The Off-road Insiders Podcast

News and chat

• Tammy

  • Headzrest

  • https://www.tactisgear.com/

  • Digital picture frame - https://amzn.to/41Fv4eu

• Nate

  • YJ Grille Swap is progressing

  • Watching a netflix documentary. Hitler and the Nazis. It’s really good!

News: https://www.topspeed.com/off-road-suvs-bulletproof-reliability/

 

Main Topic

Managing your own projects

• What do I mean?

• Managing a vehicle project is a lot like managing any other project.

  • You need to set goals

  • Think about what you’ll need

  • Think about if you have the skills to do it yourself

    • Be honest

• Get opinions from others

  • Are you the first person to ever do this thing?

  • If you are. Ask yourself why.

  • If you are not, ask people who have done it how they did it and if they ran into any issues.

  • If a lot of people tell you not to. Try to really critically think about why they’re saying that.

• Try not to get overwhelmed

  • I’ve been there. In fact I get there in almost every project that’s more than an evenings worth of work. It feels like you’ll never finish.

  • Keep track of what you’re doing. Make a list

  • Cross things off as they’re complete. It’ll not only keep track of things. It’ll give you a satisfying progress indicator.

  • I use zip lock bags to keep nuts, bolts, washers, whatever I’ve removed.

  • Don’t be afraid to take a break. Unless you’re under a really tight deadline.

  • Don’t cut corners to save time

• Show off what you’re doing!

  • This isn’t for everyone. But having strangers on the internet can sometimes help you avoid issues

  • People online are happy to point out your mistakes. It’s frustrating. But sometimes they’re right! If they spot something wrong you might be able to fix it before it’s too late.

  • If you feel like you can’t share it ask yourself why.

 

If you want to watch us live, visit the Off-road insiders on Youtube

Don’t forget to like the video, and subscribe!

 

If you’d like to listen to us audio only, find is where you find podcasts

You can find us on instagram, https://www.instagram.com/offroadinsiders/

 

You can find Tammy at: www.JeepMomma.com

And you can find Nate at: www.swbcrawler.com

 

News and Chat

• Nate

  • Work on the YJ grille continues

  • Mullner Fab fenders are in the box still…

• Tammy

  • You guessed it.. Check engine light.

 

Community Corner

KoH two weeks ago!

Kyle Chaney took 1st in the main race, in a modified can am

 

Main Topic

Big Horn Mountain Crawlers

• Introductions

  • Who are our guests?

  • Who are the bighorn mountain crawlers

• What do the bighorn mountain crawlers do?

• What about this Event?

  • Summer Safari

  • https://www.bighornmountaincrawlers.com/

 

:

Show close

If you want to watch us live, visit the Off-road insiders on Youtube

Don’t forget to like the video, and subscribe!

 

If you’d like to listen to us audio only, find is where you find podcasts

You can find us on instagram, https://www.instagram.com/offroadinsiders/

 

You can find Tammy at: www.JeepMomma.com

And you can find Nate at: www.swbcrawler.com

 

Chat and News

• Tammy

  • Jeep Badge of Honor - Trail 11 RC

    • https://www.reddit.com/r/Jeep/comments/1i50xam/this_is_disappointing/?post_fullname=t3_1i50xam&post_index=0

• Nate

  • I did it, i put the YJ grille on the LJ.

    • https://youtu.be/icaHF1Wx-kc

    • I was going to build fenders, but found these: https://www.mullnerfab.com/

  • Came across this on reddit

    • https://www.reddit.com/r/Jeep/comments/1i644hk/someone_finally_admits_to_being_underwater_on/

  • Jeep admits that the Wagoneer was too damned expensive.

    • https://moparinsiders.com/jeep-admits-wagoneer-pricing-went-too-far/

  •  

Community Corner

Dirt Lifestyle posted saying he made himself a goal that 50% of his family's food is going to come from his land.

Main Topic

• Break over Angle: https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Breakover_angle

  • https://www.jeepmomma.com/2024/11/improving-your-jeeps-breakover-angle.htm

• Approach and departure Angle: https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Approach_and_departure_angles

  • https://www.jeepmomma.com/2024/11/improving-your-jeeps-breakover-angle.htm

• Why are they important

• How to improve

  • break over angle

  • Approach Angle

  • departure angle

     

If you want to watch us live, visit the Off-road insiders on Youtube

Don’t forget to like the video, and subscribe!

 

If you’d like to listen to us audio only, find is where you find podcasts

You can find us on instagram, https://www.instagram.com/offroadinsiders/

 

You can find Tammy at: www.JeepMomma.com

And you can find Nate at: www.swbcrawler.com

 

Chat

• Nate

  • I have my dana 60 truss narrowed! Now I can move on with the build

  • I started working on my YJ grille project.

  • The latest 24 Hell and Back! First episode is here: https://youtu.be/t5XeerzZgBM?si=0RtzuPfoGPHSElF8

• Tammy

  • Check engine light

  • https://www.jeepmomma.com/2024/12/10-jeep-friendly-national-parks-to.html

• News/Other?

  • A little announcement.. Dirt Social

    • https://dirt.social/about

    • https://www.swbcrawler.com/2024/11/23/dirt-social/

  • https://www.houstonpublicmedia.org/articles/news/local/galveston/2025/01/03/509697/galveston-county-sheriff-wants-to-end-jeep-weekend-but-state-law-may-prevent-any-local-action/

  • https://www.forbes.com/sites/billroberson/2024/12/31/snow-camping-goes-plaid-with-the-wooly-trailer-from-mammoth-overland/

  •  

Main Topic

What is Overlanding?

• The term "overlanding" was first used in Australia in the early 19th century, describing the practice of driving livestock (typically sheep and cattle) across vast distances to markets or new grazing lands.

• Overlanding was essential to Australia's agricultural expansion, especially as settlers moved into the interior of the continent. The need to transport livestock from remote stations (ranches) to urban markets or ports created the profession of the "overlander."

• Drovers, as they were called, relied on their knowledge of the land, water sources, and weather, making these journeys challenging and requiring significant skill and endurance.

1. You could say the pioneers along the Oregon Trail were Overlanders, even the gold rush folks. Back centuries ago overlanding was the way for trade, exploration and looking for a better life. Now we do it for fun and have better amenities

2. Key Figures and Expeditions:

   • Edward John Eyre (1830s–1840s): Eyre is one of the most famous early overlanders. He undertook a major journey from Adelaide to Albany, Western Australia, traversing some of the harshest and most remote parts of the country.

   • Major Thomas Mitchell: Another key figure, Mitchell explored routes that later became critical for overlanding cattle and sheep.

   • These explorers and early overlanders blazed trails that later became major stock routes, such as the Canning Stock Route, which is now considered a legendary overlanding route for adventurers.

Rise in Popularity

1. Adventure Travel Boom (1990s–2000s): With increased access to off-road vehicles, GPS technology, and improved camping gear, overlanding became more accessible. Travelers began exploring not only remote wildernesses but also overland routes connecting cities and countries.

2. Social Media and Community Growth (2010s–Present): The rise of social media platforms helped overlanding gain global traction. Sharing experiences, routes, and tips has inspired more people to take on overland adventures.

Core Elements of Overlanding

Today, overlanding emphasizes:

• Self-reliance: Travelers carry their own supplies, including food, water, and tools.

• Vehicle-based Travel: Typically conducted using 4x4 vehicles or motorcycles designed for off-road conditions.

• Adventure and Exploration: Overlanding is about the journey rather than the destination, focusing on the experience of exploring remote locations.

Chat

• Nate

  • Nate’s 3d-printing dash parts

  • The new truck feels official, ive made a payment.

• Tammy

  • …On again off again CEL

• Something about the drone sightings?

  • Did you know?

    • It is illegal to shoot down a drone even if it’s on your property

  •  

 

Main Topic

The Off-Road Insiders 2024 Christmas Guide!

• Nate List

  • Eastwood Finger Sander: https://amzn.to/4iHAQ5J

  • Weed Burner: https://amzn.to/3VJOU4R

  • Portable Band Saw: https://amzn.to/4fjYBhp

  • Midland MXT275: https://amzn.to/3ZVZ8BB

  • Axial Crawler: https://amzn.to/4fkuWom

  •  

• Tammy’s List

  • Solar charger - BigBlue SolarPowa 28W Solar Charger This charger offers efficient solar charging with multiple USB ports, allowing simultaneous charging of devices. Its foldable design makes it portable and convenient for outdoor activities. https://amzn.to/3Bw7yX1

  • Blavor Solar Power Bank Combining a 10,000mAh battery with solar charging capabilities, this power bank includes wireless charging and dual LED lights, making it a versatile choice for emergencies and outdoor use. https://amzn.to/3OYaqz0

  • JT Brooks Tire Deflators Pro https://amzn.to/407gEDn

  • Jump Starter - Hulkman Alpha 85S This jump starter delivers 2,000 peak amps, suitable for gasoline engines up to 8.5 liters and diesel engines up to 6.0 liters. It features a user-friendly digital display and offers quick charging capabilities. https://amzn.to/3DgxiHv

  • GOOLOO GT4000S Offering 4,000 peak amps, this powerful device can jump-start large engines and includes multiple charging ports for electronic devices. It's suitable for heavy-duty applications.https://amzn.to/3VINA2f

  • https://www.lasfit.com/collections/parts-for-jeep-wrangler/products/2018-2021-jeep-wrangler-led-bulbs?variant=42572984713463&afmc=5ga&utm_campaign=5ga&utm_source=leaddyno&utm_medium=affiliate 15% off code: JeepMomma1

  •  

 

News

https://autos.yahoo.com/stellantis-survive-ferrari-chair-rushes-140000694.html;_ylt=AwrhbuQYxGBnZJQpEQ_QtDMD;_ylu=Y29sbwNiZjEEcG9zAzkEdnRpZAMEc2VjA3Ny

 

https://www.cnbc.com/2024/09/13/jeep-ceo-turnaround-plan-sales-declines.html

 

Show close

If you want to watch us live, visit the Off-road insiders on Youtube

Don’t forget to like the video, and subscribe!

 

If you’d like to listen to us audio only, find is where you find podcasts

You can find us on instagram, https://www.instagram.com/offroadinsiders/

 

You can find Tammy at: www.JeepMomma.com

And you can find Nate at: www.swbcrawler.com

 

Chat

• Tammy

  • Guess who’s back.. Back Again… Her check engine light.

• Nate

  • Dana 60 detroit on FB marketplace

  • 3d printing parts for the jeep dash!

 

 

www.offroadinsiders.com

Instagram offroadinsiders

Email: offroadinsiders AT gmail.com

 

Community Corner

https://news.abs-cbn.com/lifestyle/2024/11/18/egyptian-adventurer-reaches-japan-after-274-days-of-overland-travel-2327

 

 

 

Main Topic

Aluminum vs. steel

Many vehicles have started switching parts from steel over to aluminum.

• General

  • https://tampasteel.com/differences-between-aluminum-and-steel/

  • Aluminum pros

    • Lighter

    • Doesn’t rust like steel

    • Dissipates heat faster

  • Aluminum Cons

    • Not as structural, getting the same strength as steel requires thicker material

    • More expensive

    • Harder to repair (generally)

    • More prone to tear or fracture than steel is

  • Steel Pros

    • Stronger metal

    • Bends rather than fractures, easier to hammer back into shape

    • More affordable (generally)

    • Easter it repair

  • Steel Cons

    • Heavier

    • Very prone to rust

    • Holds Heat

• Body panels

  • Weight savings

  • Possibly more expensive to repair

  • Jeep doors easier to take on and off

• Armor

  • Weight savings

  • Panels generally need to be thicker to get the same strength

  • Aluminum has a tendency to fracture rather than bend

• Other components

  • Drivetrain

    • Lighter components

    • More efficient heat dissipation

  • Wheels

    • Lighter, less rotational weight

    • Harder to repair on the trail

    • Easier to crack

    • Harder to hammer back into shape

    • Looks nicer. ;)

 

JK vs JL Weight (source: https://offroadingpro.com/how-much-does-a-jeep-wrangler-weigh/)

JKU Sport weight: 4,075

JLU Sport weight: 4,167

JK steel front door: about 62 pounds

JL aluminum front door: about 47 pounds

 

JK hood: 47 lbs

JL hood: 22 lbs

JL has aluminum doors, hood and windshield frame, and some body panels.

The hinges are cast aluminum too.

JL tailgate is made of magnesium alloy

Indications are the JL aluminum panels have more issues with corrosion than the steel JK panels did.

 

 

 

 

https://wranglerguide.com/jeep-wrangler-weight/

 

 

 

Show close

If you want to watch us live, visit the Off-road insiders on Youtube

Don’t forget to like the video, and subscribe!

 

If you’d like to listen to us audio only, find is where you find podcasts

You can find us on instagram, https://www.instagram.com/offroadinsiders/

 

You can find Tammy at: www.JeepMomma.com

And you can find Nate at: www.swbcrawler.com

 

Chat

• Tammy

  • Tammy’s engine did not explode

  • Found a short, seemed to be causing check-engine light.

• Nate

  • Got a super RED new truck. 2024 Chevy Silverado!

 

 

www.offroadinsiders.com

Instagram offroadinsiders

Email: offroadinsiders AT gmail.com

 

Main Topic

• How does an axle work?

• Axle Terminology

• Open vs spooled, vs selectable, vs auto-locker

• Axle Models to think about

• What about Portals?

• Links

  • https://cartreatments.com/semi-floating-vs-full-floating-axle/

  • https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=yYAw79386WI

 

News

https://www.overlandexpo.com/socal/

 

Next Show

Topic: steel vs aluminum ?

Show close

If you want to watch us live, visit the Off-road insiders on Youtube

Don’t forget to like the video, and subscribe!

 

If you’d like to listen to us audio only, find is where you find podcasts

You can find us on instagram, https://www.instagram.com/offroadinsiders/

 

You can find Tammy at: www.JeepMomma.com

And you can find Nate at: www.swbcrawler.com

Chat

[Tammy]

• My Check engine light is on then off then on. Same code oil pressure sensor. Changed it changed oil, goes on and off randomly. Going to change out the oil filter housing next week. I monitor the oil pressure and it’s totally fine.

 

[Nate]

• Reviewed some lights, and then built a hoop for my front bumper to mount them on.

• Bought an auxbeam switch panel to power them, need to get that installed. Tempted to start work on fenders while i start saving up for the lockers/gears for the 60’s.

• Hopefully buying a Silverado this week…

 

 

www.offroadinsiders.com

Instagram offroadinsiders

Email: offroadinsiders AT gmail.com

 

Community Corner

D&E In the garage, Rant on Jeep’s 2025 changes: https://youtu.be/5lByPi6dp3E?si=iS41nwUdpAP5_ZA8

• 3.6l Wrangler is now manual only

• 4-cyl, and EV are auto

• Gladiator is Auto only

• Tin foil hat time.

Main Topic

Camp Cooking

Create a detailed meal plan before you go to streamline cooking & minimize food waste.

Prep at Home: Do as much chopping, marinating, and measuring as possible before.

Store prepped ingredients in resealable bags.

Simple meals that don’t use a lot of pots and pans - cleaning while camping is a pain

Check food storage guidelines where you are going - BEARS!

Limit amount of trash re-pack food if possible

Consider wind if you are using a camp stove

Pack Cooler properly - pack items you use last on the bottom

Keep cooler in shade

If long trip freeze meat

Separate cooler for drinks

Check burn ban before you go to make sure you can use open flame

Minimize equipment. You are camping to getaway and enjoy your time

Invest in a Good Cooler: Use a high-quality cooler with a 2:1 ice-to-food ratio to keep perishables fresh longer.

Tin Foil is your Friend. Use Foil Packets: Prepare "hobo" meals using heavy-duty aluminum foil. Combine meat and veggies, season, wrap, and cook over coals for easy cleanup.

Pre-cook Ingredients: Cook items like bacon or chicken at home and reheat at camp to save time and fuel.

Pack Cooking Gear Wisely: Designate a storage bin for all your cooking utensils, pots, and pans to keep things organized and easy to access.

Cook with Cast Iron: Cast iron skillets or griddles are durable and versatile for cooking over both stoves and campfires. (and heavy…)

Prep Snacks: Bring easy-to-eat snacks like trail mix or granola bars for quick energy during hikes or activities.

Keep Ingredients Together: Store similar ingredients together (e.g., spices with meats) to streamline cooking processes at camp.

Cover Pots While Cooking: Keep lids on pots to retain heat and prevent insects from getting into your food while cooking outdoors.

Bring a Portable Grill Grate:

Cook in Batches: Make larger quantities of meals that can be stored and reheated later, saving time on subsequent nights. Example, Chicken fajitas with vegis or stir-fry, Use left overs for scrambled egg burritos.

 

 

Hacks:

-Pre-Scramble eggs

-Cinnamon Rolls

-No ice (melts and water gets everywhere) freeze water bottles, melts slower and keeps cold longer.

- storage pre-made pancake batter in a ziplock

-Boil eggs in ziploc bag

-put spices in pill boxes

-”bake” over the fire in orange peels

-save on dishes tacos in a bag

-pre-make salads, pasta salads

-Use Skewers to minimize cooking gear and clean up

 

 

 

 

Show news and announcements

www.offroadinsiders.com

Instagram offroadinsiders

Email offroadinsiders AT gmail.com

 

News

https://carbuzz.com/jeeps-best-off-roaders-of-all-time/

 

 

Next Show

Topic: Axles

 

Show close

If you want to watch us live, visit the Off-road insiders on Youtube

Don’t forget to like the video, and subscribe!

 

If you’d like to listen to us audio only, find is where you find podcasts

You can find us on instagram, https://www.instagram.com/offroadinsiders/

 

You can find Tammy at: www.JeepMomma.com

And you can find Nate at: www.swbcrawler.com

 

Chat

5-10 minutes of warm-up chat

• [Tammy]

  • Over Labor Day Weekend I went camping in Medicine Bow National forest. We camped on a reservoir. It was nice to just chill.

• [Nate]

  • Dana 60 progress

    • The axle is narrowed by 4”

    • Inner C is re-attached

    • Tubes are welded

    • Still need to figure out the truss

    • Now, on to the rear!

    • Video on progress so far: https://youtu.be/N8b3qU-cmGo

  • Looked at a toyota tundra as a replacement for the Caddy as my tow-rig.

    • I am still floored at the price of a new truck today.

 

 

 

Instagram offroadinsiders

Email: offroadinsiders AT gmail.com

 

Main Topic

Jake with the Toyota Garage

• Who’s jake?

• What’s the Toyota Garage podcast?

• What are you driving?

 

 

 

Show news and announcements

www.offroadinsiders.com

Instagram offroadinsiders

Email offroadinsiders AT gmail.com

 

• Streamyard is not in my happy list. We’ll be on a different platform before our next show.

 

Show close

If you want to watch us live, visit the Off-road insiders on Youtube

Don’t forget to like the video, and subscribe!

 

If you’d like to listen to us audio only, find is where you find podcasts

You can find us on instagram, https://www.instagram.com/offroadinsiders/

 

You can find Tammy at: www.JeepMomma.com

And you can find Nate at: www.swbcrawler.com

 

Chat

Tammy - My Jeep is leaking. There is water in the foot well in the back seats. Not sure where the water is coming from. I did a leak test when it was pouring rain and hailing. I believe it’s from the soft top window not being fully velcro’d but not 100%

- The site Nate was talking about: https://jeepleakfix.com/

 

Nate - More Dana 60 work.

 

 

www.offroadinsiders.com

Instagram offroadinsiders

Email: offroadinsiders at gmail.com

 

Community Corner

https://www.rebellerally.com/?playlist=66d89f6&video=fc954a2

 

Starts in 44 days - Guess what the entrance fee is???

Main Topic

Tammy’s That Guy Examples - Escalante Canyon in Colorado. Family on side-by-sides and dad with beer. Porcupine Rim in Moab.

 

The Essential Do's and Don'ts for trail etiquette

 

Do: Keep track of your group when off-roading in a group. It is the responsibility of every driver to keep track of the vehicle behind them via the rear view mirror. The bond of the convoy is sacred; maintaining a visual on the Jeep trailing you ensures no one is left behind or in distress

Don’t: Tailgating is a no-go. It's not just about safety; it’s about respect. Allow the Jeep ahead of you to clear obstacles entirely before proceeding. This is off-roading, not rush hour.

Do: Uphill traffic takes precedence. Momentum is key on steep inclines; losing it could mean getting stuck or worse. Yielding to uphill Jeeps is not just courteous—it's critical. The vehicle going down should pull over as safely and quickly as possible.

Don’t: Resist the urge to speed. Trails offer a tapestry of nature and challenge to be savored, not rushed. Speeding risks both the environment and the serenity of the experience.

Do: Come prepared. A well-packed Jeep is a lifeline on the trails, equipped with recovery gear, a first-aid kit, communication tools, and essential spares. Your preparedness is your peace of mind.

Do: Embrace the spirit of assistance. Off-roading is a community, and on remote trails, a helping hand can make all the difference. Whether it's recovery assistance or guidance through a tricky section, your support strengthens the bonds of the off-roading fraternity.

Don't: Avoid "dusting" at all costs. Creating a dust storm not only impairs visibility and breathing but also diminishes the enjoyment of open-air Jeep enthusiasts. Slow down, show respect.

Don't: Wheel spinning: Ordinarily, wheel spinning is the result of one of two things: Driver error or having the wrong equipment. Either one throws rocks or mud on other vehicles or can cause ruts in the trail, making it an unpleasant experience for the next person. If you find yourself in a situation where you are spinning excessively, try another line or turn around.

Don't: Rethink rock stacking. While sometimes necessary, frequent stacking can harm the environment and alter challenges meant to be conquered by skill, not alteration.

Obstacle Tips

Closely observe the vehicle ahead of you. This helps you pick the proper line(s) for negotiating a rough spot. The ability to see their rear differential is a good starting point.

Get better perspective when there are multiple obstacles by dropping farther back. This gives you more time to think through your strategy.

If you have made several attempts at an obstacle and there is a long ling of rigs waiting their turn, move aside and let them through. There is nothing wrong with being winched through an obstacle if you can’t make it through on your own after a reasonable number of attempts.

Leave your ego at home. Don’t let others pressure you into doing something you’re not comfortable doing. There is nothing wrong with taking a bypass if you or your vehicle is not up to tackling an obstacle.

Always practice good “Leave No Trace” and “Tread Lightly” ethics

https://treadlightly.org/

News

https://www.motortrend.com/reviews/2024-toyota-land-cruiser-vs-ford-bronco-sasquatch-vs-jeep-wrangler-4xe-rubicon-comparison-test-review/

 

Next Show

Topic: Jake from Toyota Garage Podcast

 

Community calender for next week. https://nomadoverlandrally.com/?

Show close

If you want to watch us live, visit the Off-road insiders on Youtube

Don’t forget to like the video, and subscribe!

 

If you’d like to listen to us audio only, find is where you find podcasts

You can find us on instagram, https://www.instagram.com/offroadinsiders/

 

You can find Tammy at: www.JeepMomma.com

And you can find Nate at: www.swbcrawler.com