NUMBER ONE Upgrade for Towing With an FJ Cruiser | Harassed by Bikers Going From Casper to Colorado

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  • Опубликовано: 31 янв 2025

Комментарии • 100

  • @UncleFjester
    @UncleFjester 3 года назад +1

    The only consistent feature, of all of your "SO CALLED" Harassments is You!
    Maybe try avoiding old white men or Bikers from Now On?

    • @AlexisChateau
      @AlexisChateau  3 года назад +9

      I am "the only consistent feature" but your best solution is that I simply avoid old, White men. Have you not, then, pointed out the actual consistent feature yourself? You are 100% free to discredit my experiences as a Black woman traveling solo, if it makes you feel better about your demographic and your country. You will find, however, that I give zero f**ks about your feelings, your opinions, your politics, or whether you consider my experiences to be authentic. Ciao! 🙃

    • @garrettsmith8286
      @garrettsmith8286 3 года назад +6

      Uncle Fjester as a FJ owner and owner of several classic Toyota's I've watched many of your videos and enjoyed them. I've just unsubscribed from your channel and hope others that read this do as well.
      Alexis from a subscriber of your channel and a (young middle aged white male who also is a Biker) irrelevant IMO... and has a bad a$$ FJ like yours I'd shotgun as your co-pilot anytime. As for the bikers well I was not there to witness therefore I won't speculate but the majority are good people and their intent may not have been one of racial conflict but more so of ego and control. This I've seen many times no matter who they encounter but again I was not there. If every road was smooth and easy where would the adventure be? ;)

    • @AlexisChateau
      @AlexisChateau  3 года назад +2

      Thank you, Garrett! Sadly, it was 2 hours into what turned into a 9-hour drive, so the footage was gone by the time I got to Southern Colorado. I don't know what their intentions were. I honestly thought they were joking until one pulled in between the FJ and the gas pump so I couldn't open my door or get gas. She was yelling at me but I couldn't hear her over the engine. Then, (I'm assuming he was her husband) pulled up in front of the FJ so I couldn't drive forward. It was pretty wild. I just backed the RV out and left. It was also kinda funny to me at the time, because I'm like .....do they realize my rig weighs ~8,500 lbs and I would flatten them if I drove forward??? 🤣🤣🤣🤣 That has been my only incident with bikers, but I know other people who've had worse.
      Always happy to know you're one of the good ones! Sincerely hope we run into each other on the road. 🙃☺️

    • @garrettsmith8286
      @garrettsmith8286 3 года назад +1

      @@AlexisChateau I'll keep an eye out for SAM5ON on the road! If you ever see a strikingly attractive white guy chasing you down yelling at you out the window on the road with biceps bulging out, perfect 8 pack abs and the skin tone of a God just keep Driving it's not me. Smash that pedal to the floor! 💨😂
      Hopefully I'll be in my FJ.

    • @AlexisChateau
      @AlexisChateau  3 года назад +1

      @Garrett Smith LMFAO. This is not how I expected that comment to end! 🤣🤣🤣 Damn near choked on my water, sir! Whereabouts are you again?

  • @flyingpig7203
    @flyingpig7203 Год назад +1

    Looks like you are having fun. Found your channel because of the Fj. Love my Fj. Hopefully, yours is being good to you.

    • @AlexisChateau
      @AlexisChateau  Год назад

      Samson is always good to me. 🥰 Happy travels!

  • @FREDDIE-p4j
    @FREDDIE-p4j 7 месяцев назад

    I THOROUGHLY ENJOYED YOUR VIDEO! WONDROUS SCENERY SERVES TO BE INSPIRING! THANK YOU!

    • @AlexisChateau
      @AlexisChateau  5 месяцев назад

      I'm just seeing this. Thanks so much for watching. I'm glad you enjoyed it. 😊

  • @TheILV17
    @TheILV17 4 месяца назад

    You are awesome. I love your FJ. Mine is black.

    • @AlexisChateau
      @AlexisChateau  4 месяца назад

      Thank you! Funny enough, I almost got a black FJ but they wanted way too much for it. Then I saw Samson and realized he had that 400-watt inverter in the back. Perfect for camping!

  • @alwayshungrylo9692
    @alwayshungrylo9692 3 года назад

    Great adventure. And like all great adventure there are the peaks and valleys. The low moments will always lead into greater highs. Don’t let that stop you. Great video

    • @AlexisChateau
      @AlexisChateau  3 года назад +1

      Thank you! What a lovely comment compared to the old fart telling me I'M the reason I'm being harassed on the road. Can you imagine? How dare I be out there, eh? 🤣 I take the lows when they come. They are usually short-lived, whereas the highs are long-lasting. I'll be out here for a long time! Thanks for the encouragement and I hope you keep watching. ☺️

  • @dirttales
    @dirttales 3 года назад +2

    Do you run an external trans cooler after the OEM? I hope you're at least keeping an eye on the trans temp using the Torque App.
    My wife and I tow a 2400lb Sunlite trailer with our FJ and it would push the trans into the 200 degree range within a half hour, with a derale cooler and inline fluid thermostat we rarely go above 180 now.
    I can't imagine pulling a 3200lb trailer up Monarch pass or something akin!
    Our FJ does alright pulling 2400lbs but I try to limit towing to 50% of actual capacity because of how much power you lose at elevation!

    • @AlexisChateau
      @AlexisChateau  3 года назад

      All valid questions and concerns! I'm also definitely checking out that app.
      I took the rig to two different mechanics to get their opinions on whether to install another tranny cooler (it already has one) for towing. Both guys (Vegas and Wyoming) checked it out and said no. My Wyoming mechanic actually started laughing hysterically while saying, "You do realize this is a Toyota?" When I reminded him my truck has 180,000 miles on the dash, he laughed harder lol. Personally, I think when professionals turn down money, they're giving good advice. It's literally costing them to give it, so there's no incentive to lie.
      I will say, however, that I only tow in 4 and lower (3 for mountains). I informed my mechanics of this as well and they said it was fine as long as I watched the RPMs. Towing in 4 stops the truck from going into overdrive. It literally doubled my towing MPG. It was nuts. It also reduces transmission heating.
      Samson earned his name though. He's a strong boy. I only feel the trailer during strong winds, uphill or if I'm running two seasons worth of gear. When I had just my summer gear coming down to Mexico, it was like nothing was behind me.
      Keep in mind that RVing like this over the summer is not my usual MO. I move the RV ONCE per month. I have a separate overlanding setup that I use in-between. Now that I have my rooftop tent installed, I also take the cat with me.
      Thanks again for watching and commenting. I hope you subscribe. ☺️

    • @dirttales
      @dirttales 3 года назад

      @@AlexisChateau if by already having a cooler you mean the stock one thats inside the radiator? If thats it then I would do some more research. Chances are you're getting into the 200+ range while pulling up inclines.. I did a test with and without the Derale cooler and from where I live, Divide CO down to Tarryall road in 30min was already at 206F. The transmission should stay around 160-180 and I never tow in D, the Derale cooler and inline tstat solves this. Maybe I'll make a video..

    • @AlexisChateau
      @AlexisChateau  3 года назад

      I'll check with my mechanics again, but like I said, I've already had this discussion with one in Vegas and one in Wyoming and they said I didn't need another one. The one in Vegas said I could still install it if I wanted to and the one in Wyoming said hell no. Samson also had a full checkup before leaving Georgia and that mechanic didn't recommend any upgrades for towing either. I asked because I was worried about towing from Georgia to Nevada in just 3 days. But, I do understand the concern. I'll look into getting that OBD II plugin, although I won't be excited about losing my hotspot which is currently plugged into that. Thanks!

  • @Ramos2905
    @Ramos2905 2 года назад +1

    What hitch are you using? Thanks

    • @AlexisChateau
      @AlexisChateau  2 года назад +1

      Hey, I got mine for free with the rig and it's currently packed up as I'm parked in Mexico for a few weeks. It's a weight distribution hitch from e2 but I don't know the exact model.

    • @Ramos2905
      @Ramos2905 2 года назад +1

      @@AlexisChateau Thanks, I’ll check out E2 hitches

    • @AlexisChateau
      @AlexisChateau  2 года назад +1

      No prob! Sorry I couldn't provide you with the exact model.

  • @Phenixrising-p1p
    @Phenixrising-p1p 3 года назад

    I have a set up like yours. White fj cruiser and a 17ft coachman clipper travel trailer my wife and I take our beagle with us when we go so it's always a fun trip. I've seen uncle festers video's and he is a acquired taste. Not one that I like lol.
    Any way hope to see more videos . Oh a couple questions where is the foot to your jack you should use one. And why did you decide air bags over different springs? I use old man emu 895e springs might be off on the number. The springs alone work great.

    • @AlexisChateau
      @AlexisChateau  3 года назад

      Oh, that's awesome that you have a similar setup! I'm so excited when I run into other people towing with their FJs. I once chased a couple hiking in Valley of Fire when I realized the FJ towing in the parking lot was theirs. 🤣😂 They were great people and as excited as I was!
      1. The previous owner used blocks and so have I. When you crank out the foot, it's still not enough length. I've seen that problem with every trailer but the very little ones.
      2. Airbags were the option always recommended to me. I wanted an adjustable solution because the FJ doesn't need to be that high on the back end when I'm not towing. It's actually a little dangerous to drive with it like that, with no trailer attached. It's been a great addition though. I love it.
      3. Why did you chose the springs over airbags?

    • @AlexisChateau
      @AlexisChateau  3 года назад

      PS:- I've never seen his videos and I thought I followed ALL FJ accounts. 😂 Now, I guess I never will!

  • @russlewis5112
    @russlewis5112 3 года назад +1

    I like hearing about your "encounters" with the jerks you come across. Having been the Grand Junction several times, I understand not wanting to stay there any longer than you have to. Lol. I like the idea of a separate air inflator as if something goes wrong with it, you won't have to take the truck into the shop. Wait!!! Did Shadow have a guest?? Oooo...New Mexico. This week we have been having Red Flag and high wind warnings and my sinuses are all messed up. Lol. Got my booster this week too.

    • @AlexisChateau
      @AlexisChateau  3 года назад +1

      I didn't realize how many jerks I ran into so close together until putting these videos together. Happy to report there was none this time in Colorado, but I have run into racists in Grand Junction before. Fruita is much nicer.
      The cat belongs to the host of the next Boondocker's Welcome spot I stayed at. He just hopped right into the truck like he owned the place. 🤣
      The last fire warning sign I saw for New Mexico was "EXTREME" but where I am, there's hardly anything to burn. 😅 I got my booster shot last week. Congrats!

  • @joegoedhart1259
    @joegoedhart1259 2 года назад

    Love you vid. I am buying one of these. This is my education.

    • @AlexisChateau
      @AlexisChateau  2 года назад

      Thank you. They're great vehicles. Best purchase I ever made. ☺️

  • @joemurphy5769
    @joemurphy5769 2 года назад

    What airbag brand did you use and what series?? I have been trying to get a set in my FJ and was told they can’t be put on an FJ. I have started to look at replacing my tear/square drop trailer with a pull behind. How is that Bullet doing?

    • @AlexisChateau
      @AlexisChateau  2 года назад

      I have the Firestone W237604135 and haven't had any issues with it. Another offroader recommended that specific one for my FJ and it was a perfect fit. I think he had an FJ as well. The Bullet is doing great. Just towed it a thousand miles from NM to Mexico and will tow it another 1000 miles or so across Cali into Baja in a few weeks. Keep your trailer under 4,000 lbs and you'll be fine. If speed matters to you, I'd aim for about 3,500 lbs gross weight. Happy travels!

  • @ShastaDoktorG
    @ShastaDoktorG Год назад

    Super rad, Alexis. Do u have a transmission cooler too?

    • @AlexisChateau
      @AlexisChateau  Год назад

      Thanks! That's a great question. I've asked my mechanics about it a few times and they think it's not necessary. A good idea, but not necessary. I don't move often, so I figured I'd be fine without it. If you move often and tow heavy, definitely consider the cooler. Towing in a lower gear also helps me keep temps down.

  • @SuperDondada1
    @SuperDondada1 2 года назад

    Luv the rig! Keep it between the ditches.

  • @leootp22
    @leootp22 2 года назад

    Sweet rig. I love my stock roof rack/bars, but I will genuinely have to consider replacing it in future after seeing yours. Don't currently have a need for it.
    I am curious if you have considered jerry cans (not for the idiots, just for the long hauls). Likely you have, just wondering if there were some benefits you saw when choosing to roll without them.
    I am getting into adventuring with my FJ and have been backpacking with my hammock for a few years now. I understand the experience of travelling while Black. I tend not to worry about passing through different places, but the thought does cross my mind sometimes when I stop to grab gas that someone could say something. Even that bit of being on guard is annoying/exhausting.
    Keep rocking, haven't seen your channel before but glad I came across it. Subscribed.

    • @AlexisChateau
      @AlexisChateau  2 года назад

      Thank you! Samson didn't come with a roof rack, so upgrading to the Baja was an easy choice. Mine is rated for 600 lbs because I bought a rooftop tent. They are pricey when they have weight ratings like that, so I'd only recommend it if you plan to install an RTT. I think I paid about $1,200.
      I tried to buy Jerry cans when I first started but there was a shortage. I got used to not having them, but I might consider getting one again. We shall see!
      I've definitely had my fair share of run-ins with racists on the road. I've even had to deal with the Confederacy. Went to look at property in Arizona and they spent a good month letting me know I was unwelcome. It is what it is.
      And thank you! I appreciate the encouragement and the support. I wish you all the best with your travels. Feel free to reach out with any questions about my setup or anything else. ☺️

    • @leootp22
      @leootp22 2 года назад

      ​@@AlexisChateau Thanks for sharing that on the jerry cans. Supply chain issues are really coming after adulthood out here.
      I did not want to spring for the rack off the bat since I didn't have RTT plans, but doing more overlanding so that may change.
      Funny enough, I came across your channel looking for info on batteries, but the towing setup is nice.
      It's crazy you have to vet the place you want to move to in triplicate times 3. It's one thing passing through. It's a whole other living there. We're looking to move this year and there are a number of places that just had to get crossed off the list from the jump, looking at you upstate New York. Doesn't mean everyone there is a bad person, but some of these places catch a reputation for a reason.
      Since you mentioned questions, any special battery or setup? I'll likely go for a dual setup in future and grab something that can handle a winch and lights for now.

    • @AlexisChateau
      @AlexisChateau  2 года назад

      No prob! I might still get a Jerry can, but so far, I haven't needed it. I've gotten better at planning my routes and I've never run out of gas before. *knock on wood*
      Interesting that you found me while looking for batteries! I do want a dual battery setup in the FJ, especially since mine has an inverter. I've asked my mechanic where I might be able to put an RV battery in there, but we haven't figured that out yet.
      I got into the habit of just blatantly asking if the place is racist. If the real estate agent won't answer, that's answer enough. I ended up buying in New Mexico. I spent four days there and drove through to see if I saw any confederate flags. It's a teeny tiny town. I then came back to Mexico, so wish me luck when I finally "move" there next month!! And good luck with your house search as well!

    • @leootp22
      @leootp22 2 года назад

      ​@@AlexisChateau I'm happy for you that you found a place in a small town. I've been looking for the same (I'm not trying to see any neighbors) and that trend, of minorities increasingly moving to rural locations, is taking place across the US.
      I think that good things can be found and done in those communities by old timers and newcomers, but anyone that's trying to hold on to bigotry is howling at the wind. They're also losing out on money and peace, but that's a whole other conversation.

    • @AlexisChateau
      @AlexisChateau  2 года назад +1

      @@leootp22 I chose a small town in a historically liberal state, so my neighbours were very happy to see me waltz into town, haha. Even the cowboys! The town is dying. Its population is now less than 200 people. They want more millennials and more diverse groups to move in and settle. I was such a perfect mix of both that not only did they sell me the land I came for. They GAVE me the one next to it in exchange for my advice on how to attract more millennials. I spoke to them yesterday and the development I bought into is booming now. Really excited to get things underway with my building project. I hope you find a good spot too. ☺️

  • @knifeknerdreviews4609
    @knifeknerdreviews4609 Год назад

    Interesting... My Niece travels across the country with her 4 Runner and her cat... Haha, you guys would probably get along famously...

    • @AlexisChateau
      @AlexisChateau  Год назад +1

      That's amazing, haha! I love seeing other women traveling solo, especially when "solo" means there's a kitty in tow. Please send her my best wishes!!

  • @toddcraft6919
    @toddcraft6919 2 года назад

    @Alexis Chateau does your FJ have a 7 pin or 4 pin connector for your trailer lights? I’m interested in getting an FJ but my trailer requires a 7pin

    • @AlexisChateau
      @AlexisChateau  2 года назад

      My FJ Cruiser has an aftermarket tow hitch. I installed a 4 pin. If you have a 4 pin and want a 7 pin, just install it. You can take it to your mechanic or a local U-Haul and see what they say. I paid $500 for my installation. That includes the cost of parts and total wiring because Samson had absolutely nothing set up for towing. Safe travels!

  • @Simonstockton82
    @Simonstockton82 2 года назад

    How much does your caravan weigh mate?

    • @AlexisChateau
      @AlexisChateau  2 года назад +1

      It weighs 3280 lbs/1488 kg when empty.

    • @Simonstockton82
      @Simonstockton82 2 года назад

      @@AlexisChateau thanks for the fast response. I tow 1700-1900kg and I really miss my FJ Cruiser and want another I just don’t know how it would go towing that much. Do you ever get any sway problems

    • @AlexisChateau
      @AlexisChateau  2 года назад +1

      @@Simonstockton82Aw man. You should definitely get another FJ, but I wouldn't recommend towing anything heavier than mine. My max weight when loaded is 4,000 lbs/ 1815 kg. I have a storage unit, so I keep my out of season things there and travel light.
      I've never had any sway problems. Not even when I have to slam on the brakes and you hear the tires squeal. I've had to do that twice, including today on a mountain road. I have a hitch from e2 trailers. It has weight distribution bars but no anti sway.

    • @Simonstockton82
      @Simonstockton82 2 года назад

      @@AlexisChateau yeah I just think it would be too close. Car and trailer weigh 1750 together then I need to take tools, spares and fuel 😭. Great trucks and so much fun. Need to find something that excites me just as much as that did

    • @AlexisChateau
      @AlexisChateau  2 года назад +1

      @@Simonstockton82 My FJ weighs more than my trailer. 😆 Samson clocks in at about 4,300 lbs dry and he carries my e-bike in the back! With the RV, that's 8,000+ lbs and 37 feet in length!
      I hope you do find something else that excites you. I can't imagine life without my FJ. Even if I left North America, I would keep it. 😂 I'd recommend the Hummer EV but they are pricey and hard to get!

  • @animalluvr760
    @animalluvr760 2 года назад

    What does your camper weigh?

    • @AlexisChateau
      @AlexisChateau  2 года назад

      It weighs 3,200 lb dry. Full details are in the video description.

  • @tenguronin1597
    @tenguronin1597 2 года назад +1

    I am an indigenous person who has lived in Nebraska for 8 years and have traveled throughout the West. That hateful comment reflects why I can not support his channel and love yours. Keep the positive and be careful with those who embrace hate.

    • @AlexisChateau
      @AlexisChateau  2 года назад +1

      Thank you, Tengu! I appreciate the support and the empathy. I hope they're treating you well in Nebraska. ☺️

    • @tenguronin1597
      @tenguronin1597 2 года назад

      @@AlexisChateau I left there years ago and have no desire to return. I live in northern Cal where we have myriads of cultures and positive minded people 😆

    • @AlexisChateau
      @AlexisChateau  2 года назад +1

      Funny you should say that lol. I feel that way about Southern California. That's my favourite place in America. I recently bought land in New Mexico though and the people here have been lovely as well. ☺️

    • @tenguronin1597
      @tenguronin1597 2 года назад

      @@AlexisChateau that is awesome. My family is from there...beautiful skies and sunsets 🌇. I bought some land a few years ago foe my daughter and some for me. I plan on living off grid so it is taking a bit ro set up the wells and the infrastructure . Congratulations on being a land owner...nothing feels more free 🙌

  • @bignitro9295
    @bignitro9295 2 года назад +5

    Hope fully you are armed while making these trips. Be safe

    • @AlexisChateau
      @AlexisChateau  2 года назад

      I don't think having a cowboy shootout would have done me any good in this scenario. But I do appreciate the concern. Thanks for watching! ☺️

    • @bignitro9295
      @bignitro9295 2 года назад +2

      @@AlexisChateau not necessarily talking about that scenario but it’s always better to have a fighting chance and to protect your self and your items. A Glock 43x would be perfect.

  • @FREDDIE-p4j
    @FREDDIE-p4j 7 месяцев назад

    lol....lol....lol ....lol......lol.....WAS THAT TRULY A RANDOM CAT THAT TRESSPASSED INTO YOUR FJ.......lol......lol ....lol.....!

    • @AlexisChateau
      @AlexisChateau  4 месяца назад

      Yes, lol! The kitty belonged to the owners of the property I had parked on. 😅

  • @stanislawfaron7810
    @stanislawfaron7810 3 года назад +1

    ✌️👍

  • @francis0escoffery
    @francis0escoffery 3 года назад

    Reminded me of RDR2

  • @kedeshaboothe6100
    @kedeshaboothe6100 3 года назад

    Look pon mi big fren

    • @AlexisChateau
      @AlexisChateau  3 года назад

      Still a gwaan try a ting innuh. 😏