Couch's RV Nation
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Category: R-pod Discussion Forums
Forum Name: Dealer Reviews and Comments
Forum Discription: Let everyone know how well your dealer treated you...
URL: http://www.rpod-owners.com/forum_posts.asp?TID=4901
Printed Date: 27 Apr 2024 at 6:21pm
Software Version: Web Wiz Forums 9.64 - http://www.webwizforums.com
Topic: Couch's RV Nation
Posted By: cody91
Subject: Couch's RV Nation
Date Posted: 27 Jun 2014 at 11:39am
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Just some feedback and personal experience on Couch's RV Nation in Ohio. I purchased an Rpod 178 from them earlier this year (2014). I had them deliver the pod to my home so I didn't have a chance to inspect it. Luckily the Pod was in decent condition when it arrived. Just a few weird things I noticed, like missing screws and strange holes in the bottom of the Rpod but nothing that would affect it's normal operation. Based on the past posts on this Forum, these things seem to be normal quality issues experienced with trailers in this price range. The sales price I got from Couch's was good but my biggest disappointment has been the lackluster customer support in getting spare parts. Originally the Pod was missing the Rdome I ordered with it and it took over a month for them to send it to me. Over the course of the last few months, I also asked for spare screws, plastic bumpers and other small missing parts for the shades and these request were either denied or took a lot of emails and phone calls before they finally sent them to me. I guess the sum of my experience with them is decent prices but not very good customer support. I hope this helps someone. |
Replies:
Posted By: kymooses
Date Posted: 27 Jun 2014 at 2:34pm
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have heard a lot of this lately, once they sell a Pod they kind of abandon their owners. no longer their problem it seems! ------------- https://calendar.google.com/calendar?cid=cnBvZC5zcG90dGVyQGdtYWlsLmNvbQ - RPod Rallies https://www.google.com/maps/d/embed?mid=1W1foQXGtrjf8aYly1uh0b-bHPfI&hl=en_US - RPod Owner Map |
Posted By: techntrek
Date Posted: 27 Jun 2014 at 2:43pm
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I can understand the month to get the Dome, the dealers get larger parts like that as part of pod shipments from the factory. They are thrown inside a pod that is headed for the dealer. My dome arrived this way - it arrived inside a shipment of 3 pods as we were going through our delivery checkout, so they sent us to a local ice cream shop while they installed the snaps on the wall (which aren't used anymore, a good thing). So it is likely they had to wait for it, then re-ship it to you. That said, the dealer should have the option of paying the factory to ship it directly, IMO. The smaller parts shouldn't require jumping through hoops. ------------- 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: cody91
Date Posted: 27 Jun 2014 at 2:59pm
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Techntrek, I was being kind on the Dome shipment. I think it was almost 2 months before I got it because they wanted me to search and check if the Dome was hidden somewhere in the Pod and they didn't answer my initial emails and phone calls. It almost seems like a little game they play. You send them an email - they don't respond. You then call them and they say they'll ship it out in a few days - it never arrives (and no shipment confirmation). You call again - they say they'll ship it out - doesn't arrive. You escalate to management (aka Jeff). He calls you but claims he doesn't know anything about the issue but agress to look into it. End result - No support or very little. My 2 cents. Ed |
Posted By: ahefner
Date Posted: 27 Jun 2014 at 3:17pm
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I bought my rPod from them and haven't had any problems so I haven't had to call or email them asking for something. But I did get a call the next day from them asking if everything was still good and if I made it home without any problems. About three weeks later I got email asking if I was enjoying the rPod and if I had any problems to be sure to call them and let them know. About a month after that I got another email following up and reminding me if i had any issues or questions not to hesitate to call them. I have never had a company contact me and make sure that I made it home safe and sound, more less follow up after the purchase to make sure I didn't have any questions regarding the purchase. My experience so far with the camper is that screws do come undone. Had to redrill the holes that mounts the microwave flange to the microwave. Had to tighten a couple screws on the door handle latch. Each time I find a screw loose or gone I simply replace it with a little silicone on the threads. That seems to keep it from backing out a second time. Sorry to hear that you are having issues out of your camper but hopefully with a little luck and maintenance it will work itself out. ------------- 2014 rPod 178 2014 Toyota Tundra 5.7 |
Posted By: Newsguy12
Date Posted: 27 Jun 2014 at 5:17pm
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That was certainly not my experience with Couch's when I bought my 179 a few months ago. They went above and beyond to help me solve a problem that ended up not being theirs or even Forest River's but the fault of a third party adaptor harness for the brake controller...which came cross-wired out of the box. Troubleshooting the problem and a call to the company rep finally solved the problem. Here's the kicker, I didn't buy the harness from Couch's...I bought it from Amazon...and they knew that. I bought at Couch's for the outstanding price--not the customer service. In my case, I got both. ------------- Ram 1500 5.7L V-8 Hemi 2015 R-Pod 179 |
Posted By: Hairy Podders
Date Posted: 06 Jul 2014 at 10:04pm
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Not my experience either. I had a propane regulator start leaking 2 months after purchase. The local Forest River dealer(that does NOT sell Rpods) wouldn't even look at it for 3 weeks. I emailed Brannon at Couch's, who we bought the Pod from. He shipped a new replacement out the next morning. I had it the day after that. 2 weeks later we hauled the Pod to Colorado, with no more issues.
Newsguy; We camped up at Browns Creek for 2 days a week ago. I also saw the river rafting bus that was in the accident with the big RV on 285 by Nathrop....Small World. ------------- Darryl, Julie & Lindsey Cooper & Libby- Devoted Canines 2014 RP178 2006 Wrangler Unlimited Rubicon |
Posted By: Newsguy12
Date Posted: 07 Jul 2014 at 10:14am
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Small world, indeed! We live in the next canyon north of Browns Creek, Chalk Creek Canyon! I've only seen two Pods since we returned here in May. If I would have seen you, I would have stopped and said Hi! I saw an HRE (think it was a 178) going into our canyon yesterday, but I couldn't get his attention. We certainly hope you enjoyed our beautiful country up here. It's truly gorgeous. We spent the weekend dry camping outside of Saguache with two couples who had 35 foot fifth wheels. We gave them a tour of the Pod. Both said..."it is very cute." Meaning, "OMG, how can you camp with something so small!" It's perfect for us. We love it. One thing we didn't love was the R-Dome. We set it up for the first time tho weekend. It will be on eBay soon. Nothing wrong with it, but not to our taste. I'm waiting for that enterprising inventor who will figure out how to put an awning on a Pod. Thanks for the post...if we would have known you were in the area, we would have invited you for coffee. Safe Travels. ------------- Ram 1500 5.7L V-8 Hemi 2015 R-Pod 179 |
Posted By: Happy Tripping
Date Posted: 21 Jul 2014 at 10:41am
| Re Kymooses - I'm not sure 'hear say' is really helpful. Personally, I have had a few miscommunications with Couch's but compared to other travel trailer dealers I've had dealings with, they are as satisfactory as I could hope for. |
Posted By: David and Danette
Date Posted: 21 Jul 2014 at 11:26am
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I would agree with everyone's positive comments with Couch's RV and what I have read in past posts from others there have been a lot of good comments said regarding Couch's RV. We bought our r-pod from them back in 2009 and they were very pleasant to do business with. ------------- 2018 Vista Cruiser 19BFD (2018- 2012 Vibe 6503 (2014-2019) 2009 r-pod 171 (2009-2014) Middle Tn 2014 Ram 1500 Quad cab |
Posted By: Luv2Q
Date Posted: 18 Sep 2014 at 9:34pm
Sorry I'm late to this chat, but PahaQue makes a visor that's kinda cute .. and pricey (~$300). HTH
------------- John & Teri Tundra 5.7L V8 / RP 180 E2 WDH / Integrated controller (POS) replaced by Tekonsha P3 |
Posted By: Blue's Pod
Date Posted: 22 Sep 2014 at 8:56pm
We purchased our 2015 pod from Couch's in August and had it delivered as close as they could get to our house in the mountains. Once we got it home we were able to do a complete walk through. We had some issues that were due to Forest River's quality control. That we were able to fix ourselves. Brannon at Couch's handled the items like a missing cutting board for the sink and a broken shield for a light cover. We have had a great response from Couch's RV via e-mail and phone. And Brannon at Couch's has been great to work with from the beginning buying process till the end.  ------------- |
Posted By: rpod13225
Date Posted: 29 Sep 2014 at 10:08am
| I called Couch's and there price was great.. The only other dealer that could beat there price was Big Daddy Rvs. I have also heard couchs do not prep units they buy so many they just ship them untouched. I decided to buy from other dealer and received a free prep, free propane, free battery, free starter kit and walk around from driver at delivery. Very pleased of big daddy rvs. |
Posted By: Blue's Pod
Date Posted: 07 Oct 2014 at 12:27pm
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Couch's did do a prep on our 2015 Pod. What I mean by prep that we got was Free Battery and box, Free fill of Propane, Sewer tube storage already mounted, and Free starter kit that had the following things water pressure regulator, rv toilet chemicals, fresh water hose, water filter, power cord, power cord 110 adapter, chocks, rv toilet paper, sewer hose, and a multi fit sewer adapter that fits the various sizes of sewer connections. We also received the R-dome with our pod. I would not consider that part of the prep. And I don't know if that is now standard for Rpods in 2015. We were happy that it came with our pod. The driver also did a walk around with us to make sure there was no damage in delivery. Then he opened it up and we looked inside. He did mention as a driver he was only responsible for the outside. ------------- |
Posted By: Luv2Q
Date Posted: 07 Oct 2014 at 9:57pm
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"Free" stuff .. Personally, I don't think anything is free. It all has a cost. If I get something thrown in, it's because somebody is trying to clinch a sale. Sweeten the deal, so to speak. Don't misunderstand; it's great to get extra stuff but I wouldn't let $20-30 worth of goodies swing me over. Our walk-out price was good & had the R-dome, the spare tire, two batteries (I paid extra for the second one) & covers for the propane tank (filled) & spare. I was happy. Would have been a whole lot happier, though, if some glitches had been caught by them rather than me. The goodies wouldn't have meant much if I'd been 1100 miles away before I found 'em. YMMV.
------------- John & Teri Tundra 5.7L V8 / RP 180 E2 WDH / Integrated controller (POS) replaced by Tekonsha P3 |
Posted By: Blue's Pod
Date Posted: 08 Oct 2014 at 10:38am
I do agree nothing is for free when buying. We were surprised by the starter kit and it was not part of our negotiations. I don't know how many of the included options were standard from Forest River and which ones were added by the dealer. We were concerned about the dealer not being local and gave that some thought before buying. All in all we are happy with out decision to use Couch's. If or when we have a problem that can't be solved via a shipped replacement part to put in ourselves then we will have to find a dealer that does warranty work for Forest River. ------------- |
Posted By: Keith-N-Dar
Date Posted: 08 Oct 2014 at 6:20pm
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The "free stuff" sounds like the stuff that came with our pod.
------------- Keith-N-Dar Boris & Betty (Boston Terriers) 2011 R-Pod 177 2010 Ford F-150 |
Posted By: Unclewillis
Date Posted: 09 Oct 2014 at 6:21pm
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We bought our 176-T from them and if there is one thing to recommend it would be to have them provide every little detail. For instance we agreed to a purchase price with all the goodies over the phone but when it came time to sign the purchase agreement the inventory list didnt include hardly anything. so that took a good day to figure out and get the right paperwork. We did all of this over the phone.
so...dont sign without reading everything, which is common sense anyway ------------- Daddy, Mommy and Daughter. BlackJack & Keno (boston Terriers) Rpod 176T 2015 Nick: ouR-pod |
Posted By: techntrek
Date Posted: 09 Oct 2014 at 8:49pm
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Common tactic, I've seen it personally. ------------- 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: Leighbeelu
Date Posted: 13 Jan 2015 at 9:50am
| Hello Blues Pod, Can you tell me who your salesman was as I am purchasing from Couch's right now and they are saying that the starter kit is not included. I can't believe that these necessary items are not included with the sale. Thank you, Leigh |
Posted By: Podster
Date Posted: 13 Jan 2015 at 10:10am
It's only about $30.00-50.00 bucks worth of swag, you can buy it all at Walmart at your first stop...don't let it kill your buzz.
 ------------- Cliff & Raelynn Ranger 4.0/178 (1/2 ton 5,800lb tow capacity) |
Posted By: Kickstart
Date Posted: 13 Jan 2015 at 12:34pm
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Podster is correct, and they usually give you such low quality stuff in the starter kit that it's not really worthwhile. None of us want a crappy (so to speak) sewer hose. One RV retailer we bought from handled it differently and gave us a $100 store credit so that we could choose what we needed/liked. That was much preferable. ------------- '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: Leighbeelu
Date Posted: 13 Jan 2015 at 12:38pm
| Thanks for the input. What is the best sewer set up to purchase then? I am getting delivery on Thursday and taking it out on Friday so I want to make sure I have everything necessary. |
Posted By: Kickstart
Date Posted: 13 Jan 2015 at 1:00pm
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I've had good luck with Rhinoflex--good quality, reasonable price, and easy to add additional length when you take care of the Pod short storage tube! ------------- '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: Podster
Date Posted: 13 Jan 2015 at 2:36pm
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Walmart seriously has a very good selection. Chalks, Shims, Bubble Levels, Leveling Block and Pads, Toilet Chems, Paper, Fresh water hoses, Sewer hoses, 90º for Sewer Hoses, Black Tank Flush Wand, 90º (elbow) Water Attachment, City Water "Y" Splitter, Water Filters, Step Rug Cover, folding Patio Mat, POD bath brush, Blow Out Valve Attachment, and more and it's quality. AND the best part is that Walmart will take ANYTHING back. The RV section is located in automotive, all in one spot and it's good stuff. You can even get Coupler and Hitch Locks in the trailer section. Groceries, then hit the Red Box on the way out. Don't forget the grease gun! Good luck! Have fun!
------------- Cliff & Raelynn Ranger 4.0/178 (1/2 ton 5,800lb tow capacity) |
Posted By: Podster
Date Posted: 13 Jan 2015 at 3:08pm
So true, although I appreciated it, the sewer hose I received with my POD was equipped with the black tank connection only, nothing for the dump station side, just hose. Does anybody really just stick the hose into the dump station? ewww... ------------- Cliff & Raelynn Ranger 4.0/178 (1/2 ton 5,800lb tow capacity) |
Posted By: Luv2Q
Date Posted: 13 Jan 2015 at 3:09pm
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A "Sanitube" (dwincorp.com) - or something similar to store the sewer hose - is a worthwhile addition, too. ------------- John & Teri Tundra 5.7L V8 / RP 180 E2 WDH / Integrated controller (POS) replaced by Tekonsha P3 |
Posted By: Fly Pod
Date Posted: 14 Jan 2015 at 8:39am
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I bought the 20' RhinoFlex hose for mine. I am picking up my unit from Couch's on Saturday. Charles was my salesman and I am not getting a starter kit as well. I have been buying stuff off Amazon, RV Upgrades and Camping World since I made my down payment. Search this site for items you will need as well as the Pod Owners Facebook page.
------------- 2015 R178 R-Pod 1998 Chevy Silverado 1500 2005 Ford Escape |
Posted By: HuronSailor
Date Posted: 14 Jan 2015 at 9:27am
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Podster has it right, the starter kit is not a deal breaker. Our starter kit was pretty much junk. Rhinoflex is the way to go with the sewer hose. ------------- .: Mark & Beth :: Silverado 5.3L :: 2018 rPod 180 :. |
Posted By: Jay in Maryland
Date Posted: 12 Apr 2015 at 9:45am
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I drove my kids ~8 hours from our home in MD to Couch's to pick up our r-pod 179 (made the $1000 deposit in February) on April 1, 2015, worried I might indeed end up feeling foolish on that day. At this time I am pleased with my decision to use Couch's. The dealership and town was a bit run down and rough looking, -but I guess that helps explain why their prices are able to be several thousands below dealers closer to my home. The deal I got was exactly what I had arranged, there were no bad surprises. There was a small effort to sell me extra insurance coverage's and special sealants for thousands more, but this was not a hard sale. I got to take my time a look the pod over and test everything except water related items. Mitch, the employee explaining everything to a newbie and his kids, did a commendable job. My salesmen Ray Crain suggested that I bring a cashiers check instead of wiring funds, -and I should have taken his advice. However, my bank encouraged me to wire the funds saying cashiers checks are more problematic. I made the wire at 12:30 pm and my bank provided me both the Federal Reserve wire transaction number and the receipt number provided by Jeff Couch's bank saying they had received the funds at 12:30. Yet Couch's dealership said they had no record of the funds until about 4 pm that afternoon. This left me and the kids waiting for several hours and planing to spend the night in Hamilton. So we were happy when told we could leave the dealership around 5 that first day, but our travel plans were limited by the late hour. My advice is to take a cashiers check like your salesmen suggests! I will post a review of the pods initial quality after I have had more time to study it. I have some initial issues I will ask about after locating the appropriate forum location. But long story short I think I saved at least 3-4 thousand by driving from MD over Couchs for my r-pod purchase. |
Posted By: techntrek
Date Posted: 12 Apr 2015 at 7:22pm
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What part of MD are you from? ------------- 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: Jay in Maryland
Date Posted: 12 Apr 2015 at 7:44pm
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We are in a neighborhood called Braddock Heights, which is on a ridge just west of Frederick. Today is the first day I've had to really examine my new r-pod. I'm hoping to make some improvements to it and post pictures here. ------------- Jay r-pod179 05 Tacoma PreRunner |
Posted By: techntrek
Date Posted: 15 Apr 2015 at 7:20pm
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Not too far from us, we are in northern Baltimore Co. ------------- 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: nicfortin
Date Posted: 02 Aug 2015 at 8:26pm
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Could someone explain to me how they can sale those for thousandS less than others dealers?? If the exchange rate didn't have plunge like crazy over the last year I would probably make the 15+ hours trip... Did even more milleage for my car in 2013... |
Posted By: techntrek
Date Posted: 02 Aug 2015 at 9:46pm
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They make their money by selling in bulk. ------------- 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: Leo B
Date Posted: 03 Aug 2015 at 3:24pm
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Checked into them when we were first.wee looking to buy. They do a tremendous amount of sales , wasn 't worth the distance. ------------- Leo & Melissa Bachand 2017 Ford F150 2021 Vista Cruiser 19 csk Previously owned 2015 Rpod 179 2010 Rpod 171 |
Posted By: nicfortin
Date Posted: 03 Aug 2015 at 3:57pm
How come? Too far away? Or you got a fairly close price in VT (which is waay closer to us :-) thx N
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Posted By: Jay in Maryland
Date Posted: 03 Aug 2015 at 3:57pm
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I saved about 5k from the dealer 45m near to me in the greater DC area and 3.5k below the next best quote i could from a KY dealer. For me the drive was worth that saviings. I do find it cu 8rious/suspicious Couches price is so much lower. I assume its the lack frills, and higher volume. The dealership is a tiny old building in a run down tiny town with giant fields of rvs. My salesmen told me their sales for the month, when i was there, exceeded some dealers anual volume.
I have been dissapointed in the quality of my 2015 179. I hope that is no reflection on or relation to purchasing from Couches. I will post photos and details illustrating my concerns on this site in the coming weeks. If i had paid 3.5k more this quality issue would be even more troubling. I suspect that a few years ago rpods may have been built better.... ------------- Jay r-pod179 05 Tacoma PreRunner |
Posted By: HuronSailor
Date Posted: 03 Aug 2015 at 5:29pm
I recently saw some of the 2015 models, including the 179, and I tend to agree with you. I wanted to dismiss new owner's complaints as a lack of experience with RVs in general, or maybe unrealistic expectations given the price point of the rpod. This is still probably the case sometimes, but I gotta say, in some cases the interior finish of the models I saw was awful. I saw a poorly thought out construction process put together quickly and dressed up with caulk, or awful quality simply left in the open and in your face. Some of the stuff I saw was just plain embarrassing compared to the interior of my 2009 172, which I bought new. In fact, after looking at the new rpods and seeing the sticker prices, I wouldn't be all that inclined to take the next step and try to do a deal. I'd have to assume the interior quality represents the quality of the rpod in general and would probably go look for a one year old Surveyor. I've been to the factory, talked to some of the management and workers, and I don't believe they want to turn out a bad product. In fact, I've been treated over and above all expectations by FR. I'm very happy with my pod but after looking at the new models my main feeling was disappointment. I'd like to see your pictures and hear your opinions. ------------- .: Mark & Beth :: Silverado 5.3L :: 2018 rPod 180 :. |
Posted By: furpod
Date Posted: 03 Aug 2015 at 7:45pm
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Couch's sells a Pod EVERY day. This is directly from the factory. VOLUME.. We have two bike shops near us, one sells bikes at MSRP, the other is always way less, my bet is maybe a couple percent over cost. But he sells 20x the bikes the other guy does.. and 20x the accessories.. $$$ ------------- |
Posted By: Leo B
Date Posted: 03 Aug 2015 at 8:54pm
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We got a good price in Vermont saved all the travel expense, dealership here is 35 miles from home ------------- Leo & Melissa Bachand 2017 Ford F150 2021 Vista Cruiser 19 csk Previously owned 2015 Rpod 179 2010 Rpod 171 |
Posted By: Jay in Maryland
Date Posted: 11 Aug 2015 at 1:08pm
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fyi- I finally found time to post my photos/observations of the quality of my 2015 179 I bought at Couch's this winter and picked up in March. The post is in this sites Reviews section as its unrelated to Couch's, and is about the quality of my 2015 179 model. ------------- Jay r-pod179 05 Tacoma PreRunner |
Posted By: Leo B
Date Posted: 11 Aug 2015 at 2:58pm
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Jay, it is not unrelated to Couch's. Though they are made by Forest River, Couch is the one selling it to you. They have a big piece of the pie. They should be going through the pod, checking everything before they pass it on to you. Their warranty person and the service manager should be fixing the long list of the problems you photographed and posted. ------------- Leo & Melissa Bachand 2017 Ford F150 2021 Vista Cruiser 19 csk Previously owned 2015 Rpod 179 2010 Rpod 171 |
Posted By: Commander203
Date Posted: 10 Sep 2015 at 8:57pm
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As stated in my prior post that I would return for a report on my buying experience with RV Nation here in Ohio. We were originally planning on our pick up around the 7th. Our 179 didn't arrive until this morning. The service department jumped right to work on prep and we started our walk through at 1pm. Can't say enough good things about the way this purchase went. First let me say there was no mention of completing the sale prior to the prep or walk through. As a matter of fact we were allowed to watch dealer prep prior to our walk through. All persons from Brannon our salesman to Mike our prep/demonstration person in the service department were extremely professional and courteous. One of the other guys in the service department, I assume the service manager, didn't get his name, came by and informed us that if there was anything we were not satisfied with just let him know and it would be taken care of. I am totally satisfied with the buying experience, best I've ever experienced. Not like buying a new car at all. Now for the trailer. My wife and I dug really deep based on the information in this review, which by the way was extremely helpful. We found only a couple of the issues that are listed in this review, so thanks for the heads up. Otherwise, watched it being prepped and cleaned really good. Maybe that was because we were present, but a good job was performed. Mike did the hitch set up, appears to work just fine from the dealer back to the motel we eventually booked due to being tired of the wife's relatives. I had already installed a P2 brake controller but Mike got in the TV and made a few adjustments and the drive back to motel was great. I had an E2 hitch installed. We will be getting on the road back to Texas around 0500 hrs tomorrow. I hope this review of Jeff Couch's RV nation helps someone about deciding whether to purchase from them or not. Now we'll just see how the POD holds up. We only had minor dealings with the finance guy as we had a cashier's check for our purchase so can't comment about financing other than he tried really hard to sell us a $1649.00 four year extended warranty. Of course we refused thanks to this forum. I did read here or on the other one about other extended plans that are much cheaper if we decide to purchase one. ------------- Mike & Erin 2013 Tundra 4.6L V8 (Tow PK) 2006 Honda Goldwing GL 1800 2005 Honda VTX 1800N |
Posted By: Kobwo
Date Posted: 29 Sep 2015 at 11:21pm
How did the tow home go? I will be leaving Dallas this weekend to pick up our new 180 on Monday. Hopefully our delivery goes as well as yours did. At least it wasn't built on a Friday. ------------- Shawn, Mohyon, and Chewy 2016 Rpod 180 On Order : 2015 Silverado-Texas Edition |
Posted By: Commander203
Date Posted: 30 Sep 2015 at 6:46am
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Kobwo, the tow was very good on the way back to Central Texas. We probably should have taken a couple of days for the drive, we really wanted to get home after being away for a couple of weeks. I think my biggest frustration was the traffic. We came into Dallas on I-30 West to the 635, for me absolutely horrendous. Even if I wasn't towing it still would have been just as bad.
The only thing I've found with the TT so far has been the saw dust issue. We had a little bit on the floor after we made the trip home. We have not taken the trailer out yet, first trip will be next weekend. That's really good that your TT is already at the dealership, sure makes planning easier. The dealership's building is pretty small but don't let that be a concern. The way I see it, if they build a big fancy facility, those costs would probably be passed along to the customer. The service/preparation area is nice and they have a large selection of TTs on site. I was told the 179 is very popular right now, guess that's what took mine so long to get built. That was mainly my fault because the dealer had one for me but when they called, I hadn't made the decision to purchase. A couple of days later I called to tell them I wanted it, too late, they had sold it. I think it took about 5 weeks to get another one. One more plug for the dealership, a few days after getting home, the salesman sent an email checking that we made it home OK and asked how the trip went. I thought that was pretty nice. Anyway, I hope you have a safe trip and a pleasant buying experience. Don't forget to let us know how it went. ------------- Mike & Erin 2013 Tundra 4.6L V8 (Tow PK) 2006 Honda Goldwing GL 1800 2005 Honda VTX 1800N |
Posted By: crosscountry
Date Posted: 12 Oct 2015 at 6:06pm
| I didn't get past the negotiations stage with this shady dealer. We agreed on a price that was lower than their online quote system by 1,500. I reconfigured the rpod adding an AC and oven and asked for a discount over this new quote to which they said their online price quote was final. They lied about the previous quotes including the 1,500 off which I have in writing. The guy I spoke with at Couch's is a compulsive liar. |
Posted By: techntrek
Date Posted: 12 Oct 2015 at 9:03pm
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Odd, I've never heard of them negotiating. They discount up-front based on their bulk sales. ------------- 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: vrodman
Date Posted: 20 Aug 2016 at 2:49pm
I just purchased a RPod 179 a month ago. The price was good and I drove 2 days to pick it up. Salesman was nice. The orientation was about 2 hrs but mostly superficial, here's this and that. I am new to RV's and coulda' used a more in depth instruction class. I would have paid a little extra for it. Having to go through all of the manuals was excessive, but neccessary. I have to say though, in this day and age, I think their Customer Service needs ALOT of improvement. I had numerous little things that weren't right and had to do them myself. (loose, stripped screws, rust on the step 2x3", bad cables for the TV etc) No biggie but I was on the road trip. My biggest complaint is that when you call, EVERYONE seems to be hiding behind their voice mail! Unprofessional. It took over 6hrs to wait for a call back and never came. I had to call again and that took 24hrs. Shameful. I would give them a rating of 4 out of 10 at best.  Customer Service 101 = someone should have followed up after sale and inquired how things were and did I need anything with my new R Pod. It all left a sour taste in my mouth. Granted I wasn't buying a $200,000 rig, but still. Just sayin'... |
Posted By: HappyCamperLA
Date Posted: 06 Sep 2016 at 10:49pm
Just wanted to give a shout out to Ray at Couchs. He was very responsive and answered all of our questions via email. We contacted many dealers in our pod hunt and the norm was to receive either a call when we asked for email contact, not hear back at all, or to receive partial responses. Couchs gave us a great price and ultimately we purchased from a local(ish) dealer who matched Couchs price - just added their cost to transport the RV (which was less than we would've paid ourselves) and an extra $400 because it's the Hood River edition. Feel a little bad not purchasing from Couchs since they were so helpful, but buying locally was too good of a deal to pass up, so I figure the least I can do is give 'em a shout out here  ------------- 2017 R-Pod 172 TV: Town & Country minivan |
Posted By: Luv2Q
Date Posted: 07 Sep 2016 at 12:41am
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Ditto to HappyCamper's observations about Couch's & Ray. We bought a 171 from them & made the drive from Central Texas to pick it up. I'd have done it again when we bought the 180 but it was January & I was a little nervous about the weather. Bought instead from a semi-local dealer (100 miles away) who gave us Couch's price adjusted for transportation. Looking back, wish we'd have gone with Couch's. Why? The local yokels are clueless about Pods. We were explain things to them on the walkthrough. Not a good situation. ------------- John & Teri Tundra 5.7L V8 / RP 180 E2 WDH / Integrated controller (POS) replaced by Tekonsha P3 |
Posted By: smedleyludlow
Date Posted: 01 Nov 2016 at 10:35pm
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We picked up our 2017 178 this past weekend from Couch's, they seemed to want to help but the walkthrough was fast because it was Sat. and they wanted to go home. I suppose I can understand that. We stopped at a campground (Singing Hills) at Cave City on the way back to try out the pod, no problems so far. Will go to Tim's Ford this coming weekend to test it out some more. ------------- Projects take longer than expected, cost more than expected and will go wrong at the worst time. |
Posted By: Bama Pod
Date Posted: 02 Nov 2016 at 6:33am
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We pick up our 180 this Friday. Maybe we'll run into each other at Monte Sano some time. Actually quite a few Pods in Huntsville (and about to be 1 more) ------------- Bama Pod Huntsville, AL 2017 Ford F250 2017 Airstream 26U |
Posted By: smedleyludlow
Date Posted: 02 Nov 2016 at 12:29pm
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Hi Bama Pod, We are going to Tim's Ford this weekend to catch some fall colors. Don't know if I want to pull the pod up Monte Sano with a Santa Fe. It did OK in the hills between here and Cleveland, but Monte Sano is a much harder pull.
------------- Projects take longer than expected, cost more than expected and will go wrong at the worst time. |
Posted By: Bama Pod
Date Posted: 02 Nov 2016 at 3:40pm
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Hope there are colors there. As you know with the drought we've had exactly squat here in town.
Either way, enjoy Tim's Ford!!!
------------- Bama Pod Huntsville, AL 2017 Ford F250 2017 Airstream 26U |
Posted By: ricon
Date Posted: 02 Nov 2016 at 8:03pm
| I'm going to pick up my 179 this saturday. What should I check before i drive 1200 miles home? |
Posted By: Leo B
Date Posted: 02 Nov 2016 at 9:20pm
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congrats! Great floor plan. Check everything and video the walk thru the tech will give you on how everything operates. ------------- Leo & Melissa Bachand 2017 Ford F150 2021 Vista Cruiser 19 csk Previously owned 2015 Rpod 179 2010 Rpod 171 |
Posted By: smedleyludlow
Date Posted: 03 Nov 2016 at 1:01pm
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We picked up our 178 from RVN this past Sat and towed it 400 miles home. The people at the dealer installed the ball for the anti-sway bar, I had the tab for the ASB hitch ball welded to my hitch. We had no sway at all. Hitch height of new RPODS is 20 inches, and provides more ground clearance than pods of the past. On my TV the top of the ball is right at 20 inches off the ground, and the pod was a tad nose down, which is perfect for towing. Other than that, look at the pod carefully for obvious errors. They will do a walkthrough and explain everything, but it will be fast since they want to go home on Saturdays. I still don't know how some things work on our pod since there's no owner's manual for the pod itself. Lots of appliance manuals tho. When you stop for the night, and before you unhitch the pod, chock the tires. Ours wanted to roll a bit even though the site we stopped overnight at looked level. ------------- Projects take longer than expected, cost more than expected and will go wrong at the worst time. |
Posted By: techntrek
Date Posted: 03 Nov 2016 at 8:03pm
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Never unhitch before you chock the wheels. Check the lug nut torque before every trip (and every 50 miles the first 200 miles). Check the tire pressure before every trip, inflate the tires to the pressure shown on the tire's sidewall. ------------- 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: malkbean2
Date Posted: 06 Feb 2017 at 8:05am
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Does the grand caravan tow the rpod trouble free? How fast can you go on interstates? Is the tongue weight of the rpod a problem? Is after market sway control needed? Is a weight distribution device needed? Is after market cooling needed for trans or engine? Can you tow through the rocky mountains? My tow vehicle: 2016 Grand Caravan Rpod considering towing: 177, 178, 179, or 180 |
Posted By: malkbean2
Date Posted: 06 Feb 2017 at 9:56am
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Does your town & country handle the rpod well? Do you think it can get through the rocky mountains without problems? How much gas mileage do you get towing it? Did you install heavy duty cooling for the engine or trans? Do tou need a sway control device? Do you need a weight distribution device? |
Posted By: malkbean2
Date Posted: 06 May 2017 at 8:10am
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here's my 2 cents for what its worth. 1.Buy from a local dealer even if costs more they seem to honor their own sales. 2. TT dealers dont seem to like doing waranttee work if bought from other dealers but seem to intensely hate Couchs and hate to honor waranttee work if bought from Couchs 3. Lots of little things and some big things go wrong with new TTs so waranttee repair access is important. 4. A Couch's guy called me after I bought from Pontiac RV at a huge discount and snidely hung up on me after he asked and i told him I got a better deal at Pontiac RV in Illinois - very very glad I did not buy there. |
Posted By: Leo B
Date Posted: 06 May 2017 at 8:34am
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There is a lot to be said for buying locally. We have developed a really good relationship with our local dealer and have been treated pretty good on warranty issues and
service.
------------- Leo & Melissa Bachand 2017 Ford F150 2021 Vista Cruiser 19 csk Previously owned 2015 Rpod 179 2010 Rpod 171 |
Posted By: Tintin
Date Posted: 12 May 2017 at 11:05am
| I realize the previous comments regarding Couch RV date back to 2014, so somewhat of an update. I bought a 179 from them last week. After shopping around locally, in Twin Cities market, and looking at this forum, I landed upon Couch. When we arrived, they did a decent job of going through the Rpod, showing us the various features. At our first stop that night back to the Twin Cities, we could not get the fridge to come on, the light under the dinette did not work and one of the pieces of trim around the dinette set was loose and the cover of the gas canister cover had blown off. I assume the kid showing us the camper did not tighten it down all the way and wind did it's job. I ended up calling, leaving a message on the Couch voice-mail line, nobody responded on the Friday or Saturday. I sent an email to the sales rep, then called him Monday and he connected me with a warranty guy at Couch. Initially, he was a bit vague on how all was to be handled, but after some discussion on my second call to him I pushed for specific answers, he informed me he would mail me a new hatch cover for the gas cover, which came last night. He said I could take the Rpod to any Forest River dealer close to me for the fridge. He suggested for the loose trim I use a finish nail or two. The dinette light he advised twisting it a bit. I tried briefly, but will have to fool with it more later. I set an appointment for June 5 at a dealership in Twin Cities. I have a friend who is geekier than me look at fridge. He tested outlets with multi-meter, we have power, same with 12V. Fridge does not come on, no lights on panel. Could not find anything which looked like a fuse in the back of the fridge, I assume they look like a small tube about 2" or 3" long. I will see what dealer says about fridge. It is covered by warranty. Just a bit frustrating. Overall, I would say Couch is ok, but again, I did have to push for specific answers. I told the guy I wanted confirmation that my file was not just sitting on his "in" basket. He assured me that was not the case, but it seemed like squeaky wheel which got the grease. I find it a bit odd they simply tell the customer to try this or that to do repairs, you would think they would be all apologetic, maybe telling me they will send me a free left-handed wachamigggy for my hassle or something. Instead, he was reluctantly helpful. Like I was putting him out for asking him to do his job. As an aside, as a kid growing up in the early 60's I delivered the Minneapolis Star newspaper. I was taught to place the paper between the screen door and the storm door so that when customer opened the front door a dry (no plastic bags then) paper would slide down in front of his feet with the headlines facing him. If I ever strayed from that level of service, I would hear about it. My response was to apologize and make sure I had my act together in the future. Was a great lesson in quality control and customer service. Maybe RV dealers should have been paperboys and we would get better service. |
Posted By: Tintin
Date Posted: 12 May 2017 at 11:13am
| Sorry, one edit to my post above, I need to learn to look at subsequent pages on forum, I now see there are posts on this topic up to May of 2017. Sorry for confusion. |
Posted By: NHpod
Date Posted: 19 Jul 2017 at 8:00pm
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I am looking at the http://www.couchsrvnation.com/forest-river/travel-trailer/r-pod/rpod-179327 - Couch site at a 179. The price is stated as less than $16,369. It lists the equipment below. Is this all standard or optional? interior Decor: Stone
The RV Nation Advantage Features included with every new RV Purchase!
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Posted By: ToolmanJohn
Date Posted: 19 Jul 2017 at 8:52pm
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NH pod, email Couches and ask them, they will tell you what is included. ------------- 2017 ATC 7X20 Custom Toy Hauler 2013 R-Pod 177 (SOLD) 2013 VW Touareg TDI |
Posted By: NHpod
Date Posted: 20 Jul 2017 at 8:02am
Leo, I live about 75 miles SE of you in Campton, NH. What is the name of the dealer you bought your Pod from?
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Posted By: Subzilla
Date Posted: 20 Jul 2017 at 8:43am
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Bought our 179 from Couch's last month. Yes, all of that equipment is standard. And we even negotiated down to around $15k plus doc and tax because we were traveling from NC to get there. Couldn't find a cheaper price anywhere else...the difference justified the long trip! ------------- Mark Concord, NC 2017 RP 179 "Podzilla" 2011 Silverado 1500 4X4 |
Posted By: smedleyludlow
Date Posted: 20 Jul 2017 at 10:21am
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We bought a 2017 178 from Couch this past November. Everything you list was standard (for them), and we paid 14K. Not happy with the Thule awning. It is tiny, flimsy and the 3rd time we used it an arm broke. $100 to replace it if we can't get it replaced under warranty. ------------- Projects take longer than expected, cost more than expected and will go wrong at the worst time. |
Posted By: smedleyludlow
Date Posted: 20 Jul 2017 at 10:23am
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$100 for just the arm, that is.
------------- Projects take longer than expected, cost more than expected and will go wrong at the worst time. |
Posted By: smedleyludlow
Date Posted: 20 Jul 2017 at 10:26am
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$100 for just the arm, not the whole awning.
------------- Projects take longer than expected, cost more than expected and will go wrong at the worst time. |
Posted By: NHpod
Date Posted: 21 Jul 2017 at 11:09am
Leo, I live about 75 miles south of you near Plymouth, NH. What is the name of the dealer you bought your pod from? Thanks
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