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jrpappas View Drop Down
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Joined: 12 Nov 2017
Location: Phoenix
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Posts: 7 		Direct Link To This Post Topic: used Pod purchase help please
    Posted: 12 Nov 2017 at 11:35am
I'm a perspective R-Pod owner and first time camper/trailer buyer. I have wonderful travel trailer memories from my own childhood and finally looking to create some for my two kids, 11 and 6 years old.

I think the 182-g is the perfect solution for our growing kids.  I've found one about a 5 mile drive from my home in Phoenix.  It's far enough away that I want to know what questions to ask, what to look for when I get there, whether the asking price is reasonable, etc.  I'm wondering if anyone has some advice for this newbie.

My hope is to get into a used R-Pod at a reasonable price, clean it up and get it on the road as soon as possible.  Repairs and mods are down the road I'm sure.  I just want to get started out on the right foot!

The model I'm looking at is a 2011 182-G.  The description says that 

"This RPod has been extremely well kept. 

It has a been recently sealed, new tires, new scissor lifts a new electronic lift added to the front, and a recent inspection to verify all systems are good to go. 

This trailer is very light and can sleep 4 comfortably, but i typically have 5 in it. 

This also comes with the R Dome."

Thanks in advance for any advice!

John
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mcarter View Drop Down
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Joined: 07 Apr 2016
Location: Greenbrier, TN
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Posts: 3419 		Direct Link To This Post Posted: 12 Nov 2017 at 12:25pm
Very popular model with aft kitchen/garage. You didn't mention a price, and I would ask current owner for walk thru with tests to prove all works. Then I would do a good physical survey to find any problem areas. Ask them if you can tow test.
Mike Carter
2015 178
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jrpappas View Drop Down
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Posts: 7 		Direct Link To This Post Posted: 12 Nov 2017 at 12:37pm
thanks Mike.  Great advice.

As a person with no RV experience, are there certain things that I should specifically look for?  Details that are often issues, especially with R-Pods?

I'm thinking of larger issues that may be expensive to repair, like stove, sink, water pump, heat pump, suspension, audio/video.  What am I missing?  Should I tow it to a local shop to have a mechanic look under it, not unlike buying a used auto?
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mcarter View Drop Down
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Posts: 3419 		Direct Link To This Post Posted: 12 Nov 2017 at 12:57pm
The things like microwave, stove, AC, audio video, heater, water pump, water heater can be verified during a good walk thru. They should demonstrate they work. My concern would be with what I can't see. The brakes and the axle. I would ask why it has new tires. Could be a very reasonable explanation, could be the new tires hide an existing issue with the axle. I would ask to tow it, have your spouse follow you, see if it tows straight and brakes properly. If there's a reputable RV place nearby, I wouldn't have an issue with an inspection. You mentioned seller claimed it was inspected, he should have documentation. Somebody to verify with.
Mike Carter
2015 178
" I had the right to remain silent, I just didn't have the ability."
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GlueGuy View Drop Down
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Posts: 2631 		Direct Link To This Post Posted: 12 Nov 2017 at 1:09pm
With a 6-year-old R-pod, the original tires are likely past their "use by" date.

One of the more expensive things to replace/repair would be the refrigerator.

I'd hook up a hose to verify the fresh water tank holds water, and that the plumbing works to all the faucets/toilet/shower.

Look at the date(s) on the battery (batteries). The normal life of a lead-acid battery is typically 5 years or so. Also verify that the converter works (bring a DVM to check battery voltage both connected to shore power and not).
bp
2017 R-Pod 179 Hood River
2015 Ford F150 SuperCrew 4WD 3.5L Ecoboost
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mcarter View Drop Down
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Joined: 07 Apr 2016
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Posts: 3419 		Direct Link To This Post Posted: 12 Nov 2017 at 1:42pm
Sill ask about tires, no guarantee they replaced "original tires".   Make sure reefer works, and good catch by Glue Guy on battery dates and converter.
Mike Carter
2015 178
" I had the right to remain silent, I just didn't have the ability."
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jrpappas View Drop Down
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Posts: 7 		Direct Link To This Post Posted: 12 Nov 2017 at 2:54pm
Thanks for all your advice.  I'm not too savvy when it comes to electrical so I think I'll try and organize another inspection or at least get verification of the current inspection.  I'll ask him to email me a copy of the inspection and resealing.
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Craneman View Drop Down
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Posts: 387 		Direct Link To This Post Posted: 12 Nov 2017 at 4:53pm
Remember you are looking at a used 6 year old trailer,there will be normal wear and tear issues. So you will have to make your decisions. But general condition is a good indicator of over all condition,good luck!!!!!
      Moe
Jo and Gary, 2010-174,2011 F150

Jo and Gary
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mcarter View Drop Down
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Posts: 3419 		Direct Link To This Post Posted: 12 Nov 2017 at 5:01pm
1 last thing, look for delamination, any area where the skin looks bubbled and separated from the trailer, generally indication of a present or past leak. Make sure the floor is not spongy.
Mike Carter
2015 178
" I had the right to remain silent, I just didn't have the ability."
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Gregm View Drop Down
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Posts: 103 		Direct Link To This Post Posted: 12 Nov 2017 at 7:24pm
Definitely check the axle and make sure the tires do not camber In at the top. Some axles have bent on the pods and that could be an indication since the tires have been replaced
Gregm
2014 171
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