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Edmonton to Alaska with Escape as TV

Printed From: R-pod Owners Forum
Category: R-pod Discussion Forums
Forum Name: Camping Adventures
Forum Discription: Post your camping adventures here for all to share
URL: http://www.rpod-owners.com/forum_posts.asp?TID=10367
Printed Date: 04 May 2024 at 3:38pm
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Topic: Edmonton to Alaska with Escape as TV
Posted By: AndrewEscape
Subject: Edmonton to Alaska with Escape as TV
Date Posted: 20 Jul 2017 at 12:07am
I'm in the Kenai right now, well into my trip having followed the Alaska Hwy to Whitehorse, then up and across the Top of the World Hwy to Fairbanks and down through Denali, etc...

All that to say, no drama at all with the relatively small 2013 2.0L Escape w/factory towing package. The only significant downside I've found is the small gas tank and expectedly low (~12) MPG while towing. Although I've never found myself lacking power from the engine, there were two occasions where the engine got hot on 90 degree + days with extended steep climbs. 

Hopefully my experience emboldens others to do the same with this trailer/TV package. Here are a few caveats on my recommendation:

1. Stay comfortably below the stated towing limits of the 2.0L Escape w/towing package:

GVWR 3500lbs
GCWR 7639lbs
tongue weight 350lbs

Don't guess these numbers - load up your trailer and get your axles weighed to know how much excess capacity you have for fresh water, grey/black water, etc... 

2. Start with one of the lighter r-pods, to allow yourself sufficient room within the stated towing capacities. I picked up a 2010 177 without AC or microwave. Dry weight is just below 2600lbs. 

2. Invest in a quality anti-sway/weight distribution hitch. I bought the http://www.etrailer.com/Weight-Distribution/Husky/HT32215.html - Husky Center Line model. Works great, excellent value. Hitch itself is heavy (~50lbs), so be fit/able to deal with that regularly on and off the TV. 

3. Use a quality proportional brake controller. This is a no-brainer when towing anything over 2000 lbs, but I feel I still need to mention it. 

4. Don't drive like a maniac. I've spent the trip either driving at, or below, the posted speed limits in the interest of safety and fuel economy.

If you have any questions, fire away!

- Andrew



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2010 R-Pod 177



Replies:
Posted By: Leo B
Date Posted: 20 Jul 2017 at 6:29am
Welcome to the group!! Congrats on your trip, sounds like a great adventure!! We are hoping to do an Alaska Trip in the future!!

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Leo & Melissa Bachand
2017 Ford F150
2021 Vista Cruiser 19 csk
Previously owned
2015 Rpod 179
2010 Rpod 171


Posted By: birderdiane526
Date Posted: 20 Jul 2017 at 7:25pm
Sounds great! We're going to visit Alaska next summer for a few months! So looking forward to it!

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Diane and Michael
2016 179 "PIP" (PODDING IN PARADISE)
2007 Toyota Tundra
BLOG:Podding in Paradise,
birderdiane526.blogspot.com



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