Steve T.
Yelp
First the positives, then the negatives.
POSITIVES:
Kyler Farabee, the son: He spoke with me on the phone several times as I called to ask questions about Jeep rentals, and the all-day trip to The Racetrack. From what I'd read elsewhere online, I was TERRIFIED to try and rent a Jeep and drive the sharp-rocked rough gravel-graded road to the The Racetrack. So we requested and booked a tour, where someone was to drive us out there and back.
Kyler, continued: When the California mandate to once again "lock-down" hit, Farabee's made the difficult yet ethical decision to cancel all tours, since it would be two separate family groups in close proximity (my guess it might have been Ryan Farabee, other son, driving). He gently suggested that I could rent a jeep and still drive out myself (my wife and I). My reaction: "talk me into it. I don't want to change any flat tires." He proceeded to let me know that the heavy-duty tires they have on those jeeps are not prone to flats. And that full instructions and equipment (jack) comes with each vehicle for changing a tire. Finally, a satellite device (SPOT) is sent with us for getting help in any emergency. SOLD!
Richard, the dad: Richard met us Wed morning 12/09 at 8:00am. He was SO reassuring. He showed me the SPOT device, demonstrating how to turn it on and send a HELP signal. He pointed to the 911 button (but did not demonstrate). He had me sit in the vehicle and start it up. It's not like I expected... keyless start, digital display, tons of helpful information on the console. Finally he showed me the jack and tire changing equipment with instructions, easily accessible in the back. Then the part that touched my heart: He showed me a can of "Fix-it". He said that it wasn't for the giant tires on the jeep, but rather for other vehicles who might be flat - "just give it away to them" he said.
Ryan, the other son: Dude looked really cool in his aqua-teal hair, and he was nice too as he worked with his father to check in another couple who were renting, too, a few minutes after us. His business card says "Mechanic" and he looked really knowledgeable.
The vehicle, a Jeep Wrangler rode like a Lexus, I swear. When we hit the rough sharp-stoned road, I pulled it into 4WD just like Richard showed me.
The ride and rental was a pleasure, totally do-able, and all my fears are wiped away. We'll rent again on next visit, perhaps to do Titus Canyon and Echo Canyon.
Drop-off was super easy - filled it at the adjacent 24-hour gas station, and locked it, pushing the key through the hole in the door designed for this purpose.
NEGATIVES:
None.
Ha ha I played you. Normally my reviews have some honest suggestions for improvement, but I don't have any. It was totally a pleasure.