R-pod Owners Forum : New tow vehicle - Chevy Suburban https://www.rpod-owners.com/ This is an XML content feed of; R-pod Owners Forum : Miscellaneous / Off-topic : New tow vehicle - Chevy Suburban Copyright (c) 2006-2009 Web Wiz Forums - All Rights Reserved. Tue, 14 Jul 2026 11:39:47 +0000 Fri, 22 Jun 2012 18:59:13 +0000 http://blogs.law.harvard.edu/tech/rss Web Wiz Forums 9.64 360 https://www.rpod-owners.com/RSS_post_feed.asp?TID=2555 R-pod Owners Forum https://www.rpod-owners.com/forum_images/web_wiz_forums.png https://www.rpod-owners.com/ New tow vehicle - Chevy Suburban : On the way to the campground... https://www.rpod-owners.com/forum_posts.asp?TID=2555&PID=25502#25502 Author: techntrek
Subject: 2555
Posted: 22 Jun 2012 at 6:59pm

On the way to the campground this evening I tried without the spring bars in the WDH, so the tongue looks a little low in the pic.  Even with the solid suspension it porpoised more than I wanted and was a bit hard on some bumps, so I'm going to try with the spring bars on the way home.]]> Fri, 22 Jun 2012 18:59:13 +0000 https://www.rpod-owners.com/forum_posts.asp?TID=2555&PID=25502#25502 New tow vehicle - Chevy Suburban : Finally, a picture. Less cropped... https://www.rpod-owners.com/forum_posts.asp?TID=2555&PID=25501#25501 Author: techntrek
Subject: 2555
Posted: 22 Jun 2012 at 6:56pm

Finally, a picture.  Less cropped and higher quality than the one in my signature...

]]> Fri, 22 Jun 2012 18:56:01 +0000 https://www.rpod-owners.com/forum_posts.asp?TID=2555&PID=25501#25501 New tow vehicle - Chevy Suburban : Like I said in another post.....when... https://www.rpod-owners.com/forum_posts.asp?TID=2555&PID=24892#24892 Author: Guests
Subject: 2555
Posted: 05 Jun 2012 at 4:40pm

Like I said in another post.....when it comes to TVs and pulling a camper.....like money in the bank, wine and, women - more is better! LOL  HP + Torque = a good thing!  I hope you enjoy yours as much as I have mine.]]> Tue, 05 Jun 2012 16:40:05 +0000 https://www.rpod-owners.com/forum_posts.asp?TID=2555&PID=24892#24892 New tow vehicle - Chevy Suburban : I got the "head" of... https://www.rpod-owners.com/forum_posts.asp?TID=2555&PID=24858#24858 Author: techntrek
Subject: 2555
Posted: 04 Jun 2012 at 9:27pm

I got the "head" of my WDH switched over to the new drop shank this weekend, so I finally got the chance to take it for a 15 minute test-tow this afternoon.  Even though I didn't use the spring bars (with nothing loaded in the TV or pod it was already level), all I can say is "wow".  Hardly knew it was behind me.  Can't wait to get out there on a real trip.

Didn't get a full-rig picture even though I could have - the pod is still dirty from winter storage so it wasn't the right time.

]]> Mon, 04 Jun 2012 21:27:02 +0000 https://www.rpod-owners.com/forum_posts.asp?TID=2555&PID=24858#24858 New tow vehicle - Chevy Suburban : Good questions, I'll have... https://www.rpod-owners.com/forum_posts.asp?TID=2555&PID=24729#24729 Author: techntrek
Subject: 2555
Posted: 30 May 2012 at 10:22pm

Good questions, I'll have to check.  They are brand new so I'll have to find out what stock was.

The curse continues, had an awful time tonight.  My downstairs central A/C died last year so we borrowed a window unit to use in our most-used room (the upstairs system is fine).  This spring I bought one to use in the same room.  Other priorities were higher than replacing the system, still.  Like a new tow vehicle.  This one had one of those enclosed systems that splashes the condensation water all over the coils to prevent dripping, but it got really noisy.  So I figured, I'll carefully drill a hole on the bottom to just let the dang water drain out.  Yeah, not so careful.  Nicked a coil, bye-bye brand new A/C.  I was about to have a meltdown so my wife took me to Home Depot to buy another.  Got it home, unboxed it.... a forklift got to the coil before I could, didn't notice the damaged box.  Right back to store to exchange it for another, this time alone.  

I had a very tall drink when I finally got to eat my dinner at 8:30.  Didn't get the latest unit in the window and won't until tomorrow.  Censored

]]> Wed, 30 May 2012 22:22:28 +0000 https://www.rpod-owners.com/forum_posts.asp?TID=2555&PID=24729#24729 New tow vehicle - Chevy Suburban : you may want to air them up... https://www.rpod-owners.com/forum_posts.asp?TID=2555&PID=24702#24702 Author: rpodcamper.com
Subject: 2555
Posted: 29 May 2012 at 11:01pm

you may want to air them up when towing.  On the Dodge Ram Boards they talk alot about tire pressure and how that plays with MPG  look at your tires and see if they are the same as what stock was.  also are they LT or HD Tires?]]> Tue, 29 May 2012 23:01:49 +0000 https://www.rpod-owners.com/forum_posts.asp?TID=2555&PID=24702#24702 New tow vehicle - Chevy Suburban : I may have found my mpg problem... https://www.rpod-owners.com/forum_posts.asp?TID=2555&PID=24697#24697 Author: techntrek
Subject: 2555
Posted: 29 May 2012 at 8:51pm

I may have found my mpg problem - tire pressure.  Not in the way you may think, they were overfilled.  The dealership that sold it to me had 38 psi in each tire but the door plate said they should be 30.  They looked way too low after I let the air out but I gave it a test today to/from work.  My first reaction was that the mpgs would fall - softer tires, more rolling resistance.  So far after my first round trip even with the A/C blasting I'm somewhere above 19 which is better than anything I've gotten so far.]]> Tue, 29 May 2012 20:51:46 +0000 https://www.rpod-owners.com/forum_posts.asp?TID=2555&PID=24697#24697 New tow vehicle - Chevy Suburban : I lose elevation driving into... https://www.rpod-owners.com/forum_posts.asp?TID=2555&PID=24556#24556 Author: Guests
Subject: 2555
Posted: 24 May 2012 at 5:44pm

I lose elevation driving into Indy and gain it back on the way home, but nothing "hilly".  I suspect the hills are a big issue but, maybe, to a lesser degree,  a difference in the 6 speed vs the 4 speed?   At 40-50, I hit 4th and the torque converter locks......barely have to touch the gas.  ]]> Thu, 24 May 2012 17:44:32 +0000 https://www.rpod-owners.com/forum_posts.asp?TID=2555&PID=24556#24556 New tow vehicle - Chevy Suburban : Hmm, on back roads I have an even... https://www.rpod-owners.com/forum_posts.asp?TID=2555&PID=24547#24547 Author: techntrek
Subject: 2555
Posted: 24 May 2012 at 8:37am

Hmm, on back roads I have an even harder time unless I'm going downhill, because we have so many hills.  Is your area mostly flat?
 
I've been looking at various programming options, some posts I've read say that people have increased the throttle percentage from 6% to 10% without a problem (throttle at or below 6% is one of the parameters).  I'm also considering timing changes at lower throttle, maybe give up a little power for better mpg below 1/4 throttle but keep the power above that which is where I'll often be when I'm towing.  Although with about 14 months of full warranty still in effect I'm not sure I want to jeopardize that.
]]> Thu, 24 May 2012 08:37:47 +0000 https://www.rpod-owners.com/forum_posts.asp?TID=2555&PID=24547#24547 New tow vehicle - Chevy Suburban : Originally posted by techntrekAre... https://www.rpod-owners.com/forum_posts.asp?TID=2555&PID=24544#24544 Author: Guests
Subject: 2555
Posted: 24 May 2012 at 6:57am

Originally posted by techntrek

Are you able to keep yours in V4 mode much?  Most of the time I feel like I need to get out and push before it will go in and stay in the "economy" mode.
 
On county roads, yes.  Otherwise, no.  The computer needs to see about a bazillion parameters before it will let it switch to V4.  GM seemed to set theses parameters a little more conservatively than I would (preferring power over economy).  Only with very light throttle pressure, will it switch.
 
I know there are aftermarket suppliers who sell programs to re-flash the computer to defeat this (always staying in V8).  I don't know if anyone is marketing something to allow the engine to go V4 more often.
]]> Thu, 24 May 2012 06:57:15 +0000 https://www.rpod-owners.com/forum_posts.asp?TID=2555&PID=24544#24544 New tow vehicle - Chevy Suburban : Are you able to keep yours in... https://www.rpod-owners.com/forum_posts.asp?TID=2555&PID=24530#24530 Author: techntrek
Subject: 2555
Posted: 23 May 2012 at 8:06pm

Are you able to keep yours in V4 mode much?  Most of the time I feel like I need to get out and push before it will go in and stay in the "economy" mode.]]> Wed, 23 May 2012 20:06:47 +0000 https://www.rpod-owners.com/forum_posts.asp?TID=2555&PID=24530#24530 New tow vehicle - Chevy Suburban : It must be a Chevy curse!I... https://www.rpod-owners.com/forum_posts.asp?TID=2555&PID=24527#24527 Author: Guests
Subject: 2555
Posted: 23 May 2012 at 4:35pm

It must be a Chevy curse!
 
I had planned to pay off my truck in 6 months, but.....
my well pump died
along with the water  heater
along with some other assorted goodies
 
Anyway 6 months turned into 12.  It was a %$##@% paying for it, but once done, I really began to like it.
]]> Wed, 23 May 2012 16:35:22 +0000 https://www.rpod-owners.com/forum_posts.asp?TID=2555&PID=24527#24527 New tow vehicle - Chevy Suburban : My new drop shank is on its way,... https://www.rpod-owners.com/forum_posts.asp?TID=2555&PID=24522#24522 Author: techntrek
Subject: 2555
Posted: 23 May 2012 at 2:19pm

My new drop shank is on its way, to be delivered on Tuesday.  Hopefully I can make the switch before the weekend so I can finally do a test tow.
 
Of course now that I've got a new car payment, and parts on order, my well pump died on Friday which cost me $$$ to repair.  Pump and wiring fried, probably by lightning.
]]> Wed, 23 May 2012 14:19:56 +0000 https://www.rpod-owners.com/forum_posts.asp?TID=2555&PID=24522#24522 New tow vehicle - Chevy Suburban : Ha! You do have that option... https://www.rpod-owners.com/forum_posts.asp?TID=2555&PID=24373#24373 Author: techntrek
Subject: 2555
Posted: 18 May 2012 at 10:12pm

Ha!  You do have that option with that nice big open bed ...  give me a call when you are ready to sell the Coleman.  LOL]]> Fri, 18 May 2012 22:12:03 +0000 https://www.rpod-owners.com/forum_posts.asp?TID=2555&PID=24373#24373 New tow vehicle - Chevy Suburban : Originally posted by techntrekWell,... https://www.rpod-owners.com/forum_posts.asp?TID=2555&PID=24350#24350 Author: Guests
Subject: 2555
Posted: 18 May 2012 at 5:16am

Originally posted by techntrek

Well, for better and worse it looks like I won't be getting quite as good mpg as you for daily driving.  So far most days I'm getting around 18 with mostly highway time and some slow traffic.  Once I fill the tank back up and can compare my actual total mpg I'll decide if it will be my daily driver or not...
 
I spent an hour last night searching all of the RPO codes (options), and discovered my "really good deal" was really a "hell of a deal".  They had priced it thinking it had a 3.08 rear, then they confirmed it had the 3.42 before I went to see it.  Still allowed me to talk them down $500 when their original price was way below everything else on the market to start with.  Now that I've run all the codes I see it also has the heavy-duty cooling/trailering option which bumps up the towing capacity another ~2000 pounds.  I can do 7900 pounds total with a combined weight of 14,000.  Not that I'll ever tow that much.
 
Well, I have to admit that I suspect my "county roads driving" is kind of a "sweet spot" for the TV.  At 40-50mph it seems to get the best mileage.  Above that, wind resistance starts pulling down the mpgs a bit.  Again, 18 is about the worst I've ever gotten.
 
I, too, have the HD trailering package and the factory hitch is a class 4 - 5000lbs or 10,500 with a WDH.  I am beginning to consider a WDH - only because I am pushing the tongue limit of 500lbs, when fully loaded.  With the HD suspension, the 1/2 ton truck actually is rated at 1700+ payload and only drops the rear about one inch. 
 
But, one the other hand, a small 5th wheel would be nice..........LOL Cry$$$.
 
]]> Fri, 18 May 2012 05:16:24 +0000 https://www.rpod-owners.com/forum_posts.asp?TID=2555&PID=24350#24350 New tow vehicle - Chevy Suburban : No worries, they use the same... https://www.rpod-owners.com/forum_posts.asp?TID=2555&PID=24343#24343 Author: techntrek
Subject: 2555
Posted: 17 May 2012 at 9:21pm

No worries, they use the same platform for all of their trucks.  I have the RPO code for 17" 4-wheel disc brakes and they feel very firm.

I had to move my pod onto my driveway yesterday so I could take some measurements - I need to order a new part to drop the ball on my Equalizer E2.  While I only moved it down and up the driveway (about 1/5 of a mile total) I couldn't even tell the pod was back there.  Can't wait to get the part I need so I can take it out on the road.  Smile 

]]> Thu, 17 May 2012 21:21:35 +0000 https://www.rpod-owners.com/forum_posts.asp?TID=2555&PID=24343#24343 New tow vehicle - Chevy Suburban : Just an additional thought. When... https://www.rpod-owners.com/forum_posts.asp?TID=2555&PID=24306#24306 Author: Camper Bob
Subject: 2555
Posted: 16 May 2012 at 10:13pm

Just an additional thought.  When I bought our Suburban new in '93, it was suggested to get the 2500 instead of the 1500.  Seems that the 1500 uses standard car brakes whereas the 2500 used heavier duty brakes and drive train.  Don't know if that is still how they are made.  Might want to check before buying.  Safe Travels.]]> Wed, 16 May 2012 22:13:56 +0000 https://www.rpod-owners.com/forum_posts.asp?TID=2555&PID=24306#24306 New tow vehicle - Chevy Suburban : My wife would LOVE one of those... https://www.rpod-owners.com/forum_posts.asp?TID=2555&PID=24301#24301 Author: techntrek
Subject: 2555
Posted: 16 May 2012 at 9:55pm

My wife would LOVE one of those silver tubes.  Me, not so much.  ]]> Wed, 16 May 2012 21:55:18 +0000 https://www.rpod-owners.com/forum_posts.asp?TID=2555&PID=24301#24301 New tow vehicle - Chevy Suburban : Don't give the man too many... https://www.rpod-owners.com/forum_posts.asp?TID=2555&PID=24293#24293 Author: Podsible Dream
Subject: 2555
Posted: 16 May 2012 at 5:43pm

Don't give the man too many ideas! Next thing he'll be joining one of those other forums all about those silver tubes    (and we'll be looking' for a new Admin!)
]]> Wed, 16 May 2012 17:43:14 +0000 https://www.rpod-owners.com/forum_posts.asp?TID=2555&PID=24293#24293 New tow vehicle - Chevy Suburban : Put a boat behind the pod?... https://www.rpod-owners.com/forum_posts.asp?TID=2555&PID=24286#24286 Author: Keith-N-Dar
Subject: 2555
Posted: 16 May 2012 at 1:06pm

Put a boat behind the pod?]]> Wed, 16 May 2012 13:06:54 +0000 https://www.rpod-owners.com/forum_posts.asp?TID=2555&PID=24286#24286 New tow vehicle - Chevy Suburban : Well, for better and worse it... https://www.rpod-owners.com/forum_posts.asp?TID=2555&PID=24281#24281 Author: techntrek
Subject: 2555
Posted: 16 May 2012 at 11:09am

Well, for better and worse it looks like I won't be getting quite as good mpg as you for daily driving.  So far most days I'm getting around 18 with mostly highway time and some slow traffic.  Once I fill the tank back up and can compare my actual total mpg I'll decide if it will be my daily driver or not...
 
I spent an hour last night searching all of the RPO codes (options), and discovered my "really good deal" was really a "hell of a deal".  They had priced it thinking it had a 3.08 rear, then they confirmed it had the 3.42 before I went to see it.  Still allowed me to talk them down $500 when their original price was way below everything else on the market to start with.  Now that I've run all the codes I see it also has the heavy-duty cooling/trailering option which bumps up the towing capacity another ~2000 pounds.  I can do 7900 pounds total with a combined weight of 14,000.  Not that I'll ever tow that much.
]]> Wed, 16 May 2012 11:09:07 +0000 https://www.rpod-owners.com/forum_posts.asp?TID=2555&PID=24281#24281 New tow vehicle - Chevy Suburban : If I really watch my right... https://www.rpod-owners.com/forum_posts.asp?TID=2555&PID=24167#24167 Author: Guests
Subject: 2555
Posted: 11 May 2012 at 4:57pm

If I really watch my right foot, I have got as good as nearly 23mpg during normal driving.  My commute consists of county roads and then stop and go city once I get into Indy ( no highway).  Any more, I just drive normal and get 20+.  Yep, I don't even notice the AFM unless I look at the dashboard. 
 
I didn't tow the Pod a lot with it but, when I did, I got the same mpg's as with the Coleman.  Your Prodigy controller is an easy DIY....if you haven't already tended to that.
]]> Fri, 11 May 2012 16:57:55 +0000 https://www.rpod-owners.com/forum_posts.asp?TID=2555&PID=24167#24167 New tow vehicle - Chevy Suburban : Still have 15 months of the factory... https://www.rpod-owners.com/forum_posts.asp?TID=2555&PID=24159#24159 Author: techntrek
Subject: 2555
Posted: 11 May 2012 at 8:05am

Still have 15 months of the factory all-in warranty left on mine, so if anything is going to go wrong it better happen before then. 
 
I do like the Active Fuel Management system, I saw it shifting from V4 to V8 during the test drive.  Supposedly it reactivates in 20 ms so should be transparent to the driver.  I'll be testing that out over the next few weeks.  Lots of mpg variables to play with, like if there is much difference in leaving it in 2WD or Auto; it has a bug deflector so I may try it on and off; and playing with the AFM to see just how much difference I see tank-to-tank if I try to keep it in V4 mode as much as possible vs. driving normally.
 
I wanted a 2009 or newer because of the 6-speed tranny, specifically for towing.  That was one of the big downsides of my Sienna - it has a huge gap between 2nd and 3rd gear.  I would hit a slight incline and it would drop into 3rd, but 3rd was so close to 4th that it still couldn't keep up so it would soon drop to 2nd.  2nd was a lot lower to get into the power curve so the rpms would shoot up to a billion and torque steer would suddenly be a big problem (front wheel drive).  I will enjoy towing with rear-wheel drive and a well-balanced tranny.  I noticed it has an auto hill braking mode when in tow mode which will be nice, too.  Not that I needed brakes on hills much since the pod is such a nice air dam!
]]> Fri, 11 May 2012 08:05:43 +0000 https://www.rpod-owners.com/forum_posts.asp?TID=2555&PID=24159#24159 New tow vehicle - Chevy Suburban : Excellent choice! Mine has... https://www.rpod-owners.com/forum_posts.asp?TID=2555&PID=24154#24154 Author: Guests
Subject: 2555
Posted: 11 May 2012 at 3:47am

Excellent choice! Smile
 
Mine has the 3.42 rear end.  I could have gotten the 3.73 and gained an additional 1000lbs tow capacity but, milage would have been (in theory) not as good.  Also, I have the 4 speed transmission, vs. the 6 speed.  My "before coffee" brain doesn't remember the exact model number but, it is the new version of the 700R4  that has been around for years and seems to be very reliable. 
 
In 2009, all of the 5.3L had Active Fuel Management, which lets the vehicle run on 4 cyls when engine demand is light. 
 
I bought mine the day after Thanksgiving in 2009 and the only issue I have had so far is a traction control sensor went bad.  It was covered under warranty.
 
I hope you like it! 
 
 
]]> Fri, 11 May 2012 03:47:57 +0000 https://www.rpod-owners.com/forum_posts.asp?TID=2555&PID=24154#24154 New tow vehicle - Chevy Suburban : Hodge, yes, Ive been considering... https://www.rpod-owners.com/forum_posts.asp?TID=2555&PID=24149#24149 Author: techntrek
Subject: 2555
Posted: 10 May 2012 at 6:53pm

Hodge, yes, Ive been considering my options for a while. Finally noticed how low rates have gotten and it was time to pull the trigger. 

David & Danette, don't give me any ideas .  Evil Smile

 David, it has the 5.3. I think its rated about 320 hp, 335 torque, off the top of my head. I was told it has the 3.43 rear and not the 3.08, so theoretically a bit better for towing. Need to verify that at the chevy dealer with a vin check. 

]]> Thu, 10 May 2012 18:53:20 +0000 https://www.rpod-owners.com/forum_posts.asp?TID=2555&PID=24149#24149 New tow vehicle - Chevy Suburban : Good deal tech, I am with David,... https://www.rpod-owners.com/forum_posts.asp?TID=2555&PID=24125#24125 Author: dsmiths
Subject: 2555
Posted: 09 May 2012 at 10:35pm

Good deal tech, I am with David, I pull with a 2008 Chevy Trailblazer, 4.2 6 with computer controlled variable cam timing gives 295 horse at 6000. get really good mileage back and forth to work, 17 to 19 usually, 20 or 21 open road, Pod Pulling 11.5 is the best so far, but what the heck, you should have a safe and stable tow vehicle. I told Donna the other night if I ever win the lottery (of which I play about 5 times a year) I am going to buy a brand new Pearl white Suburban. ]]> Wed, 09 May 2012 22:35:22 +0000 https://www.rpod-owners.com/forum_posts.asp?TID=2555&PID=24125#24125 New tow vehicle - Chevy Suburban : Go Doug Go! Looking forward... https://www.rpod-owners.com/forum_posts.asp?TID=2555&PID=24118#24118 Author: Podsible Dream
Subject: 2555
Posted: 09 May 2012 at 8:48pm

Go Doug Go!
Looking forward to hearing your reviews.]]> Wed, 09 May 2012 20:48:41 +0000 https://www.rpod-owners.com/forum_posts.asp?TID=2555&PID=24118#24118 New tow vehicle - Chevy Suburban : Congratulations! I didn't... https://www.rpod-owners.com/forum_posts.asp?TID=2555&PID=24113#24113 Author: Guests
Subject: 2555
Posted: 09 May 2012 at 6:49pm

Congratulations!  I didn't see the engine mentioned.  I have the 5.3L V8 and get 20-21 in daily driving (no highway).  Towing - worst low 9's, best 13, most of the time about 11mpg.  I've been really happy with my truck.
 
Horsepower - it's a good thing! Wink  Hills...headwinds....who cares! LOL
]]> Wed, 09 May 2012 18:49:38 +0000 https://www.rpod-owners.com/forum_posts.asp?TID=2555&PID=24113#24113 New tow vehicle - Chevy Suburban : This could be trouble. Now you... https://www.rpod-owners.com/forum_posts.asp?TID=2555&PID=24112#24112 Author: David and Danette
Subject: 2555
Posted: 09 May 2012 at 5:22pm

    This could be trouble. Now you could tow a larger camper perhaps a Gulfstream Visa.  David]]> Wed, 09 May 2012 17:22:49 +0000 https://www.rpod-owners.com/forum_posts.asp?TID=2555&PID=24112#24112 New tow vehicle - Chevy Suburban : Congratulations Tech! I know you've... https://www.rpod-owners.com/forum_posts.asp?TID=2555&PID=24109#24109 Author: Hodge-PODge
Subject: 2555
Posted: 09 May 2012 at 11:31am

Congratulations Tech!  I know you've been considering a different tow vehicle for a long time.  Sounds like you've got a good one there.]]> Wed, 09 May 2012 11:31:54 +0000 https://www.rpod-owners.com/forum_posts.asp?TID=2555&PID=24109#24109