Freiburger’s latest road trip blends car troubles, roadside wrenching, ghost towns, and Rat Fink Americana into an unforgettable adventure.
Automotive personality David Freiburger has built a career out of making adventure from adversity, and his latest road trip story is no exception. In a new video, Freiburger takes his well-worn 1971 Plymouth Duster—nicknamed “The Red Duster”—on a cross-country journey that turns into a mix of breakdowns, roadside repairs, and unforgettable encounters with America’s automotive past.
The trip began with trouble almost immediately, as the Duster failed just miles into the drive. With the help of fellow gearhead @junkerup, Freiburger was soon back on the highway, determined to continue his 1,800-mile quest. Along the way, the group tracked down vintage cars and trucks, explored ghost towns, and stopped at abandoned mines, all while keeping the Duster alive with on-the-spot wrenching.
One highlight of the journey was a stop at the Rat Fink Museum, honoring hot rod legend Ed “Big Daddy” Roth. The visit provided a moment of reflection on the creativity and cultural impact of Roth’s wild designs, which remain a cornerstone of hot rod Americana.
Midway through, Freiburger linked up with longtime collaborator David and fellow automotive YouTuber Derek Bieri. Sharing stories of mechanical mishaps, the group compared notes on roadside survival strategies. Bieri, known for coaxing questionable machinery across vast distances, impressed Freiburger with inventive fixes and road-tested tricks.
For Freiburger, the joy of the trip wasn’t limited to the destinations. The breakdowns, improvisations, and shared laughs formed the heart of the adventure. It was a reminder that in car culture, the road itself often tells the best story.
Freiburger’s latest escapade captures what fans love most about his work: real cars, real problems, and real fun woven together across America’s backroads.
