Hey Jeep enthusiasts! It’s Ryan from Backroad Reviews, bringing you another product review that’s sure to brighten your off-road adventures. Today, we’re talking about the Diode Dynamics SS30 Hardtop LED Kit White Flood, a lighting upgrade designed specifically for the 2018-2023 Jeep JL Wrangler. This rugged, high-performance light bar is more than just a flashy add-on—it’s a game-changer for anyone serious about nighttime trail rides.
Table of Contents
Affiliate Disclosure: As an Amazon Associate, I earn from qualifying purchases.
Unboxing & First Impressions
The moment I opened the box, I could tell this kit means business. The components feel rock-solid. The mounting brackets are crafted from heavy-duty metal with a durable powder-coat finish, ensuring they won’t rust after a few rainy adventures. The light bar itself is sturdy and sleek, with a no-nonsense design that complements the aggressive look of the Jeep JL Wrangler.
What really impressed me was the attention to detail. The wiring harness is rugged and comes with all the necessary connectors, fuses, and relays. You can tell Diode Dynamics took the time to make sure even the small components are built to last.
Installation Made Easy
One of the biggest concerns when upgrading your Jeep is whether the installation process will require a master’s degree in automotive engineering. Thankfully, Diode Dynamics made sure the SS30 Hardtop LED Kit is DIY-friendly.
Tools You’ll Need:
Basic hand tools (socket set, wrenches, etc.)
A clean workspace
About an hour of your time
The CAD-designed mounting brackets fit perfectly on the factory rear window hinge, utilizing existing mounting points. No cutting, no drilling, and best of all—no swearing at stubborn bolts! I had the entire setup installed in just under an hour.
Pro Tip:
Lay out all the components before you begin and double-check the wiring diagram. This can save you time and reduce frustration.
Performance & Lighting Output
Once installed, it was time for the fun part—testing the light bar on the trail. The SS30 LED Light Bar is a powerhouse. With an output of 11,400 lumens and a color temperature of 6,000K, it delivers a bright, white light that floods the area with clarity.
Lighting Features:
Wide Flood Pattern: Covers a broad area, making it perfect for night trail runs, campsite setup, or even emergency roadside repairs.
Anti-Glare Design: While the light is powerful, its design minimizes glare, so you won’t blind your trail buddies.
Wind Noise Control: Unlike some cheap aftermarket lights, this bar creates zero wind noise, even at highway speeds.
Whether you’re driving through rugged mountain passes or setting up camp late at night, this light bar turns pitch-black surroundings into daylight. It’s like having your own personal sun mounted on the back of your Jeep!
Real-World Feedback from Jeep Owners
Before writing this review, I checked what other Jeep owners are saying online, and the response has been overwhelmingly positive. Here are some highlights:
“Perfect for trail runs and setting up camp.”
“The wind-noise reduction feature is a game-changer.”
“Super easy to install—no drilling required!”
“Looks awesome and works even better.”
The consensus seems to be that this light bar not only looks cool but also functions like a premium piece of off-road gear.
Pros & Cons
Pros:
✅ Easy installation with no cutting or drilling required ✅ High-quality materials built to withstand harsh weather ✅ Superior light output with a broad flood pattern ✅ Sleek, low-profile design that eliminates wind noise ✅ Backed by a 3-year manufacturer’s warranty
Cons:
❌ Price is on the higher side (but worth it for serious off-roaders) ❌ Requires a bit of electrical know-how if you’re unfamiliar with automotive wiring
Why Choose the Diode Dynamics SS30 Hardtop LED Kit?
If you’re serious about off-roading, overlanding, or just looking cool while driving through town, the Diode Dynamics SS30 Hardtop LED Kit is a fantastic investment. It enhances both the functionality and style of your Jeep JL Wrangler, making it trail-ready in even the darkest environments.
Whether you’re navigating rugged trails, setting up camp, or just showing off your rig at Jeep meets, this light bar is guaranteed to impress. Plus, with Diode Dynamics’ 3-year warranty, you can hit the road with peace of mind.
Final Thoughts
After installing and testing the Diode Dynamics SS30 Hardtop LED Kit White Flood, I can confidently say it’s one of the best lighting upgrades available for the Jeep JL Wrangler. It’s built tough, shines bright, and installs easily. What more could you want from an off-road accessory?
For a full breakdown of the installation process and a hands-on performance test, check out my video review on Backroad Reviews. Don’t miss it—it’s packed with tips, tricks, and a whole lot of Jeep-loving fun!
https://t.co/VYpfPEZVX2 Today, we’re talking about the Diode Dynamics SS30 Hardtop LED Kit White Flood, a lighting upgrade designed specifically for the 2018-2023 Jeep JL Wrangler. This rugged, high-performance light bar is more than just a flashy add-on—it’s a game-changer for… pic.twitter.com/7jH0tA82YU
Upgrade Your Chicken Coop with the Ortis Automatic Door Opener & Closer
Table of Contents
https://amzn.to/41pwbiA Hey, chicken keepers! I’m Ryan Harden from Backroad Reviews, and today, I’m excited to share my experience with the Ortis Automatic Chicken Coop Door Opener & Closer. This gadget has truly revolutionized how I manage my flock. I’ve even put together a detailed overview video, so be sure to check that out on our channel!
Smart Design for Safe Chickens
One of the best features of this coop door is its unique lift-up anti-pinch mechanism. It opens at 90° or 180°, ensuring smooth, safe passage for your chickens without the risk of injury. Knowing my flock is safe from getting stuck is a huge relief, especially when I can’t be there every moment.
Five Customizable Operating Modes
The Ortis door comes with five smart modes: Manual, Light Sensing, Timer, Geographic Positioning, and Custom. This flexibility lets me set the door’s operation to match my flock’s schedule perfectly. Whether I need it to open at sunrise, close at sunset, or adjust based on the season, it does the job with no fuss.
Built-In Predator Defense
Predator protection is a big deal on my homestead. The intrusion-proof latch at the bottom of the door ensures no sneaky critters like raccoons, foxes, or skunks can lift it. This extra layer of security keeps my birds safe at night, letting me rest easy.
Built Tough for Any Weather
Made from durable metal, the Ortis door is rust-resistant and can handle harsh weather conditions. The weatherproof controller continues to work even during storms, snow, or intense heat. This rugged construction makes it a year-round reliable solution for my coop.
Dual Power for Maximum Reliability
The controller features a built-in rechargeable battery and optional power adapter support, so unexpected power outages won’t disrupt its operation. Installation was a breeze with no additional wiring required—a huge plus in my book!
What Other Chicken Owners Are Saying
I’m not the only one impressed by this door! Many poultry keepers rave about the anti-pinch safety design, highlighting how smoothly it works without harming their chickens. The multiple operating modes get tons of love too, especially for their easy customization. Users also frequently mention the predator-proof latch and the sturdy metal construction as standout features that offer great peace of mind.
Affiliate Disclosure
As an Amazon Associate, I earn from qualifying purchases. If you purchase the Ortis Automatic Chicken Coop Door through my affiliate links, I may receive a small commission at no extra cost to you. This helps me keep bringing you honest, in-depth reviews.
Final Takeaway
Adding the Ortis Automatic Chicken Coop Door Opener & Closer to my poultry setup has been a total game-changer. Its innovative design, smart features, and durable construction make it one of the best upgrades I’ve made for my flock. Check out my full review video on Backroad Reviews and see how it can make managing your chickens easier, safer, and way more convenient! 🐓💪
🐓 Attention Chicken Wranglers! 🐓https://t.co/vFOC0Efzm0 Tired of playing "chicken doorman" at sunrise and sunset? Meet the Ortis Automatic Chicken Coop Door Opener & Closer — the gadget your flock never knew they needed but now can’t live without!
Hey there, fellow tractor enthusiasts! It’s Ryan from Backroad Reviews, and today we’re talking about a game-changer for your tractor toolkit: the YITAMOTOR 43″ Clamp-On Pallet Forks. If you’ve ever found yourself wrestling with heavy loads or awkward materials, this attachment might just be your new best friend.
First Impressions
Right out of the box, these pallet forks exude durability. Crafted from high-strength square iron tubes, they boast a load-bearing capacity of up to 2,000 pounds. That’s right—2,000 pounds! Whether you’re moving logs, lumber, or pallets, these forks are up to the task.
Easy Installation
One of the standout features is the straightforward installation. Simply slide the forks over your tractor’s bucket cutting edge and tighten them down. No need for complicated tools or additional attachments. Plus, the adjustable stabilizer bar ensures the forks stay aligned, preventing them from spreading apart during use.
Versatility at Its Best
These forks aren’t just for pallets. Users have praised their utility in moving fence posts, hay bales, and even clearing debris. One user mentioned, “Now I can just lift the pallet up & boom—done! Great investment at a small price.” It’s clear that these forks can handle a variety of tasks around the farm.
Customer Feedback
The general consensus among users is overwhelmingly positive. Many appreciate the build quality, ease of installation, and overall value for money. One satisfied customer noted, “Heavy made, works great for my tractor. Good quality for the money.” Another shared, “These are a must-have for hobby tractor. Easy on, easy off, great welds, great design, great price.”
A Few Considerations
While the feedback is largely positive, some users have pointed out minor issues. A few mentioned that the clamping strength could be improved, with one stating, “The only issue is that they are difficult to fasten down to the tractor bucket.” However, these seem to be isolated cases, and many have found the forks to perform admirably.
Final Thoughts
The YITAMOTOR 43″ Clamp-On Pallet Forks offer a blend of durability, versatility, and ease of use. For those looking to enhance their tractor’s functionality without breaking the bank, this attachment is a solid choice.
Affiliate Disclosure
As an Amazon Associate, Backroad Reviews earns from qualifying purchases. This helps support our channel and allows us to continue bringing you unbiased reviews.
Watch Our Overview Video
For a closer look at the YITAMOTOR 43″ Clamp-On Pallet Forks, check out our general overview video on the Backroad Reviews YouTube channel. Ryan provides a hands-on demonstration and shares his personal insights on this versatile tractor attachment.
Today, we’re talking about a chainsaw chain that’s become a must-have for any serious homesteader or forestry worker—the Stihl 3623 005 0066 Chainsaw Chain (https://amzn.to/3ZRl15M). Whether you’re deep in the woods or working around the homestead, this chain, combined with the right setup, gives you the durability and performance that makes your chainsaw feel unstoppable.
Before we get started, check out my video overview of this product on our Backroad Reviews YouTube channel! In it, I explain why this OEM chain is such a powerhouse for tough jobs.
Table of Contents
Why Stihl 3623 005 0066 Chainsaw Chain Stands Out
Let’s kick things off by saying this: Stihl knows how to build a chainsaw chain. When you’re comparing this chain to those cheap aftermarket ones, it’s like night and day. Right out of the box, you can tell the difference in the craftsmanship—especially in the master links and joints. As I mentioned in the video (around the 00:44 mark), you can literally feel the quality difference when you handle this chain compared to knock-offs.
The Stihl 3623 005 0066 Chainsaw Chain features Oilomatic lubrication, which helps reduce friction and keeps your chain cooler during long jobs. That means fewer issues with overheating and less downtime for cleaning up gunk between cuts. And trust me, if you’re using this on the homestead or for forestry work, that’s a game-changer.
Built to Last and Easy to Resharpen
One of the things I love most about this chain is its longevity. This isn’t a chain you’ll need to replace after a handful of uses. The 33 RS 66 can be resharpened multiple times without losing its edge—meaning you’re getting more bang for your buck. A lot of customers online echo this sentiment, noting that the chain stays sharp longer than many cheaper options. For example, over at loggerchain.net, users mentioned that this chain cuts through hard or frozen wood with ease and lasts much longer than comparable brands.
Like I said in my video, it’s these little details—like the way the metal is pitted for extra grip—that show how much thought Stihl puts into its products. This chain is designed not only for performance but also for ease of use. It doesn’t gunk up easily, it’s easy to clean, and the airflow is fantastic, which prevents the chain from overheating, even when you’re working on long, tough jobs.
Minimal Kickback and Maximum Safety
A lot of chainsaw users are concerned about kickback, and for good reason. When you’re working with a tool that powerful, safety is key. Thankfully, the Stihl 3623 005 0066 Chainsaw Chain minimizes kickback while still maintaining its aggressive cutting style. It’s not a low-kickback chain per se, but for an experienced user, the balance between cutting speed and safety is spot on. I’ve used aftermarket chains before, and let me tell you, the kickback on some of those can be brutal. But with this Stihl chain, you can really feel the control.
As I mentioned in the video, you get the best results with OEM chains because they’re designed specifically for your Stihl chainsaw. It’s like having the perfect puzzle piece. Everything just fits and works the way it should.
My Personal Experience
On my homestead, I’ve been using this chain for all sorts of forestry work—cutting through dead oak, chestnut, and even some knotty pine. Whether I’m clearing land or prepping firewood, the Stihl 3623 005 0066 handles it all with ease. What I particularly love about this chain is how smoothly it cuts. There’s no “bogged down” feeling, even when I’m cutting through denser wood.
Another huge win is the durability. Like I said in the video (and I can’t emphasize this enough), these chains last. You don’t need to constantly sharpen or replace them, which is a time saver, especially when you’re out in the field and don’t have the luxury of heading back to the shop.
Why Choose Stihl Over Aftermarket?
Now, I’ve tried aftermarket chains before. They’re cheaper, sure, but here’s the thing: you really do get what you pay for. Those chains tend to dull faster, don’t hold up as well under heavy use, and sometimes, they don’t even fit right. Ever had a chain that just won’t sit right on your saw? Yeah, not fun.
Stihl’s 33 RS 66 chain is designed for precision. As I noted in the video, the difference in the metal quality is immediately noticeable. With Stihl, you get that smooth performance and a chain that’s built to handle the roughest jobs—whether that’s on your homestead or deep in the forest.
Affiliate Notice
https://amzn.to/3ZRl15M If you’re thinking about picking up one of these bad boys, make sure to use my affiliate links. I earn a small commission, which helps me continue to bring you in-depth reviews like this one. Thanks for your support!
Review of the Fence Tester Fault Finder Voltage Meter
Welcome back, folks! It’s Ryan from Backroad Reviews, and today I’m excited to bring you a closer look at the Fence Tester, an affordable and highly functional alternative to some of the higher-priced fence meters on the market. This little gadget is perfect for electric fences, whether you’re running solar or plugged-in chargers. And let me tell you, after using this for a few weeks around the homestead, it’s quickly become one of my go-to tools.
Now, I’ve also put together a review video for this product over on the Backroad Reviews YouTube channel, so if you’re the kind of person who prefers a visual walkthrough, be sure to check that out. In the video, I demonstrate the key features of this Fence Tester, so you can see firsthand why this unit is worth considering.
Video Breakdown
00:01 – Welcome to another Backroad Reviews! I kick things off by introducing this Fence Tester as a budget-friendly alternative to the pricier models. It’s multifunctional, easy to use, and works well with both low voltage solar chargers and high amperage chargers.
00:41 – I walk through the cool features, like the sound and light functions. You can adjust the signals to show either positive or negative voltage, and it’ll even tell you the direction of the current. This is super handy when you’re troubleshooting fence faults. It also reads amperage if it’s over 1 amp, otherwise, you’ll see kilovolts.
01:43 – I demonstrate how easy it is to use. The Fence Tester has a belt loop and comes with a little fabric pouch—perfect for throwing on your belt while you’re out checking the fence line.
02:33 – One of the great things about this unit? It runs on a 9V battery that lasts a long time because you’re only using it intermittently. We’ve been using it for weeks now, and it’s still going strong!
Table of Contents
Budget-Friendly, High-Value Performance
One of the first things I noticed about this Fence Tester is the price. It’s significantly more affordable than some of the bigger brands, yet it offers a lot of the same features. If you’ve been searching for a fence meter but don’t want to shell out a ton of money, this is an excellent option.
The fact that it works with both low voltage solar chargers and high amperage chargers makes it versatile. Whether you’re running a Gallagher setup or something else, this tester has you covered. One of the things I love most is how simple it is to switch between low and high power modes—just a tap, and you’re good to go.
The Magic of the Large Digital Display
Like I mentioned in the video, the digital LCD display on this Fence Tester is super easy to read. Whether you’re checking your fence during the day or at dusk, the backlit screen ensures that you can always see what’s going on. This tester shows you the current voltage, and if the amperage is over 1 amp, it’ll show that too. Under 1 amp, you’ll get a kilovolt reading instead. It even has an indicator for when the battery’s running low, so you won’t get caught off guard.
Handy Belt Loop and Pouch
Another feature I really appreciate is the included pouch. It’s made of synthetic leather (or “pleather,” if you will), and it has reinforced stitching. There’s also a velcro top to keep the Fence Tester secure while you’re moving around. The belt loop makes it easy to carry with you out in the field, and because the tester itself is so lightweight, it’s barely noticeable on your belt.
Built for the Long Haul
Durability is always a concern when you’re working on a homestead, and this Fence Tester has held up beautifully. It’s been dropped, tossed around, and exposed to the elements, and it’s still working just as well as the day I took it out of the box. The ABS casing is tough and durable, which is exactly what you need when you’re working outdoors.
What Other Users Are Saying
I’m not the only one who thinks this Fence Tester is a winner. After reading through a bunch of reviews, it’s clear that folks love how easy it is to use and how much time it saves. One customer mentioned that it helped them find multiple issues with their fence that they wouldn’t have known about otherwise, while another appreciated the tester’s ability to quickly troubleshoot problems before they became major headaches.
A lot of people also praised the build quality. There were several mentions of how durable the Fence Tester is, even in harsh weather conditions. Someone even dropped theirs in water, and it still worked perfectly afterward! Not something I’d recommend trying, but it’s good to know that this tester can take a beating and keep going.
Final Thoughts
If you’re in the market for an affordable, durable, and easy-to-use electric fence tester, look no further. The Fence Tester really delivers, and it won’t break the bank. Whether you’re running a solar charger or a high-amperage setup, this little device can handle it all. Plus, it saves you time and gives you peace of mind, knowing that your fence is functioning properly.
And don’t forget—if you want to see this tester in action, head over to the Backroad Reviews YouTube channel. I’ve posted a full review there, where I walk you through the setup and show how the tester performs in real-world conditions. Trust me, you’ll be impressed!
Affiliate Disclosure: As an Amazon Associate, we earn from qualifying purchases. If you buy something through our affiliate links, we may earn a commission at no extra cost to you.
Milwaukee M18 FUEL 21-Degree Framing Nailer Review – A Game-Changer for DIY Projects
We’re going to break down the Milwaukee M18 FUEL 21-Degree Framing Nailer Kit, model 2744-20, which you can find right here on Amazonhttps://amzn.to/4dxRzVk combo pack or just the nailer https://amzn.to/4emHCLV. Now, this baby is an absolute powerhouse for framing projects on the homestead and around the house. First off, let me say, using a framing nailer without the hassle of cords and gas canisters is a dream come true! And with this Milwaukee model, I had a blast testing it out with some home improvement projects.
Table of Contents
For this review, I’ve also included a general overview video where you can watch me and my trusty assistant (or victim of peer pressure) give it a go firsthand. From assembling the nails to firing away, we had a lot of fun getting things done.
Unboxing and First Impressions
Right out of the box, the Milwaukee 2744-20 M18 FUEL Framing Nailer comes packed with the usual high-quality gear you’d expect from Milwaukee. The heavy-duty bag they give you is no joke; you could probably carry around a small dog in there if needed (not recommended, but hey, possibilities are endless!). But just a heads-up, if you’re buying this nailer as a stand-alone tool, it doesn’t come with the battery unless you get the full kit. If you’re already in the M18 family, this is no big deal because those batteries work across their tool range.
It comes with a standard magazine, and you can buy the extended one separately if you don’t want to keep refilling. But even the standard size is solid for most jobs.
Performance and Features
One of the standout features of the Milwaukee M18 FUEL Framing Nailer is the brushless motor. It’s smooth, powerful, and provides great efficiency when you’re working all day. With no gas canisters and no air hoses to trip over, it’s super easy to set up and get to work quickly. Plus, less noise—so your neighbors won’t hate you after those weekend projects!
The tool-free depth adjustment is awesome. You can make adjustments quickly without having to break out any other tools, making it perfect for on-the-fly tweaks as you go. The no-mar tip is great for those delicate pieces where you don’t want to leave marks, which means you can use it on finer projects like installing trim or baseboards without worrying about damage.
It has two firing modes, sequential and bump-fire. The sequential mode is pretty standard—just press the nose to the surface, pull the trigger, and boom, one nail is in. The bump-fire mode? Oh man, this is where it gets fun! You can crank out three nails per second just by holding down the trigger and bumping the tool against your work surface. It’s fast, efficient, and perfect for when you’re doing big framing jobs like roofing or decking. In the video, we put it to the test, and let me tell you, it’s almost too easy.
Battery Life
With the 5.0Ah battery pack, this framing nailer can fire up to 750 nails per charge. That’s a lot of nailing before you even need to think about swapping batteries. The battery life on this thing is fantastic for those larger jobs. No need to be constantly running back and forth to recharge or swap batteries.
And since this tool runs on the Milwaukee M18 platform, if you’ve got other M18 tools (like I do), the batteries are all interchangeable, which is a huge bonus for any homesteader or DIY enthusiast. Just slap in a fresh battery, and you’re good to go again.
Handling and Usability
Weighing in at around 9.6 pounds, this nailer is in the middleweight category, but it feels balanced in hand. Even if you’re working on framing an entire room or putting together a new chicken coop, it’s light enough to use for extended periods without feeling like you’re dragging around a ton of bricks.
The onboard belt hook and rafter hook are lifesavers, especially if you’re working on a ladder or scaffold. You can hook it right onto your toolbelt or hang it up on a rafter if you need to free your hands. This came in handy during our review project, and in the video, you’ll see me putting that hook to good use.
Safety First
As always, safety is key. One of the things I love about the Milwaukee 2744-20 M18 FUEL Framing Nailer is the dry fire lockout, which keeps the tool from firing if you’re out of nails. This feature saves you from unnecessary wear and tear on the nailer itself, and, of course, saves you from firing blanks. And, just like I always tell folks—never leave a battery in a tool if you’re walking away from it. The easy battery removal feature on this tool lets you take the power out of it quickly to avoid any accidental firings.
Final Thoughts: Is It Worth It?
In short—heck yes! The Milwaukee M18 FUEL 21-Degree Framing Nailer is hands down one of the best tools you can get for framing without the fuss of gas or cords. It’s reliable, powerful, and built to handle pretty much any job you throw at it, whether you’re working on a full home renovation or tackling smaller projects on the homestead.
A few customers out there have mentioned that it’s heavier than a pneumatic nailer, but honestly, the freedom of no hoses or compressors more than makes up for the extra weight. Plus, Milwaukee’s build quality and their fantastic customer support make this a no-brainer. I’d highly recommend it if you’re in the market for a top-tier cordless nailer.
If you want to see it in action, be sure to check out the video I put together for Backroad Reviews, where I walk you through the unboxing and put this nailer to the test. Spoiler alert: it does not disappoint!
