Van Trouble at -40 Below Fahrenheit | Extreme Winter Van Life

[@dbeskan]

We hope, that in the beginning of your next video you’ll explain how your DEF prob was resolved (heat pad, grille cover), etc. We want to see you and Jim around for awhile, with Ember and family, so please be safe-as you were. 😉 ❤️

[@WingsandWheelsAlaska]

We are alive and safe 😁. Currently working on a solution to it and the van is still running perfectly since we made it to warmer temps (it's -10 now 😂) we will keep you posted! Thank you so much for watching.

[@normthompson9588]

Hi there great to hear from you folks the challenge you folks have taken on is a lot more than the other folks living in there vans with the -40 temperatures and if you get in trouble you need help so much faster keep up the great work

[@darrellbambammacon8390]

im a truck driver and i use to go to Thief River Falls,MN and International Falls,and i have been up there at -38 and -45 with 20 mph winds . you have to keep the fuel treated and another thing i have installation on fuel lines the foam type wrapped in tape which helps i also have heated tanks which only work when truck is running ,and i have a Block heater also .so its acouple things to think about and also check with the trucking companys up there and see what they run in the fuel, and remember water in the fuel will shut you down quick in extreme temps.

[@WingsandWheelsAlaska]

Fantastic Info! Thank you so much for sharing some tips and tricks! Is your DEF tank insulated?

[@LivingwiththeMazumdars]

Loved every bit of your video. Never been to Alaska, but I feel so familiar with life there. Thanks to both f u. God bless.

[@WingsandWheelsAlaska]

We are so happy you found us. Thanks for watching and we plan to show a whole lot more of this amazing place. Stay safe!

[@briangreen9677]

So happy that you were finally able to see a wolf in the wild! It sucks that you had to deal with the diesel issue with DEF. I guess that's the downside of having those things made in moderate climates. They don't think about what happens to their systems and subsystems when it drops far colder than what the manufacturer is used to. You have done a great thing by telling all of us, so that if we get a diesel, we'll plan ahead and get the DEF tank insulated and heated just like the battery and block heater. I hope you get to get out and see more of that other-worldly landscape. It's amazing to see. Keep up the great work you guys are doing!

[@WingsandWheelsAlaska]

The DEF tank does have a heating element in it but it just couldn't keep up in those temps and during a snow storm also. The tank is located at the front of the engine so it is completely exposed. Hopefully insulation will work :)

[@OverlandGearGuy]

Good Idea turning around, instant that Bison wool gear, we have their Hats, Gloves, Socks keeps us very warm, we had the NOX sensor light come on in Colorado RMNP she changed elevation a few times and it went away. Maybe try wrapping the DEF Tank in Havelock Wool, Stay Safe

[@WingsandWheelsAlaska]

We LOVE The Buffalo Wool Co. and all of their gear. Ron and Theresa are our friends and we enjoy promoting such a quality product. This hat is extra special to me because my mom put so much time and love into making it. We are working on a solution to the def problem. Learned a few lessons along the way, but still having a great time. Thank you for watching!

[@OverlandGearGuy]

@@WingsandWheelsAlaska That is Awesome they are amazing people, I have taken Theresa out on a couple of my Wild Horse Adventures her in Utah. Hope it all works out and hope you see the Northern Lights, They are amazing

[@floridahermit4874]

Best of luck. I hope everything works out. I love your adventures and your camera work and music selection is without a doubt some of the best!

[@WingsandWheelsAlaska]

Joe thank you so much for the feedback! we always appreciate it.

[@ouroffgridalaskanlife3998]

Just found your channel and started watching yesterday! The DEF fluid issues are a problem on every diesel powered vehicle up here. Glad you got to see your wolf!!! Also, you drove by our property twice on this trip. Our cabin is on a hill a mile off the Elliott Highway just south of Pipeline Pump station 7!!!

[@WingsandWheelsAlaska]

Wow that is pretty awesome! I bet your cabin is amazing then with amazing views! We appreciate you watching our videos and are happy you are enjoying them! Happy Holidays!

[@angelabarabas1659]

Excellent video and presentation

[@WingsandWheelsAlaska]

Thank you!

[@samtheman7058]

Near the end of the 19th century my grandfather moved from Italy to north Idaho, few years later went back to Italy to bring his new bride to America. He raised his family in what at the time was near wilderness. Transportation by train and horse drawn wagon was the norm. When I was a boy I ask grandmother if life then was better than today ? Having raised a large family and grown their own food and livestock her answer was; "No, it was a hard life, hard work every day." Grandfather was a hard rock miner for a time in Kellog Id. where he would pound steel into rock to set explosive with his hands. The Alaskan wilderness causes one to consider life's difficulties before modern technology was available.

[@WingsandWheelsAlaska]

Hi Sam. Thank you for this. It's a beautiful reminder that all is built upon a foundation of hard work. None of this comes easy. You're so right, the Alaskan wilderness reminds us of how brutal life was before we had Espar Heaters, toilets and refrigerators on 4 wheels. How crazy it is to think how far we've come and how the definition of hard work has changed. It's stories like this that have me loving our comments section so sooo much. xo

[@alphatruckhouse8223]

yikes , yes better safe than we'd all be sorry . Thnaks for sharing your stories !! ~peace~

[@WingsandWheelsAlaska]

Thank you for the feedback Andrew!

[@storiesfromalaska]

You guys are real troopers.

[@WingsandWheelsAlaska]

We were hoping we could meet up while we were up that way. maybe next time we can get something planned in advance :)

[@storiesfromalaska]

Wings and Wheels Alaska that would fun. Just hit us up whenever you are back up here. We would love to meet to meet you guys.

[@deborahschaub2925]

Go with you gut..... i remember the worst winter in all my days was there in Fairbanks when it was -65F and with a 1 1/2 mile wind made it -72 F. That was 1998/1999. The WHOLE NORTH-STAR BOROUGH ...... LOCAL GOVERNMENT AND MILITARY...... CLOSED !!!!! I’m sure you remember it too.

[@WingsandWheelsAlaska]

Oh my gosh Deborah I do! I remember our school didn't close either until it got to I think -50 or something crazy like that. That winter we still had to go to school and nothing shut down until that week. I think everything closed for only a couple of days too! These days schools close if it trickle's snow.

[@ftkinsella]

You guys are amazing. What a drive in cold weather. Good luck. Cheers!!!

[@WingsandWheelsAlaska]

Thank you so much! was absolutely beautiful up there.

[@JUSTINANDCHRISTINA]

Turning back I think was a smart move.. -40 is definitely something I never want to experience.. In any case.. Safe Travels Guys..😀👍

[@WingsandWheelsAlaska]

As long as skin is covered it doesn't feel much different than -15. But the Van did not like it for sure. We are working on a Mod for the DEF tank.

[@byronbrasher8118]

Remember in last video I questioned how you kept fuel from jelling - freezing - this is what happens if not treated - I learned the hard way

[@WingsandWheelsAlaska]

no issues with our fuel at all. You cant treat DEF which was the problem. But we are going to get our tank insulated :) . Wish it was something as simple as a fuel treatment though. that was a great question and we thought maybe that would be the issue.

[@notagain8661]

If your going to play Life and Death games. Find a way to get around or by pass the Def system when out in the middle of no where. Yes and get a satellite phone and a chain set if you don't have them. Good luck!

[@WingsandWheelsAlaska]

I wouldn’t really call it life or death Steve... the picture isn’t what it seems this was a suggested thumbnail from KZbin. We know what we are doing... yes the DEF caught us by surprise but we were prepared if we woulda been broken down. Appreciate your tips though :)

[@chrisbethmann3955]

Guys, in your storage area, a portable Yamaha/Honda generator would fit easily, they are very quiet, yet easily supply shore power. I have the Yamaha, size of small backpack. Has 220, or 120 outlets. would give you great piece of mind

[@WingsandWheelsAlaska]

We are thinking of getting one of these soon. Thanks for the reassurance!

[@sherriweber7105]

Hi Cynthia and Jim! Sorry to hear you went through problems with van. I’m dying to find out what the problem was with the van. How did you find out for sure? Did you go to anchorage? I felt so bad for you both out in that cold. But I know you ended up being alright. At least you got it fixed. Glad you are both good now! Can’t wait til later to see new video. Stay safe! Sherri

[@WingsandWheelsAlaska]

Hi Sherri. We found a fix for the Diesel Engine Fluid tank that froze and we hope to make that happen this winter so we don't have to go through that again. At least we know what it is now. That fluid freezes at -12 degrees and we didn't know that. They have blankets they make to put around them. We will be attempting this trip again, because when you get to where we were trying to go it feels like an entirely different world in the winter. Like you were transported to Antartica or the Ice ages and it's something you can't describe you have to see it for yourself. Super bummed we had to stop but it's an easy fix for next time and my confidence in the van had increased as well because we have added more to our survival gear as well. Thanks for stopping by!

[@alohatvn]

-40 below. That's cold. Don't think we could do it....Great video.

[@WingsandWheelsAlaska]

Thank you so much for the feedback. once it gets to around -10 it just feels cold. Important to cover as much skin as possible :)

[@joselito7776]

I was thinking that in your shoes, I would get a fuel based heating source (ie- a tiny gas fireplace) just in case the electronics fail.

[@WingsandWheelsAlaska]

Hello! Great suggestion! Yes, we have one now as a just in case the other two sources of heat fail. If engine fails or if our Espar Diesel heater fails, then we have many other options as well. When this video was made we had our Espar, a ton of firewood. Made a lot of upgrades since. :) Thank you for watching!

[@toddcarichner6372]

Also leave room for expansion in the event def freezes. Some people fill until it spills out in my opinion bad idea. Never let it get empty to the point of a warning to add and never overfill.There is a company that make Def tank wraps that may help retain warmer fluid in the tank and helps with the factory heater not sure if they make one that would adapt to van . Google it i can’t seem to remember name right now.

[@WingsandWheelsAlaska]

We found a place in Anchorage called Alaska Tent and Tarp that creates DEF tank Insulation. We are going to give that a shot and see if they can adapt one to the van.

[@rvnaroundus9005]

This was beautiful and a little scary. We’ve avoided remote areas and colder temps. Living through you! Nice hat! Hope it all works out, id like to see a vid of the solution. always follow your instincts.

[@WingsandWheelsAlaska]

Absolutely. We will update with our solution once its done. Working on it now :)

[@taurusview9]

did u guys speed up the video play back? If not, you are driving pretty fast for the road conditions...stay safe!

[@WingsandWheelsAlaska]

It's 2x speed on most of our driving shots. We've since learned that's not a good thing to do. Sorry about that. Thanks for watching!

[@daveruttman6501]

Scary. Please get a satellite phone and or a ham radio. :)

[@WingsandWheelsAlaska]

We have been talking about having a SAT phone with us. Maybe now we will lol.

[@tekshield]

@@WingsandWheelsAlaska I lived in Alaska for 8 years and drove many of these same roads. Having a CB radio will put you in touch with the truckers on the road. The truckers really appreciate it when they know someone is on the road ahead of them. Driving these roads in the winter time can really be hazardous as I am sure you know by now because of ice and when it snows, if a truck goes by you, you will get blinded by the snow that flies up in the air. So having a CB you can talk to truckers and can ask for help if you need it. Sat phone is good for alerting authorities, but the CB is your best bet because a Trucker will be on scene before any authorities.

[@daniellewis599]

I can feel your energy. Wow. You guys guys have some balls.... nice beautiful scenery. Damn. I wanna know more. Stay safe please.

[@WingsandWheelsAlaska]

Thank you so much for the feedback Daniel!

[@LivingTheRVLocaLife]

Thats so great the weather insulating is working well for you guys but omg thats cold lol brrrr nooooo way lmao i hope that when we get there it will be kind of warm from Sept to end of October we are looking we leave in July so many people on the way to see:) we estimated 45 days to canada boarder then a week to Alaska we will see so excited love the music on this video very nice this video was awesome thank you for sharing my friends:) love that your mom made that hat:)hope your ok with this def thing hope not a bad situation:) safe travels take care

[@WingsandWheelsAlaska]

You will have much warmer temps lol. although at night it can feel a bit chilly in september / october so make sure you are prepared for that.

[@eileenfitzpatrick6388]

1st question: What is DEF? My DIY / RV van is a 1984 GMC Ventura. Back in 1984 when I bought my van something like DEF was never mentioned. 2nd question: Do the northern lights interfere with the electrical systems in your van or give interference with your phones or solar systems?

[@WingsandWheelsAlaska]

Hi Eileen. DEF is diesel Exhaust Fluid which is required on newer diesels by the EPA. Helps remove the black smoke that was common on older diesels to protect the environment. Older ones don’t have to worry about that issue. No we do not experience those issues unless it is a very significant northern lights event which is incredibly rare. We hope you are doing well!

[@8800081]

When you said you were having fun you looked terrified.

[@WingsandWheelsAlaska]

😂😂. Sometimes I try to convince myself I feel a different way than I actually do. As you've noticed I don't have a poker face. RBF?? Yup. Focusing on the positive instead of negative, it works....most of the time.

[@angelablackwell4711]

yep def in the uk we call it ad blu

[@WingsandWheelsAlaska]

I think that is the name of the product we use interesting. Thank you Angela always interesting to learn what things are called in other countries. Stay safe!

[@downbytheriver501]

A lady who likes to sleep in the cold? WE GOT A UNICORN OVER HERE!

[@WingsandWheelsAlaska]

Love the outdoors! Thank you so much for the feedback!

[@alaskaorbreak31]

“It’s ok...I’m find with that”. 18:04. Jesus you guys. My kinda woman. Not freaking out, obviously enjoying the journey. Nice music cuz I really wanna know. You know the road but I’m anxious watching. A WOLF!!!

[@WingsandWheelsAlaska]

Thank you so much for the feedback! That area was absolutely breath taking. We were so disappointed to turn back but we didn't want to get stranded out there. We are working on a fix then we will try again :)

[@AmericaBound]

When it's really cold here in New Hampshire you see the diesel trucks have a covering over the front grille. Maybe one of those will help in the extreme cold temps.

[@WingsandWheelsAlaska]

We found a place in Anchorage that has those coverings but they also insulate DEF tanks. We will let you know how it goes!

[@lilywolf6662]

Wings and Wheels Alaska Where did you find those products? We are interested in them also.

[@Kevin-oi7if]

Good luck! Are you running cables or chains on the Revel tires?

[@WingsandWheelsAlaska]

No. We have some just in case but we have not needed them at all. 4x4 works pretty well :)

[@hanshasse7820]

Grüßt Euch beiden 👍 Ich habe eine Frage an Euch, gibt es in Alaska im Winter keine Polarnacht 🌨🌨🌬 wie in Norwegen, Schweden, Finnland, wo es meist Tags über haupt nicht hell wird? Ich habe schon mehrere Male im Winter diese Länder mit einem Geländewagen bereist mit meiner Gattin Doris und unseren Schäferhund 👍 War für uns immer ein herrliches Erlebnis gewesen 🤙👌❄❄☃️ Jetzt machen wir solche Reisen nicht mehr, wir sind beide 76j.alt 👈✌

[@WingsandWheelsAlaska]

Grüße an euch beide. Ja, Alaska hat derzeit eine Region mit 24 Stunden völliger Dunkelheit. Es ist sehr weit nördlich im Dorf Barrow Alaska. Unsere Tage sind ungefähr 3 Stunden Tageslicht, aber es wird erst in einigen Monaten hell. Vielen Dank, dass Sie beide hier sind.

[@hanshasse7820]

@@WingsandWheelsAlaska Ganz lieben herzlichen Dank für die ausführliche Antwort 🙏❤❤

[@joec4871]

Nice video....that was a beautiful song playing (searching for my high). What is the title of that song please?

[@WingsandWheelsAlaska]

The song is called “even if the sky is falling” by the waiting.

[@joec4871]

@@WingsandWheelsAlaska thank you...stay warm...stay safe...I've been to Alaska is very beautiful and very large.

[@Roaming50]

You mentioned no cell service. Do you also carry a two way satellite communicator like the Spot X or the Garmin inReach Mini? I've used my older Delorme inReach in an emergency before. It can be a life saver and the subscription $$ is not too bad for the piece of mind when you are in wilderness

[@WingsandWheelsAlaska]

We havent yet but we do plan to get an inReach shortly! Never really thought about it until this happened.

[@spartanj2957]

Wow thats to bad ,I have never heard of def.freezing even here in M N. Good to know .Ofcourse it couldn't happen closer to a shop.Hope they have a permanent fix.Glad you made it safely !

[@WingsandWheelsAlaska]

We had never heard of it either! Now we know :) . We found a company in Anchorage that insulates DEF tanks so we will give that a shot!

[@annmaes7550]

Wow! This is better than any reality tv show! Real drama! Glad it didn’t become divorce court! 😆

[@WingsandWheelsAlaska]

I"m glad you found it! Oh boy you're so right! He wanted to keep going to the next "camp" but it was only getting colder. It didn't make sense to keep going. He would have if I wasn't there. 😂 I had a gut feeling about it before we went but we learned!

[@annmaes7550]

@@WingsandWheelsAlaska better to err on the side of caution!🧡💜💚

[@TheLarry113]

It looks like your driving fast on the snow and ice please be safe.

[@WingsandWheelsAlaska]

Hi Larry. It really looks that way but rest assured he was taking it as easy. Thank you for watching! This one is a great memory and learning experience!

[@yidne8239]

I would say You two are crazy adventurers😊the trip is scary and amazing . Just be careful. I love your videos though

[@WingsandWheelsAlaska]

Always careful and know our limits. When we don't know what an issue is, calculate the distance between two points if you need to turn around or if you break down. This was absolutely calculated..... and scary too! Thank you so much for watching our adventures. We are on the river fishing right now. 😁

[@hdlowrider5413]

I pray y’all are safe🙏.

[@WingsandWheelsAlaska]

ahh Thank you so much for the prayers! Hope your new year is starting out great!

[@aksalaman4689]

I think it was a smart move turning back. Would a heating pad on the DEF tank help?

[@WingsandWheelsAlaska]

We think so. We found a place in Anchorage that insulates DEF tanks. We are going to try and get it done in the van.

[@arkandrada3305]

Use the passenger door as much as possible... you loose so much heat every time you open those huge barn doors...😊😊😊 good luck and GOD BLESS...😊😊😊

[@WingsandWheelsAlaska]

They do lose heat. We appreciate your feedback!

[@ironhorsegladiator5034]

Well, we too have done Alaska and other DANGEROUSLY BEAUTIFUL places and it is not for everyone. We do months of planning and have emergency backup plans, satellite phones and are mechanically knowledgeable, regular couch potatoes embarking on something like this will end up like a frozen potato. 😆

[@demetriusfletcher6513]

I'm a new subscriber you guys are great. mrDee

[@WingsandWheelsAlaska]

Thank you Mr Dee. Nice to meet you.

[@zelowatch30]

Do you need a big V8 for Alaska's extreme temps or it won't matter?

[@WingsandWheelsAlaska]

Nope. many have smaller than V8's.

[@whu58]

Might be an idea to get the DEF spray nozzle checked - could have been frozen or blocked at -40

[@WingsandWheelsAlaska]

We will get it checked out! Thank you for the suggestion!

[@supervideos8022]

Very beautiful vlog

[@WingsandWheelsAlaska]

Thank you so much!

[@leilal8053]

ALWAYS trust your instincts....they are made up of your experiences and your subconscious picking up and processing your environment. Mine have never let me down.

[@WingsandWheelsAlaska]

absolutely 100%... I always believe my instincts and am rarely wrong. Just gotta get Jim to listen :)

[@JJ-sv9kh]

It looks like you’re going pretty fast in this video. Speed is definitely or dangerous in those conditions. Be safe out there

[@WingsandWheelsAlaska]

I think it looks that way because of the camera. I've started to be more purposeful in showing our speed because we certainly don't drive over what's safe out in those conditions. We will be showing what happens in the next video if you don't drive according to road conditions. (this was.a year ago 😁). Thanks for stopping in!

[@abhishekpradhan9629]

Hii, you guys are so amazing, u put your plans in action, that is awesome, What you do for your daily expenses??

[@WingsandWheelsAlaska]

We have jobs that can be worked remotely and teach remotely for a college. We stay pretty busy.

[@richardmaclean6116]

OK...I'll take your word for it. I sure didn't see the wolf as your camera was pointed out the windshield. I did see a small square-shaped "floater" bouncing around the upper portion of the windshield. I'm still figuring how you can enjoy mile after mile of same frozen landscape. I can get the same frozen landscape for a short time, then back to other variations - all without the scary position of miles into no-man's land. Otherwise, I'm enjoying the adventure. Could enjoy the verbiage if your mic was set up better. Your engine problem might be condensation as the atmosphere/altitude changes. Just sayin' - Rick

[@WingsandWheelsAlaska]

Hi Rick! One of the beautiful things about KZbin is the ability to grow and learn, but the BEST part is sitting down with my friends here in the morning with my coffee and reading what you think. I wasn't able to capture the wolf on camera but he was chilling on the side of the road like a dog. The frozen landscape does change and when we get to the arctic circle you can see that, but...we didn't make it.....that time. We will make it happen again now that I'm more confident in the Sprinters capabilities and our two heating systems. Diesel engine fluid freezes at -12 and well, it froze and we have a solution for it this coming winter. We do improve our Mic and our camera situation as we grow. Thank you for being a part of this with us!

[@MarkVJenkins]

For peace of mind get a Garmin InrReach. Satellite communication and contact emergency response just a text away

[@WingsandWheelsAlaska]

Great idea. We will look into this!

[@RicardoRoams]

I was thinking the same thing. I recently bought a Jeep in order to get into more remote areas. I'm 68 years old and most of the time I hike alone. The Garmin In Reach is a must for me.

[@TheMightsparrow]

Have you ever thought about going to somewhere warmer?

[@WingsandWheelsAlaska]

We did and went down south for the last 6 months but then decided to come back North :)

[@TheMightsparrow]

@@WingsandWheelsAlaska I’m surprised you don’t go north in the summer & south in the winter.

[@WingsandWheelsAlaska]

We love the winters!

[@TheMightsparrow]

@@WingsandWheelsAlaska I enjoy the white scenery while shivering in my Pjs as well, shame London rarely gets your kind of weather. 1st snowflake usually means utter panic cus the roads aren’t prepared for the winter basics like snow.

[@carlyndolphin]

Great video. Is you van front wheel or rear wheel drive? What tyres do you use?

[@WingsandWheelsAlaska]

We use BFG Ko2's. The van is 4x4 or rear wheel. Thank you for the feedback!

[@robbwolf3309]

Nice video.

[@WingsandWheelsAlaska]

Thanks Rob. So glad this particular day is over but we learned a lot! Super happy you enjoyed it.

[@toddcarichner6372]

I would have to say frozen Def. I get that a few time in my diesel

[@WingsandWheelsAlaska]

Absolutely was. We are trying to get our DEF tank insulated. We would have never guessed that would happen.

[@alelwin]

I love you guys. This is quite an amazing adventure but based on what I see as the current road and weather conditions you guys are driving way too fast. If a moose or deer suddenly crosses the road you are both done seriously. I'm praying for your safety. You really need at SAT phone. If you're are experiencing engine problems turn back immediately guys. Where you're heading your vehicle must be more specialized to withstand the harsh environment out there.

[@WingsandWheelsAlaska]

Hi Al, keep in mind, this was our first winter with the van and we are sharing our experience with it as we go along. We are now well into our second winter and have learned a lot! I think the speed in this video is deceiving and might be on 2x. Also, it's important to keep in mind we are on this road with trucks out there doing a job. We have driven this road many many times and know the dangers for sure! That's why we talk about this road so often. It's a bucket list for many and in the winter shouldn't be taken lightly. The SAT phone. we need to talk about that someday. They aren't always reliable in the places we would need them to be. In this case, this is a trucking road. We wouldn't be stranded for long. Great advice. Thank you.

[@andyw6996]

You really need to be more careful. I'm praying for your safety. Make sure you have a SAT phone and obey traffic laws. Listen to the weather reports and turn back when there are signs of trouble.

[@dawnhightman8557]

Love the hat-hopefully you’ll go back -great video

[@WingsandWheelsAlaska]

We will for sure. Once our DEF tank is insulated :) . The hat is perfect and lightweight!

[@dawnhightman8557]

Wings and Wheels Alaska I saw a few posts about putting some type of insulator or heater around or in front of the def. sounds like a good idea.

[@bobshaw4063]

On your journey's do Ya's ever caravan w/a group ?Do ya's own a sticks & brick or is the vanyour only home ? Are you both Alaska born & raised ?

[@WingsandWheelsAlaska]

Jim was born in Panama and raised in Alaska. I was born and raised in North Pole Alaska and left when I was 18 for several years and returned. We own several rental properties in Alaska. As for officially "caravanning" no. We have made friends along the way and traveled together and then went our separate ways with the hopes of running into each other again. Winter Van living isn't much of a thing in Alaska so we are all on our own with this one, but we do plan on meeting up with some friends this summer and traveling together.

[@jamiecummins9585]

What do you do about. Wolfs and bears?

[@WingsandWheelsAlaska]

Not much we can do about them, Wolves stay to themselves and I’ve only seen then in the distance a few times. They have no interest in humans. As for bears, humans aren’t naturally hunted by bears. Most concern is if you startle them or come across them after a kill. With that you can only be “bear aware” and there’s a lot that goes behind that. Wearing bells, yelling “hey bear” knowing how to use bear spray....the list goes on and on, but in reality, there’s nothing you can do about either but be aware. We’re just visitors on their land. Great Question thank you!

[@michaelsmith9308]

So with any vehicle in that temperature of minus 40 MOST will have idiot lights on all over the place the MERCEDES is actually a champ for the temp! Once it gets warmer or you can warm the engine bay everything will be fine!

[@WingsandWheelsAlaska]

Once we got just south of Denali the Heating mechanism caught up and it thawed out (warmed up to -1). We are working on a mod to protect the DEF tank so we can try again.

[@Avecpodsentier]

When you drive In those condition ( -40) do you/can you use the Revel diesel furnace and the Sprinter cab heating system ? Also what is the longest consecutive use (hours or days) af the diesel furnace/hydronics system you ever experience? Claude from Quebec, Canada

[@WingsandWheelsAlaska]

We use the Espar everyday all night in the winter. During the summer we don’t use it. During the cold winter the cab heat keeps up fine while traveling but we of course turn on the Espar as soon as we stop.

[@Tracy-zj4sr]

Can someone tell me....what is “DEF”?

[@WingsandWheelsAlaska]

DEF is Deisel Exhaust Fluid which makes diesel engines compliant to EPA standards. It reduces the emissions from the engine and when it is not working correctly it will disable the engine.

[@prayerworks61]

a look of terrified fun?

[@WingsandWheelsAlaska]

This is funny actually. KZbin picked this thumbnail from our video. At this point I'm saying "My mom made me this hat" but I think I was trying to distract myself from the fear and blabbing. 😂. This was a good learning experience!

[@richardnibbelin9762]

I had that same code on my airstream interstate. I bought a product from eBay to reset the code you have to give them your vin # and it will only work on your vehicle. I keep it in,y glove box. I was in Alaska in July and August didn’t need to use it but good to have with you. Love your channel. Looking forward to coming back to Alaska Rick from California (went to most of the places you show on your channel)

[@WingsandWheelsAlaska]

Good idea! Hopefully we can link up when you come back North! Thank you for the suggestion!

[@larrymorrissette2978]

Do you also put the additive in your Diesel fuel, we add that for our Semi's

[@WingsandWheelsAlaska]

We have not added anything to the Diesel yet. We may but so far we have had no fuel issues and the Sprinter is so picky about the quality of fuel so that is what has held us from doing it so far.

[@downbytheriver501]

@@WingsandWheelsAlaska I have a newer diesel in my ram and always treat it year round with stanadyne. Next best stuff Is truckers secret. It not only lowers cloud point and fuel filter clog point but also aids in the diesel's lubricity. They used to use sulfur, now we have ULSD, which is no longer as "slick" as the old stuff and because of this, can cause more wear on your injection systems.

[@Berncarp707]

Love your videos. Be safe out there. Those of us here need you both safe. The Artic Circle will be there in the Spring. ;)

[@WingsandWheelsAlaska]

Thank you so much! was very disappointing to turn around. We are working on a fix then we will give it another attempt :)

[@syedrizvi3070]

Is it not low tire pressure sign?

[@WingsandWheelsAlaska]

Hi Syed, it was the Diesel Exhaust Fluid. We know now what happened. The DEF froze due to the temps which triggered the sensor.

[@syedrizvi3070]

Great the u were able to sort it out, love your videos by the way

[@jasperz2017]

Usually its because lack of DEF, but in this condition, its more likely the DEF frozen out.

[@WingsandWheelsAlaska]

Correct. It Froze, We keep our Def no less than half full since one bottle takes it from half to full. We learned from this experience :)

[@jasperz2017]

Awesome Awesome!

[@davidh1927]

Freezing point of def is 12 degrees....common issue but don't fill the tank all the way or you could crack it in those temps.

[@LaundromatProd]

uuuugh , I had this issue also. I can talk about it if you need. -Jeff

[@WingsandWheelsAlaska]

Certainly. We are currently working on a solution to the problem. I'm curious to know if you came up with one to resolve it.

[@us-unclesam6566]

Do it right. Make a list of the things you want to do and see on your boondocking lifestyle. Lay the list out with the most efficient routing ( probably in a circle with the starting point as the ending point). Show us the list and do it! Point #2- Why the heck are you guys driving with the heater on, wearing hats and coats?

[@WingsandWheelsAlaska]

As you can see we don't plan our routes out much. We know this state like the back of our hands so we just move from one spot to the next depending on weather and what we want to see. Have you experienced -40 degree weather? I'll be honest, I don't take my hat off because my hair probably hadn't been washed for two day in this video, but in terms of coats it depends on how much we have been stopping or getting in and out. I tend to leave mine on "just in case" and, even with the heater on it can still be cold in a vehicle traveling at 50 mph. I like the idea of a map route though because I know a lot of people are planning on coming up here and a visual of where we go is a great idea. Thanks for watching!! ☺️

[@us-unclesam6566]

@@WingsandWheelsAlaska It's your eyes, I can't describe it but they they have a powerful effect, bright, penetrating and seem, to me anyway, to see right into the viewer's inner self.

[@josh_bfc_2769]

What is def?

[@WingsandWheelsAlaska]

Hi Josh. Def is Diesel Exhaust Fluid which is required on newer Diesel vehicles to meet EPA clean air standards.

[@andre1987eph]

If you ever wondered why Shackleton, Columbus, etc ie all the great explorers had ONLY all male teams, watch this video. This lady would have driven me crazy.

[@WingsandWheelsAlaska]

I've come a long long way since all of this began Andre and we all start somewhere. Thanks.

[@spartanj2957]

Your problem might go away if you had def to fill .

[@WingsandWheelsAlaska]

We were full on DEF, it froze. With 7% expansion wasn't much more we could add.

[@normthompson9588]

Hi kids I hear you with problems I hate problems I had to fix problems for 40 years now I don’t want problems

[@WingsandWheelsAlaska]

Never like problems that aren't easy to fix. So far nothing major has occurred!

[@robertsherrick4081]

This video is mostly your terrified face! It's good that your equipment failed and you could go no further. Native Alaskan women take off across frozen tundra with only a hatchet and a blanket and travel many days in weather like that.

[@WingsandWheelsAlaska]

That's very interesting. We've lived up here our entire lives with family living, working and teaching in our villages. I'd love to hear more about how native women survived travels across the tundra in -40 Below weather with only a blanket and a hatchet.....that's fascinating. Do share your source of Alaskan History for all of us please!

[@michaelarchangelthehammer]

I agree it was good the equipment failed(EPA mandated crap)..you are not properly equiped for that sort of trip, you keep saying you are, you may want to converse with people who have travelled that or more experienced winter travellers...and I would disregard what the dude said above, it's crap

[@4635235]

-40, thats freezing freezing, freeze.......

[@WingsandWheelsAlaska]

Pretty dang cold but as long as your skin is covered anything below around -10 starts to feel the same.

[@chaddunn4165]

“I lit a fire and I made dinner” Will you marry me? Sorry Jim..... Please keep us posted!!!!

[@WingsandWheelsAlaska]

HAHA. Thank you Chad! We found a company in Anchorage that insulates the DEF tanks so we are going to see how well that does.

[@kayakdreamer1]

Love your videos! I have a 2020 I just recently got and I'm loving it, but my trips have been child's play compared to yours! Quick question: Love those boots! Fur lined throughout, or just on top? Could you possibly share what/where you got them pleaseyweasey??? Thanks for all the great videos!

[@WingsandWheelsAlaska]

kayakdreamer1 Thank you! The boots are Sorels. I absolutely LOVE them. They aren’t fur lined inside. They’re felt lined. Which makes them even warmer. In these temps my feet are warm the entire time and they’re super cute. I pair them with my Buffalo Wool Co. socks and the only thing that gets cold is my nose. 😉 Thank you for watching and Revel on! ✌️

[@kayakdreamer1]

Cynthia, thank you sooooo very much! Getting me some in 3..2..1... 😁 Oh, and Revel On!! (got me one too) LOVE LOVE LOVE it !!!

[@syphonefilter]

are using winter tire?

[@WingsandWheelsAlaska]

We use BFG KO2s. They are doing great for us. Thank you for the question!

[@terryburns8917]

I’ll come on, you almost said it we all know the EPA sucks. I just bought a 2018 Dodge 3500, and hopefully will be moving to Alaska this summer. After the purchase I’ve gotten worried about death fluid freezing after I found out it froze that about 20°. I have since found out that there’s a heat line it runs through the tank. Of course it will still freeze when the vehicle is setting and I have been told not to fill it past 3/4 full, to allow room for expansion. A full tank when it freezes and expands will burst the tank. But they say three-quarter full is safe it’ll expand in the tank will take it.

[@WingsandWheelsAlaska]

We are going to get our tank insulated we will let you know how it helps. Yes there is a heating element but the location of the tank is completely exposed to the elements. That would be the thing to check. Hopefully we can meet up this summer :)

[@terryburns8917]

Yes my tank hangs down under the truck also. I’ll let you know if I get up there.

[@Blastfence1]

Maybe you two should sell the camper and move into a nice retirement community in Vero Beach Florida were it's safe and not too dangerous! Because your just too old to be out driving around in the snow!

[@WingsandWheelsAlaska]

Hey! There's an idea!!! We can play bingo all day and make arts and crafts and complain it's too hot. You made my day. Thank you. 😂😂

[@unacamper9123]

Wind chill has no meaning to mechanical items......only actual temp.

[@WingsandWheelsAlaska]

yes we meant -40 plus windchill as in it was darn cold to step out of the vehicle. Thank you for the feedback!

[@mobilerichie2009]

exhaust regen

[@WingsandWheelsAlaska]

Cold. It was just too damn cold 😂

[@117000000]

? Do you really turn the engine off during the night under theese arctic freezing conditions? And did I really just watch you drive out away from civilisation in arctic conditions without any preparations of the van for the frosty arctic conditions and no way to contact anybody for help? Sorry, I'm just eh.. A bit disturbed to say the least, those vlogs in general tend to be bit too real in between. I was on my way to bed to dream about vanlife... 🤣 My Best wishes and regards for you all the way from little Denmark ❤️

[@WingsandWheelsAlaska]

Hello Denmark!! Can't wait to go there. Keep in mind we know Alaska and its conditions. We have also traveled that road several times in various vehicles. What we didn't know is the heater in our Diesel engine fluid wouldn't keep up, the van (and ourselves, were very well prepared but we are showing that later) We used to endure these conditions without a van. 😁 It's really all about the adventure and calculated risks. We really appreciate you watching...the 2nd. part of this video clarifies a lot more. Thanks for watching and sweet sweet van life dreams.

[@rae1957tn]

Why didn’t you look in the owners manual?

[@WingsandWheelsAlaska]

We did but it isn't specific to what the issue could be. We still had to figure out if we just froze up, if we really needed a mechanic, etc.

[@mavericksantiago319]

You look very nervous ... or is it just me... looks like you are scared to go out , but him...

[@WingsandWheelsAlaska]

I went through a few moments of fear. The camera captures everything! 😁. I eventually overcame it. Jim always stays calm as a cucumber. Always. Thanks for watching!

[@patriotpioneer]

DEF freezes at 12 Degrees F ...

[@WingsandWheelsAlaska]

We have Learned the hard way. it is actually a bit lower than that since it does have a heating element involved. The issue is the heating element couldnt keep up with the weather we were in.

[@patriotpioneer]

@@WingsandWheelsAlaska Almost every vehicle in Deadhorse(Slope Workers) is left running for most of the winter. Military Vehicles in Alaska are left running as well unless they have a swing-fire heater. Neither of my diesel trucks(Dodge/Cummins) are new enough to have DEF, im going to keep it that way.... fyi, You can cut diesel with kerosene when it gets that cold

[@Ded-Ede]

Darn EPA always trying to mess up everything with stupid safety and environmental protection. Lol

[@WingsandWheelsAlaska]

Right?!? 😂.

[@ТрассовикАС]

!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!

[@WingsandWheelsAlaska]

Keeping me busy here! :)

[@stevepak3294]

Gotta be frozen def

[@WingsandWheelsAlaska]

absolutely. the placement of the tank leaves it completely exposed to the elements. We are going to insulate it and try again. We never thought of this happening.

[@michaelwitkiewicz7052]

Quit talking about windchill. When it comes to things like what temperature DEF freezes at windchill only affect how fast you get to the real temp. not the “windchill”.

[@michaelwitkiewicz7052]

And I will add that everything you drive you are creating “windchill”. In reality in subzero temps at highway speed your windchill is in far excess of -40

[@WingsandWheelsAlaska]

Thank you for the feedback! We agree.

[@sherrydavis5628]

I don't think Mom's are suppose to be watching this. Recommend you start rating your videos like movies do. One like this should be rated "NM"...meaning "no mom's"!😳

[@WingsandWheelsAlaska]

There were only a few high anxiety moments :)

[@catherineharper6580]

I’m with you Sherry, NM should be a thing, I knew they were ok but still had a couple of nervous moments

[@hirpm8564]

sprinter over all is junk after all good bless gasoline engine from my experience in USA

[@WingsandWheelsAlaska]

The DEF doesn't like -40, we discovered that. Haven't felt the Sprinter is "junk" though. Our cars have always been Fords and have owned them for 20+ years and can't say they haven't run without issues of their own. Thanks for watching. Stay Well.

[@josmith1618]

She looks so afraid!!!!!!!!

[@WingsandWheelsAlaska]

Oh she was! She did a good job at containing her anxiety so it didn't spread to me while driving. Worrying never does any one any good.

[@ironhorsegladiator5034]

All the money Mercedes charges for these vans, this is just unacceptable and EPA junks on cars are not a beautiful thing.

[@hudma2542]

DEF

[@WingsandWheelsAlaska]

Diesel exhaust fluid. An additive for emissions standards.

[@SimonCrowne]

It looked like a low tire pressure light. If she whines that much on camera imagine the whine fest he hears off camera.

[@WingsandWheelsAlaska]

Well yes we let air out on the ice road... Has nothing to do with what was happening. Thank you for your feedback though :)

[@angelablackwell4711]

DEF

[@WingsandWheelsAlaska]

Definitely DEF. :). Frozen DEF in the middle of the arctic wasn't fun We will keep you posted as to how it turns out. Thank you for watching.