Pipsfc wrote:
For now, and due to time constraints, I will add some grease to the bearings using he EZ lube and be careful to not blow the seal. My plan is to use just the handgun and pump by hand, do it slowly. Do you have any recommendations on how many pumps or how much I should add? I was going to find a youtube video in hopes of getting a better visual (since I'm a visual learner).
As for the heating pad and the block heater, I was looking into a pad for my oil pan and transmission pan. The block heater I already have installed. I was considering the battery blankets as well but it seems most people don't see this item as necessary. I honestly feel that the block heater, oil pan, and trans pan heaters will do the job well. Would I really need the freeze plug if I have the others?
Given your trailer is new and the grease looks new, I'd giver maybe 10 squirts thru the ez lube, force some through the bearing in front and call it good. I don't see the need to pull it apart. Mostly a few stories online about a trailer that came off the line and not greased.
The other advantage you have is you'll be running in cool to very cold weather AND alot of the trip will be slowww. Personally I bring a spare bearing set and seal though. But that's me and I've never owned a "new" trailer, lol.
Heaters? You've lived in AK before. Unless you're prepping for leaving the truck outdoors all winter, especially if you're going to one of the Fbks bases and not JBER, adding all that stuff is not remotely necessary just for the trip up there.
Generator, I think this is a good call to get now for several reasons.
1. You plan on camping up there next year obviously and as you know, most AK camping is boondocking and you'll likely get a better deal here.
2. IF you were to break down or want/need to sleep in the camper in the cold, your 2 batteries would maybe make it though the night, maybe. Any time with the heater running alot, will suck the batteries down pretty quick, and your truck won't do a great job of re-charging.
3. IF you need, you can plug in your block heater if somewhere without power at night if its real cold. A good chain and lock for it recommended too.
Size? Since you really won't want or need the AC much or at all in the summer up there, a 1kw will do 99% of what you might need. Charging batteries, microwave, and nominal AC power use.
A 2kw genny will be more than enough although debatable whether it will run the AC.
Personally I would buy a used Honda or Yamaha over a new off brand. And if you decide to sell, or upgrade it, it will likely retain all the value you paid for it for years to come, not to mention rock solid reliability.
Last comment, do you need a driving partner, lol? This sounds like a fun trip to me!
