New to forum, many questions

Looking at Rpod 171 and 177, because these are on the lighter side, around 2500 lbs dry, according to the shipping labels I've been able to view in Rpod listings on rvtrader. Other Rpods have more room, but I'm not comfortable with their heavier weight.

I'm looking for input and feedback from anybody with experience in these areas. My TV is a 2016 Kia Sedona minivan. 3.3L engine, 276 hp, 6 speed transmission, with manual shift capability. Rated for 3500 lb tow capacity and 350 lb hitch weight. Will just be DW and me, no kids, grandkids, or pets. We are not completely new to camping, having previously owned a pop-up camper and then a class A rv, but never a real travel trailer.

1. I'd like to hear from anybody using a minivan as TV for these Rpods. Is it unsafe, or unrealistic, to use a 3500 lb rated minivan to pull a 2500 lb Rpod (so maybe 2700 to 2800 lb actual loaded weight)? I plan to travel with mostly empty holding tanks, and use camping sites with full hookups, so won't be traveling with 250 lbs of water. Any dry camping would be only a day or two at most.

2. Both DW and I are wondering how anybody can take a shower in the wet bath. We are not big people, but just standing up in the wet bath is a trick, the backs of my legs are against the toilet, and turning around is next to impossible. So what do you guys do? Take a shower sitting down? Or simply forget showering in the camper and just use campground showers?

3. Should we use a WDH right from the start? If so, what hitch do you recommend?

4. What brake controller do you recommend? Any other advice or experience you want to share about using brake controllers would be very welcome. My only experience towing trailers was 30 years ago with a popup camper and a small boat trailer, each towed by a full-size van. Neither trailer had brakes.

I appreciate any feedback you want to share.

1. I don't tow with a minivan. While at the lower end of capability, it sounds like you'll get where you are going - just don't plan on using 6th gear and no drag racing!

2. How to shower.....well.....you'll get used to it. The shower and toilet is one of my main reasons for owning a TT. Sitting - I did it at times. You just have to figure out what works. Whatever you do... DON'T DROP THE BAR OF SOAP! It's difficult to retrieve in such a small area.

3. I'd recommend it - especially since the van is probably softly sprung in the rear (and the 350lbs dead hitch weight limit). The FASTWAY E2 is very popular among this group (I use it).

4. I use the Prodigy controller and have been well pleased with it. There are cheaper ones and more expensive ones. I would not go with the cheaper (I've owned in the past). The few dollars more for the Prodigy is worth it.

If you are at all "handy", installation of the hitch and controller is not that bad and you can save a lot DIY. Many folks here have done it and can help with questions.

Good Luck!

I have a town & country with a 4.0L pulling a 2016 176T. 2750 dry, probably over 3500 loaded. I've driven from Omaha back to Denver then down to Mississippi and back. Drives just fine. I have a WISH which does help a lot. I drove once without it and will never do that again. Only complaint is rear end sag. It's so bad that I lost all my plumbing underneath because the drains were closer to the ground d. Two dealers could not fix the sag. A local hitch only place says they can. The sag caused less then optimal front end traction.

Clearance is an issue at the hitch, but livable. Otherwise it pulls fine at speed, 75+. My controller is a Prodigy RF because I also have a Jeep, which is why I bought all this. If I go east, I take the van, west it's the Jeep.

If you have a transmission cooler you will be OK. Love the RPod.


Derek

To shower in our 177 I begin showering by sitting on the toilet, and then I stand up, turn around, and assume the "George Washington crossing the Delaware River" position.  It works quite well and I am 6' 185#s. I removed the shower hose from the wall holder so as to have full range of motion with it.

Most KOA campgrounds will let you shower for a reasonable fee.