R-Pod 179 Defective Dinette

Hello fellow Podders,

I am writing to inform anyone that is considering buying the 179 model to know that the dinette is defective as it does not fold down low enough to allow for anywhere near a level sleeping area. The table is 3 inches higher (see photo below) so it is very uncomfortable and not level at all. If you plan on using it as a sleeping area, you might consider another model or trailer entirely. I specifically purchased this model so that my daughter and guests could join me while camping.

I spoke with the dealer to see what could be done to correct this issue. I had a long conversation with Rodney Jarnagin of Forest River today. He was very nice and understanding but this was their response.

- Unfortunately, that is just the way they are.

- We are aware of this but don't have any plans to change it. The discrepancy is within our tolerance levels.

- They are not all the same height. When I asked if they would check to see if they could send me a shorter one they said that they wouldn't be willing to have someone measure the tables to see if I could get a replacement. They just have too many.

- I should take off the plastic bottom and screws. I checked and this would lower it 3/4 an inch and probably scratch up the floors but there is still 2 inches.

- I mentioned that other owners had cut and re-connected the base. They said "you can do that too" How nice of them. When asked if they would pay to have this done, I was told that Forest River would not be willing to do this.

Frankly, I am so disappointed. This is not a small issue where my guests are concerned. I realize that dinettes are not the most comfortable sleeping options but you generally don't have a big lump in the middle.

I normally don't put things out there on the web but I think it is important for anyone considering the Rpod 179 to know.

I just stumbled on the pictures in this post, which appears to have the same legs:  http://www.rpod-owners.com/forum_posts.asp?TID=842&PID=54292&title=list-your-mods#54292

This has been an issue with the 179 since it's debut.  We often caution new owners that the numbers the 179 claims to sleep are exaggerated because of this issue.

I appreciate the comments and fix's. They actually now provide a cushion to fill in where you mentioned so it should work, right?

I guess I never thought that something so basic and necessary would be handled so poorly by the manufacturer. Know its an issue, do nothing. I specifically bought a new unit instead of used because this is my first travel trailer (had pop-up previously) and I wanted to make sure that everything worked properly and I didn't get any surprises. Guess I learned a big lesson here.

Thank you for the advice.

Truly disappointed, Leigh

I have the 179 and mine drops to the correct level. The cushions are off a bit. We actually removed the table anyway