used Pod purchase help please
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Topic: used Pod purchase help please
Posted By: jrpappas
Subject: used Pod purchase help please
Date Posted: 12 Nov 2017 at 11:35am
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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 |
Replies:
Posted By: mcarter
Date Posted: 12 Nov 2017 at 12:25pm
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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 " I had the right to remain silent, I just didn't have the ability." |
Posted By: jrpappas
Date Posted: 12 Nov 2017 at 12:37pm
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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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Posted By: mcarter
Date Posted: 12 Nov 2017 at 12:57pm
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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." |
Posted By: GlueGuy
Date Posted: 12 Nov 2017 at 1:09pm
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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 |
Posted By: mcarter
Date Posted: 12 Nov 2017 at 1:42pm
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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." |
Posted By: jrpappas
Date 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. |
Posted By: Craneman
Date Posted: 12 Nov 2017 at 4:53pm
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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 2010 174 2011 Ford 150 |
Posted By: mcarter
Date Posted: 12 Nov 2017 at 5:01pm
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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." |
Posted By: Gregm
Date Posted: 12 Nov 2017 at 7:24pm
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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 2015 Toyota Tacoma Prerunner |
Posted By: bigbearcraig
Date Posted: 13 Nov 2017 at 11:00am
| I don't know what your tow vehicle is, but if it can handle a little more weight I would be looking at a 20 or 22ft trailer. The R Pod is a great little trailer, but very small for three people. It can be done, but it's going to be crowded with minimal storage space. |
Posted By: jrpappas
Date Posted: 13 Nov 2017 at 11:41am
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Thank you all for your advice. I asked the seller for a copy of the inspection and receipts for the other work (new tires, seal) done. He has ceased contact with me so far. This may be an indication that he wasn't being fully upfront with his description of the condition of the trailer. Disappointing but definitely better than buying a headache. I'll keep you all informed and ask for more advice, I'm sure! Best, John
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Posted By: Gregm
Date Posted: 13 Nov 2017 at 11:41am
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good luck. ------------- Gregm 2014 171 2015 Toyota Tacoma Prerunner |
Posted By: mcarter
Date Posted: 13 Nov 2017 at 11:56am
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Think I saw this trailer on RV Trader. I agree if contact is quiet, cause for concern. BTW the 182G is a 20 foot trailer, sleeps 4, with dinette as bed. The only issue I have noticed is the older 182Gs, did not have front storage with door on curbside. They do have rear pass through. ------------- Mike Carter 2015 178 " I had the right to remain silent, I just didn't have the ability." |
Posted By: Jasp
Date Posted: 13 Nov 2017 at 3:50pm
| Good luck John, you will find your perfect camper ! I think you're off to a good start by doing all the proper research ! |