We ordered a NEW TRANSMISSION!!

[@kenmcclow8963]

In case someone else had car trouble in Alaska and didn’t have a good shop like in Anchorage, they could put the car on the Alaska Ferry and be in Bellingham Washington four days later without driving at all. It’s definitely not cheap to put a van on the ferry, but then there would be a wider choice of shops than having to possibly leave the vehicle over the winter. I don’t know all the stops the ferry makes beyond Southeast, but I think it goes to Whittier and Homer at least. I went on their website and apparently the ship that crosses the Gulf of Alaska is out of service over winter for repairs, so I searched from Haines to Bellingham for a 21 foot RV at $1748, and it would be a shorter trip. This is something I was looking at for my trip to Alaska next year as all the places in the Southeast are only connected by the ferry, or airplane, or cruise ships. I think it’s more than the price of gas driving through Canada, but it would be a different experience

[@mrein8718]

Well, I hate giving you a thumbs up for all of your transmission problems but you know we give you thumbs up. I hope you guys have a safe journey getting back down here with that new transmission and best of luck!!!

[@oneadVANtureatatime]

+@mrein8718 thank you! Picking up the van today (Monday October 7th) we will hang out a day or two to make sure things are working properly. Then we head south!

[@sandracarter2905]

Let’s all pray provisions and repairs go quickly and smoothly!

[@pctwhereschris5318]

So glad it all worked out on the transmission. I drove my ProMaster until 124,986 miles when my transmission died ... in Olympic National Park. Luckily I only had to wait four weeks for a remanufactured MOPAR transmission and transmission cooler with a 3yr/100,000 warranty. It's been more than 28,000 miles and 15 months ago. And, I still love my ProMaster.

[@clarkleakins879]

The first transmission oil change when you found metal chips. The best step would have been a transmission flush. Because there were certainly more bits in the torque converter. Torque converter does not empty when you change the transmission fliud. The recent pan removal, the black burnt smell is the clutch plates disintegrating. Also, the transmission pump is dying, from metal debris and clutch debris. Good news! This happens to many vehicles after 100+k miles, especially vehicles that work hard up and down mountains. Yes, a small fortune to replace. That NEW transmission MUST have a NEW torque converter, NOT REBUILT! AND a warranty coverage for the unit AND INSTALLATION! Future, suggest that you have a transmission FLUSH at recommended intervals. Not a simple oil/filter change. NOW with 100+k miles on the engine. Suggest that you use a good brand (Chevron, Shell) premium fuel. Certainly cost more. Maybe every 3rd fill up on budget. The better fuel will help reduce/prevent carbon build up on the pistons and valves. You can calculate the increased fuel cost vs a sooner engine replacement. Of course maybe in a year or two you will replace the whole vehicle? The same model, later year, lower mileage? Transfer the interior into the newer unit. You have your own budget and life plans, just offering an idea. Hope you dont get frozen stuck in the great northwest! Unusual 100 degrees in the San Jose California area the last 3 days. Supposed relief comes Monday. CHEERS!

[@GypsySoul2023]

Things are falling into place nicely for you. Competent mechanics, stunning location, comfortable weather, mobility, not stuck on the AlCan without those positives. File in your memory bank and master the art of patience, which will be a useful asset for a lifetime. ‘This, too, shall pass’ ✌️

[@danielstevens5135]

Go to Hope, Alaska. It is beyond Whittier, on the south west end of Turnagain Arm. It was the first place the Russians found gold in Alaska. As you go south toward Seward, go straight west instead of turning south.

[@samanthadodd8112]

Can u see if someone needs house sitting or dog sitting in Anchorage?

[@SheilaWoodbridge-q3h]

So sorry about the transmission terrible timing , we are.still fighting power issues I have wrong inverter a 240v but.its.got our.2 100ah batteries carring us for.24 hours.thats running ceiling fan tv and fridge the fan and TV only a few hours but winter is coming and we don't have the mini split yet so I wish you.all.the luck and gods speed getting everything fixed and get you guy back here ,,I'd love to.meet up some day

[@helenemulvihill2997]

oh noooooo! Sending you prayers and good vibes! Hope you can make way soon, stay safe!!! ♥

[@lannyandroxanneadvantures2546]

Sorry your going thru that, we decided to be proactive and have ours replaced (171,000) miles on it. We ordered a stage 2 Transmission. Its called a Ripper 2000! This will be a great transmission for towing the Jeep too. Hope it all works out for you three.

[@ToniAdventures]

Hoping it arrives soon! I’m dealing with turbo issues on my diesel PM.

[@mythicalnomadadventure969]

My 2016 Promaster, and I, have benifited from your knowledge and experience over all these years. From the solar on the Topper rack to the KO2s on the pavement, Big thanks to your video efforts 🌞 May the universe smile. 👍 Rock on 🙂.

[@oneadVANtureatatime]

Glad we have been helpful. We will pass along any knowledge we find out after this experience.

[@makalapuamegs1056]

So sorry to hear about your transmission problem! I’ll be keeping you in my thoughts!

[@oneadVANtureatatime]

Thank You!

[@julien2912]

BTW ALSO in the meantime, you should consider looking for a Campwork job to do while you are there waiting for the Transmission to be fixed. A lot of places might offer for you to stay in a cabin or rented room or in an RV or tiny home in exchange for work on their property. House cleaning, landscaping, property maintenance, retail work or your photography for website updates for their business. Just make sure you explain to resort or RV park owners that it is only temporary until your van is fixed. I would start looking now just in case you do end up staying out of your van for a while longer than you thought. It wouldn't hurt to put your feelers out JUST IN CASE.

[@oneadVANtureatatime]

Oh, I have been looking at all kinds of possibilities including housesitting! Right now, we can't really do anything until we have more answers.

[@julien2912]

@@oneadVANtureatatime OK. Great! Most house sitting or pet sitting jobs will ask for references. You might want to put a list of references together to have ready just in case someone asks for some Professional (someone you have worked for), pet sitting references, and personal references (from friends who know your work ethic) like someone you worked with at the beet harvest or the potato harvest job. I hope you find something if you need it. Ask at the chamber of commerce in Anchorage. Sometimes they have a line on someone who needs temp help like this. But actually Right Now is the best time to find something because you can earn a little money while you are waiting to hear something.

[@michele2017promastertravel]

My 2017 ProMaster has 40k miles now, it has been flawless so far. I had my transmission drained at 30k miles because I'm aware of the PM transmission plan on doing it every 30k miles. Good luck you guys, sounds like it's the best case scenario in a bad situation. I secretly hope you get to stay the winter.

[@christopherhaak9824]

For sure should be a drain and refill every 30K. It's cheap and easy to do. Can replace pan with one with a drain so it's diy. If you rely on your van, need to stay on top of maintenance. If you were in Ohio, hopefully you visited kip.

[@rollingrogans]

Wow! I know you guys have been keeping a close eye on it all this time. Sorry to hear but looks like you’re in a great spot for you. I even agree, getting stuck in Arizona (or even Florida) in the summer would be brutal. You sound like you are holding up as best as you can. Our van is almost identical to your numbers (2016, bought with 27k miles, currently at 130k) We are just starting to have our own engine troubles. We’ll be in touch.

[@davidtaylor3714]

Loved the video. Sorry about your trans. My 2018 Promaster 3500 now has 355,000 miles. I had my trans serviced about 40K ago. All seems good so far. Mine was used as a cross country cargo van for the first 310,000 miles. It has been my camper van for the last three years. I bought it understanding that I was prepared to replace the engine and or trans at some point.

[@oneadVANtureatatime]

WOW!!!! that is incredible! Hopefully we will make to 300,000 miles.

[@donquixote3384]

What is the tip from the mechanic that needs to be fixed in the transmission?

[@mistygreene6754]

Hoping u get ur transmission fixed sooner than later .. Positive vibes and thoughts towards y'all

[@oneadVANtureatatime]

Us too, we are ready to start heading south. I would not mind seeing the mountains covered in snow!

[@lisaf-d1616]

I’m sorry to hear this. We had a 40 day layover in Anchorage this past summer when we had a small, non-injury collision. The actual time spent working on the rig was probably 5 days, the rest were delays, getting parts from the lower 48, and weekends when no work was done. We had to bounce from Air BnB with our two dogs. Fortunately, we’d hoarded credit card rewards which covered most of that expense. I wish you all the best. Hopefully, you’ll get through this adventure soon!

[@oneadVANtureatatime]

DANG!! 40 days is a long time! I have noticed that they do not work weekends. We he said he could get a new transmission to us in 2 weeks... I thought that sounded pretty quick! I hope he was right!

[@lisaf-d1616]

@@oneadVANtureatatime Hopefully because you’re in off-season, it’ll be faster. Our issue was smack in the middle of Sprinter season so it just took longer. Unfortunately, it always seemed that they found additional issues that needed more parts on Fridays! My fingers and toes are crossed for you to have a faster outcome. Do be sure to test drive a bit before leaving Anchorage. We did that but didn’t find a power steering leak until we were in Dawson City. We nervously monitored it closely until we got back to the lower 48, hoping for no more delays. Fortunately, it seemed to have been an overfill issue but we have an appointment with our home mechanic to do a thorough inspection next week. Despite the unexpected layover, we were grateful that it happened in a major city and got to really know the Anchorage area!

[@craigbrowning9448]

I had a breakdown and ended up renting a U-Haul Van for a time while my vehicle was in the shop. Bob Wells did a video on it. In his case, gettng thrift store furniture items to make an interior, In my case I temporarily salvaged items out of my vehicle (mattress, portable power station, camping table, chair and a few other items)..

[@craigbrowning9448]

The rental van I did it was a Ram ProMaster and I was not used to many of the functions.

[@oneadVANtureatatime]

We have considered that option!

[@davidburchettephotography6513]

Hope that’s a new transmission and not rebuilt. Had a rebuilt head put on a Chrysler minivan and it broke down while on vacation in Florida. This was many years ago. And this is, of course, a totally different situation. The common denominator is the brand. Good luck and I hope you guys get back down to the lower 48 before winter sets in.

[@oneadVANtureatatime]

YES, we are hoping to head south asap. A little bit of snow is okay, just not heaps of Alaska snow. We are preparing for a snowy drive back. We have snow tires, chains, and lots of winter cloths.

[@nelsonlabbe3494]

I’m hoping that your transmission arrives early and the shop is able to get you back on the road quickly!!

[@PulpParadise]

I'm so sorry you are going through this but I am happy that you have that all important emergency fund. It really doesn't matter what make or model, as you said, they all have problems eventually. A friend of mine's husband had to buy a new engine for his 2019 truck and the engine itself was $18K. If you had a Sprinter, you would have the added expense of looking for a diesel mechanic...Yes, you are very fortunate to still be able to drive and to be in some of the most beautiful land on the planet for you delay. All blessings. Hopefully this will be a straightforward replacement and you will be back on the road again after those two days without further delay. Poor Roodle...LOL.

[@michaelbecnel63]

That sucks but the 2 of you never let anything get you excited......Always calm. Great place to have to stay a little longer just gotta get out before winter. Happy Trails 🐕

[@monicamestas7566]

Oh, to be a happy dog. They can make any bad day better. Love your attitude. Hopefully winter holds off. You'll get through this and it will make a good story, part of the journey.

[@oneadVANtureatatime]

Right...roodle makes everything better! We are hoping for a wee bit of snow just nothing crazy! But yes, we need to leave soon!!

[@cindywiech2675]

So sorry this happened but it’s good that you have the money saved to have the transmission replaced. I hope it all goes without a hitch and you can be on your way back to the Lower 48. Wondering if you have to put some miles on it after the replacement is done just to make sure all is well before you start your journey back. In any event there are worse places to be stuck. Hopefully you can find an Air B&B near the repair shop that is not too $$ while you wait.

[@oneadVANtureatatime]

We are very thankful that we have the money to replace it. We will hang around the area for about a week to make sure all is well before we head south. We have learned this lesson!

[@luckyjim51]

You're living the dream...!! Rinse and repeat.... Rock on 👍👍 I put in a new motor last summer @ 93k I still love the van...

[@oneadVANtureatatime]

We figure we will have to do that at some point as well. Still cheaper than a new van!

[@LorraineHecht]

Hang in there! Sending love. Thanks for all you do🙏🏼🙏🏼🙏🏼

[@oneadVANtureatatime]

Thank you so much!

[@marcellafolkmann7913]

Hugs and prayers. Sure hope you get the transmission fast. If you were in our neighborhood, you could use our Pleasure Way. Bob W rented a UHaul Box truck and moved it in until his got fix one time.. Might be lots of work moving blankets etc.

[@oneadVANtureatatime]

That is a option! Thankfully we are still able to drive the van and stay in it with no problems. I have been looking at alternative such as house sitting but according to the mechanic it will only take him 2-3 days to install the new transmission. If that is the case, we might not need alternative housing.

[@melindakillian9671]

We had one of those huge Canadian tow bills! Not fun LOL and ended up in small town Alberta for a month. Always an adventure!

[@jgpainting8815]

You two are awesome. Thanks for sharing. And at least your in a beautiful spot. And you can all keep warm. Snuggle😊 Take it easy and hope the new trans shows up sooner than they think. Love your videos!

[@oneadVANtureatatime]

Agree 100 percent. And if worst case scenario happens and we have to stay the winter here....it will work out.

[@JameslabelleJR]

I hope you will get the transmission fixed in a timely manner. Because, if you’re still in Alaska at this time of the year, you’ll need to be prepared for snow and ice while driving back to the lower 48. Maybe think about getting winter tires and hopefully you have chains and other cold weather gear.

[@oneadVANtureatatime]

I can tell you have not met my husband! He drives to the snow to play in it. We have winter tires, chains, and tons of cold weather gear. We grew up in snow country! Having said that our van is not 4-wheel drive so we do need to get out before it really starts to snow!

[@BulletproofPastor]

I replaced head gaskets in our 27' class C while staying at the Williamsburg Pottery Factory parking lot in late November! Very similar circumstances since everything was also closed.

[@juliedavis3799]

Life happens and you two handle it very well!

[@oneadVANtureatatime]

We always knew it was a possibility and we have had indications over the years.... hence the emergency fund. We drive the van hard, and it is heavy! It will work out one way or another.

[@joegallo6447]

I fill your pain, the problem you have is that transmission is not designed to haul more than 4.000# Dodge should never use that transmission knowing that companies were going to build a motor home on it. Wish you the best and get out of there soon. love you guys.

[@meglange3595]

Oh gee guys, I'm SO sorry!! As usual your attitudes are amazing, as is your preparedness. I applaud you for that. If you have to be marooned you are indeed in a perfect spot for the three of you. I will be keeping you in my thoughts and prayers that there are no snags and all goes exceedingly well. I have all confidence that it will. Mr. Roodle can brighten any day. 😍 Take care and do enjoy your extra time there. See you next time. 🍂🥰🌾♥️🌾🤗🍂

[@SpryWhimsy]

That's about the same milage I had to replace mine. I was surprised you hadn't had it replaced yet. Yes it's a lot, but when we compaired it to replacing our adventure van, it seemed cheep for another 100,000 miles or so

[@oneadVANtureatatime]

Agree! That is why it isn't devasting to spend the money! We have so much blood, sweat and tears into this van, we dont have the money to replace it. Some people would say this is not a smart way to spend your money but I still want to be young and dumb...lol Still got itchy feet!!

[@shelleypakenham9129]

I am so sorry you are going through this. We just went through it last week in Newfoundland. We are doing the trip you did and if the same thing didn't happen. We had ours rebuilt here in Lewisporte and have just got back on the road. We pray you will be back on the road soon.

[@oneadVANtureatatime]

Oh no, I hope they got you back on the road quickly! Was it terribly expensive?

[@shelleypakenham9129]

@@oneadVANtureatatime You won't believe it but the man who fixed our truck was 87 years old. He rebuilt our transmission in two and half days and only charged us 2000. We phone dealerships and every mechanic listed and no one could do it. Then my husband found this man an hour away. He made us a priority because we were travelling and we were so grateful. How have you made out? We are behind because you know what the cell service is like in NF!

[@user-vm3yd2rp7f]

Because of you two,we went with a promaster. No regrets! You were able to logged out thousand of miles before this. You have to be regious about the maintenace. Also,you were smart about a emergency fund for your van. Transmission for vans are more than 8,.000. I would recommend also an oil change. Safe travels!

[@oneadVANtureatatime]

When we bought this van we put thousands of dollars down for a warranty that did not help us at all when we needed it. We will never buy a warranty again! We could have used that money now! We learned to just have an emergency account. You have to have a dedicated account and put money into it for it to work though. So thankful we have the money to cover it....but dang.... I can sure spend $8,000 in a more fun way...lol

[@febetadefa4618]

Praying for you; the wait can seem endless.

[@oneadVANtureatatime]

We have gotten to see the fall colors that have just been incredible! We would have missed this without the transmission problem. I also would not mind seeing the mountains covered in snow before we leave.

[@alanhester9984]

My friend says, adventure doesn't come with out inconvenience.

[@oneadVANtureatatime]

true! it's all part of the advanture!

[@relevanttraveler6263]

Yup... I went through that too.....Transmission cooler is probably full of metal chips too that's also probably why the fluid was "burnt" hopefully the mechanic flushes it out If it's saveable? Hope it works out OK before the white stuff Flys.

[@oneadVANtureatatime]

oh good point! We will ask about the transmission cooler.

[@Julied319]

Sorry to hear about the transmission.. Hope all works to plan!!

[@oneadVANtureatatime]

Thank You! It will work out, maybe not how we envisioned it but it will be okay.

[@dandial3733]

Eagle River was a neat little town when we lived up there in the 70s. It's only a few miles out of Anchorage towards Hatcher Pass. Is there a spot there you could camp? As far as Promaster transmissions, if you see some of the videos where these vans are used for commercial hauling, they have amazing hi miles. I've seen one over 800K miles.

[@oneadVANtureatatime]

Not really any legitimate places to stay for free. I've looked.

[@dandial3733]

@@oneadVANtureatatime I've heard that it's kinda grown up since we left.

[@axelzilm778]

Pretty risky trip knowing there may be issues guys , good luck wish you safe return home

[@lindapetersen2901]

Hey Guys if it looks like you’re going to be stuck in Anchorage . I have two possibilities one is shipping the van down the cost can be quite reasonable they do a lot for the military. 2nd a month to month apt, rental I know a great landlord. If you do layover there is plenty to do in town during the winter.

[@tacrewgirl]

Agreed

[@oneadVANtureatatime]

Thank you for the options. I will keep it in mind.

[@susanjackson1458]

Well, that’s a serious bummer. But, things could be worse. I hope the new transmission comes soon, gets replaced quickly, and you’re back on the road before it starts snowing. 🤞

[@oneadVANtureatatime]

Agreed! This is just a very small bump in the road! We would like to see a wee bit of snow but get out before it gets to serious!

[@marymurphy5069]

Wishing you all the best, keep up the great attitude

[@oneadVANtureatatime]

Thank You! In the grand scheme of life this is just a very, very, very small hiccup! On the plus side we are really enjoying the fall colors.

[@pdk9075]

We have had the same shaking on accelerating @45 mph+ in our 2011 Toyota Sienna since 2022 and have had the axles replaced as well. We suspect it is the transmission and have been following the issue with your van. Hope all goes well with the replacement.

[@oneadVANtureatatime]

I told Dave if we still have the shaking after the new transmission I am going to through my hands in the air and give up....lol

[@GATORADDAM]

Wow.... In 2013 I bought, I believe the first year out, a brand new Promaster. It shook from day one. After 8 attempts to fix it i lemon lawed it and bought a truck. Just a thought... But have you or your mechanic heard of Jasper transmissions? I had the transmission in my Chevy work van replaced with one. Full 100,000 mile warranty. Transmission and labor war under 3k. I think 8k is ridiculous!

[@oneadVANtureatatime]

Maybe we should have asked about other options...

[@krazedkamper]

So sorry about the transmission problem! I think this happened so that you could show us those stunning Alaska fall colors, without the tourists. 😍🍂

[@oneadVANtureatatime]

Dave has been getting some AMAZING fall drone shots! It has been nice to see the seasons change!

[@krazedkamper]

Look forward to seeing more! 😊​@@oneadVANtureatatime

[@robertlutz2244]

You need a NEW TRANSMISSION ??? WOW! Keeping you guys in my thoughts and prayers.

[@oneadVANtureatatime]

Thank You!

[@garygus5966]

Quit the adventure! Keep smiling!

[@oneadVANtureatatime]

I have been keeping an eye on trusted house sitters. I just need a little more info from the shop about timing before we commit to a house sit.

[@Badgeweefixstuff]

Well you knew it was coming lol. Last time we talked you got 3years out of it well done. You will be fine. No you don’t want it to break in Canada. Your camping enjoy yourself. 🛠️🇨🇦🛠️🇨🇦

[@TP-es1pf]

You guys talk like Canada is a third world country. We live here and we have auto parts stores in every city and lots of towns. 3000 tow bill…. Only if you were in absolute wilderness, and then so would it be in the US. Bit of a bad rap on our country there. We sell pro masters faster in Edmonton than they do in anchorage….

[@susanc496]

I agree with the suggestion about taking the ferry back. Yes, it probably would be difficult for Roodle. But how chancey is it to drive back to the US through Canada by yourselves this time of year? We love following your travels; you are a lovely couple and hope you get safely back to the US! (And could Roodle possibly tolerate a bit of doggie valium on the ferry?)

[@oneadVANtureatatime]

I checked into to ferry, and it would cost $3,700 and we would be sleeping on the deck. 1. we cannot afford to pay that and then replace the transmission once we get back to the lower 48, we have just enough to cover the transmission and gas to get back. 2) that will be REALLY dang cold sleeping on the deck in October 3) I would only put Roodle through that if there was no other way. I think I would stay in Alaska and work for the winter before we chose that option. I did look into it though.

[@heatherrenton2086]

Oh gosh this is sad to hear. Everything is so so costly up there in the north. Long wait times for parts deliveries and huge shipping fees. My heart goes out to you.

[@oneadVANtureatatime]

Actually the wait was very short, one of the reasons we decided to go ahead and get it done! Cost seems to be the same as in the lower 48. We just talked with another couple who had a new transmission installed back east and they paid the same amount. We probably paid more for shipping but it wasnt to bad at $200. It is a BIG chunk of money for sure and that sucks!

[@terryh3689]

If winter comes and you want to get to the lower 48 quickly, would taking the ferry work? Not sure that’s an option with Roodle. I think he would have to stay in the van most of the time.

[@oneadVANtureatatime]

We looked into that option. 1st we would have to drive to Haines Alaska. The price I was quoted was $3700 and we would be sleeping on the deck in October. Then once we arrived in the lower 48, we would still need a new transmission on top of the ferry fee. And lastly i would not put roodle through that unless we absolutely had to.

[@terryh3689]

@@oneadVANtureatatime I had no idea the ferry was that expensive! I actually meant after you get the new transmission and if you didn’t want to make the long drive back in winter weather.

[@jasontomica8938]

If you get towed in Alaska in some remote area or Canada, just like you said, your wife said, 4 or $5000, kiss your vehicle. Goodbye, ninety nine percent of the people would just have to walk away.You're correct.It's very, very expensive and roadside assistance only covers a hundred miles.So good luck with that

[@glennbeattie6172]

Because of you guys I follow promaster on Facebook. I hear horror stories about Transmission replacements. Why not a rebuild? I have always rebuilt Transmissions unless the case was bad. I wish you the best of luck! Take care.

[@glennbeattie6172]

It's high temp of 72 in Flagstaff.

[@oneadVANtureatatime]

The $8000 is for a rebuilt transmission! Glenn, you are just going to have to travel with us to keep us out of trouble. Our high temperatures have not been over 60 degrees for the last month

[@shirleyharvey7376]

Im sorry it’s happening but I’m glad you weren’t already in Canada. Good luck!

[@oneadVANtureatatime]

Right! we were on our way up the dempster Highway to the arctic ocean. It would be really bad to have the transmission go out way the heck up there.

[@suemeyer7551]

Probably would have been cheaper in Canada.

[@shirleyharvey7376]

@@suemeyer7551 I bet not if they were in the middle of nowhere & had to pay thousands for a tow truck.

[@PattisArtInnaVan]

Oh wow so sorry to hear this! My trans did go in Arizona and it was not good. 🙏🙏🙏

[@oneadVANtureatatime]

sorry to hear that! Is that why you are driving the motorhome? Probably more room and more comfortable for Your dad.

[@PattisArtInnaVan]

@@oneadVANtureatatime lol sorry honey but you’re probably thinking of someone else! I don’t have a motor home and my dad passed in 84. But thank you for the reply and hopefully your new tranny will be in sooner rather than later!

[@rockrabbit6484]

Roodle owes you $8k for that drive/reverse oopsie. Does he have any other skills besides chasing balls?

[@mgrayfox59]

😮 Roodles ❤and live is worth the world!!

[@oneadVANtureatatime]

He just makes us happy which money cannot buy! Maybe I should hire him out...lol oh and he owes us for all the balls he has hidden across the country too....lol Thank You so much for the gift.

[@SheilaWoodbridge-q3h]

I have no experience with promoter we have a 15 passenger dodge ram 72k we replaced radiator that's all so.far but ours is a tow vehicle we.pull 16ft cargo trailer

[@michaelkurz9067]

Good luck to the both of you and you're furry child:)

[@trishrobbins9942]

I hope you have a good resolution to this very common Promaster problem.

[@oneadVANtureatatime]

We hope so too. We are hoping the transmission arrives this week.

[@maxxonetwo3]

If you had Car Shield they would pay for the whole new transmission + other repairs. I really feel bad for you both considering that you were having such a good time. I really wish I was there to help you guys out. I wish you both well and good luck & be safe.

[@oneadVANtureatatime]

We always knew this was a possibility! And we are still having a good time. As far as vehicle warranties.... we have been burned twice, don't trust them. We are prepared for a snowy drive back. We have snow tires, chains and lots of warm winter cloths. It should not be too bad if we can leave before Halloween. A minimal amount of snow will be exciting and fun.

[@jasontomica8938]

That's not true. I have a friend that had car shield. And they only paid 20% of it, some of it's a scam, some people get lucky with car Shields. Some people don't and same with the other programs out there that try to help you out and claim they're going to do all this for you. It's total b, s, it's a hit or a mess with some of these companies

[@jasontomica8938]

Car shield can be a scam. I just told the other guy above and message. Him, my friend was in the same situation, they only paid 20%. He still owed over more than $10000 in maintenance issues being stuck in the middle of Canada. So that didn't work out He had to leave his car and go home. And the car was probably up for auction, or who knows what they did with it

[@johnleach740]

When you get the warranty info ask your mechanic if can be used anywhere in lower 48.

[@oneadVANtureatatime]

+@johnleach740 I believe he said it did. One of the reasons we decided to go ahead. But I’ll definitely verify

[@dukecitywildcat]

Sorry to hear about your van troubles. I was curious if you regularly use the tow/haul mode when driving? There seems to be some debate if it is necessary/suggested to have that mode engaged while driving a built out van. Just wondering what your thoughts are.

[@oneadVANtureatatime]

Our tow haul has never worked, and we have never thought to have it fixed. Sorry, no help from us.

[@LifeAfterKidsjourneyunknown]

Sending prayers 🙏🏽

[@Chris-ut6eq]

Sorry about the mechanical issues. Hope the replacement arrives early. question: the vehicle did not throw any codes before failure? (i see you had a code(s) )

[@Chris-ut6eq]

There is the ferry which can take you and vehicle to lower 48. Not sure on cost.

[@cabracove]

@@Chris-ut6eq Only from Haines, that's a long way.

[@oneadVANtureatatime]

It did throw codes, that is the only reason we knew there was a problem. We had no other indications. The ferry is quite expensive at $3700 and that would be sleeping in a tent on the cold deck in October. We would still have to replace the transmission once we arrive in the lower 48. We cannot afford the ferry on top of the transmission price.

[@Chris-ut6eq]

@@oneadVANtureatatime Wow, that's a bit more than I expected for the ferry, not sure why I would think it would be cheaper. Replacing the transmission would be probably less than putting a new roof on a house, it just so happens your home has wheels :) Crossing my fingers on a speedy parts arrival.

[@vbrem6800]

Bummer, hope everything goes well. Where are you heading for after that, are you doing the tent thing again at Quartzsite Dusty and Vikki

[@oneadVANtureatatime]

If you were to ask us 3 months ago we would have said no! LOL If they ask us to come back again, we will definitely say yes...lol We will be in Arizona at some point this winter.

[@vbrem6800]

Hope to see you, we are leaving NY nov 5, eventually make it to arizona. Dusty and Vikki

[@michaelkurz9067]

I didn't think that was possible,driving 25 MPH in my Ram truck it will not select into drive if it were accidently done

[@marcellafolkmann7913]

Rent a box U Haul. Move your stuff into the box van. You might have to buy a heater.

[@oneadVANtureatatime]

That is an option! Thankfully we are still able to drive the van and stay in it with no problems. I have been looking at alternative such as house sitting but according to the mechanic it will only take him 2-3 days to install the new transmission. If that is the case, we might not need alternative housing.

[@MannyWC]

Oh man! I think yall did really well getting as far as you did! My tranny went out on my 2017 PM in Texas- 10K later ugh at the dealership. I am ALLLLL ears waiting to hear those tips! What warranty are you going to get? And will it apply to PM dealerships?

[@oneadVANtureatatime]

10k....grrr! We went over the warranty but of course I don't remember the details.

[@markridgemr]

She said the spark plugs were replaced. I always thought you were diesel. I have the 2016 diesel promaster with 116,000 miles on it. Did CV joints/axles but haven't touched the trans yet.

[@oneadVANtureatatime]

+@markridgemr nope gasoline not diesel. We test drove a diesel but ended up buying this van instead.

[@markridgemr]

@@oneadVANtureatatime probably a better choice for what you do. The diesel trans doesn't have Park, just Neutral and the gears so you rely on the parking brake when stopped. It'll stop you from rolling backwards but not forward.

[@danrandall794]

NOOO. So worried that something like this might happen based on some prior videos. Hang in there you two.

[@oneadVANtureatatime]

+@danrandall794 we had a feeling it was coming. We found a clip from 3 years ago and it turns out we’ve been having transmission problems for longer than we thought!

[@jacklongo3599]

Stay safe and all the best getting back home..

[@familygene9030]

Winter is closing in and Canada will be snow filled.

[@paulzeiller2807]

Damn sorry to hear this.

[@oneadVANtureatatime]

+@paulzeiller2807 yep…. It’s the $8000 that really stings!! Very thankful that we were able to put that much away in our emergency fund. We had a feeling it was going to be the transmission or the engine. I just hope it is a quick job and a good transmission with no problems for years!

[@biggiebaby3541]

Modern automatic transmissions....very lucky it went that long.

[@freedomdove]

Well, you did want to spend more time up there. Lol. I'm glad you're all doing okay while waiting. 👍

[@oneadVANtureatatime]

Right!! Storm Trooper likes anchorage, I think.

[@dianabalto]

One thing to say is that you always need to change the transmission fluids every 30K miles. So sorry guys ! I've known travelers with mechanical issues and the mechanic owner has allowed them to stayed overnite at their shop. Roodle is always a happy camper !

[@oneadVANtureatatime]

We there is a debate about the 30K fluid change. I will be asking alot of questions from the transmission mechanic. It is not possible for us to stay on sight as they are renting their current shop space after their roof collapsed under last year's snow load.

[@conniewaite1371]

How does this affect your trip? Cutting your vacation short? Werent you traveling with others?

[@oneadVANtureatatime]

Our caravan has separated, and all gone in different directions due to other plans and obligations. This has extended our stay! I must say the fall colors are giving Maine a run for the money.... just incredibly gorgeous!

[@gregg9135]

Can you take a ferry back to the lower 48?

[@cabracove]

Only from Haines. Long way there.

[@Thesaltymedic36]

Well don’t feel too bad. My Jeep made it 50k before the transmission died. Luckily it was under warranty or it would have cost me 12k to replace it. You have to pull the engine out to replace it 🤦🏼. I’m sure it will work out. Once it’s in definitely get out before the snow comes 👍🏼

[@oneadVANtureatatime]

Dang! transmissions are so expensive!

[@joseflores-ci6pm]

Good luck my friend

[@oneadVANtureatatime]

Thank You!

[@susankelty4814]

the sojourn turns saga 😏 liking the hairdos in throwback vid 😊

[@oneadVANtureatatime]

Ha me too! I was looking at how much younger, thinner and hipper we looked back then....lol

[@oneadVANtureatatime]

Time for a make over

[@sonjagreene2764]

Wish you'd have kept the corn hole ---- you'd be pros by now with all the down time! 🤣🤣🤣🤣

[@oneadVANtureatatime]

lol.... it has rained all but 3 days since you left! Honestly, I would rather is snowed at this point...lol

[@marieo15]

Hello there. I love your videos. What kind of tires do you guys have on your van please? Also. What OBD2 reader do you use please?

[@tammyteej861]

My niece has a home in anchorage. She has a very small house, but I bet she would accommodate you

[@oneadVANtureatatime]

+@tammyteej861 thank you! I’ll reach out if we get in a bind!

[@julien2912]

I'm sorry this happened to you. But in the meantime did you make it to your commitment there in Alaska that you had to get to recently? Sorry I'm behind on a few videos.

[@oneadVANtureatatime]

Yes, we got all our appointments done😃

[@GEAUXFRUGAL]

Bad place to break. Every mechanic is 10X more and parts very expensive to get but you didn't go to TN where a dam will break due to flooding from tropical weather. I'm in my car now should have power next week.9/11/24 Hurricane took my power pole. All my neighbors are in power the tree killed my personal pole.

[@julien2912]

Hurricane Helene hit Florida this past Thursday on 9/26. Which hurricane came on land on 9/11/24?

[@GEAUXFRUGAL]

@@julien2912 The one that hit Morgan City Louisiana. IDR the name not looking for his sorry ass.

[@bertkelly7650]

Yes but, getting a trans to Alaska will be expensive compared to the states. Should've had it fixed there. GL!

[@oneadVANtureatatime]

+@bertkelly7650 it only cost $200 to have it shipped from Montana to Alaska…. We thought that was pretty reasonable😃

[@lorilake7613]

Well heck! For $3794 you could have taken the ferry to Bellingham. Of course, at that price you'd be sleeping in a chair. Berths are extra.

[@cabracove]

No cross gulf service the last few years, you have to drive to Haines to catch a ferry to Bellingham

[@oneadVANtureatatime]

I thought about that and even looked into it. The problem is we would still need a new transmission once we arrive in the lower 48. That would have added $3794 on top of the $8000.

[@cabracove]

@@oneadVANtureatatime You would have had to drive to Haines as well. Aug 7th it was 2250 for me, a 22 foot van and a stateroom. Bellingham to Haines.

[@ruadrift]

why not rent a cheap car to drive around while you wait, stay in the van overnight, and not worry about grenading the tranny? I don't know if the transmission shop is a US-based chain, but if so get a lifetime warranty on the new transmission. rebuilding is a mixed bag depending on the rebuilder and how many extra parts he has when done 🙂

[@lindaalaniz7129]

I'm so sorry. I'm praying for you

[@slowalaskan]

Did Dave's VA stuff come through?

[@oneadVANtureatatime]

+@slowalaskan we got all his appointments done. Now we just wait to see what they say about the results.

[@DanielWahl-c1y]

Miss your Pup here

[@carolynaskew9774]

Oh man, so sorry😕. Hopefully you will be back up and running really soon

[@oneadVANtureatatime]

The delay has allowed us to see some incredible fall colors. I also wouldn't mind seeing the mountains covered in snow before we leave. We are prepared to drive in snow, we have snow tires, chains and lots of warm winter cloths.