and will keep it, thanks Merlin.

[@rightwingmanscott]

Thanks for sharing. Memories beat cash every time!

[@MarcoPolo-je5ej]

Out of all your vehicles, the Kenworth is my favorite. It's just as cool as any hot rod.

[@OfficialStumpMan]

Thanks for sharing the story on the KW. I’ve been looking forward to the international build.

[@garycamara9955]

I like International Trucks. Our neighbor was a dealer when I was a kid.

[@royhicks1628]

When I was growing up my Dad worked as a mechanic for a local feed company that had a couple Kenworth truck of that vintage. One was a 67 and I think the other was a 68, they were both painted alike with green and black stripes. My Dad kept those trucks alive for a lot of years, engine rebuilds, transmission rebuilds, whatever they needed. They both had 335 cummins and 15 over tranny. When I worked for the feed company in my late teens I got to drive them around the yard getting the grain unloaded. I never drove them on the highway. kinda regret that. Now as I get close to retirement the truck I drive for a major retailer has an automatic transmission and dozens of electronic "helpers". It doesn't have any character like Merlin's truck or the kw's I grew up around. Thanks for sharing your story.

[@dougalexander7204]

The old International crew cab needs a Merlin approved and blessed Cummins. Just like cow bell, it needs more power. Further, glad to see you respect your elders. Sounds like a great man.

[@azgismo]

I knew Jesse, I learned a lot from him. Jesse had worked at the oil refinery in Fredonia and we had the truck shop just to the north. I may have worked on that truck when it was a dump truck. We all miss Jesse.

[@FlawedOffroad]

I desperately want one of these to build into a tow rig. Such a cool truck

[@CMichaelLyle]

I love stories like this. Thanks for sharing from out here in Mount Holly North Carolina

[@steve0inmontana811]

Beautiful tribute Merlin. God Bless

[@gig5462]

Thanks for sharing your story Merlin…good people.

[@chadlusk2928]

Sorry for your loss brother !! Chad

[@williamlind2843]

I'll look at Paul's mom from a different lens after seeing her brother. She's already shown her colors. Cool family!

[@jamessmith7691]

That's a nice truck to be proud of in his memory too.

[@_Merica_USA]

Thanks for sharing your uncle’s story

[@lonhoschar1943]

Very cool ol' truck Merlin!! Glad you got it up and running in memory of your uncle!! Nice story about him and I know you think of him every time you use it!! Thank you for sharing the wonderful story!!!

[@dps67]

I had a 71' 1510 back in high school. Had a 345 4 speed with 2 speed rear. Beast of a truck. But keeping wheel cylinders on it was a challenge, they always seemed to leak.

[@jamesmoser7948]

That Old KW is Awesome.

[@johnsmart3587]

You should call 406 Garage in Bend Oregon; he specializes in IH's. Thanks.

[@AnsleyBuilt]

Great video Merlin, thanks for sharing the truck and the story that comes with it!

[@sonyadelange-zt6ic]

What a tender tough guy your willingness. To share your pain and sorrow is the best Family morals and ethics. Are your trade mark. You are for ever in the hearts of America. I can’t wait to meet you and thank you in person for being alive and sharing your life with us. I’ve meet Paul Ben and Chad at king of the hammer I’ve got a 83 j7 99 dodge ram second gen with a overland over drive air bags lance camper everything works. I sold my boat and miss it horribly. I’ve also it’s sand car street legal for Havasu roads. Hope to see you in person some day.

[@007twm]

A very touching tribute to your Uncle Jesse. Thank you for sharing.

[@johndonahue1935]

Like your Kenworth and it's story! Also like your Intertrashional!

[@flemmingkjellerup9780]

Merlin you are a fantastic person, with the heart on the right place 👍😀

[@Shawn-s8o]

Hey Marlon great history story about your uncle. Sorry for your loss I had an aunt that worked at the bank The Buck Owens shop with and apparently she was his favorite bank teller. She passed away in a automobile accident due to a malfunctioning in a new vehicle at that time I want to say it was the Mazda's from the 70s early 70s but because of that my family moved to Bakersfield and I used to walk the Streets of Bakersfield

[@jesseleroy76]

That biscuits and gravy making my mouth water. dang you..

[@HickSquatch]

Uncle Jesse’s truck is gorgeous. Those old KWhoppers were something special. I drove a 68 down in Arizona on my second fire department; it was one of our two water tenders. The other was an M44 deuce and a half. Wonderful memorial. Telling his story and using the skills he taught continue his legacy and preserve his memory. Thank you for sharing.🙏❤️‍🩹💪

[@calispony]

Love the story and the truck. I grew up on California side on the Indian reservation. So seeing the river and all the scenery makes me feel like I’m home!!