Breakdowns & Recoveries Almost Ended Our Texas Adventure

[@TrailRecon]

Contact Merus to sign up for the TrailRecon Challenge or Extreme Challenge: merusadventure.com/trailreconchallenge/

[@alexweckwerth5155]

Glad I could help get yall out of the canyon, I would love to join on a adventure sometime and see what else the trx can do

[@dolguldur4706]

It can do a lot...just dont forget to carry as much gas in the back if you want to bring it home 🤘🏻😂

[@merusadventure]

Thank you again, that really helped us out! Hope to see you back at Merus soon!

[@livinthelife6056]

Loved the Ram pulling two jeeps out ! Made my day Power wagon owner 😁

[@justacarfan]

@@merusadventureIt’s a great park you have there. Congrats.

[@derekheuring2984]

@@livinthelife6056 Same here! We get a lot of flak from Jeep owners but at the end of the day it took a Ram to get them out. I work with a guy who just traded his Gladiator in on a Power Wagon and he loves it!

[@keithonstott7352]

Thanks!

[@TrailRecon]

Thank you so much! Truly appreciate your support!

[@steve337]

Great story! Your videos have transitioned over the years from “look at the Jeep on the trail”, to folding that into a story, tour, adventure for the viewer. Great job! Jake really enjoyed it too.

[@TrailRecon]

Thank you so much! Telling a story is something I've been working on a lot lately, it's not easy and I'm still learning.

[@arrowheadoverland]

I agree 100%. The story aspect is a game changer. It adds so much to the final video but adds so much to the videoing and editing process as well. I first learned about “telling a story” from Clay of X Overland at the last expo in Flagstaff. My favorite part of this video was at the beginning when you included different shots of the cables after talking about their history. I’ve been fascinated about the history of logging recently and came across cables in my latest video as well.

[@christoavdmerwe]

Very eventful trip. Nice to see another South African making boerewors. Very popular to make on the skottel as well. Thx for sharing 🤗

[@joerodriguez1797]

That was a sweet left turn up that short hill @29:45. Great dinner and breakfast, 2nd jeep came through 🎉

[@RedGladiatorRubicon]

Always a great day when a new @TrailRecon video is posted!

[@betuel75]

I like how you’re keeping your Jeep stock looking on the outside, not roof top tent, KC lights, etc. Looks clean.

[@GrayGhostDog1]

He has a pair of KC Flex Era 4’s on the front bumper…

[@corksauve4949]

Loving this video! If you want to keep the petrified wood in the canyon I would put some signs up to encourage people not to take or move it. As soon as the word gets out people will come from all over and collect it. And it's worth saving.

[@Rangerxpcrew]

Texas and off-road, I never thought they would have great stuff to wheel in. Thanks for enlightening my mind. Beautiful area there.

[@MotoringAdventures_KE7SAI]

There’s not a whole lot of public land here in Texas, but there are several really awesome off-road parks that have trails of every variety. I moved from the Nevada/Arizona region to central TX back in 2014 and it was an adjustment getting used to not having as an abundance of public trails but am totally grateful for the places that it does have. And adventure can still be had when going to these unique places and making the most of what’s here.

[@shiftintohigh5564]

Merus Rocks! You will think you’re at MOAB. No dirt bikes, no side by sides. 4x4s and Mt Bikes...and hiking. Peaceful.

[@ramennoodle6340]

I love seeing a sport out there tackling some difficult terrain. Not everyone can afford a rubicon but we can still go out and have fun, really cool to see! Going out to big bear this weekend to get some fresh air with my wife and our pup, thanks for inspiring people to get out

[@backwoodstherapy]

I've got a Sport and I'm slowly building it. Currently has a 2" lift, Rubicon rock rails and 35s. Will soon(ish) be regearing, adding a front locker, and some high clearance fenders. Then when these 35s wear out I'll be putting on some 37" BFG KO2s (I'm gonna do that tire specifically because the BFGs run small and it is still just a Sport). Just gotta wait and get some funds (basically, just wait for the wife to ok spending the money).

[@merusadventure]

I’ve done a ton of wheeling with the sport and it’s been great. It ended up being the rear Detroit locker. The sport will be back on the trails real soon!

[@ramennoodle6340]

@@backwoodstherapy lol amen brother My wife just okay’d a small lift and some recovery essentials. Luckily I work at a dealership and they let me keep things from cars that we send to auction. I was able to snag a warn winch and a MOPAR steel bumper from a gladiator trade in.

[@TruckA1888]

I've got a sport with a lift and 35's. Comparing these trails to the ones I do out east I'd say there's some disparity between the rating system. The black in the video would be an easy blue out near me.

[@tomsbigtrucks]

Seems like there is a lot of electronic pitfalls in your 392 hope you’ll give us a full review… that looks like a great spot!

[@frontierstateoverland3816]

I love vids where folks keep going even though they’ve run into trouble. Nicely done!

[@muddyjake]

What a great place! I think that will be my Spring trip for 2023. Thanks Brad!

[@TheDon8771]

Mine is a 2014 sport s too. As long as you know your rig n pick your lines you don’t need a rubicon. Build it for you and what you do.

[@shaynelhta]

I been on trips with groups of new machines that could barely make it 1/4 mile without something wrong. Sometimes parts just break.

[@MrT24-c4e]

its a Jeep, cooking, and camping show all in one :)

[@merusadventure]

Brad does such a great job with his videos!

[@as6882]

A preventive maintenance for the locker issue is potting the sensors. The rear is notorious for diff fluid getting inside the sensor killing them. Potting the sensor will ensure the sensor stays dry. I’ve done it to mine, super easy and cost maybe 40$ in material. Potting is cheaper than the zautomotive harness and will keep the locker functioning just like factory and will last. Thanks for the great adventures!

[@robertquackenbush5547]

You always show beautiful scenery that I've never seen before in the states that you wheel in and I thank you for sharing it because I only seen the scenery driving the highways as a otr driver

[@txredkim867]

Welcome back to Texas Brad...

[@rshutterbug47]

Wow Brad We Moved To Texas Around A year & A half Ago & Have Really Started To Miss G.J. Colo & The South West & I Was Surfing UTube & WA-LA Up Pops Your Ch . & I Went To It So Fast That I Couldn't Believe I Really Did See Texas On The Intro & Told My Wife Even If It's Not It Will Still Be Good So What Ever, But It Was & It's Not That Far It's Like 7 Hre From Lufkin SO WE WILL GO,& For 2 or 3 Weeks & Make it Real Worth Worth While, Thats So Awesome, & Can't Wate Tell We Can Go & Thank Both Of You For That Video It Was Totally FANTASTIC GOD BLESS & HE DOES ,THIS IS THE 3rd, Time Just Today, GOD IS GREAT !!!!! ☆☆☆☆☆ 👍👍👍👍👍 LOVED IT

[@janhbhugo5085]

I had some Boerewors today ! Nothing quite like it ! With some Pap !

[@merusadventure]

Nice!!

[@carlosnsosa99]

Love these videos if the wheelin and the cooking and eating and camping 🏕️ and scenery it’s just so awes and I get to live through you guys

[@wolverines2024]

Welcome to Texas- I actually live just south of Lubbock and I have never checked the 4x4 trails at Palo Duro Canyon

[@dougg8280]

Yep, got the same thing on my 2020 JLU with its locker. I have been finding many "Jeep things". Frustrating. All part of that legendary Jeep reliability.

[@JeepJL]

I keep a zautomotive Z Locker OEM in my glove box just for this occasion. Sure it’ll get fixed under warranty, but the Z Locker is plug-and-play, easily removable, and you get to have useable lockers until the repair can be made.

[@TrailRecon]

Might be something I will consider in the future, but for now, I just want Jeep to get it sorted.

[@texasrubicon392]

Was just going to suggest this. Brad- since the sensor is on backorder, might want to do this until they do.

[@denali2m4]

Use of the Z Locker harness on aftermarket e-lockers voids the locker warranty. I presume it causes the same issue with OE lockers. There is a voltage drop, which will cause the locker to not fully engage or result in reduced pressure on the locking collar, thereby allowing the engagement teeth to slip. Eventually, it will cause the locker to fail.

[@scottfulton9457]

@@texasrubicon392 ZAuotmotive is on back order now too due to its popularity since Jeeps chips have been on back order for so long and Jeeps only other recommendation was to replace the axel.

[@tonyawallace864]

What is the part number for the sensor and where is it located. We’d like to order one before we need it. Thanks!

[@douglasvamateurradioandmore]

Now I want to build out a 4x4. My dad and I have been talking about finding and old small truck and doing an engine swap.

[@dbasiliere]

Fun video, good trailing... I loved the food you guys had. Makes me hungry.

[@TrailRecon]

Glad you enjoyed it!

[@ezmerelda4450]

I had the same locker sensor go bad after a regear. Keep in mind that Zautomotive makes a bypass harness to take care of it. I ordered 2, front and back to avoid issues in the future

[@Colonel1Bravo]

Do you have anymore information that you can provide on this. Thank you

[@adventurefreakz5581]

YES!! Finally some proper wheeling videos again!🥰 We thoroughly enjoyed this one.😎

[@pmurphy12667]

you would thinkJeep would fix the fuel tank pump situation by now. And a sport pulling a 392 rubicon to top it off! Then the 392 pulling the sport. Then a truck puling 2 jeeps. Who would've thunk it! Love the videos keep them coming and Merus park looks awesome

[@merusadventure]

Lots of fun on this trip!

[@dolguldur4706]

TrailRecon is my favourite channel for american offroad and TylerThompson is my favourite for aussie offroad

[@robertyoung8289]

Your 392 called and said we don't need no stinking lockers! 😀

[@merusadventure]

The 392 is super impressive with no lockers!

[@victorpacheco5421]

Awesome,I'm inspired. I bought my first wrangler because of Trail Recon & Epic Family Road Trip. I have had Cherokees in the past.

[@Lewdagify]

Hey Brad, I’m the guy that said hello to you randomly when i was there and ran into you. Thanks for such an awesome suggestion!

[@LivingTheDream-RocklanderUSA]

Cool trail, Brad. You guys got a little flexi; it looked like a lot of fun! Sorry to hear about those lockers. You did awesome without!

[@hershlawfirmpc]

Brad, congratulations on +500k subscribers

[@abnpthfdr2934]

I really liked this trail. Like you said: "a little bit of everything." Great video.

[@douglasvamateurradioandmore]

Only about 14 hours from my house in AZ. I just might drop by next time I'm in the area.

[@destinedemperor7999]

Dont forget the trusty 1/2 breaker bar for changing flat tires. And the the roof top tent does make the jeeps top heavy shows when the jeep descends down the rocky trail...cheers.

[@1hasbeen531]

Challenging days spent overcoming adversity make the best campfire stories.

[@merusadventure]

This trip will definitely be a memorable one!

[@brunnie]

Looks like a fun place to wheel. Thanks for the trip. Until next time... Travel safe.

[@sintituloporalguien]

I love TrailRecon videos. It makes me feel all the adventure and also all the tension in that moments of stress. I'm very happy to have found this channel!!! You have a new follower right from the Sonora desert. Pd. We will be happy to have you trying our trails

[@robertfox4524]

I was getting anxious just watching you guys on some of those steep drops...

[@mowcowbell]

Palo Duro Canyon is an awesome place to visit. Did some mountain biking there a few years ago, really need to get back out there again.

[@t.o.f.t.s.]

Time for Brad and Regena to relocate to Arizona. Less taxes and midway to Cal. desert and Moab as well as closer to Texas. 😁

[@spartywarriors]

Hi Brad. Maybe time to get a Tazer mini and Z Automot8ve OEM locker bypass harness. New axle will not fix the engineering flaw. Only a band aid. It will probably fail again. I carry an extra as I am waiting for the front to fail soon. 2 minute install. I'm sure you know all this already. Thanks for your and Regena's content. Really enjoy it!

[@commbubba1990]

The sensors can be replaced now without requiring a whole new axle.

[@spartywarriors]

Finally. Thanks for the info. Is this a fairly new change? Is it a 6 to 8 week wait? Thanks again!

[@TrailRecon]

I know they sell that, but I'm going to let the warranty cove it. They told me it's only the ring and pinion that have to be removed for the sensor replacement.

[@derekheuring2984]

I've lived in North Texas 23 years and I'm just hearing about Merus Adventure Park for the first time. I'm already making plans to head up there. Quick question: I have a lifted PW on 37"s so I'm not too concerned about ground clearance but some of those trails got pretty narrow. Can a full size truck fit down all trails at Merus Adventure Park?

[@RanchoTexano]

2 of 2 on Jeep breakdowns. Would’ve loved to see the Bronco at Merus!

[@bkrgi]

You know it's real when the boss man has to be towed out. Awesome playground that they have created there.

[@DirkvanReenen]

yeah that was bit sad for me but still all fun and part of the adventure.

[@mikebiron7339]

Luv the area, the land, trails, etc. Kept waiting for Bob Hansler to show up. LOL Someday, I'll be trying these trails!

[@DanDuprea]

Excellent video Brad! Good to see you're doing some challenging off roading again. This is easily your best video this year.

[@patonlashlee]

That Gladiator looking good right about now

[@CraigSimons]

That place looks like so much fun.

[@jazumi7798]

Dang dude. You really put that 392 through the paces. I have added this place to my post army retirement cross country RV/Jeep trip. Great park!

[@merusadventure]

The 392 did amazing!

[@tjmckay1487]

I'll be doing the Extreme Challenge in my 2007 FJ Cruiser. Has Long Travel Rear, Ext Travel Front Struts, No sway bars, 35s, Rear Locker, A-Trac, and the fenders have been cut/removed. I'm very excited to get after it. Going on February 24th to test it out.

[@TrailRecon]

Have fun man and I hope you have a good time out there!

[@drewengles4477]

now that looks like a heck of a fun trail and long weekend with your jeeping buddies!

[@merusadventure]

It’s really fun, had a blast with Brad -Dirk

[@shockerracing]

Great video, looks like some amazing trails! You should pick up the Z locker from Z automotive to keep with you in case your lockers ever fail for you on the trails. I tried it in our Gladiator and it worked perfectly. All Rubicons need to keep one on hand just in case.

[@greatwhitejeep]

I was raised in the area not been back in 20 years have goose bumps. Spent many years exploring on foot and bike now I can drive sign me up.

[@AliciaInJeep]

The DROP ZONE 06:50 that was something! wow! You guys have an amazing driving skills. Maybe one day I will be able to drive trial like this one. Amazing video, views, and as always super enjoyable adventure ;) Thank you for another fantastic video.

[@WolfOverland]

Eco Diesel does not look so bad now? Problem is ALL manufactures are having issues now with parts and labor- I work for honda as a master tec and we are stressed out with all the repairs and supply issues. 16k miles on my jt rubicon diesel and now my drag link tie rod end joint is very loud and has play... backordered from jeep so looking into upgrading- look for a loud squeek when turning at low speeds-

[@stoutmasta]

Seems like a great trail to have taken the OG silver Trail Recon Jeep.

[@bradmorrison265]

Great video Brad, thanks so much for your time and effort in making it and I’ll see you at Merus in a month. Also, a few years ago while going to Colorado, I had the same locker issue with my 2020 JLUR. It was a sensor in the rear end and the Jeep dealership near me ended up replacing the entire rear end under warranty.

[@Wolf4wdadventures.576]

Wow, thoroughly enjoyed this video. That is an awesome place with some magic trails... I have had 3 XJ Jeep Cherokee's over the years and now hooked on the Wranglers. You make Fantastic video Brad. Interesting how the jeep stalls on the downward steep section, you would think the high pressure fuel rail would keep the fuel to the injectors.... Just love the sound of the 392. Cheers 👍🚙🇦🇺

[@scottymac5174]

I remember your early days and you used to push your old blue jeep through some serious stuff.

[@TheBlue350ss]

That place is amazing! I went with LiteBriteNation back in April

[@scrambler350]

Interested in visiting this place to wheel/camp -- what set of trails would you recommend for a stock 2024 Willy 2DR with 285's and the factory rear locker...?

[@onestunner22]

I seen those icons on my dash earlier this year too. Oh such a familiar sight. It’s was a easy fix. It happens at the worst time always. It happened to me just before I drove out to Moab and Colorado. Still love the Jeep and had a blast on the trip.

[@erikcele1604]

What a wonderfull and cool plase!

[@pete101ize]

Awesome as usual! But after this video and several others I've seen I'm glad my Gladiator is an Overland model and not the Rubicon. The price was less to buy and I'll feel more confident with Eaton e-lockers and I need lower gears than 4:10 anyway. Gotta admit, you learn a lot from great videos like the ones you put out.

[@foleyhund3860]

Ok...watched this. Looks like great fun. Just thought I'd add a bit of technique. When wheeling steep downhill add a bit of throttle and ride the brakes for speed control. The throttle will prevent brake lockup and assist in steering and directional control. Not an expert, just been doing this since the '70s. Enjoy the videos!

[@sandralutz-rodriguez2864]

that is so cool Brad! Looks like you guys had a blast. the cave had to be amazing and you scored some petrified wood! goals!!

[@951media]

Great adventure. Jeep needs to fix that fuel tank pickup issue stat! Unacceptable. Hope the lockers get worked out quickly as well.

[@ZacTexC]

Nice! I’ve been there several times to hike the lighthouse, but didn’t know about this trail. I try to make this stop when I visit my home town in Texas.

[@superdutyohv3401]

This was one of the most epic adventures, the trail really put a beating on both Jeep’s and brought out weaknesses. All part of the fun and learning!

[@countrykid-lc5yv]

Just an absolutely great video! May sound odd but the breakdowns and recovery are good for those just beginning their adventures to see. Its not always a perfect easy day on the trails!

[@merusadventure]

That’s so true, the breakdowns and things going wrong a big part of the adventure and they make the best stories!

[@TrailRecon]

As the saying goes, smooth seas don't make for great sailors! Some of my best adventures where when things didn't go according to plan and we had to overcome adversity.

[@e5toro7008]

In Texas of all places. Who would have thought? Gonna have to see for myself.

[@celinabrown6191]

How about I come with you

[@e5toro7008]

@@celinabrown6191 the more the merrier.

[@celinabrown6191]

@@e5toro7008 send your email and let talk better on Google chat dear

[@braamraubenheimer4946]

Awesome trip ! I'm watching from South Africa, can't go camping without boerewors 😁👌

[@mrfluidvision]

That was sooooo much fun!!! Awesome!!! Great job guys!!!!

[@samvigil9835]

Should have just taken old faithful, the JK would have gotten you through easy peasy! There's a small chance I can come out to the summit next month! I hope to, would love to meet you and play on my new tires.

[@anthonymissirlis3710]

loving the content , and the educational/suggestions stuff in the vlogs . congrats on 500k+ subs

[@TrailRecon]

Thanks so much!

[@Iamnothere8406]

About a year ago, my rear locker sensor went out on my 2020 JLUR 2.0 T. At the time, Jeep said they had to replace the whole axle, not just the sensor. I hear that now, they can replace just the sensor. Anyways, got a whole new rear D44 axle out of it.

[@scrambler350]

25:17 -- what are those brackets on the door hinges of the White Wrangler....? Carry handles...?? ..or..some kind of mount..???

[@joshuasalazar5106]

I love how he named it after u!

[@TrailRecon]

It's a project we've been talking about for a long time and I'm honored that they decided to call it the TrailRecon Challenge.

[@jadams947]

Seeing those people stop to help makes it seems like such a great community to be a part of. Just bought my first jeep and can't wait to try some beginner trails. It may not be as plentiful or as beautiful than out west but I'm sure I'll find some in New England. Keep up the great work Brad!

[@merusadventure]

The off-road community is such an amazing group of people!

[@StraightPretzel]

Awesome video as always. And what a collection of patches. Where do u buy them or get them? Thx for putting up videos weekly ❤

[@martinfernandez2815]

Great video. Looks like so much fun. I also have a 2014 sport and I just got the cricket or chirping I hear coming from the white sport you have there. Any idea where that is coming from?

[@DirtPlease]

I have this too ever figure it out?. I’m in a 2013 JK

[@mitchellanderson7369]

Brad you should think about picking up a kinetic rope for when you need to help a friend in a sticky situation.

[@x3thelast]

Spotted you on base with the 392 pulling a different trailer. New video for it? TRAIL RECON! 🤘

[@Appalachia02]

I was watching one of your recent videos and noticed your son’s Tacoma has both front and rear license tag but you are only the rear tag. Has California changed the requirements or are you just running without. I was also wondering if there was a waiver that allows a Jeep to run without the front license tag?

[@SLICKW1993]

I’ve lived in Texas most of my life and still haven’t been to Palo Duro. It looks like a mini Sedona with the red rocks. I’d like to make it out to Merus. How is it for full size rigs? I have a F350 Tremor. Unfortunately in Texas we have to rely on privately owned parks to use our rigs. Hidden Falls near Marble Falls is another fun spot where you can camp.

[@MotoringAdventures_KE7SAI]

What an awesome adventure! The 392 did really well despite the fuel issue and having no lockers! Cool seeing the TRX helping you guys out! Also, the food and scenery was awesome! I’m in San Antonio and I’ll need to make a trek up that way sometime soon.

[@GetOutGO]

Boerewors, nice! 🇿🇦

[@scotth364]

Looks like the biggest challenge is the bugs of Texas 😂

[@garyb4929]

Had no idea, person could travel parts like that in Palo Duro. awesome. Though I'm not up to those levels, but still be fun. Thanks.

[@TrailRecon]

There are actually more miles of easy, scenic trails out there than difficult ones.. a great place to just go explore.

[@garyb4929]

@@TrailRecon Thanks, Have visited Palo Duro, visiting family in past. Hope your locking systems get taken care of.

[@merusadventure]

There are many really easy trail that still get you canyon access and beautiful views!

[@maxmixrc]

Wow great off-road adventure 😊👍💯

[@garyflhpi]

I LOVE IT!!!

[@dennisodson4572]

The fact that you took your unlocked v8 jeep through everything. And left your silver Jeep home makes me happy that I ordered a V8 myself. Maybe the son could end up with the silver Jeep. And you can build an extreme v8. While you can still get one that is.

[@35jdub]

Lots of fun outdoor and offroad secrets out here in the Amarillo area!

[@TrailRecon]

Merus is a great place for wheeling!