We’re Stranded in Iowa! - More RV Problems And a Broke Down Truck 😱

[@docohm50]

I am a retired aircraft mechanic. When you find a mechanic that does honest work give their shop a shout out to help the next guy that breaks down

[@4WhatItsWorth]

Totally agree. You'll be glad to know that they usually do this on the regular (so much so that I actually took notice when they didn't do it in this video). They're normally really good about giving a shout-out when deserved (especially to their mechanics) 😉 I think on this occasion it just slipped their mind. It happens 🤷‍♀

[@danielcaceres9971]

They haven’t had the best of luck with mechanics

[@marieneu264]

@@danielcaceres9971That’s for sure!!!

[@joelmendoza2981]

Endless problems is part of endless adventure....for us is endless entertaiment! I just love it.

[@ccclayton2646]

Lights no longer blinking, tanks no longer stinking! Life is good!

[@Theendlessadventure]

☝️perfectly said 🤣

[@lunarwench]

As a chronic ankle twister myself (and I'm sure you already know this, Eric) make sure to wrap that ankle for the next few days while walking, and elevate and ice unwrapped and it'll heal faster and stronger!

[@camrodger8638]

To clean a plugged black tank use hot water and liquid laundry detergent. Laundry detergent has three main qualities. To break down dirt, to keep dirt in suspension, and to prevent dirt from sticking to the drum. Three great properties for black tanks too. The hot water speeds up the breakdown of any solids.

[@garulusglandarius6126]

One of my favourite top 5 KZbin channel’s, why you don’t have at least a million subscribers is beyond me. So pleased you found a decent honest mechanic, I think he deserves a mention ( a bit of advertising ) You guys don’t mess around, you get a problem and you deal with it, impressive, most impressive 👍 I hope your ankles better Eric. That cat is beautiful and so was that steak 🥰❤️ Great video as always guys, have fun and stay safe. Best wishes and love from Britain 👍❤️🇬🇧🇺🇸

[@Allisondlyn]

small towns like this are the real heart of the US. and dont get explored enough

[@trailingarm63]

Great film, I suspected a transmission flush would resolve Chuck's problem, it's a bit like the fuel tank/line issues you had when you first got him. Planned preventative maintenance is what Chuck needs. That mechanic's shop sounds like a good one, keep the number. You both get very stressed about small stuff, I think Valium would be a suitable after-dinner treat. When you think about it, you haven't got any real deadlines, no one's timing you on this 50-state thing, just relax and enjoy yourselves. A week in Mount Pleasant is cool, it looks like a lovely place. And if you see a shoe shop, Eric, get some hi-top sneakers for the ankles. Cheers!

[@SrKnight001a]

This is one of the things I admire about your channel. It's all real life, good, bad or otherwise. Just remember the famous quote: "Life is Problems. Living is Problem Solving." We love you guys.

[@bekimoore8761]

You two are such troopers. You push through adversity with such grace. 🤗❤️

[@carlakohlwes-vp7lt]

I am born and raised in Iowa. I’m glad after your negative take on Iowa, that you had a positive experience. We have a lot to offer here.

[@MariaBeardsley]

My husband and i loved this episode. My husband is from Mt Pleasant and we go to the Old Thresher Reunion every year . It was so fun to see you there.

[@lizhalpin8697]

Love you guys, I'm 61 years young, never had the chance to travel. I'm living my travels through you two. I hate that your going thru mechanical problems. God Bless you both and your lovely family. Love and prayers from Dublin Ireland 🇮🇪 ♥ 🙏

[@duanerobertson9637]

Ok going to add my 2 cents! We've been rv'n (not full timers) since 2012. We use Happy Camper in the black tank instead of the packets or liquid. It's a powder, one scoop plus a gallon of water, and never had a problem with smells. Also, every now and then, after you drain you black tank before you break camp, get a 5 gal bucket and add 1 cup of Dawn and 1 cup of Calgon, and fill with warm water. Dump that into your toilet. As you drive it will slosh around and clean your black tank. When you get to your next stop you can drain it. Can also be done with the gray tank. We do this before and after the season, and periodically between camps and never had black/grey tank problems!

[@jolineantheajammer]

Love your channel. RV life can be romanticised and while you don’t overdo it on the problems, you don’t sugarcoat it either. You show practical solutions and problems folks can encounter - all with a sense of humour and ADVENTURE! Keep it up!!

[@itsokaynatalie]

I know you guys get a lot of advice 😬 but I think it’s great that you’re doing whatever works best for you and makes you happy. That’s all that matters at the end of the day! Even if you have hiccups on your travels, it certainly doesn’t mean you’re not meant to travel; that’s just life being life. It’s great that you embrace that!

[@jstar1000]

The problem with an old transmission is once you change the old fluid out the new fluid with all the detergents breaks loose gunk and clogs everything up causing the transmission to burn up soon after.

[@sheilaathay2034]

Eric is right. No matter what RV, things will always break down. I know from experience. Old and new break down pretty much at the same rate

[@marie-francegiroux7990]

I have the same problem with my ankle... was told by doctor to quit on flip flops ! Ever since, never happenned again but every person is different, just thought I would share, in case this helps

[@rossm7071]

All of us here are such fans and will be along for the ride anytime. I had a recent string of issues with my Sprinter van so hang in there. We will share with your joys and issues. Keep on exploring

[@janadachingwa9234]

So lucky that the mechanic that was only 1 mile from camp site and he was an honest worker. Stay safe on the road. Walk in Peace.

[@ShannonSplannermom21]

Use liquid aminos in your black tank instead of the packs. The “dissolving” packs don’t always dissolve and can add crud to your tank. Use simple green on your black tank to clean/disinfect. Safer on seals, etc. than bleach. Hope your shower gets fixed soon!

[@stevegordon5243]

How much liquid aminos would you suggest to use?

[@ShannonSplannermom21]

@@stevegordon5243 depends on which variety you use. Usually the label will tell you. I believe it’s somewhere around 2oz per trip (before you dump). There are several good varieties out there and we’ve found the tank stays cleaner and everything breaks down better using the liquid.

[@stevegordon5243]

@@ShannonSplannermom21 Good to know! Thanks for the info!

[@slamboy66]

Bouncy ride? Check tongue weight, tire pressure, truck shocks lastly get a weight dist. hitch .👍👍👍

[@WyseGuide]

Welcome to my town! I'm not too far away from you! Enjoy Iowa while you're here 👋

[@RockinRandall420]

You two are like the energizer bunnies. You keep going and going and going! Best of luck on your future adventures.❤😊

[@travelertrome8449]

I worked for 13 years at a company called Vetronix who midway during my tenure was acquired by Bosch, and supported a sales team that sold those code readers! Great seeing them be put to use. I am amazed at how often you guys have vehicle problems. But it's not a problem if you love vanlife, right?

[@davidwilson5642]

I don’t know if this has anything to do with your problem with the tranny, but I noticed when you’re taking shots of the outside of the truck going down the road if the back of the truck is riding low, that could have something to do with the transmission fluid which may have caused a problem you may check into that

[@joangravelle8455]

I will echo one of the other comments, that said you should be at a million followers. You both deserve it. I love your optimism, strength and conviction. I appreciate your sharing all sides of travel; the good, the bad and the ugly.

[@kevinsalatnay]

This has become my favorite new repair channel!

[@kbVACArestatecarsnrvs]

You make the annoying stuff of RV life not so annoying. I enjoy listening and watching you two, you compliment each other well. Keep the humor coming, we all need it.

[@mberrey45]

You two are so positive in the face of difficulties. Instead of a scooter, have you thought about getting a couple of ebikes? I noticed a lot of RV KZbinrs have ebikes they to get around when they need to. Keep up the wonderful adventures!

[@belindaknowles7440]

You are both so positive. I love watching your adventures. Hope we get to see Clementine again soon😊🤟🏻

[@MariaVargas-yu1tt]

You are very calm on camera. The two of you are a cute couple with lots of patience. Good luck on your trip after the transmission problem. Your poor ankle..😢

[@nicoleolson2790]

I am amazed at how cool and calm you both are sorting out all the issues that come your way. I stress just camping on weekends and you guys have so many obstacles to overcome and do it with such Grace. I think I would just cry 😂

[@evilduckqueen13]

You need to stay off your ankle (keep it elevated) for a day or it will get worse. I used sprain my ankle all the time as a teen due to sports. If this happens all the time, I recommend getting a compression bandage for your ankle

[@writetrace]

John Lennon said Life is what happens to you while you’re planning it. Enjoy your journey! You adapt well! ❤❤❤

[@mrbearbeard]

Keep your chin up.. We love watching your journey from here in the U. K. ❤

[@kevinfleming9919]

Airbag helper suspension improves your ride quality and can be adjusted "on the fly" for different loads and road conditions. A "Bluedriver" OBD2 scan tool is great to have in your vehicle. It just plugs into the OBD2port, just like that mechanics tool did, and Bluetooths the information to your phone. It can read and clear codes, diagnose problems and give repair reports telling you possible causes and fixes for them, and give you live information and diagnostics as you drive about everything going on with your vehicle, plus it works on multiple vehicles so you only need one for all your cars.

[@johnrussel4483]

It's no surprise that problems arise when you're moving, that's RV life ! Just a matter of when ! Keep plugging !!

[@amyrudolph1090]

I think, it may be worth your while to learn the fine art of the sponge bath. Heat water on the stove, 1800s style, get a washcloth, and you're in business!

[@smallmovezmusic]

A propane hot water heater that is "portable" is around $200 if you need a temporary solution. We take one tent camping and it is amazing.

[@SoxRoxBoston]

You definitely lucked out with the transmission 💸💸💸💸 Hopefully once the hot water heater situation is fixed The Black Series will be smooth sailing 😊

[@Doc1985]

Did you purchase the trailer or is it a longer-term loaner from a dealer or manufacturer? Several of us viewers asked about the trailer status in comments on the last video, but we didn't get a reply. It would be nice to know.

[@maggiejoanna]

You make it sound like being stuck in Iowa is a bad thing; I’ve been “stuck” here for 37 years! 😂

[@centralparkcoffeeco.cafeba6634]

Thanks for stopping in!

[@JustinBrehm]

Your KZbin name takes things to a whole new level sometimes. I hope your luck finally turns around for the better

[@KevinCoop1]

Being from Missouri, I can say you make our state proud! You have a positive attitude and always look forward. And yes, the highways in Iowa, (even though a friend of mine from Iowa told me they have great highways) are almost as bad as Pennsylvania! We banged our way across Iowa in our Class A. Best wishes, Kevin

[@richardmoore2590]

You guys stress endless adventures to a whole new level. Sounds like things are improving anywho. Thanx for sharing your adventures, so nice following you. Peace out my friends❤️

[@victoriapeterson8087]

Hey, Mark and Victoria here! We met you the other day at that huge truck stop. Thanks so much for taking the time to talk to us and show us the Black Series. Remember the van we were travelling in? Unfortunately you’re not the only ones that have vehicle trouble. We blew the engine in the middle of nowhere in Michigan so had to get towed to Cadillac where we had to hire a U-Haul to get us back to Montana. Don’t worry though, Mark managed to sell the van at midnight in the U-Haul car park! I guess we’ll be driving the old Chev truck we’re shipping home for the rest of the trip - hope it makes it! Anyway, thanks for all your hard work filming all your adventures. Looking forward to seeing you in New Zealand one day - don’t hesitate to message us and we’ll help with anything you need. Kind regards, the Kiwis

[@jimandsniffers9408]

We all break down some days are awesome and some aren’t according what you drive and how expensive it can be be safe have fun ✝️🇺🇸

[@jkhoover]

As a reseller, antique stores, yard sales, and flea markets are my sanctuary.

[@beverlypoirier705]

I think it's normal for things to breakdown in RV'S you go over so many bumps and things that things are bound to break. Seems everytime my cousin goes from NH-Florida that they spend more time getting things tightened up. But from what I see with all you RV'ER'S you do seem to stay on top of things. At least you guys always have a smile on your face. Thanks for taking us along. Safe travels ❤️ 🙏

[@Theendlessadventure]

Haha, we definitely feel their pain...we're always checking on things and tightening/adjusting. Luckily RVs are pretty small and typically easy to access, so it's much easier to stay on top of maintenance than with a house. But ya, constant RV issues/maintenance just seems to come with the territory 😅

[@GettingOutInLife]

Matt’s RV Reviews developed an orange scented black tank treatment called, “Liquified.” It turns the solids to liquids and helps neutralize the black tank smells.

[@Theendlessadventure]

Thanks for the recommendation! If our little bio packs don't cut it, we'll have to look into that 🙌

[@stanmarion550]

something a camping friend of mine told me to do for the black tank, is when you have drained the tank for a travel day, get a couple of bags of ice and dump them down the toilet into the black tank, no additional water. As you drive the ice will melt and shift around "scrubbing" the inside of the tank. When you reach your destination, dump the tank and you should be good to go. I'm sure you could add some deodorant when you add the ice. Keep you videos coming!

[@jrumbalski]

Happy camper is the only tank treatment that works for us. Add some dawn each time and you will be good

[@BH-oq7pz]

WOW. whomever was in there, really did a number on your trailer in just ONE MONTH!!!😮

[@blafonovision4342]

I was born and raised in Iowa. My family is from Mt. Pleasant. You have my sympathy.

[@annehoog]

That dutch sweet looked like a mix between two different Dutch things, a "gevulde koek" (filled cookie) and a "banketletter" (which as the name suggests indeed comes in the shape of a letter) both have the same filling, but different kind of pastry.

[@chadmutchler5062]

I use to fill my black tank about 25% up, then add 20-40 lbs of ice, then hit the road!! Drive however long you want to, then drain it next opportunity.

[@ceasewatercolorarts]

As a kid, almost every year, my family went to Mt Pleasant Iowa for the old threshers reunion. Labor day weekend. Sometime you should go back and give the town a second happier chance.

[@stacym4300]

OMG you guys!!! One calamity after another. Please forgive me but I was giggling by the time poor Eric tripped. I am so sorry lol. Here's to some calmer days ahead. Keep on going. You guys rock!! 💘

[@mikeandsalvesvlog5292]

Sorry you guys are having trouble again. I watch you guys all the time and can’t believe you are actually just a few miles from where I live. I actually work in Mt. Pleasant. Hopefully you guys get everything straightened out. Enjoy Iowa while you’re here.

[@PatrickRU1992]

dating myself here was a tiny kid in the 70s, but I can still recall the smell of that camera film when you took it out of the box

[@billbottsurfing]

You're right. Skateboarding was the coolest thing ever. I am also suffering with the after pain. It doesn't get any better my friend.

[@duckypam]

Oh you guys! Glad you’re back on the road. I was sure it was going to be a big problem. Thank goodness! Can’t wait to see what’s next

[@ritafoster8625]

There are no mountains in Iowa. I lived in Iowa for 11 years. I feel for you with your vehicle problems. You always take it so good

[@itsokaynatalie]

I think they were being sarcastic about the mountains.

[@susanbartle4541]

As long as it doesn't catch fire, you are ahead.

[@andreas_adventures]

Curious to see where you are headed next! Minnesota is nice, so is Michigan. It deserves another visit.

[@bretthibbs6083]

I'm the same way Eric I sprained my ankle so bad roller skating when I was a teen over 30 years ago and it's never been the same and it still bothers me some times and it was a really bad sprain it turned black and blue so I feel your pain.

[@C0TT0NM0UF]

They make shock absorbing hitches, nowadays. Check em out and smooth out that ride😎🤙

[@handsonwithblg4949]

clean that black tank Lady Lemon ! We are fighting our holding tank not taking water here . Fun times .

[@RussellKoehler-ip8ku]

To help clean your black tank, fill it about 1/3 of the way with water and then dump in about 10-20 lbs of ice cubes. Due this right before you leave on the next travel day. Driving down the road with the ice and water will help clean any residue and build up stuck in it. Dump it and you should be good to go.

[@dewalddelange3502]

I had one of those cameras with a flash cube that rotated when you advanced to the next photo. If the trailer is new, there should some guarantee.

[@Vinceventuring]

You keep such a great attitude when things don't go your way, that's so hard to do!

[@gabispn13]

So sorry to hear about all the issues you have been having. Sending you good luck your way.

[@AlexBeckleysRVs]

Our dealerships had the same problems winterizing that water heater. Manufactured did not tell us that that part needed to be winterized separately. It was not originally listed in the manual .You should be able to contact them and get the replacement parts under warranty

[@christinehorowitz9305]

Make sure to go to Winterset, IA. Tiny town but lots of places to explore. It’s where the covered bridges are. Take the truck up to the tower. There is also a campground

[@cynthiaann4465]

Hey guys. Sorry for your troubles! But I must say… you two are fun to watch no matter what. 👍

[@robertstephenson7864]

About showering on the road.....since you have a diesel, you can get a Loves truck stop card and collect points for your fuel purchases. Then you can get free showers. I say Loves because their showers are the best.

[@shootingdutch]

The dutch letter bites is what we call a banketstaaf and it's either straight or in a S, it ussually gets sold around an holiday we call Sinterklaas (on the december 5th), hence the letter S shape.

[@CrankyOldNerd]

need to find the 'high use'maintenance schedule for Chuck, towing especially with it need to look up the high use recommended changes and do that while you travel. Glad they were able to solve the trans problem with a flush though and caught that belt, that would have sucked for that belt to go while you were on the road.

[@cuddlemymicky]

You are a couple months to early for Old Thrashers reunion. If you go through Pella, stop at the bakeries in the town. That is where alot of the Dutch letters come from.

[@brittanyrussell727]

I feel like this could be inspo for one of those hallmark Christmas movies…two people get stranded as things go wrong in mount pleasant…but it only brings them closer together 🎄

[@Mleencihols]

Wow I can not tell you how entertaining a video of car/van repairs in a very rural town was to watch. Next time if you could include a change of a flat tire, it would be perfect.

[@RockSteady2727]

Sounds crazy but when you sprain your ankle again, place a damp sponge on and wrap it up. It’s amazing! Safe travels

[@RockSteady2727]

@TheEndlessAdvenature I’ve done this, family and friends have tried it and it’s worked every time. Good luck. 👍

[@camrodger8638]

OMG, that meal looks fabulous. That chef is a keeper!

[@alohatvn]

Big like 👍. Glad you got the transmission taken care of. See 👀 you on the road adventurers.

[@GoTroppo69]

I have the same problem with my ankle - but I'm at a point that after the first couple of minutes of agony (when swearing profusely helps), once it's not killing me (but still sore), I find if I walk it out, it actually settles much quicker. Nothing too vigorous, just a casual walk around for a few minutes.

[@kurtcraig3421]

with all the car trouble these two keep having, we better not skip those ads guys.

[@cathygreen3771]

You two were hilarious in this video. Talk about one issue after another then the ankle! But you only filmed your up moments and you were so blessed to find such an honest capable mechanic. Put his name in your book. You may need to return to him some day and you will remember him.

[@milnetuk]

Love your videos, I had the same problem,mine was the tranny was over heating,after that I never towed using overdrive and never had the problem again regards Roy from the UK

[@mikeprodanov6765]

The mechanic in a small town... Tops! So happy you got all that stuff done.... if you went to a "city" mechanic or a dealer...forget it.... Time for another drink! Cheers!

[@robertclubs9908]

Good to see you guys again be safe. 😊

[@carlalayne3942]

You guys are troppers.. love you😊

[@ExpatNatt]

Every time KZbin pushes your videos to me it’s always the ones where you’re broken down 😅 Another great vlog guys. Sending lots of love ❤

[@DeeLuscious]

Glad to see you're still making the most of it. It's inspiring me not to be so rigid and go on adventures. Sending good vibes 🦄🌈

[@keithremillard5448]

I absolutely love that truck. If you ever need to sell it, don't hesitate to reach out

[@HollandDennisMcRae]

great video I hope you get everything praying for you I would really love to see Clementine again I really miss her relly hope we can see her again

[@mariepalkiewicz852]

Great video! Hoping your ankle gets better and your luck! NJ

[@lynderville]

As someone who has an older travel trailer and is refurbing it after 16 years of use, I totally agree that things just need tweaked, fixed, and replaced :) I do enjoy your adventures!