Initial Quality
Printed From: R-pod Owners Forum
Category: R-pod Discussion Forums
Forum Name: Warranty, Service and Recall Bulletins
Forum Discription: Have a warranty or service experience to share?
URL: http://www.rpod-owners.com/forum_posts.asp?TID=5058
Printed Date: 28 Apr 2024 at 11:18pm
Software Version: Web Wiz Forums 9.64 - http://www.webwizforums.com
Topic: Initial Quality
Posted By: henksailor
Subject: Initial Quality
Date Posted: 28 Jul 2014 at 1:45pm
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What types of initial quality problems have others had with their R-Pods? I've got a short list of issues that came with our purchase of the R-Pod last week and wonder if these are just "normal" delivery issues or considered status quo?
- Right rear "sealed" tail light has water in it - Vertical window seal out of track on one window - Plastic liner on bottom panel was not tucked in behind diamond-plate and wind separated a portion of it - (2) 14 AWG wires hanging loose underneath the slide out (inside trailer). Not sure what this is supposed to be connected to, can't see under there to see any obvious place it was connected to. - Drain hose from fresh water "t" valve behind sink hanging loose under slide out (inside trailer - is the a hole for it to drain outside?) - Caulk on upper edge of spoiler has gaps between trailer roof and spoiler - Also (and this isn't the result of Forest River's build procedures or quality checks) The right rear scissor jack had been removed to service another unit at the dealer and was not replaced before we picked up the trailer. This and the wet taillight will be resolved when the dealer has a taillight and scissor jack drop-shipped to my address for me to replace. ------------- '13 Silverado Z71 4x4 Crew Cab '14 RPod 177 (Uncle Ed) 2 big labs and one large mutt (our 4-legged crew, hence the crew cab) |
Replies:
Posted By: CharlieM
Date Posted: 28 Jul 2014 at 2:38pm
Unfortunately delivered quality of any RV is lacking. Your list is not that bad. That said I'll comment on a few:
------------- 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: Budward
Date Posted: 28 Jul 2014 at 2:53pm
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My list of issues I've found exceeds the daily post limit of 1000 words.... Just kidding but there have been a lot of issues in my 2014 179. That said every RV I've ever had came with issues...sadly it is the nature of the business. Contrast that to a number of vehicles I've bought that were essentially perfect- isn't going to happen in the RV world. As for the jack- they were screwed on and welded on my 179. Do you have the means to do that? Personally I ditched the scissor jacks first thing anyway- they hang down way too low to suit me. I replaced the scissors with a BAL jack setup that hangs down far less and is about 2 ft behind the rear wheels (so they don't get torn off in a steep driveway) and don't even with bother with any on the front. ------------- 2014 179 Towed by a 2015 Ford Transit Diesel Supervised by a German/Aussie mix and a Labradoodle! |
Posted By: Leo B
Date Posted: 28 Jul 2014 at 3:41pm
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That sounds bad! We had two minor issues shown to us by the tech during our walk thru . He also told us that the two replacement parts had already been ordered. We have had great luck with Mekkelsen's RV on both our pod purchases. ------------- Leo & Melissa Bachand 2017 Ford F150 2021 Vista Cruiser 19 csk Previously owned 2015 Rpod 179 2010 Rpod 171 |
Posted By: fwunder
Date Posted: 28 Jul 2014 at 4:30pm
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I think you hear a lot more about problems than not on the interwebs. Not diminishing your issues at all, but like Leo, we have had no reason to seek any warranty claim...yet. I did notice the anchor light (that's what I call the light in front by the hitch) needed a little caulk. Other than that, I honestly can't think of a single manufacturing/build issue/surprise. Perhaps we just haven't used it enough, but we do have about 10K miles on it since last September. Maybe we're just lucky. fred
------------- 2014 RPod 178 => https://goo.gl/CV446f - MyMods and Buying Habits 2008 4Runner Limited 4.0-liter V6 Yes, those are wild ponies dining on grass while dumping tanks! |
Posted By: Old Hippy
Date Posted: 28 Jul 2014 at 4:58pm
| Maybe Fred but then so am I I've had my 179 for a couple of months now taken 3 or 4 trips mostly short ones , but have found no problems at all ....so far !!The only problem is that my tires seem to lose pressure after sitting for a wk or so . |
Posted By: fwunder
Date Posted: 28 Jul 2014 at 5:05pm
Grateful Dead Fan, erhhh, I mean Old Hippy, The tire thing is interesting. That's one thing I was really surprised (pleasantly) over the last 8500 miles or so. Started @ 50 psi and ended @ 50 psi. I really expected to put some air in them, but haven't needed to. OK you Old Fred
------------- 2014 RPod 178 => https://goo.gl/CV446f - MyMods and Buying Habits 2008 4Runner Limited 4.0-liter V6 Yes, those are wild ponies dining on grass while dumping tanks! |
Posted By: Budward
Date Posted: 28 Jul 2014 at 5:44pm
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I know 90% of the issues I've found would never be noticed by the average owner- at first. Depending on how long and how one uses and stores an RV will tell the tale in a few years though as things rot out due to improper sealing etc... If any of you watch the Mike Holmes shows where he finds all sorts of issues in supposedly perfect houses- sort of like that. Most owners haven't a clue. It wouldn't be so bad but an equivalent square footage camper as the rpod can be had for about 30% LESS, so one would expect better quality. Besides as a retired engineer who spent 27+ years LOOKING for problems...I've gotten very good at it.  ------------- 2014 179 Towed by a 2015 Ford Transit Diesel Supervised by a German/Aussie mix and a Labradoodle! |
Posted By: fwunder
Date Posted: 28 Jul 2014 at 5:52pm
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Wouldn't that be true with any RV, Boat, home or lawn tractor? I have lived on and cruised many tens of thousand of miles on the open sea and had gutted and rebuilt my current house. I consider myself pretty good a spotting issues or potential issues. What do you consider an "average owner" and what do you think are common things specific to RV's that are overlooked? Thanks! Fred ------------- 2014 RPod 178 => https://goo.gl/CV446f - MyMods and Buying Habits 2008 4Runner Limited 4.0-liter V6 Yes, those are wild ponies dining on grass while dumping tanks! |
Posted By: David and Danette
Date Posted: 28 Jul 2014 at 6:04pm
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I have worked the past 6 months with warranty problems and mods, fixing things the way I would like them. Today I think I am finished the last thing I had to do was seal the roof where needed and that was done today. We are ready to go camping being hurricane season I wanted to make sure camper was ready in case we would need to evacuate, if there did happen to be a major hurricane coming in our direction. ------------- 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: fwunder
Date Posted: 28 Jul 2014 at 6:12pm
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Hi D&D, Do you mind sharing what is it you fixed (besides mods)? BTW, after 25 years on SOFLA I do not miss hurricane season! Of course, Sandy was no picnic here either. fred ------------- 2014 RPod 178 => https://goo.gl/CV446f - MyMods and Buying Habits 2008 4Runner Limited 4.0-liter V6 Yes, those are wild ponies dining on grass while dumping tanks! |
Posted By: Kickstart
Date Posted: 28 Jul 2014 at 6:36pm
------------- '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: Budward
Date Posted: 28 Jul 2014 at 6:48pm
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I've heard from dealers and owners of older vs newer rpods that- yes quality has gone down. RV's seem to be 40 years behind cars...if you are old enough you may remember how new cars made many trips back to the dealer for warranty work. Not common at all now, at least it hasn't been for me. I was fortunate to have company cars the last 30+ years so I got to cycle through plenty I personally would have never bought. Plus I bought plenty on my own to suit my needs. To be honest the last 10-15 years most were pretty well made. The RV manufacturers have a lot of catching up to do. Probably won't happen though as almost no RVs are imported from countries where workmanship is held to a high standard. In case anyone doesn't remember it was the imports that got the the US makers off their butts to do better..IMO. I too have had other RV's that were even worse than the r-pod. My gripe is most of the defects I found would have cost nothing to do right in the first place. As for FR caring- I'm now 9 weeks into waiting for a replacement countertop they promised 2 weeks on. ------------- 2014 179 Towed by a 2015 Ford Transit Diesel Supervised by a German/Aussie mix and a Labradoodle! |
Posted By: fwunder
Date Posted: 28 Jul 2014 at 7:23pm
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I'm really sorry, but I don't understand the point? So no one should buy an RV because they aren't built like they used to be? Makes no sense to me bash a product or industry because of it's shortcomings and then continue to purchase from same. Why would you buy a new product when you knew it was inferior to an older product? What is the point? I got into this for the fun factor. And I am having fun! I apologize if that isn't what I am supposed to be doing. Fred
------------- 2014 RPod 178 => https://goo.gl/CV446f - MyMods and Buying Habits 2008 4Runner Limited 4.0-liter V6 Yes, those are wild ponies dining on grass while dumping tanks! |
Posted By: David and Danette
Date Posted: 28 Jul 2014 at 8:15pm
Fred there were few warranty problems axle was the most major but the outcome was good. There was insulation needed for refrigerator and black tank flush needed repaired and last antenna would not turn. That was very little I think nothing big that could not be fixed. Now the mods, that was a big job that took a while and did them as I had time. The biggest of the mods was to replace front dinette seats and table and kitchen counter top. In doing these mods I added storage, new sink and faucet, and relocated the battery compartment. In bathroom removed a sliding door replaced with a curtain, rebuilt a step which is also used for storage. Added vent fan above dinning table, added LED lights and other little things sealant around shower added towel hooks. Outside I added aluminum extensions to the fenders did the same on our r-pod which worked out well. And replaced exterior shower for one that is better quality and air tight one that would not allow insects to inter camper. Took care of rust on the frame replaced sewer hose storage tube for one that would fir our sewer hose. And today cleaned the sealant on the roof and covered with that sticky tape ( I forgot the name ) so now we are ready to go camping again.  ------------- 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: Budward
Date Posted: 28 Jul 2014 at 8:18pm
Who said no one should buy an RV because they aren't built like they used to be? Wasn't me. They have never been built well, with very few exceptions, and there is no sign of improvement IMO. ------------- 2014 179 Towed by a 2015 Ford Transit Diesel Supervised by a German/Aussie mix and a Labradoodle! |
Posted By: fwunder
Date Posted: 28 Jul 2014 at 8:20pm
Wow! You guys have been busy! Time to go camping! Sanibel/Captiva - we'll be there in February. Can't wait! fred ------------- 2014 RPod 178 => https://goo.gl/CV446f - MyMods and Buying Habits 2008 4Runner Limited 4.0-liter V6 Yes, those are wild ponies dining on grass while dumping tanks! |
Posted By: furpod
Date Posted: 28 Jul 2014 at 8:26pm
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I hate to say it.. but you hear the same thing over on airforums quite often. I WOULD be bent if I spent +$40k on a pod sized trailer and had a cabinet fall off the wall etc... It happens. So far going on our 4th season, the only real issue I found was after a couple years my rear window seemed to be leaking a bit. Took 10 minutes to remove the old caulk, clean up, re caulk. I can live with that. ------------- |
Posted By: David and Danette
Date Posted: 28 Jul 2014 at 8:28pm
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My thoughts as far as quality it needs to catch up to technology. I think technology has improved with the use of fiberglass sides and roof, and aluminum framing with vacuum bonded wall, floor and roof construction. Better plumbing and other things that have improved. Quality as far as putting everything together I think that needs to improve and I don't think that there are to many camper owners that would disagree. ------------- 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: ToolmanJohn
Date Posted: 28 Jul 2014 at 8:38pm
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Wish the RV makers would learn how to eliminate all the sawdust they leave behind. It's STILL rains sawdust on the bed from the overhead console after 2 years. I vacuum , and it's on the bed again after every trip. I even find it inside the light fixtures.
No it's NOT termites... |
Posted By: fwunder
Date Posted: 28 Jul 2014 at 8:54pm
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Ya know, when I was sailing and surveying boats I heard the same things. Imagine a head door sticking on a Hinckley Bermuda 40. Yeah, it happens. I've been at sea with one and seen it happen. My point is, life is wayyy to short to dwell or overcompensate on issues, most of which are easily resolved. Positive and constructive criticism is great and even valuable to both the new owner like me and probably even the manufacturer, but to continually denigrate a product which obviously has a rather large installed base of satisfied owners seems self serving and fruitless. That said, the framing wood used in the R-Pod has to be the cheapest, knotty, crappy stuff I've ever seen!  fred ------------- 2014 RPod 178 => https://goo.gl/CV446f - MyMods and Buying Habits 2008 4Runner Limited 4.0-liter V6 Yes, those are wild ponies dining on grass while dumping tanks! |
Posted By: Leo B
Date Posted: 28 Jul 2014 at 9:08pm
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I feel really lucky as my biggest complaint was the decals on my 171 kept peeling. We bought our first pod in 2009 and our second pod just recently. We have been extremely happy but yeah they do use some cheap framing wood! ------------- Leo & Melissa Bachand 2017 Ford F150 2021 Vista Cruiser 19 csk Previously owned 2015 Rpod 179 2010 Rpod 171 |
Posted By: fwunder
Date Posted: 28 Jul 2014 at 9:11pm
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Leo, I first read that as "my 171 kept peeing" and imagined a giant depends around the pod!! Sorry, I couldn't help it!  ------------- 2014 RPod 178 => https://goo.gl/CV446f - MyMods and Buying Habits 2008 4Runner Limited 4.0-liter V6 Yes, those are wild ponies dining on grass while dumping tanks! |
Posted By: Leo B
Date Posted: 28 Jul 2014 at 9:26pm
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Good one! ------------- Leo & Melissa Bachand 2017 Ford F150 2021 Vista Cruiser 19 csk Previously owned 2015 Rpod 179 2010 Rpod 171 |
Posted By: techntrek
Date Posted: 28 Jul 2014 at 9:46pm
Mine are now 5 years old and have over 15,000 miles on them. Plenty of tread left, although it is worn oddly. The 2nd ring of tread from the inside, on both sides, has worn down much more than the rest. General rule of thumb with trailer tires is they will "age out" before the tread wears out. 5-6 years is usually end-of-life if you want to be safe, so I'll replace mine next summer before we head out for another 5-7k mile trip. ------------- 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: fwunder
Date Posted: 28 Jul 2014 at 9:52pm
Thanks Doug. Although mine are young (only 11 months), I do have about 10K miles on them and notice a little odd and uneven wear. I really had to stare at them to even notice. I'm thinking they are just inexpensive tires or, perhaps, could use a balancing. Might balancing have something to do with uneven wear? fred ------------- 2014 RPod 178 => https://goo.gl/CV446f - MyMods and Buying Habits 2008 4Runner Limited 4.0-liter V6 Yes, those are wild ponies dining on grass while dumping tanks! |
Posted By: henksailor
Date Posted: 28 Jul 2014 at 11:04pm
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Wow! Looks like I hit on a good topic. Thanks, everyone, for your input on build quality and your take on the state of RV construction. I'm not complaining about my pod, was just wondering if these type of things are to be expected when purchasing a entry level RV. If I were buying a Hinckley Sou'Wester 52 and had these types of issues, I would be more concerned. Although I would also be there throughout the build of a Hinckley to oversee the steps of construction... From what we saw when we first looked at the R-Pods at Gillette's RV in Lansing, MI, I would have to assume that they borrowed parts from my trailer and several others to prep ones they had sold earlier. An open hole for an interior speaker, top control panel missing from the refrigerator and a few light fixtures and trim screws loose. Most of these things were back in place when we picked it up, so I don't consider them to be issues. Of the list that I initially posted of problems, the only one that really concerns me are the wires hanging down under the countertop of the slide out. The ends of both wires are stripped and the copper has some crimping on it, so it was connected to something at one time. What, I don't know. They go up into the space between the storage under the sink and the 2 drawers. Not sure what is up there that would require that robust of wiring, the 2-burner stove does not have an electronic igniters. All of the other issues I can fix or have already fixed. ------------- '13 Silverado Z71 4x4 Crew Cab '14 RPod 177 (Uncle Ed) 2 big labs and one large mutt (our 4-legged crew, hence the crew cab) |
Posted By: fwunder
Date Posted: 29 Jul 2014 at 12:35pm
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You're right henksailor. That wasn't a very fair or reasonable comparison. Those wires are a bit baffling. Perhaps the beginning of a 12v. outlet install? On my 178, there is a chase that runs transverse under the floor from galley side to under shower for wiring and plumbing. Did you check to see if there is any voltage at the wire ends? Does furnace and HW wiring seem intact? Just guessing. BTW, delivered (crewed) a Hinckley Sou'wester 42 from Freeport, Bahamas to Hilton Head. What a beautiful ride! fred ------------- 2014 RPod 178 => https://goo.gl/CV446f - MyMods and Buying Habits 2008 4Runner Limited 4.0-liter V6 Yes, those are wild ponies dining on grass while dumping tanks! |
Posted By: CharlieM
Date Posted: 29 Jul 2014 at 12:44pm
Are the wires individual wires or part of a three conductor cable? The 12 volt wiring is usually individual wires, sometimes color coded. The 120V AC wiring is usually 3 conductor Romex type cable. If Romex, one wire is white, one black, and one bare. ------------- 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: wildfire305
Date Posted: 29 Jul 2014 at 5:22pm
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Build quality on ours was good, but I believe two things should not have made it past QC. The windows wouldn't open - caulked shut. Once freed I silicone sprayed the channels and they freed up easily. Secondly, on the 179 the refrigerator in the slide has a panel below it that conceals the propane hose and wiring for the slide and sink piping. The propane hose was twisted the opposite direction it needed to be and causing the panel to bend inward when the slide was closed. I had a fear of it breaking the panel off after the third time closing it (it would have if I didn't stop). So I twisted the hose the correct direction so it unfurled correctly and did not cause the panel to bulge. While in there, i secured the wiring properly with zip ties instead of the electrical tape that had failed and allowed the wiring to pop out from underneath the panel. Other things like the holding tank brackets being to short, and a few plumbing issues I fixed. Overall though, I am still satisfied. I recommend going over a new purchase with a fine tooth comb before the first trip out in it and have the dealer make any repairs. If buying used, do the same and work the repairs into your deal. ------------- 2005 Dodge Durango 4.7 V8 OLD Tow Vehicle 2004 Honda Odyssey 2015 RP179 "73b" OLD 2005 Viking Saga 2480ST popup |
Posted By: techntrek
Date Posted: 29 Jul 2014 at 5:26pm
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And the 120 volt Romex wiring will be contained within its own insulative sleeve (yellow, white or orange depending). So it should be easy to identify. ------------- 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: NormanHill
Date Posted: 18 Aug 2014 at 11:43pm
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Fred, I can add to the list: Caulking on the roof is excessive and sloppy. Antenna base is completely covered with caulking - does this seem right? Welds on the bracket for the propane tank and battery are very sloppy - according to my dealer they are "within-spec" Fridge doesn't work on AC - in the shop now; Interior fit and finish is poor, trim installed to tight so it warped, gaps in the trim corners filled with wood putty. But re-reading this it looks like I had pretty good quality compared to you. I wonder if others have grown to expect a level of quality that would be intolerable in other industries, and for other products. I've bought a few fishing boats and a number of cars over the years and none had the fit and finish issues of the Forest River camper. Any way we can get them to read the forums? I think we are in for a lot of maintenance.
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Posted By: 3ofUs
Date Posted: 19 Aug 2014 at 7:08am
| Guess we are lucky with our 2011 182G we bought last August. All the problems had been resolved but one. Obviously, previous owner had not used the black tank flush because our first experience was water seeping out on kitchen floor from shower wall. We had extended warranty and dealer resolved the problem. It was the check valve under bathroom sink. |
Posted By: HuronSailor
Date Posted: 19 Aug 2014 at 8:58am
That's normal when using self leveling sealant. The more the better. 70 MPH winds can force a lot of water where you don't want it to go real fast. That can do a lot of damage that will remain unseen until it's too late. ------------- .: Mark & Beth :: Silverado 5.3L :: 2018 rPod 180 :. |
Posted By: techntrek
Date Posted: 19 Aug 2014 at 12:28pm
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Agree, tons of caulk on the roof is normal. As for the rest of the fit/finish, we had almost no issues with ours. ------------- 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 People
Date Posted: 19 Aug 2014 at 6:28pm
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I have to think that Forest River's quality control has gone downhill since our pod was made. We have a 2009 173 pod and are delighted with it. We have no complaints(so far) about the quality of the components or the pod in general. There are just the two of us and we use it primarily for long, extended trips and not so much for weekend camping. Our last trip was 10 weeks and over 11,000 miles. We love our pod and have done lots of mods to make it better for us. Vann ------------- Vann & Laura 2015 RPod 179 https://postimg.cc/0zwKrfB9"> 
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Posted By: Blue's Pod
Date Posted: 30 Aug 2014 at 7:56pm
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I want to begin by saying we didn't do a walk-through because we purchased out of state and our 2015 R-Pod 171 was delivered by a transport company (who did a great job, by the way). When we took possession from the driver we did a quick external walk-around and everything looked good, so we took the Pod home. Once here we began checking things out and came up with a list. There are a few things that are simply annoying, and a few others that could have led to bigger problems if not found. You can be the judge of what's a big deal to you; I'll just list them here, in no particular order. I'm aware that Forest River is kicking these Pods out the door as fast as they can based on demand, but many of our issues and other issues I keep seeing in this forum could largely be mitigated with a better Quality Control department, or even checklists to follow during construction. Attention to detail seems to be a recurring theme in a lot of posts, and Forest River could go a long way toward greater customer loyalty if they just took a few moments longer with each Pod. That's FWIW.  On with the list.1. In the space under the Dometic Refrigerator the shield was never installed. We opened the door under the fridge and found lots of sawdust, visible wires and propane lines and the shield laying there. After e-mailing the dealer, I was informed I wouldn't violate any warranty by installing the shield, so we vacuumed the space and I'll screw the shield to the floor using the screws already in the shield. By the way, the shield was papered with the same covering as the walls have, not the cabinet-colored covering. 2. My lovely Wife cross-checked all the serial numbers and model numbers to the appliances and equipment, and many were completely wrong. It's almost as if we had numbers from another Pod, and that could be important down the road after you've registered your Warranty Cards with incorrect data. Might be a reason to have warranty service denied. 3. Like many other users, the screws holding the beams holding the black/gray/water tanks were loose, poorly installed and two of the three beams were pulled away from the frame by about 3/16". Based on the comments I've read on this issue, when this is cited as a factor in an accident, Forest River will likely do something about it, but until then it's pretty much our problem. 4. While under the Pod looking at stuff, I noticed a bag that had been caught between the frame and the floor, apparently during the build, and it was never removed. I pulled some out and cut loose the rest. 5. There's a small hole behind the TV about the size of a large screw, as if someone tried to mount something there and didn't hit a stud. So, they moved over about an inch and tried again, but never closed or fixed that hole. 6. Screws were missing here and there in the interior. Probably came loose and dropped during transport. We'll find them and put them back. 7. One of the covers to one of the LED light fixtures had two attachment tabs broken, so it was holding in the fixture by the two remaining tabs. The Service Manager wrote he would ship another cover out ASAP. 8. While I was looking at the AC unit to cross-check the Serial Number I noticed there's quite a bit of excess (and spilled) self-leveling caulk on the roof. As I was pulling some of that off I noticed three screws stuck in caulk next to the Fantastic Fan. After a little looking around I found several screws meant to hold the fan to the roof were never installed, and the holes were not covered with caulk. Had it rained on the trip south from the dealer, I think we'd have had some leaks. I installed screws and (the day being hot) moved some of the caulk up there over to cover the screws. Another e-mail was sent to the dealer asking for a tube of caulk in order to fix this properly. No reply yet on that. 9. We installed the RDome today. It went on perfectly and works like a charm. No silicone was needed as I had seen in other posts. Perhaps the plastic attachment piece is smaller than before or the rail attached to the RPod is wider, but in any case it was fine. I did take a Dremel tool out and round the openings to the track so it would stop shaving pieces of plastic during installation. All parts were included in the bag. However, the wiring under the fender for the light blocked the track where you install the mosquito netting. I just moved it upward one inch and that was no longer a problem, but the factory supplies the RDome. Perhaps they should not block the track during construction? 10. Finally, and I like this one the best, we plugged the Pod into house power and checked our outlets. Everything was showing 123v without faults, but every time I tried to turn the Dometic Refrigerator on with 110v power, I'd get flashing fault lights and beeps. Checked the circuit breakers and fuses I could see, and nothing was out of place. Looking at the trouble-shooting portion of the manual, nothing seemed to be out of place. I went on the internet and downloaded the Service Manual for the Dometic refrigerators, and in one illustration it showed a 110v power plug plugged into an outlet. Remembering there was an outlet inside the outside panel for the refrigerator I got a flashlight and a step stool and went hunting. Our 110v power cord was coiled neatly in the back panel of the refrigerator and had never been plugged in. I uncoiled it and plugged it into the supplied outlet, and like magic the refrigerator was working on AC. That's it, for now at least. Overall I'm still very pleased with the 171 and we'll take it on its first road trip in a little over a week. If we find more stuff, I'll update, but this post is already too long. Enjoy. Be safe. |
Posted By: techntrek
Date Posted: 30 Aug 2014 at 8:07pm
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The extra caulk on the roof is normal, everyone that has ever commented on it has noted how much is there. Better too much than not enough. ------------- 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: Blue's Pod
Date Posted: 30 Aug 2014 at 8:45pm
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Yeah, but I wasn't talking about extra caulking around the openings. Sorry if that's how it came across. I was talking about blobs and smears all over the rooftop, unrelated to openings for AC, Fantastic Fan, antenna or vent. Just sloppy workmanship. I don't mind extra caulk where things can leak. Just no reason for the slop...
------------- |
Posted By: ron_whitt
Date Posted: 31 Aug 2014 at 9:48am
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I went under our 177 2012 pod to check on the cross members for the tanks and they are fine no gap at all. We have had no major issues with our pod (that wasn't handled by our rv sales place.) I think blues pod is right, with push on by FR to get more pods out it is now quantity or quality. Before nestle's moved to Mexico and Brazil I worked 36 yr for them and it was definitely that way. I also believe that a good rv sales/service place is 95% of your pod enjoyment. ------------- Ron & Shirley 2020 Tacoma 2012 177 rpod |
Posted By: JStrube
Date Posted: 31 Aug 2014 at 2:11pm
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Bought my 2012 used a month ago from the original owner, who never used it. Turns put they never installed the TV antenna! The wire is hanging out the hole, was stripped nicely, but the connector never installed. If it was tore off, you would be able to tell. ------------- 2012 181G |
Posted By: 2McPods
Date Posted: 01 Sep 2014 at 9:34pm
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Hello, We found some issues with our 2015 171 also. We've only had it since 8/16 and camped in it 2 times since taking ownership. 1. Excess black caulking smeared on top of the roof between a/c and antenna. Looks like someone didn't have a rag to clean their hands with and just smeared on the roof. 2. Bathroom sink has a gap about 6" from the middle to the bottom on the right side against the wall. The screw is not screwed in all the way. 3. Our kitchen table has a big gash on the corner and a a scratch on top as long as the table. 4. The converter panel door won't stay on because the panel was put on to close to the panel molding on the floor. 5. There is nicks on all the cabinets and when you open the frig door at the bottom there is a chunk of wood missing. 6. The screen door has a gap at the top, not sure if its bent or not lined up properly. 7. Some of the decals are lifting up at the ends. 8. The a/c filters have snags in them. 9. The tv screen has some pixels messed up to the point there is a constant green light when watching anything. 10. The Rdome has a snag in the screen and one of the window ties is sewn into a seam so that you can't tie anything with it. But we are still very satisfied with the Pod. I agree with everyone else that QC needs to gives these a better going over before they ship out. These little campers are not cheap and should not be put together like they are (cheap). ------------- Everything Happens 4 A Reason Pat & Viki McCartney 2015 171 {2McPods} 2014 F150 Pittsburgh, Pa |
Posted By: techntrek
Date Posted: 02 Sep 2014 at 5:31pm
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I hope you are taking yours back to your dealership! ------------- 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: 02 Sep 2014 at 5:35pm
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That sounds awful... should definitely be a trip back to the dealership! ------------- Leo & Melissa Bachand 2017 Ford F150 2021 Vista Cruiser 19 csk Previously owned 2015 Rpod 179 2010 Rpod 171 |
Posted By: Avid Camper
Date Posted: 06 Sep 2014 at 3:14pm
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Thanks for listing all the things you found...we just bought a 178 and have had no issues but will check out all the listed areas just in case....thanks so much! Avid Camper |
Posted By: Leo B
Date Posted: 06 Sep 2014 at 4:03pm
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When buying you really need to do a thorough walk thru with the tech before taking possession of your pod. The dealers have a printed list that they have you sign off on regarding the walk thru, so you need to have them demonstrate and look at all the items before you take it. The walk thru can take a couple hours ------------- Leo & Melissa Bachand 2017 Ford F150 2021 Vista Cruiser 19 csk Previously owned 2015 Rpod 179 2010 Rpod 171 |
Posted By: dsmiths
Date Posted: 06 Sep 2014 at 8:53pm
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I guess we are lucky but the only issue we had on our 2011 RP-172 was the door stop that sticks out was loose. I tightened it with a phillips screwdriver and that was it. No problems with any appliances, lights, wiring, plumbing etc. I was impressed with the initial quality of the pod , fit and finish . ------------- Dane and Donna Smith 2011 RP-172 2008 Chevrolet Trailblazer 4X4 lift kit prodigy wireless brake controller |
Posted By: Luv2Q
Date Posted: 09 Sep 2014 at 11:58pm
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Interesting .. and a little scary inasmuch as we've just committed to buy a new 171. Well, I can see my walk-thru will take awhile cuz bringing it back to the dealership ain't an option! Quality Control (or lack thereof) .. guess that's not unexpected in today's world. Still, the R-pod is a pretty neat concept so we're excited and looking forward to getting out in it. (note to self: remember to turn on the TV) Hope the OPs got their issues resolved satisfactorily. ------------- John & Teri Tundra 5.7L V8 / RP 180 E2 WDH / Integrated controller (POS) replaced by Tekonsha P3 |
Posted By: Luv2Q
Date Posted: 10 Sep 2014 at 10:10am
Oops, believe I was referring to Capricorn here. ------------- John & Teri Tundra 5.7L V8 / RP 180 E2 WDH / Integrated controller (POS) replaced by Tekonsha P3 |
Posted By: 2McPods
Date Posted: 10 Sep 2014 at 11:49am
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Hello everyone, Just an update to all the problems we found. We got a new table top, and its beautiful and perfect. The door gap has been fixed, no more bugs should get in thank god. The gap between the wall and bathroom sink I fixed my self, just needed a new screw and caulked but I did bring it to the dealers attention. We got a new rdome and its awesome!! The snag in the a/c filter isn't big enough for dometic to do anything about. Not a big deal as of yet, but believe me when it is I will be on top of it. Now for the Icing on the cake, the tv pixel mess up. The tv has a constant green dot that no matter what you watch your eye is drawn to that. Especially when the screen is dark. The dealer got a new tv for us, but because there is only one pixel messed up they have to get approval from the manufacture which is Jensen to replace the tv. If they do it with out the approval they will be stuck with the $300 bill. Ok that's fine I understand that. What I don't understand is what's the difference, it's a defect and it's a brand new tv. If I go to best buy or some other department store and by a tv and it had the same problem, I would take it back and get a new one. Right??? Not a happy camper at the moment  If FR would have better QC these problems would not be put on the consumer to deal with.  Don't get me wrong I'm very happy with my Pod, I just wish people would take some pride in what they build. I have always believed you treat people the way you want to be treated. That also goes for building something as if it was your own. ------------- Everything Happens 4 A Reason Pat & Viki McCartney 2015 171 {2McPods} 2014 F150 Pittsburgh, Pa |
Posted By: Webstas
Date Posted: 10 Sep 2014 at 12:49pm
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ours is only a month or so old and we have had all kinds of issues. 1. the tail light is messed up so only 1 or 2 led's light up 2. nicks everywhere on pretty much every panel 3. the panel with the system status monitor on it is cracked in the corner 4. the black tank clean out system was installed backwards. 5. the t.v. arm was welded on an angle so the t.v is crooked 6. the bathroom door corner is delamination 7. the person that installed our jensen dvd radio system put 2 screws in the same hole and screwed into the amp heat sink 8. the corner of the converter box is broken out. 9. the h20 pump isnt screwed down so it rattles everywhere.
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Posted By: techntrek
Date Posted: 10 Sep 2014 at 1:42pm
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#9, the water pump normally will make a loud vibrating sound when in use. Did you find it is actually unscrewed from the floor? ------------- 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: 10 Sep 2014 at 1:46pm
For better or worse, I believe all television manufacturers have a "stuck pixel" policy where X amount is acceptable, especially if it isn't in the middle of the screen. This may not be true for higher-end televisions. So the answer to your question is "maybe". ------------- 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: Budward
Date Posted: 10 Sep 2014 at 3:01pm
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My Jensen has a red pixel lit all the time....first TV I've ever had that problem on. I just live with it, as techntrek says the manufacturers generally blow that off unless it is several of them. Jensen even blew off the fact my TV had a sticker from them on the screen saying it was 12V and it wasn't. They admitted the screw up but no they wouldn't replace it with the 12V model I thought I was getting. ------------- 2014 179 Towed by a 2015 Ford Transit Diesel Supervised by a German/Aussie mix and a Labradoodle! |
Posted By: 2McPods
Date Posted: 11 Sep 2014 at 2:45pm
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Hello, update on tv, FR replaced it with a brand new one and all is well. My advise to anyone with any of these problems is don't settle, keep talking to your dealer and if it takes you and the dealer to confront the manufacturer, DO IT! I paid for new and I want new with out defects, that's what a warranty is for. As of today I'm a  camper lol.------------- Everything Happens 4 A Reason Pat & Viki McCartney 2015 171 {2McPods} 2014 F150 Pittsburgh, Pa |
Posted By: JStrube
Date Posted: 11 Sep 2014 at 10:54pm
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The guy I bought mine from did not notice the missing tv antenna... The dealer did not mark it on the check in form. Forest River now says tough luck... ------------- 2012 181G |
Posted By: NormanHill
Date Posted: 15 Sep 2014 at 11:38pm
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I agree that FR needs to address their quality issues ASAP. Reading some of the posts it seems like we are ready to accept poor quality as the norm and expect the dealer to resolve it after our purchase, but I recommend that anyone buying an RPod insist on an inspection before they sign for the the trailer, and be ready to walk away until unit is in working order. (There response to the TV problem is ridiculous and it might be worthwhile to call FR directly, which I've been encouraged to do by Camping world for problems they can't get covered under warranty.) Glad you got most of the problems resolved. Keep us posted.
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Posted By: Budward
Date Posted: 16 Sep 2014 at 3:09am
I found mine to be making a lot of noise. There are supposed to be 4 screws mounting it. FR had used ONE in my unit. ------------- 2014 179 Towed by a 2015 Ford Transit Diesel Supervised by a German/Aussie mix and a Labradoodle! |
Posted By: techntrek
Date Posted: 16 Sep 2014 at 1:01pm
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Ouch, definitely add a mousepad and 3 more screws. Honestly I don't know why they don't add something like a mousepad at the factory. ------------- 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: Luv2Q
Date Posted: 16 Sep 2014 at 1:16pm
The mousepad serving as a cushion for the water pump to sit on? (Hope I'm guessing right cuz that sounds like a good idea! )------------- John & Teri Tundra 5.7L V8 / RP 180 E2 WDH / Integrated controller (POS) replaced by Tekonsha P3 |
Posted By: techntrek
Date Posted: 16 Sep 2014 at 1:38pm
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Exactly. Some will even add foam pipe insulation around the first few feet of water line for extra vibration protection. Another option is to add an http://www.campingworld.com/shopping/item/shurflo-accumulator-tank/2290 - accumulator tank , too. ------------- 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: Budward
Date Posted: 16 Sep 2014 at 7:07pm
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I added an accumulator to my 1999 toy hauler, while it stopped the pump from short cycling so much it didn't really quieten it as I recall. The pump in my 179 is marketed as an "accumulator not needed", and sure enough it never short cycles. ------------- 2014 179 Towed by a 2015 Ford Transit Diesel Supervised by a German/Aussie mix and a Labradoodle! |
Posted By: fwunder
Date Posted: 17 Sep 2014 at 6:42pm
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Pump started making lot's of noise. Lifted cover to HW heater and moved hose away from metal it was banging against. Problem solved. Foam insulation and/or a few zip ties would probably be a better permanent fix. fred ------------- 2014 RPod 178 => https://goo.gl/CV446f - MyMods and Buying Habits 2008 4Runner Limited 4.0-liter V6 Yes, those are wild ponies dining on grass while dumping tanks! |