towing
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Forum Name: Introduce Yourself
Forum Discription: New Members - tell us about yourself and your r-pod
URL: http://www.rpod-owners.com/forum_posts.asp?TID=3813
Printed Date: 22 May 2024 at 10:50pm
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Topic: towing
Posted By: zoaliway
Subject: towing
Date Posted: 06 Aug 2013 at 3:12pm
| Can any one tell me if my 2004 6 cyl honda pilot (3,500 lb towing max) will have problems with an r pod 178? |
Replies:
Posted By: techntrek
Date Posted: 06 Aug 2013 at 4:11pm
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Welcome. The 178 is listed as 2535 pounds dry weight, but that doesn't include the A/C, propane tank or propane, battery, Dome or any other accessories that came with it. Just this will put you close to 3000 pounds. Then you have to add in your clothes, towels, food, and any water in the fresh water tank, plus anything else you've loaded like chairs or an outside stove. At this point you will be closer to the 3500 pound limit. Another issue is the tounge weight. The 178 starts at 257 pounds before any accessories, and most TVs have a 300 pound limit without a WDH hitch (TV = tow vehicle, WDH = weight distribution hitch). After loading in an extra 1000 pounds of accessories and stuff you'll be closer to 350 pounds on the hitch.
Many here, including me, did ok with a 6 cylinder vehicle with a 3500 pound limit. Short trips on back roads are fine, even shorter trips on the highway. For me a long trip with a heavy headwind made me change my mind - the problem towing the pod isn't the weight, its the wind resistance. Plus now that I've been over a 7000 foot pass near Albuquerque I'm very glad I didn't have my old TV to do it. If you plan on doing big trips you'll want a more capable TV. ------------- Doug ~ '10 171 (2009-2015) ~ 2008 Salem ~ http://www.rpod-owners.com/forum_posts.asp?TID=1723 - Pod instruction manual 
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Posted By: CharlieM
Date Posted: 06 Aug 2013 at 4:17pm
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I pull my 172 with a 4WD 2010 Pilot. No problems on the flats of FL and AL so far. But it's rated at 4500# due to the 4WD; the non-4WD version is rated at 3500#, primarily due to the lack of the transmission cooler I think. Higher altitude and higher incline towing remains to be seen this fall. Many Podders tow with 3500# rated 3.5L vehicles. Just go slow up the hills and stay at 60 MPH on the highways. If you plan to tow under these conditions I recommend a ScanGuage to monitor transmission oil temperature.
------------- Charlie Northern Colorado OLD: 2013 RP-172, 2010 Honda Pilot 3.5L 4WD PRESENT: 2014 Camplite 21RBS, 2013 Supercharged Tacoma 4L V6 4WD |
Posted By: Cavendish
Date Posted: 06 Aug 2013 at 11:15pm
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I tow with a 2010 Honda Ridgeline, which came equipped from the factory with a tow package, including a transmission cooler, built-in 2" receiver, and prewired for electric brakes. We've had our 2013 176T for only a month, and have pulled it about 1,000 miles. All of the driving has been in my home province of Nova Scotia, which is far from flat. I travel with only 10 gallons of water, and avoid "freighting-up" the pod. The combination works beautifully, and we're about to venture further next week. In the past I have towed a 2000 pound camper with a 6 cylinder Ford Escape (rated for 3500 lb), and it laboured. Ultimately the transmission paid the price, and that was a very very expensive repair. Some things I have learned: do not exceed 60 mph, and 55 is preferable for controlability, fuel economy, and stopping distance. Don't be afraid to shut off the overdrive and let the engine rev up. Offshore-manufactured engines develop their power further up the power band than North American engines do, so they will wind up to 4,000 rpm (and further) with no ill-effect. Drive gently using defensive techniques. Inflate the pod tires to 55 psi - it makes a big difference in rolling resistance. Never ever run on underinflated tires. Big-rig truckers will tell you that a full set of tires at only 5 psi under optimum pressure will cost as much as 30% in fuel economy. Use the cruise control only when it's a flat and easy drive, or when your leg absolutely needs a rest. Of course, if it's that critical, pull over, climb in the pod and make a cup of coffee. A question... I am not running with an equalizer kit. The dealer said I didn't need one, and Honda does not recommend one because it will "confuse" the automatic stabilization system. To date, I have towed the 176T on four-lane highways, two-lane highways, dirt roads, in cross-winds, and on rain-soaked roads with no ill effect, and always with full control. The Ridgeline will handle the tongue weight without any sag at the rear end. Yet, in this forum, there is quite a bit of talk about using equalizers. So I still have some doubt: what will an equalizer set-up do for me? Where is it really needed?
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Posted By: ron_whitt
Date Posted: 06 Aug 2013 at 11:28pm
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Zoa, I would never pull a pod with anything rated less than at least 4500lb. The safety factor is just not there. Also no matter what your dealer says, always have a tranny cooler installed, a few hundred $ now saves several thousand $ down the road. We have a toyota FJ and its rated for 5000lb for pulling. ------------- Ron & Shirley 2020 Tacoma 2012 177 rpod |
Posted By: GA_RPOD_178
Date Posted: 07 Aug 2013 at 12:20am
Ditto. Pulling 178 with 2013 Ridgeline. No problems. Installed E2, which has aided stability. -------------  [/URL]
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Posted By: Cavendish
Date Posted: 07 Aug 2013 at 7:32am
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Thanks Jim. My compliments on your Ridge-Pod combination. Very good taste in equipment! Any issues with the automatic stability control in the Ridgeline that you might be aware of? Do you shut it off? Or has it ever been an issue?
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Posted By: GA_RPOD_178
Date Posted: 07 Aug 2013 at 8:26am
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None. WDH has to be installed properly, bottom line. Much less sway issues on interstate. Got E2 hitch from Fastway. ------------- [/URL]
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Posted By: Camper Bob
Date Posted: 07 Aug 2013 at 9:10am
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This is coming from someone that has a TV with a tow rating of 6700 lbs, and having sold and towed RV's in the past. No doubt that your TV can tow the Rpod, however my thought is that "towing safely" really hasn't been addressed. Going down the straight highway, no hills, no other traffic, no 40' tractor trailers, etc. I would suggest that just about anything could pull the Rpod. However, stopping, accelerating, handling, etc. are part of the equation in pulling a trailer safely. Recently, one of the people who post on this board had a very serious accident while towing their pod. I don't know what the entire circumstances were, but the driver has since upgraded to a much more substantial vehicle with a much larger towing capacity. You are exposing your family as well as others, when you push the envelope of the TV's capacity. Those are my thoughts. Safe Travels.
------------- Camper Bob and Camper Sue Gracie the Wonder Dog (12 LB. Mini Dachshund) 2013 Rpod 171HRE(ORPod) 2016 Lance 1685 2015 Nissan Pathfinder |
Posted By: hogone
Date Posted: 07 Aug 2013 at 9:24am
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I totally agree Camper Bob ------------- Jon & Pam 2013 RP177 2010 F150 2017 HD Streetglide 2009 HD Lowrider CHEESEHEAD |
Posted By: Cavendish
Date Posted: 07 Aug 2013 at 10:35am
| Thank you. I'm on the hunt locally for one now. |
Posted By: TopJimmy5150
Date Posted: 08 Aug 2013 at 12:58pm
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I just got back from a business trip in Holland...you should see some of the Dutch Caravans and their tow vehicles. Some of these RVs are bigger than the Rpod and being towed by cars about the size of a Mazda3. They're everywhere. ------------- Jay 2014 R-Pod RP178 2015 Toyota Tundra SR5 Crewman 2008 Honda Odyssey |
Posted By: sammycamper
Date Posted: 08 Aug 2013 at 11:45pm
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You can always play it safe and make sure that you and all your passengers wear your helmets, seatbelts, steel toed shoes, teeth guards, and bullet proof vests; and you can buy a semi to pull your rPod. Someday, you and all your passengers will die. You will all die even sooner if you rely on any of those safety measures to keep you from harm. In the mean time, I think you can enjoy your rPod by towing it sensibly with your Pilot.
Sam
P.S.
I am actually more respectful of the counter opinions than this may appear. None-the-less, it is my firmly held position that the rPod was made to make RV camping possible for those of us with less than a Suburban in our garage and lifestyle. ------------- 2012 rPod 173 2008 Trailblazer 4WD V6 |
Posted By: Keith-N-Dar
Date Posted: 09 Aug 2013 at 5:13am
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Like so many things, the buyer has to be the one to ultimately decide what to tow with. Can it be safely done with a minimal TV: sure. But the smaller, lighter, shorter TV the more likely a problem will occur. This can be moderated by transmission coolers, weight distribution hitches, and anti-sway controls. Even with that stuff can happen.
------------- Keith-N-Dar Boris & Betty (Boston Terriers) 2011 R-Pod 177 2010 Ford F-150 |
Posted By: Sleepless
Date Posted: 09 Aug 2013 at 9:17am
Thanks, Sam. Seems like many members frown upon 6 cylinder vehicles as being unsuitable for towing. However, they rave about the merits of their "larger" TVs ability to tow. I have mentioned several times that I tow with a 6 cylinder 276 hp AWD Santa Fe, and it is generally scoffed at as a tow vehicle here. I bought this SUV specifically for towing use and pulled my 1900 pound boat almost daily to the Indian River to fish. It does great on all of the boat ramps in the area, while many pickups have traction problems when they retrieve their boats on a wet ramp. Many of the seemingly small TVs are much larger than they appear. My Santa Fe weighs over 4000 pounds, has a wide track, and has a 106" wheelbase. My last travel trailer weighed 2800 pounds and on our trip to the SouthWest, it performed flawlessly while climbing the 6 - 7% grades. Overall, it averages just under 13 mpg. I see no reason why a Honda Pilot or many similar vehicles would not perform similarly, if properly equipped. I do speak with a little authority. I began towing in 1955 (58 years ago) and have towed popups, boats and travel trailers up to 28', and have used tow vehicles ranging from a 1047 Chevy to a 34' bounder. I chose one of the lightest pod models, but I can say that the Santa Fe tows it better than my Yukon towed the 28' trailer. OK, I will get off of my soap box. Bob ------------- 2014 R-Pod 178 (OUR POD) 2009 Chevrolet Avalanche |
Posted By: techntrek
Date Posted: 09 Aug 2013 at 9:21am
Yes you can tow a pod with a minivan or smaller SUV, which I've said many times on the forum. I did it for 2 years with a 2003 Sienna (and pulled our much heavier popup with it and a 1998 Venture). The 178 isn't the model to do it with, though, if you are using a vehicle with a 3500 pound max rating (and a 300 pound max hitch weight). I laid out all of the numbers in my first post which support that reasoning. This is why we bought the 171 which is several hundred pounds lighter and has a lighter tongue weight. It was still pushing the limits when you add in wind load - as I discovered on a white-knuckle day when I couldn't even maintain 50 with the accelerator to the floor on flat ground with a strong head wind. I really wish I had a way to monitor my transmission temps at the time, I probably would have choked.
Go ahead and use a 3500 pound-rated TV, just use one of the lighter pod models. Don't do it with a 178 (or several other heavier models) unless you will always pack light and never travel with water in any of the tanks. ------------- Doug ~ '10 171 (2009-2015) ~ 2008 Salem ~ http://www.rpod-owners.com/forum_posts.asp?TID=1723 - Pod instruction manual
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Posted By: Kokopod
Date Posted: 09 Aug 2013 at 11:46am
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Yesterday we traded in our 2012 Jeep Liberty Arctic, because when we pulled our pod in extreme conditions (heat, wind) the transmission would overheat. Jeep does not make a Mopar transmission cooler for the Liberty, and installing an aftermarket would have voided our lifetime warranty.
We loved our Liberty; but when we purchased it, we owned an Aliner that was 1,000 pounds lighter than the Rpod. Add cargo, etc. and we were at just about max capacity (we use the Equalizer 4-point sway control and never felt unsafe about the actual tow, although SLOW was the word). We were in denial from last November (the first two times we overheated) until last month in Nevada with temps of 110 (two more overheats). When we took it into the dealer, they had to change the transmission fluid after only 30,000 because it was already dark. If we weren't overheating and if we could have added a transmission cooler, we would have the vehicle today, but you have to do what you have to do to be an Rpod owner. ------------- 2017 Jayco Melbourne 24k 2013 Premier 19FBPR Formerly-2013 R-pod 177HRE 2011 Dodge Durango Love a good road trip |
Posted By: GA_RPOD_178
Date Posted: 09 Aug 2013 at 1:27pm
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Have have a 178 and are pulling it with a v6 Honda Ridgeline. The Ridgeline is rated to tow 5000 lbs and has all the bells and whistles (tran cooler) as standard. Having said that, we have to pull some pretty steep rpms at times with the v6. If you go over to the Ridgeline Owners Forum, they all say the Honda engine can handle it, but there are certain times where some more torque would have helped. But since I drive a whole lot more than I tow, the great ride I get in the Ridgeline 90 percent of the time is just fine. You have to take your time, understand limitations on passing while towing and you'll get there. And have a WDH. It does make a difference. ------------- [/URL]
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Posted By: Sleepless
Date Posted: 09 Aug 2013 at 1:44pm
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All good comments. Pod weight was a big consideration when we were shopping for a used one. We chose the 173 (now discontinued) because of its floor plan which is ideal for 2 people and because of its comparative light weight. It is wlll below the towing capacity of our Santa Fe and the Santa Fe has a 100,000 warranty on its drive train, which eliminates any concerns about transmission problems. The 178 has a great floor plan, but is much heavier to tow. Bob ------------- 2014 R-Pod 178 (OUR POD) 2009 Chevrolet Avalanche |
Posted By: TopJimmy5150
Date Posted: 12 Aug 2013 at 11:50am
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We are towing a 178 with an '08 Honda Odyssey. No problems whatsoever. I realized from day one that we were at or exceeding our towing capacity and I drive accordingly. It tows like a dream. However, I will be upping the frequency of transmission fluid changes since our Odyssey just passed 100k miles. ------------- Jay 2014 R-Pod RP178 2015 Toyota Tundra SR5 Crewman 2008 Honda Odyssey |
Posted By: TopJimmy5150
Date Posted: 12 Aug 2013 at 11:53am
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I also tow with the tanks dry, FWIW. ------------- Jay 2014 R-Pod RP178 2015 Toyota Tundra SR5 Crewman 2008 Honda Odyssey |
Posted By: Seanl
Date Posted: 18 Aug 2013 at 10:10am
I have a 2009 Liberty and it came with a stock transmission cooler. I wonder if you could have just put in another stock cooler as an auxiliary . The only time I have overheated the transmission, here in the great white north, was when I was jockeying the trailer around my yard in 4x4 one day. The Trany cooler is not in line with the fan so if you are not moving fast enough to get air over the cooler it heats up. ------------- Sean, 2011 Rpod RP-173,2009 Jeep Liberty Rocky Mountain Edition 
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Posted By: Kokopod
Date Posted: 18 Aug 2013 at 2:53pm
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Oh, if only! We called Chrysler the first time it happened last October, they said NO! When it happened this time we called Chrysler. They said NO. The mechanic at our Chrysler dealer called - NO! ------------- 2017 Jayco Melbourne 24k 2013 Premier 19FBPR Formerly-2013 R-pod 177HRE 2011 Dodge Durango Love a good road trip |
Posted By: Kokopod
Date Posted: 18 Aug 2013 at 2:55pm
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By the way, ours had the full tow package! Obviously the full tow package was a wee bit lacking. ------------- 2017 Jayco Melbourne 24k 2013 Premier 19FBPR Formerly-2013 R-pod 177HRE 2011 Dodge Durango Love a good road trip |
Posted By: HuronSailor
Date Posted: 18 Aug 2013 at 4:15pm
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Just an FYI here as to camper weight. I recently took a tour of FR's rpod/Surveyor factory, and as a final step every camper is weighed. The weight includes every factory installed option as well as the empty propane tank. rPods don't ship with batteries, so that weight is not included. Air conditioners and microwaves are normally installed at the factory, so that weight is in fact included. The weight printed on the screen door sticker is the weight of that individual camper as it leaves the factory door. ------------- .: Mark & Beth :: Silverado 5.3L :: 2018 rPod 180 :. |
Posted By: Sleepless
Date Posted: 18 Aug 2013 at 7:40pm
I had my doubts, but this checks out. My pod's specification weight is 133 pounds less than shown on the screen door. That should be about right. ------------- 2014 R-Pod 178 (OUR POD) 2009 Chevrolet Avalanche |
Posted By: Chops
Date Posted: 18 Aug 2013 at 9:55pm
| we tow a 178 with a honda odyssey. No problems but we did make some modifications to make towing easier on the Ody. FYI the dry weight on the door was 2926 I believe.... |
Posted By: Sleepless
Date Posted: 19 Aug 2013 at 9:02am
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Just for weight comparison purposes, my 173's sticker shows 2172 pounds. Bob ------------- 2014 R-Pod 178 (OUR POD) 2009 Chevrolet Avalanche |
Posted By: GA_RPOD_178
Date Posted: 19 Aug 2013 at 9:10am
The "screen door weight" for our 2013 178 was 2745. ------------- [/URL]
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Posted By: HuronSailor
Date Posted: 19 Aug 2013 at 11:33am
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Here's a site which explains all the different numbers on an RV: http://changingears.com/rv-sec-tow-vehicles-understand.shtml - http://changingears.com/rv-sec-tow-vehicles-understand.shtml On this site it says the manufacturer itself defines how UVW (we're calling it screen door weight) is figured. The Unloaded Vehicle Weight of an RV can be an average or estimated weight for each model. It can, but may not, include factory installed options, or it may include only the most commonly ordered options. It also says that some manufacturers weigh each unit to determine the UVW. This is the case at Forest River's Rpod/Surveyor plant. They actually park each unit on a scale and print the sticker just before it goes out the door. The screen door weight of our 2009 172 is 2330#. That included every available factory option except risers. The Gross Vehicle Weight Rating of my model as stated on the sticker on the left front of the pod is 3179#, which means I can load 849# of stuff before I hit the maximum. This "maximum stuff" number is also printed on the door sticker. I've noticed that the slide out models are hundreds of pounds heavier than our model. This must mean these models use a different axle than the Lippert model on my pod, and their GVWR must be higher than mine. True? I know they have a couple of axle suppliers.
------------- .: Mark & Beth :: Silverado 5.3L :: 2018 rPod 180 :. |
Posted By: Thinker
Date Posted: 19 Aug 2013 at 3:22pm
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I bought my pod and did not even drive it home. I went to the highway weigh station. I pulled on the side and went to talk to the weigh master.
I asked him if he would weigh my trailer separately, and print out the results. He said ok, get back in line and watch the lights. I pulled up until I got the red light. He then motioned me forward. Again I pulled on the side and he gave me the printout. I don't have it in front of me but the trailer axle was around 2750# Story continues... I then went home and unhitched the pod, I took a bathroom scale with 350# capacity and put it under the jack pole, I leveled the rig. It showed the tongue weight of 270# So that put me a tad over 3000#. That was before any food, water, clothes, chairs, tables, were loaded. It also did not count for the passengers in the TV or all the extra stuff I piled in there. Totally loaded, I was probably 3800# (I weigh 250++) DW is 125 All of this means is that you have a TV with 5000# rating, you are safe, if you have proper hitch connection and brake controller. For those of you who have a 3500# rating, you can rationalize all you want, repair your transmission as often as you want, but the bottom line is that you are overloaded. And if you go slow enough for short distances, you will probably have a great time, but if anything happens that involves an accident, you will be charged with contributory negligence if you are overloaded. What matters is true weight... not what is printed on the screen door, or listed in specifications. ------------- Tow Vehicle: 2013 Pathfinder 4WD R-POD Model 171 
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Posted By: Camper Bob
Date Posted: 19 Aug 2013 at 3:50pm
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Thanks so much for validating my and others thinking. Remember the old adage, "You can lead a horse to water, but you can't make them drink." Call me what you like but for me my safety and safety of others should be first and foremost in all of our towing situations. Safe Travels. ------------- Camper Bob and Camper Sue Gracie the Wonder Dog (12 LB. Mini Dachshund) 2013 Rpod 171HRE(ORPod) 2016 Lance 1685 2015 Nissan Pathfinder |
Posted By: sammycamper
Date Posted: 20 Aug 2013 at 6:57am
I’ll just call you Camper Bob, but I respectfully disagree. I have a particular problem with suggestions and innuendo and outright claims that those who tow with an oversized TV are being considerate of others on the highway, while those who tow with marginal vehicles are not. If we’re lucky, most of us tow our campers about a dozen times a year; but, our TVs are typically used daily. Others always come out worse when they are involved in a collision with an oversized vehicle. Others have to breathe the air that our TVs foul. Others have to pay gas prices based on our demands at the pump. Others have to park around our TVs in parking ramps and lots. Others have to see around the view blocked by our TVs. Using an oversized TV sure doesn’t strike me to be considerate of others. ------------- 2012 rPod 173 2008 Trailblazer 4WD V6 |
Posted By: P&M
Date Posted: 20 Aug 2013 at 8:35am
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Thinker, I appreciate your information. However, I find some of the numbers a bit surprising and not in line with our Pod which is a 171 also. Ours, weighed off hitch and w/o our gear, came in at just over 2500#'s total ... I'm not sure how yours picked up 800# in weight from the dealer spec of 2205#. I'm not saying that it didn't, just confused how it could be that much more. We have also weighed ours fully loaded and it was below 3000#. With a tow capacity on our TV of 3500# that puts us at better than the "recommended minimum" of 10% leeway. I am by no means overloaded in towing my Pod, nor am I being negligent in doing so. I also do not believe that having a bigger TV transcends immediately and to all into a safer towing environment. Hitch, electric brake controls, and TV brakes all play a big part in that safety factor. Driver education and driving style (defensively, leaving enough room between vehicles, mph speed in line with conditions, knowing when to pull over and take a break) are all very important factors as well. I have seen too many times to count, as we all have, large TV's pulling large trailers that are going 75 mph in a driving rainstorm, towing trailers with an incorrect hitch that are swaying from side-to-side, towing trailers and tailgating right on my butt with no room to spare.
Bigger TV's do not make stupid drivers suddenly more safe ... it just makes them stupider and even more dangerous. ------------- P & M ... and Comet too! 2012 171 -- The Monkey Pod 2018 Ram 2500 |
Posted By: Sleepless
Date Posted: 20 Aug 2013 at 9:06am
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I also disagree with Camper Bob's and Thinker's comments. I also have a 173 and I know that it's weight, even with the battery, propane and partial tank of fresh water, is considerable less than what his weighed. Based on his "findings" no pod should be towed with a vehicle having a tow rating of only 3500#. I chose the 173 because of its light weight. trading in my old trailer weighing 800# more. I am always irritated when members make disparaging remarks about our smaller, but more than adequate, tow vehicles. Like the big boys, I can tow at 75mph if I so choose, but I don't unless I don't keep an eye on my speedometer. As for possible transmission damage, Hyundai guarantees the entire drive train for 100,000 miles, and my dealer has assured me that towing any trailer up to the tow limit will not void my warranty. I fully agree with the comments made by the other posters. I will refrain from adding any more of my thoughts for fear of sounding pompous and all-knowing. Bob (towing for 40 years) 3 ------------- 2014 R-Pod 178 (OUR POD) 2009 Chevrolet Avalanche |
Posted By: techntrek
Date Posted: 20 Aug 2013 at 12:20pm
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My assertion isn't that using a smaller TV is bad/dangerous/will grow hair on your knuckles.
My personal assertion in all of the posts I make is it is dangerous to tow when your overall rig is over one of its many limits - axle ratings, GCVW, trailer limit, etc. That is very easy to do with a 3500 pound towing limit. I've been there - its your daily driver and you can't afford a larger TV. Young kids with all the expenses that entails means you drive used minivans for 12 years (we had 'em from 2000 to 2012). The other driver in the house gets to drive a manual Geo Metro for 6 1/2 years - with no air conditioning (I did that from 1996 to 2002), then gets a used Saturn, then a 1993 Caprice. Took years of budgeting and scrimping to get a larger TV. The kids certainly aren't getting cheaper.
 So, go ahead and tow a 178 with a minivan, that by itself is safe. If you weigh the rig, have it loaded properly, and have the usual safety gear then you are fine. You will be within the various limits set by the manufacturer.
Just don't ever - ever - tow it with the fresh water tank full and all your gear loaded up for 2 weeks at the beach. There are just too many people who would load all the tanks to max, throw in the extra gear for the beach and think they are fine because the rig moves forward when they hit the gas.
Bigger TVs can be overloaded or improperly loaded, too. I saw a full-sized pickup not long ago towing a double axle enclosed utility trailer. No WDH. The truck's nose was pointed to the clouds, I don't know how he saw the road at all. ------------- Doug ~ '10 171 (2009-2015) ~ 2008 Salem ~ http://www.rpod-owners.com/forum_posts.asp?TID=1723 - Pod instruction manual
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Posted By: Kickstart
Date Posted: 20 Aug 2013 at 12:50pm
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Ha, we're starting to sound like RV.Net--If you don't have a 3/4 ton diesel, then you shouldn't be towing anything. There are tons of smaller tow rigs that can do well towing a Pod. Will many of them struggle, yes, but if set up well, then they can do the job. Owners may have to be a little careful where they choose to tow--pulling elevation @ 35 mph on a 2 lane pass isn't just a problem for you , but also for the line of cars you're holding up. 3500lb tow rating? Set it up well, load it correctly, make sure your wheelbase is not overly short, and if you're satisfied, then OK.
I've thrown out some advice to people about tow rigs, but for the most part, no more. Hopefully the "weight police" (RV.Net term) on this site can do a better job than I have. Also, there ARE lots of full sized tow rigs that are overloaded, so it's not limited to us Podders. The U.S. puts out more lawyers than any other country--they have to have something to do! ------------- '10 RP 175-Replaced by 2014 Kodiak 173 QBSL '12 Toyota Tundra '05 Sportster (half a Harley) Retired-We're on Beach Time! |
Posted By: Thinker
Date Posted: 20 Aug 2013 at 1:07pm
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Ok.. I was wrong.. I mis-stated the weigh station numbers. Here is the correct copy of my weigh station visit..
Axle is 2460# and tongue was at 270# That totals at 2730#. But that does not include the cargo and passengers of the tow vehicle. So adding pots and pans and other personal items to the pod and a few things, maybe a generator to the TV you will still be at or very close to 3500#. Where is the margin of safety factor? Do we run everything at max in our life? If you don't care about safety, then care about comfort and the white-knuckle factor.. I just have a medium size SUV with a 5000# tow rating. I would consider that the minimum. I have had a diesel truck. I am not advocating that. I am only advocating what a sensible family might choose. I am old and have been towing for a bazillion years. But, there are new families on this forum that are making plans for the future and want honest information. I am being honest. Also note that I have a 171, which is one of the lightest pods.. no slide, no garage..etc.  ------------- Tow Vehicle: 2013 Pathfinder 4WD R-POD Model 171
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Posted By: barbanjoe
Date Posted: 20 Aug 2013 at 1:33pm
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The most important consideration is if you are towing with a FRONT WHEEL DRIVE you must use a WDH. Putting a trailer on the back removes weight from the TRACTION wheels. A WDH shifts the weight back to the front wheel drive axles. And of course water is about 8 lbs. per gallon so if you can do not tow water. ------------- BarbanJoe 010 Rpod 171 02 Jeep 4x4 12 Ram 1500 |
Posted By: Thinker
Date Posted: 20 Aug 2013 at 2:29pm
Excellent point... I have 4WD drive, that operates normally in 2WD, or All Wheel Drive. I normally tow in AWD, which does use mostly front wheel drive. ------------- Tow Vehicle: 2013 Pathfinder 4WD R-POD Model 171
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Posted By: hogone
Date Posted: 20 Aug 2013 at 3:15pm
There's an easy solution to this debate.......everyone should have an F150!!! ------------- Jon & Pam 2013 RP177 2010 F150 2017 HD Streetglide 2009 HD Lowrider CHEESEHEAD |
Posted By: Goose
Date Posted: 20 Aug 2013 at 3:29pm
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First time out when the POD was brand new I weighed everything that went into the trailer, R-Dome, dishes, clothes, pots and pans, chairs, our outside table, water hoses everything that I added. The whole lot came to 410 pounds, then add 1 battery and propane. I don't see how I could even come close to the 1,200 pound load limit for the trailer. But that's me, I try to travel light. Goose
PS. That 410 pounds also included a small floor jack, extra tools and our larger cooler with drinks and ice. ------------- Mother Goose's Caboose..2011 RP171..07 Grand Cherokee 
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Posted By: wingnut2312
Date Posted: 28 Aug 2013 at 3:50pm
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Here's my question...does anyone tow with a Wrangler?
I've been trying to get info on towing a rpod with our Jeep. I have called everyone from the Pope to the maintenance man. They have told me the tongue weight is 3200# and I should be fine towing something that weighs 2800#. To clarify, this came from the service people and salesperson. Both agreed the stopping distance and fuel consumption would be greater, but the engine would be fine. The rec weight is 2000#. Knowing this, I will say that I have friends that tow campers and ignore this paying attention to the max. They haven't experienced problems. They do only tow shorter diatances (100 or so milesone way). I would appreciate solid advice. I plan on driving Miss Daisey when we go. Most places are going to be within 100 miles and in MI. Out west trips will probably involve a rented full size or getting a different vehicle. Thanks!! |
Posted By: Keith-N-Dar
Date Posted: 28 Aug 2013 at 4:57pm
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If you read all the posts in this thread you will see the variety of opinion on this subject.
You have a couple of strikes against you with a Wrangler. You are low on capacity (3200# according to you) and the TV's short wheelbase. Some would tell you that you are putting yourself and others in danger using this vehicle. I am not that smart to make such a statement, but I will say you need a proper weight distribution hitch and anti sway protection. If you have a receiver that is not rated for at least 3500 pounds replace it with one that is. You must have a brake controller, and make sure the Pod is loaded lightly and tanks are drained. Be careful and go slow and the chance for trouble goes way down. ------------- Keith-N-Dar Boris & Betty (Boston Terriers) 2011 R-Pod 177 2010 Ford F-150 |
Posted By: wingnut2312
Date Posted: 28 Aug 2013 at 5:08pm
| I'm having the E2 distribution hitch installed prior to towing. No need to load the tanks since state parks have water hook ups. The extra few thinga will be loaded in the Jeep. The total weight of the pod is 2748. Jeep said it'd be fine, just drive slow. Still having the hitch installed. |
Posted By: GA_RPOD_178
Date Posted: 28 Aug 2013 at 5:16pm
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A lot of folks use the towing guide, from which there is a link on the Forest River web site. Not sure where the 3200 number is coming from, since the Towing Guide rates the Wrangler at 2000 lbs. It would seem that 1200 lb deviation to the recommended tow weight would be significant, but as you say, some do it. http://s1350.photobucket.com/user/jtudor49/media/Jeeptowguide_zpse0d01ad5.jpg.html">
 ------------- [/URL]
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Posted By: wingnut2312
Date Posted: 28 Aug 2013 at 5:42pm
| That's without the weight distribution hitch. Wrangler are rated for 3200 with the hitch. Without, it's only 2000 max tongue weight. |
Posted By: techntrek
Date Posted: 28 Aug 2013 at 6:16pm
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2000 pounds would be the towing capacity, not the tongue weight. That's a separate rating which is usually 10% of the towing capacity. According to jeep.com the towing capacity is only 2000 pounds, and then only if it has the options of Antilock Braking System, Electronic Stability Control, and Trailer Sway Control (all part of the trailer prep package). I see no mention of max tongue weight rating anywhere. http://www.jeep.com/en/jeep_capabilities/towing/ - http://www.jeep.com/en/jeep_capabilities/towing/ I'm sure the biggest factor is the short wheelbase. Trailers will push you around the shorter the wheelbase. ------------- Doug ~ '10 171 (2009-2015) ~ 2008 Salem ~ http://www.rpod-owners.com/forum_posts.asp?TID=1723 - Pod instruction manual
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Posted By: techntrek
Date Posted: 28 Aug 2013 at 6:27pm
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I just dug around a little more on a Jeep forum and from what I read the issue is the mounting of the hitch. Its mounted on a weak cross-member which can't support a large tow weight. ------------- Doug ~ '10 171 (2009-2015) ~ 2008 Salem ~ http://www.rpod-owners.com/forum_posts.asp?TID=1723 - Pod instruction manual
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Posted By: wingnut2312
Date Posted: 28 Aug 2013 at 8:06pm
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And this is where I run into problems. The dealerships say its no problem as long as you have the weight distribution hitch. That's what gives it the higher towing capacity. Otherwise its 2000. The rv place says the same as the dealership. I'll keep asking and hopefully find someone who has a Wrangler and is towing one. The dealership, All Seasons, said they have a lot of Jeeps towing them because the weight is low.
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Posted By: CharlieM
Date Posted: 28 Aug 2013 at 8:25pm
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Be very careful; proceed with caution. The 2012 Trailer Life towing guide lists 2000# for the Wranger and 3500# for the Unlimited only is it has the 3.73 rear end. Dealers will and do tell you anything to sell you a trailer. After you leave it's not their problem. I'd say unless you specifically have the Unlimited with a towing package, transmission cooler, 3.73 differential, WDH, and electric brake controller you are asking for problems. Think safety and comfort, ------------- Charlie Northern Colorado OLD: 2013 RP-172, 2010 Honda Pilot 3.5L 4WD PRESENT: 2014 Camplite 21RBS, 2013 Supercharged Tacoma 4L V6 4WD |
Posted By: wingnut2312
Date Posted: 28 Aug 2013 at 8:39pm
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I agree. The dealer I spoke to was Dick Scott Chrysler Jeep. I've heard what you did. I asked and they said the towing cap was thesame despite the axle ratio. The Unlimited is supposed to go with 3500. They're the ones telling me its ok. I'm getting the wdh, brake controller. I have the tow package and the dealership is putting the syntheyic axle lube in.
So the question is, who to trust! |
Posted By: CharlieM
Date Posted: 28 Aug 2013 at 9:38pm
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A manufacturer's tow rating is a complex combination of many factors. Safety and their legal liability are foremost. Next is damage to the car followed by driver comfort and satisfation. Rolled into the satisfaction is perfarmance and the ability to tow and accelerate under highway conditions including merging, highway travel, and hill climbing. This is where the 3.73 rear end comes in. It allows reasonable highway speed, acceleration, and hill climbing without getting out to push. The rear end ratio also determines the stress level in the drive train (transmission, defferential, drive shaft. A numerically higher ratio reduces the drive train stress for a given load, albeit reducing road speed at a given engine RPM. If within the original design - OK, but I'd consider carefully if I had the design engineers telling me it might me rough on the drive train components. Again, the dealer will be mighty scarce when you come back for a transmission replacement.
------------- Charlie Northern Colorado OLD: 2013 RP-172, 2010 Honda Pilot 3.5L 4WD PRESENT: 2014 Camplite 21RBS, 2013 Supercharged Tacoma 4L V6 4WD |
Posted By: Keith-N-Dar
Date Posted: 28 Aug 2013 at 9:42pm
This might be a self solving problem. If the crossmember is sufficiently weak the TV may move and the trailer may stay still. ------------- Keith-N-Dar Boris & Betty (Boston Terriers) 2011 R-Pod 177 2010 Ford F-150 |
Posted By: CharlieM
Date Posted: 28 Aug 2013 at 9:47pm
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"This might be a self solving problem. If the crossmember is sufficiently weak the TV may move and the trailer may stay still."  That would do it. Let's hope the emergency disconnect cable holds so the brakes are set.------------- Charlie Northern Colorado OLD: 2013 RP-172, 2010 Honda Pilot 3.5L 4WD PRESENT: 2014 Camplite 21RBS, 2013 Supercharged Tacoma 4L V6 4WD |
Posted By: Keith-N-Dar
Date Posted: 28 Aug 2013 at 10:32pm
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I hate to rain on anyone's parade, and I know we have folks on board that towed with a Wrangler before. I hope the chime in soon.
My TV is the other end of the spectrum, so I am no help really. ------------- Keith-N-Dar Boris & Betty (Boston Terriers) 2011 R-Pod 177 2010 Ford F-150 |
Posted By: wingnut2312
Date Posted: 28 Aug 2013 at 10:44pm
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That's what I'm looking for. I honestly appreciate everyones concern. My kids will be in the Jeep, so believe me when I say I'm really going to be sure before I buy and tow. We just want the ability to camp into the fall. MI gets chilly, so aomething with hard sides helps.
If there are any Wrangler Sport two door owners, let me know how it worked. If you know anyone like that, also please comment. Soooo much info!. Thanks to all!! |
Posted By: wingnut2312
Date Posted: 28 Aug 2013 at 11:02pm
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That's what I'm looking for. I honestly appreciate everyones concern. My kids will be in the Jeep, so believe me when I say I'm really going to be sure before I buy and tow. We just want the ability to camp into the fall. MI gets chilly, so aomething with hard sides helps.
If there are any Wrangler Sport two door owners, let me know how it worked. If you know anyone like that, also please comment. Soooo much info!. Thanks to all!! |
Posted By: Sleepless
Date Posted: 28 Aug 2013 at 11:06pm
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If you are intent on towing a pod, why don't you look at a lighter model, either a 171 or a 172? Bob ------------- 2014 R-Pod 178 (OUR POD) 2009 Chevrolet Avalanche |
Posted By: wingnut2312
Date Posted: 29 Aug 2013 at 6:24am
| We looked at that. The options available were what sold us on the 182G. The garage and entertainment center to be exact. The kids are young and sometimes need movie time. |
Posted By: wallawallaron
Date Posted: 29 Aug 2013 at 7:53am
------------- WallaWallaron,2012 RP177 H.R.E.,2010 F-150.NRA Life Member 9/11 Never Forget |
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Posted: 08 May 2013 at 6:23pmPosted By: wingnut2312
Date Posted: 29 Aug 2013 at 8:37am
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Were you in a two door or four door? Two door is rated lower. Main issue seems to be braking, but the r pod has brakes. What Jeep told me was to buy the weight distributing hitch, brake controller and switch out the axle lube for full synthetic. I understand the wheelbase difference, but I bought the Jeep two years ago and spent around 4000 on upgrades. If it can't tow 2800 pounds, than it can't. For every arguemennt saying it can't tow the weight, I find one saying it can. Jeep says it'll be fine, but specs say diff.
We are not going far, maybe 100 miles max. If we go further, I'll rent an F-150 for the week. |
Posted By: Folornhope
Date Posted: 29 Aug 2013 at 8:54am
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Because you have your kids in the TV I'd say just rent the F150. But hey, that's just me. ------------- Eddy the Escape Pod...177 Ford F150 |
Posted By: wingnut2312
Date Posted: 29 Aug 2013 at 8:55am
| Sounds like a better plan. Why oh why didn't I buy the four door.... |
Posted By: CharlieM
Date Posted: 29 Aug 2013 at 9:07am
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A significant difference between the 2 door wrangler and the 4 door Unlimited: 21 more inches of wheel base! That will make a big difference. Charlie's Law: No matter how many vehicles you have, you never have the right one. ------------- Charlie Northern Colorado OLD: 2013 RP-172, 2010 Honda Pilot 3.5L 4WD PRESENT: 2014 Camplite 21RBS, 2013 Supercharged Tacoma 4L V6 4WD |
Posted By: wingnut2312
Date Posted: 29 Aug 2013 at 9:12am
| The wheelbase is 10.5 inches. This is what Jeep gave as a reason for the 1500 pound difference. I hate math. |
Posted By: CharlieM
Date Posted: 29 Aug 2013 at 9:18am
Edmonds lists the Wrangler wheelbase at 95" and the Unlimited wheelbase at 116". Short wheelbase TVs are an issue with trailers, causing sway and other bad things. Particularly a problem for you if you're considering a 182G. However, when you find you're ultimate vehicle, refer to Charlie's Law above. 
------------- Charlie Northern Colorado OLD: 2013 RP-172, 2010 Honda Pilot 3.5L 4WD PRESENT: 2014 Camplite 21RBS, 2013 Supercharged Tacoma 4L V6 4WD |
Posted By: wingnut2312
Date Posted: 29 Aug 2013 at 9:47am
| Yeah, that's about as dead on of a rec as I've seen! I want the schmoo. |
Posted By: techntrek
Date Posted: 29 Aug 2013 at 1:47pm
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You may have a problem finding a rental truck where the company allows you to tow. I looked into it once and none of the major companies allowed it. wallawallaron, not sure what you did with your post. I took a quick look at it to fix it but decided to just let it be! ------------- Doug ~ '10 171 (2009-2015) ~ 2008 Salem ~ http://www.rpod-owners.com/forum_posts.asp?TID=1723 - Pod instruction manual
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Posted By: podrunner
Date Posted: 29 Aug 2013 at 2:56pm
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U haul rents those silly looking painted up F 150 pickups for $29.00 / day plus per mile charge of I believe .30. Had to rent one for work once to pull a trailer. Would work out for camping if you were not going too far, although you might attract a lot of attention with the cool u haul paint job. Happy Trails.. ------------- 2010 R Pod 151 2017 4runner 2006 Honda Metropolitan |
Posted By: wingnut2312
Date Posted: 29 Aug 2013 at 3:20pm
| That's what I just found also. Beats a lawsuit and having to explain why I need a new Jeep because the trans died! Although.... |
Posted By: Sleepless
Date Posted: 29 Aug 2013 at 4:20pm
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And, I have never seen a rental truck equipped with an electronic brake controller or a pod-compatible electrical connector. Bob ------------- 2014 R-Pod 178 (OUR POD) 2009 Chevrolet Avalanche |
Posted By: techntrek
Date Posted: 29 Aug 2013 at 4:49pm
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Ah, U-haul, didn't think about them. If they allow towing then it should have a 7-pin Bargman. Then all you need is a wireless Prodigy and you are golden.
------------- Doug ~ '10 171 (2009-2015) ~ 2008 Salem ~ http://www.rpod-owners.com/forum_posts.asp?TID=1723 - Pod instruction manual
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Posted By: Pod-a-terre
Date Posted: 29 Aug 2013 at 4:57pm
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Camper Bob & Sue: From your posts we value your advice and opinion. QUESTION we have a 2014 BMW X6 x Drive 35i with a factory installed hitch and brake controller ( prodigy #2) It is rated at 6,000lbs GVWR and a tongue of 600 lbs. We plan on purchasing a 182G. We think we should be fine. ...80 % of time will travel with 50% water. and when not will have a 2,000 Honda generator most likely stored in the rear "trunk". Any advice, comments, suggestions would be welcome. Thanks ------------- John Kris "Lady Sarah" our Golden Aiken SC |
Posted By: Sleepless
Date Posted: 29 Aug 2013 at 5:21pm
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My experience with U-Haul is that their trucks have neither a Bargman connector or a brake controller. They have only 3 wires at the bumper, all for light. Nothing for brakes or for 12 volt power from the battery. All of their trailers have hydraulic surge brakes, not electric. I have no idea how trucks from other rental agencies are set up, but I imagine they are equipped the same. Bob ------------- 2014 R-Pod 178 (OUR POD) 2009 Chevrolet Avalanche |
Posted By: wingnut2312
Date Posted: 29 Aug 2013 at 5:46pm
| Is it a necessity to have a brake controller? Dealer didnt specify that. |
Posted By: wingnut2312
Date Posted: 29 Aug 2013 at 5:50pm
| Nevermind. Called the dealer and was told not necessary, but why wouldn't you take advantage of it. I explained the situation. After a nice giggle, he told me that was one way to do it! Until we can find a TV we want, the Uhaul ghetto-fabulousness will do just fine. |
Posted By: techntrek
Date Posted: 29 Aug 2013 at 5:59pm
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Ok, so they have the standard 4-pin connection. That may almost be enough to cobble the wireless Prodigy to work - you'll just have to run a 12 volt line from the lighter/outlet to the rear and wire up a Bargeman to plug into the 4-pin connection and the 12 volt line. Wouldn't be hard.
------------- Doug ~ '10 171 (2009-2015) ~ 2008 Salem ~ http://www.rpod-owners.com/forum_posts.asp?TID=1723 - Pod instruction manual
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Posted By: wingnut2312
Date Posted: 29 Aug 2013 at 6:03pm
| That sounds like Swahili to me!! Lol. |
Posted By: Tars Tarkas
Date Posted: 29 Aug 2013 at 11:41pm
I suppose it depends on how you define necessary. With your tow vehicle and the trailer you're talking about, a brake controller is as close to essential equipment as it gets. I don't know if it's true, but I've heard brake controllers are required in some states for trailers over certain weights. Maybe you are in a state that doesn't have that requirement and maybe that's why your dealer said it wasn't necessary. Whether or not they are legally necessary, they are necessary for your safety and peace of mind. I've towed trailers way over my tow capacity and done it without brakes. It's doable. There are also people who juggle running chainsaws. Neither is something you want to do with your kids. When I've towed overweight vehicles it was with extreme caution, a whole lot of stress, and for less than 20 miles. Going down the interstate or in any kind of traffic the risks you are taking involve more liability and anxiety than most people would think wise. It seems like you are looking for a rationalization that will let you feel comfortable towing a pod with your Wrangler. It really isn't meant to be. Best I can see your Wrangler is rated 2000 pounds only when properly equipped. Adding a weight distributing hitch doesn't help at all when you are driving up a long hill, and I don't understand how it adds, what are you saying, 1200 extra pounds of towing capacity? You know the weight of the WDH itself counts against your towing capacity. It bothers me that you don't seem to understand the difference between towing capacity and tongue weight. It makes me think you may not be asking the right questions or you may not understand the answers you are getting. Your front wheels would be 4 feet off the ground if you put 2000 pounds on your hitch. With the tv/trailer combination you are talking about, I'm confident that the safety issues and the potential liability and the extra attention you will be absolutely required to pay while driving will quickly be so stressful that you will not enjoy the experience. TT ------------- 2010 176 FJ Cruiser |
Posted By: Camper Bob
Date Posted: 30 Aug 2013 at 1:29am
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TT. You got it. Safe Travels. ------------- Camper Bob and Camper Sue Gracie the Wonder Dog (12 LB. Mini Dachshund) 2013 Rpod 171HRE(ORPod) 2016 Lance 1685 2015 Nissan Pathfinder |
Posted By: wingnut2312
Date Posted: 30 Aug 2013 at 6:23am
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So you've missed the section on we're going to rent a vehicle instead of using the Jeep? I stated that I believe the Jeep isn't going to work and we will be looking for a proper TV. I also stated that it's not worth risking it with the kids. The brake controller would not be necessary when towing it with a full size F-150 is what the dealer said.
In the future, please read the entire thread before questioning a persons intelligence. It's probably easier to realize that there is a lot of bad informationn out there clouding up the good. Asking questions is the way people wade through the b.s. and make the best decision. Thanks for the help everyone! |
Posted By: Pod-a-terre
Date Posted: 30 Aug 2013 at 7:22am
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State regulations generally state what towed vehicle must have a brake controller and it is controlled by weight. Just go to the State DMV site or FMCA has a state booklet. ------------- John Kris "Lady Sarah" our Golden Aiken SC |
Posted By: GA_RPOD_178
Date Posted: 30 Aug 2013 at 8:05am
Even with the F-150, I think that many of us would recommend you get familiar with the vehicle handling characteristics without your children, if you are going to go without a controller. One of the common factors in many of your comments is that "the dealer said....". While many dealers are good folks, one of the common factors on that side of the equation is that want to sell you a trailer, rent you a tv, etc. I have found that this forum, on my time here, is very safety focused, especially in the area of towing, where many mishaps often occur with new campers. It could be that that's why they are still around to make such suggestions. There are a lot of good suggestions here from those who "have been there, done that". ------------- [/URL]
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Posted By: Pod-a-terre
Date Posted: 30 Aug 2013 at 8:16am
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A couple of points. Most of the recent Ford F 150's come with a brake controller built in. More importantly is to see what your State requires towed vehicles to have a braking system....these are generally based on weight. It is also important from an insurance perspective as I am sure the sales person will not cover you in an accident when the insurance company refuses to pay because you did not have the required equipment or were overweight. JMO ------------- John Kris "Lady Sarah" our Golden Aiken SC |
Posted By: techntrek
Date Posted: 30 Aug 2013 at 8:36am
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Whether or not it is required, I've been towing trailers (4000 pounds of mulch in a utility trailer, 3500 pound popups, pod) since 1988 and there is only one setup where I don't plug in my brake controller. That's when the utility trailer is empty where it weighs about 500 pounds. My TV is rated for 8000 pounds and I still plug in the brake controller if the utility trailer is only half-full.
Why? Sway. Engaging the brake controller is the only safe way to negate sway once anti-sway devices can't control it. One of the contributing factors for sway is how a trailer is loaded and it's very easy to load a utility trailer or camper in a way which will induce sway.
Going with a U-haul pickup sounds like a good option for now - and depending on how many trips a year maybe cheaper than upgrading your current TV. A quick cost-to-benefit analysis will tell you where your break-even is. Look at the wireless Prodigy http://www.etrailer.com/Brake-Controller/Tekonsha/90250.html - http://www.etrailer.com/Brake-Controller/Tekonsha/90250.html
Then figure out how to make it work with the U-haul pickup. From the factory it is designed to just have the camper plug into the Prodigy control module mounted on the camper tongue. Then the Prodigy plugs into the Bargeman outlet on the back of the TV. Logically the Prodigy will need brake and turn signal inputs, ground, +12. The 4-pin connector provides brake, turn, and ground, which is why I think you'll need to create a long wire you can plug into the vehicle's accessory outlet/lighter to provide the +12 (and an additional ground, which won't hurt). The output of the 4-pin plug on the pickup and the wires from the outlet will need to be combined into a Bargeman outlet you can dangle from the rear of the pickup. The Prodigy will then plug into that. Oh, and the wireless control module that goes in the pickup will also need to plug in so you'll need a Y-splitter for the 12 volt accessory outlet.
This will give you a system you can plug in within 2 minutes once you get home and hitch up. ------------- Doug ~ '10 171 (2009-2015) ~ 2008 Salem ~ http://www.rpod-owners.com/forum_posts.asp?TID=1723 - Pod instruction manual
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Posted By: wingnut2312
Date Posted: 30 Aug 2013 at 8:54am
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Tech, definitely! We are only looking to rent the Uhaul for one trip this year. Outside of Lansing, Sleepy Hollow state park is surrounded by cider mills. They are really cool and the kids love them. The pod would let us stay warm and dry at night. It would only be for the weekend.
If I can connect the brake controller I will. I dont think you can mod the Uhauls, but plug and play could probably pass. As I've said, I do appreciate all of the advice. I joined because you all know more about this than I do. I just don't appreciate demeaning statements when I'm trying to learn. |
Posted By: CharlieM
Date Posted: 30 Aug 2013 at 9:29am
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Wingnut2312: Let me say I commend you for asking questions and seeking the advice of those who have been there. It's the way I learned and, probably, most others too. As you can see many of our opinions are strongly and loudly professed. Please credit this to enthusiasm, not animus. We all think we have the answer, some of us really do. After following your conversations with your dealer I'm alarmed to see him in the business. From what I see he's gotten everything wrong and dangerously so. I'd suggest an immediate dealer transplant. BTW, MI requires independant brakes on trailers 3000# or greater Gross Vehicle Weight Rating (GVWR). This is the sum of the empty trailer plus total allowable load. All versions of RPODs exceed this threshold. Welcome to the forum and and I look forward to hearing of your adventures, with or without the orange UHaul.  ------------- Charlie Northern Colorado OLD: 2013 RP-172, 2010 Honda Pilot 3.5L 4WD PRESENT: 2014 Camplite 21RBS, 2013 Supercharged Tacoma 4L V6 4WD |
Posted By: wingnut2312
Date Posted: 30 Aug 2013 at 9:38am
| Lol, hopefully more without than with. I have found that I can use a non-modifying brake controller. The Uhaul F-150's are "supposed" to be equipped. We shall see!! |
Posted By: techntrek
Date Posted: 30 Aug 2013 at 10:10am
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The wireless Prodigy is the only one that would not modify the truck, if done as I suggested. All the rest require 3 wires to be run to the brake controller and then it outputs 1 wire which must be run back to the 7-pin Bargeman. Two of the 3 wires could be taken from a lighter/outlet, but the tricky one is the connection to the brake light wiring and there's no way to do that without finding the right wire and splicing into it. You can't even tap that signal at the 4-pin connector at the back of the truck because that output also includes turn signals. You would end up activating the brakes any time you made a left or right turn.
When you say the U-hauls are "equipped", do you mean with an integral brake controller as mentioned above? If so, they must have a 7-pin Bargeman on the back and not a 4-pin connection. No 7-pin, no brakes, even if the controller is in the dash. ------------- Doug ~ '10 171 (2009-2015) ~ 2008 Salem ~ http://www.rpod-owners.com/forum_posts.asp?TID=1723 - Pod instruction manual
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Posted By: wallawallaron
Date Posted: 30 Aug 2013 at 10:20am
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My F150(2010) has integral brake controller along with 7 pin and 4pin set ups factory tow package. WWR When you say the U-hauls are "equipped", do you mean with an integral brake controller as mentioned above? If so, they must have a 7-pin Bargeman on the back and not a 4-pin connection. No 7-pin, no brakes, even if the controller is in the dash. [/QUOTE]
------------- WallaWallaron,2012 RP177 H.R.E.,2010 F-150.NRA Life Member 9/11 Never Forget |
Posted By: Sleepless
Date Posted: 30 Aug 2013 at 11:42am
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Seems like we are all guessing about if the U-Haul pickup trucks have a 7-pin Bargman connector and an electric brake controller. A call to your local U-Haul dealer should give you the answers. CharlieM is absolutely right about the trailer brake requirements in Michigan. However, the law is even more stringent it you look at the exception I have pasted below. And, without electric brakes, don't even think about taking your pod to your neighboring state of Wisconsin. These comments are offered as constructive, and I hope you accept them as such. MICHIGAN 257.705.28.1479 Sec. 5.79 3, 000 All n/s Trailers less than 3,000 pounds gross weight need not be equipped with brakes if gross weight of trailer and load do not exceed 40% of gross weight of towing vehicle. Trailers 5,000 pounds and over shall be equipped with brakes designed to be applied by driver of towing vehicle. Bob ------------- 2014 R-Pod 178 (OUR POD) 2009 Chevrolet Avalanche |
Posted By: CharlieM
Date Posted: 30 Aug 2013 at 1:33pm
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Bob, Interesting input on the MI regs. I have seen that 40% in other states too. It really doesn't help us since, taking my Honda for example, 6100# GVWR, a brakeless trailer could not exceed 2440# GVWR. Take away your "stuff" and you don't have much left for the empty trailer. The last sentence is interesting: "Trailers 5,000 pounds and over shall be equipped with brakes designed to be applied by driver of towing vehicle."I guess that eliminates hydraulic surge brakes, but does it allow electric operation by the brake pedal or does it force a manual overide like we have on our Prodigy controllers? ------------- Charlie Northern Colorado OLD: 2013 RP-172, 2010 Honda Pilot 3.5L 4WD PRESENT: 2014 Camplite 21RBS, 2013 Supercharged Tacoma 4L V6 4WD |
Posted By: Sleepless
Date Posted: 30 Aug 2013 at 2:05pm
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Charlie, I was towing when I lived in Michigan and the common understanding there was that an electric brake controller was acceptable because it is applied by the operator pressing the brake pedal, the same as the vehicle's brakes are applied by the operator when he or she depresses the brake pedal. It is also my understanding that if you tow a trailer through a state that has more stringent trailer brake requirements, you are bound by them as long as you are within that state. Here is a link to the requirements in every state. http://www.boatwheels.biz/brakelaws.pdf Bob ------------- 2014 R-Pod 178 (OUR POD) 2009 Chevrolet Avalanche |
Posted By: wingnut2312
Date Posted: 30 Aug 2013 at 2:14pm
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Well we were just approved today for our rpod 182G! You are both correct on the brakes. You are responsible to know and abide by the state you are in's laws and regs. MI does require, so I'll have to check on the uhaul.
Thank you all for the info. It helps to have a place to go when you are uninformed. |
Posted By: GA_RPOD_178
Date Posted: 30 Aug 2013 at 4:40pm
Congrats and "officially" welcome to Rpoding! ------------- [/URL]
|
Posted By: wingnut2312
Date Posted: 30 Aug 2013 at 6:28pm
| Thanks! Feel free to let me know anything that could make it more fun! |
Posted By: Tars Tarkas
Date Posted: 30 Aug 2013 at 7:48pm
I have read the entire thread, but did not realize it was a done deal that you will only pull the pod with an F-150, and when you said the dealer said brakes weren't necessary you didn't indicate which dealer or on what. An F-150 vs a Wrangler makes a difference regarding brakes, but I think most people would still recommend a brake controller, even with an F-150, regardless of the legal requirement. Also, I did not question anyone's intelligence. You can have an IQ of 187 and still not know the difference between towing capacity and tongue weight. These are very basic and important concepts to understand when choosing a trailer and tow vehicle combination. I'm sure you understand them now, but first indications were that maybe you didn't. I went on to infer that you are somewhat new to towing in general. Sorry if I offended. Congrats on the 182G if you go through with it. TT ------------- 2010 176 FJ Cruiser |
Posted By: wingnut2312
Date Posted: 30 Aug 2013 at 8:49pm
| We are and thanks! I understand that most are safety conscience. I just didnt want to buy another vehicle unless it was necessary, which it is. The Jeep might cut it, but not wnough to keep us all safe. Thanks for the info! |
Posted By: Keith-N-Dar
Date Posted: 30 Aug 2013 at 9:44pm
What are those rules? ------------- Keith-N-Dar Boris & Betty (Boston Terriers) 2011 R-Pod 177 2010 Ford F-150 |