I was looking for a place to explore and have never been up to the area along Pine Creek in north central PA. This area is sometimes called the "Grand Canyon of Pennsylvania". To tell you the truth, I wasn't quite as prepared for the trip as I usually am and didn't do a whole lot of pre-planning. My decision to head up there was kind of last minute. The old 4Runner was prepared and ready, but I didn't preplan…
I pulled into Bald Eagle State Forest from the Mile Run Road exit (exit 199) off of I-80 in West Buffalo Township, PA. Heading south on Mile Run Road, it didn't take long for the blacktop to end - perhaps only 1/4 of a mile. That is where Mile Run Road dead ends into White Deer Pike, which is a well maintained gravel road. I headed west on White Deer Pike and took the first left (heading south) onto White…
I've been driving around with a torn boot on my passenger-side front axle for a long time. When I got the 4Runner inspected last year (an annual requirement from the state of Pennsylvania) I was told to take care of it. torn boot on passenger-side front axle Front axle boot tears are common on lifted 4Runners as the angle of the CV joint is increased, which leads to the ribs of the boots rubbing together causing friction. Once the boots…
The new addition to our off-road family has finally arrived! It took almost six months, but she is home and getting acquainted with the family. The first meet-up between MaryAnn and the yet-to-be-named new addition took place the other day. There was no snorting around or sniffing of tailpipes. Everyone was well prepared for this day. Discussions took place ahead of time to ensure all were aware their place, function, and spot in the driveway/garage. Speaking of place and function,…