Intro - Potential R-Pod 190?

Installed the Jack-it our 179 just a few weeks ago.  Haven't used it on the road but had no issues with the installation. 

Originally posted by openrangeowner I wil look at other lighter models (my wife is insisting on a dry-bath, so the 180, 189 and 190 are the only R-Pods that have these).  Personally I don't care if the bath is wet or dry .... but I don't spend much time in there.

I did some TV research today - looks like the Hybrid model weighs more (somewhere between 500-1000lbs more for battery and other additional electronic gear) so they decreased the tow rating from 5K based on this.  One site mentioned that Toyota only tests towing at 3500 lbs or 5000 lbs.  Several people have pulled 4K (scale-weighed) trailers with the same model/type vehicle with no issues.

I'd be concerned about the structure of the vehicle. Remember that the gasoline model's layout doesn't have to make room for a huge bank of batteries. That's likely the reason for the 3500 pound tow limit.

Welcome to the group.  Search and you will find all your answers here.  We just went the opposite selling our RPOD for a larger but still couples camper for long trips as we are retired.  I think most will recommend a lighter RPOD since you only have 3500 lb towing capacity (or stick to short hauls over flat terrain).  That is pushing it.  The 189/190 is the heaviest of RPODS.  A 171 would be better at 400 lbs less weight and 2 feet shorter.  I did not know the 189/190 went back to the separate sewer outlets.  Using one is a pain.  I would not like to have to use two connections. Also note that the RPOD is almost unusable without extending the slideout as it pushes against the door to the bath.  Other PODS with slideout can be used without having to extend it. For some other questions:  A Thule is the way to go if you just want shade over your picnic table.  The R Dome is really for having the kids sleep in a tent or you camp in mosquito infested campsites.  It is not easy to put up and not worth it if you just want an awning.  With the Thule you can buy a conversion kit that converts to a tent but I think they are still only sold in Europe thus too expensive to ship.  People have mounted the internal EMS 30W surge protector next to the fuse box in the 190.  We think it is one of the must have additions.  Forest River does not offer plant tours but they have an annual Rally nearby and I heard fantastic stories about them.  One person I met who has a five year old motorhome went two years ago and a bunch of FR staff descending on him and looked at the home.  They left and came back an hour later bringing all sorts of new goodies (such as new seat cushions, new doors, and anything else that needed repairs was fixed all out of warranty!!!).  Whatever POD you select you will love them for the ease of travel as they are the best campers around hands down.  And nobody has a better forum than this one for help