Texas to Alaska Expedition Thread

[DrDubzz]

See the link to the RCMP in my previous post. click visitors non residents.

good info, I had planned to just remove the bolt and keep it separate in case there were any questions about it. It does make me a smidge nervous to cruise through the wilderness with just a couple knives (any crazy restrictions on those?), but we'll have a can or two of bear spray so I'm not too worried.

I'm just looking forward to getting on the road and seeing the sights. I wish the kiddos would be old enough to remember it later, but we'll photo/video document as much as possible

 

[DrDubzz]

Also, on the topic of Eagle River, who are the prevalent TV and Internet providers?

 

[calcrc]

I recently got my firearms license for white tail hunting in Quebec, all in all it took my almost 1 year to get all the papers cleared, I had to call the RCMP 800 line to ask them what's up. One week later I got my cards and am all in the clear.

I don't know how it is in the States but my advice is call the 800 RCMP number and make sure.

You do not want to get turned down after driving 4k miles, that I am sure.

And if it is a handgun good luck. Taser's are illegal here ( yes we suck )

So unless you are James Bond or something call and make sure

 

[alaskaman]

Also, on the topic of Eagle River, who are the prevalent TV and Internet providers?

GCI has the market cornered. Clearwire can give you internet.

 

[MikesTE]

Also, on the topic of Eagle River, who are the prevalent TV and Internet providers?

I second the GCI comment - that's the best route. When I was stationed there that's what I used - wasn't bad at all. I'd steer clear of satellite cable/Internet, particularly in Eagle River - going to depend where you live - can be hard to get line of sight to the satellite.

Enjoy the trip and your assignment there - wish I could get back there!

 

[Newf4R]

When Winter starts Johnson's Tires in Eagle River can help you find the best tires for your rig. I recommend studs in Winter.

Blizzaks. And order early... Mine were back-ordered because our size is so popular. Had to get them shipped from 3 provinces away. Studs work great, but try driving them any distance or for any length of time at all on pavement and you will want to jump out the window. Damn things make a racket.

Keep us posted with lots of pics along the trip. Safe travels!

 

[alaskaman]

Blizzaks. And order early... Mine were back-ordered because our size is so popular. Had to get them shipped from 3 provinces away. Studs work great, but try driving them any distance or for any length of time at all on pavement and you will want to jump out the window. Damn things make a racket.

Keep us posted with lots of pics along the trip. Safe travels!

Agree keep the pics coming but disagree on the choice of Blizzaks. They will slip on much of the ice in that area. Studs make it better.

 

[alaskaman]

Here is what I recommend. Nokians SUV 5 studded.

 

[DrDubzz]

I'll keep these in mind as the time draws nearer, I hadn't even thought about the 4Runner yet, I was concerned with my Golf, poor thing will need all the help it can get haha

 

[MikesTE]

+1 Blizzaks and Johnson's!

 

[toforu10]

I ran the Hankook i-Pike RW11 with studs all winter before selling them. Similar tread pattern as the Nokians. Performance wise is equal and cheaper. From Fort Nelson to Prince George, there was a lot of snow and ice after leaving Fort Nelson and had just the Michelin LTX mounted and honestly did fine throughout the trek to Prince George. I had one slip(rear end broke loose) going uphill and my years of Alaska driving kick in and recovered with the help of traction control of course . Be safe on the trip and don't rush once entering the Yukon.

 

[DrDubzz]

As departure time nears (set for 11 June now), I was wondering something. My dad brought up the idea of doing a transmission fluid change. Not because it 'needs' it, but because it may be smart prevention for a heavy load, long mileage, uncertain terrain trip.

Has anyone done this or looked into it before?

 

[Hellamatic]

As departure time nears (set for 11 June now), I was wondering something. My dad brought up the idea of doing a transmission fluid change. Not because it 'needs' it, but because it may be smart prevention for a heavy load, long mileage, uncertain terrain trip.

Has anyone done this or looked into it before?

I would definitely do a fluid change. You're going to be putting on a lot of miles and Toyota dealerships are few and far between once you hit the ALCAN highway, so I think it would be well-advised. I'd do a tranny service, oil change, diffs, and transfer case. A coolant flush wouldn't hurt either. Inspect your serpentine belt, and replace it if necessary - it wouldn't hurt to buy a spare to take with you anyway.

 

[WarnerD9]

For water storage - Check out http://www.sierraexpeditions.com/index.php?l=product_detail&p=2156

I have one in my 2011 and it works awesome behind the back seat. Just remember to open the lid occasionally to allow max flow. Otherwise the vacuum pressure causes problems.

 

[DrDubzz]

Another question, if you were putting together a SMALL set of tools to take for your 4Runner, what few choice items would you want with you? As in, a wrench, sockets, screw driver, etc.

Room will be tight, but aside from checking all the spare tire kit I'm not sure what would be most helpful.



^^^ I like that water system, not sure if it's necessary for this trip though

 

[alaskaman]

So how goes the planning and the trip?:cheers:

 

[DrDubzz]

Leaving a week from today. I'll post pictures after we're loaded up

 

[lilsid112]

I'd also add a torque wrench just incase you ever get a flat.

 

[DrDubzz]

I'd also add a torque wrench just incase you ever get a flat.

Too late, already packed and shipped off... Whoops

 

[chmura]

Bringing a torque wrench for changing tires out on a road trip is a bit excessive...