R-pod Owners Forum : New Owners Questions http://www.rpod-owners.com/ This is an XML content feed of; R-pod Owners Forum : Introduce Yourself : New Owners Questions Copyright (c) 2006-2009 Web Wiz Forums - All Rights Reserved. Sat, 02 May 2026 01:49:55 +0000 Tue, 30 Oct 2012 09:39:07 +0000 http://blogs.law.harvard.edu/tech/rss Web Wiz Forums 9.64 360 www.rpod-owners.com/RSS_post_feed.asp?TID=3054 R-pod Owners Forum http://www.rpod-owners.com/forum_images/web_wiz_forums.png http://www.rpod-owners.com/ New Owners Questions : Risers help to keep the Pod from... http://www.rpod-owners.com/forum_posts.asp?TID=3054&PID=29052#29052 Author: TIDALWAVE
Subject: 3054
Posted: 30 Oct 2012 at 9:39am

Risers help to keep the Pod from scraping off the rear stabilizers in a rough campground but also if you go over an inclined driveway.]]> Tue, 30 Oct 2012 09:39:07 +0000 http://www.rpod-owners.com/forum_posts.asp?TID=3054&PID=29052#29052 New Owners Questions : This thread gives some general... http://www.rpod-owners.com/forum_posts.asp?TID=3054&PID=29051#29051 Author: Keith-N-Dar
Subject: 3054
Posted: 30 Oct 2012 at 9:02am

This thread gives some general information about location of framing/studs
http://www.rpod-owners.com/forum_posts.asp?TID=2805&title=rpod-framing
 
Remember this is generic and may not be the same in your pod.
 
Welcome aboard!
]]> Tue, 30 Oct 2012 09:02:03 +0000 http://www.rpod-owners.com/forum_posts.asp?TID=3054&PID=29051#29051 New Owners Questions : Originally posted by Mikey Hello... http://www.rpod-owners.com/forum_posts.asp?TID=3054&PID=29049#29049 Author: Seanl
Subject: 3054
Posted: 30 Oct 2012 at 7:16am

Originally posted by Mikey

Hello to all. I just purchased a 2011 177 and towed it home from Montana where I bought it.
My question (s ) are:
1. Where do you get something showing where the studs vertical /horizontal are ?
I am not sure what you are referring to here?
Originally posted by Mikey

2. I also would like to know where to order parts or accessories. I have had no luck with Forrest River to my inquiries.
This thread has Forest River Rpod contacts in it. Susan Thornburg is the parts person. http://www.rpod-owners.com/forum_posts.asp?TID=2747&title=misc-forest-river-contacts-and-other-info
Originally posted by Mikey

3. Where would I get the risers I have been reading about on the forum and installation instructions?
You can order them from Forest River or an Rpod Dealer. You will need the model year of your pod the model and the VIN as there are several different ones depending on the axle in your pod.
Originally posted by Mikey

4. Is there any manuel or something to serve as a maintenance guide for the R-pod? 
I really like my Pod and plan to be up in the Eastern Sierra's to go fishing soon.
There was a general manual that came with the Rpod but it was not very specific there is a maintenance thread on the forum here http://www.rpod-owners.com/forum_posts.asp?TID=1723&title=creating-an-instruction-maintanence-manual

Originally posted by Mikey

I had a rear light spoiler installed as per the re-call. It was taped down with flimsy tape and blew off on my way home so I took it off. I couldn't believe anyone would expect it to hold when underway not to mention what the weather would do to the tape after a little time.
Is this some kind of a legal issue if I leave it off?
If the light was put on properly in the first place it should not have blown off. The tape they use on these is the same tape used in automotive applications to hold ground effects kits, body molding and  such on. also the edges of the spoiler should have been screwed into the frame of the trailer. I would talk to forest river about this as you do need to have these lights it is a safety and and legal  thing. 

Originally posted by Mikey

I have enjoyed reading everyone's posts and appreciate the Family type atmosphere you all have.

Thank you,

Mikey


Hope that helps some
]]> Tue, 30 Oct 2012 07:16:46 +0000 http://www.rpod-owners.com/forum_posts.asp?TID=3054&PID=29049#29049 New Owners Questions : Hello to all. I just purchased... http://www.rpod-owners.com/forum_posts.asp?TID=3054&PID=29048#29048 Author: Mikey
Subject: 3054
Posted: 30 Oct 2012 at 1:26am

Hello to all. I just purchased a 2011 177 and towed it home from Montana where I bought it.
My question (s ) are:
1. Where do you get something showing where the studs vertical /horizontal are ?
2. I also would like to know where to order parts or accessories. I have had no luck with Forrest River to my inquiries.
3. Where would I get the risers I have been reading about on the forum and installation instructions?
4. Is there any manuel or something to serve as a maintenance guide for the R-pod? 
I really like my Pod and plan to be up in the Eastern Sierra's to go fishing soon.

I had a rear light spoiler installed as per the re-call. It was taped down with flimsy tape and blew off on my way home so I took it off. I couldn't believe anyone would expect it to hold when underway not to mention what the weather would do to the tape after a little time.
Is this some kind of a legal issue if I leave it off?

I have enjoyed reading everyone's posts and appreciate the Family type atmosphere you all have.

Thank you,

Mikey

]]> Tue, 30 Oct 2012 01:26:57 +0000 http://www.rpod-owners.com/forum_posts.asp?TID=3054&PID=29048#29048 New Owners Questions : http://www.rpod-owners.com/forum_posts.asp?TID=3054&PID=29047#29047 Author: Mikey
Subject: 3054
Posted: 30 Oct 2012 at 1:14am

]]> Tue, 30 Oct 2012 01:14:55 +0000 http://www.rpod-owners.com/forum_posts.asp?TID=3054&PID=29047#29047 New Owners Questions : Wow, thanks everyone for such... http://www.rpod-owners.com/forum_posts.asp?TID=3054&PID=28917#28917 Author: Jimgi3
Subject: 3054
Posted: 25 Oct 2012 at 7:54am

Wow, thanks everyone for such a warm welcome and so many responses! So, I'm getting a better picture about the gas mileage. I was surprised such a small trailer, compared to much of what is out there, would impact my mpg as much as it did....but, then again, I've never pulled a trailer before, so what do I know!? Thanks to you all, I know a little more. 
We are going to borrow my folks big Ford Econoline Van....see how that feels.  I'm a speed demon on the hwy.  Usually drive 5-8 miles above posted speed...I know towing is a different reality! I'll have to learn a new way.  Thanks again!
]]> Thu, 25 Oct 2012 07:54:33 +0000 http://www.rpod-owners.com/forum_posts.asp?TID=3054&PID=28917#28917 New Owners Questions : Welcome Jimgi. I also recommend... http://www.rpod-owners.com/forum_posts.asp?TID=3054&PID=28905#28905 Author: techntrek
Subject: 3054
Posted: 24 Oct 2012 at 10:05pm

Welcome Jimgi.  I also recommend the risers, I went a while without them but scraped enough times that I'm glad I have them now.  With our Sienna we got between 8 and 12 mpg depending on conditions - 8 with a headwind, and 12 with good conditions.  So far with our Suburban I get 9.7 mpg every trip.]]> Wed, 24 Oct 2012 22:05:37 +0000 http://www.rpod-owners.com/forum_posts.asp?TID=3054&PID=28905#28905 New Owners Questions : Not much. I still put something... http://www.rpod-owners.com/forum_posts.asp?TID=3054&PID=28903#28903 Author: techntrek
Subject: 3054
Posted: 24 Oct 2012 at 9:51pm

Not much.  I still put something under the far wheel when dumping which helps a little.]]> Wed, 24 Oct 2012 21:51:55 +0000 http://www.rpod-owners.com/forum_posts.asp?TID=3054&PID=28903#28903 New Owners Questions : Definitely http://www.rpod-owners.com/forum_posts.asp?TID=3054&PID=28898#28898 Author: marwayne
Subject: 3054
Posted: 24 Oct 2012 at 9:18pm

Definitely]]> Wed, 24 Oct 2012 21:18:34 +0000 http://www.rpod-owners.com/forum_posts.asp?TID=3054&PID=28898#28898 New Owners Questions : Those of you with risers, do you... http://www.rpod-owners.com/forum_posts.asp?TID=3054&PID=28894#28894 Author: Iteach5th
Subject: 3054
Posted: 24 Oct 2012 at 8:13pm

Those of you with risers, do you find it's easier to dump your black and grey tanks?]]> Wed, 24 Oct 2012 20:13:28 +0000 http://www.rpod-owners.com/forum_posts.asp?TID=3054&PID=28894#28894 New Owners Questions : Ky Mooses is right on, you need... http://www.rpod-owners.com/forum_posts.asp?TID=3054&PID=28891#28891 Author: dsmiths
Subject: 3054
Posted: 24 Oct 2012 at 7:59pm

Ky Mooses is right on, you need the risers, I doubt the 3.5 inch lift will change the mpg much, I pull with a 08 chev trailblazer rated for 6500 lbs, it has the in line 290 horse six banger. I dont exceed 60 mph on the interstate and up hills drop to 50 or so, i get consistant 10.5 to near 12 mpg it does not get better period. when you double the velocity you quaddruple the drag, its the law of physics, the pod looks aerodynamic by its tear drop shape but it really is not. Have you ever seen an airplane shaped like a Pod ? Donna and I dont care, its still fun and cheaper than staying in a hotel/motel    ]]> Wed, 24 Oct 2012 19:59:09 +0000 http://www.rpod-owners.com/forum_posts.asp?TID=3054&PID=28891#28891 New Owners Questions : Hi,We have a 171 and tow with... http://www.rpod-owners.com/forum_posts.asp?TID=3054&PID=28890#28890 Author: Leo B
Subject: 3054
Posted: 24 Oct 2012 at 7:59pm

Hi,
 
We have a 171 and tow with a 2013 Dodge Grand Caravan ( it has the new pen star engine that puts out 283 horse power). On our trip south out of Vermont we got 12.5 mpg in the Mountains and got 15 mpg once we hit Massachusetts all the way to Rodanthe. It has plenty of power for the hills.
We have not added the risers, have towed up and down the coast with no problems yet ( fingers crossed). The secret is basically taking your time and going 50 mph to 60 mph seems to give us the best mileage. If people dont lke it they will pass you.
Good luck!
]]> Wed, 24 Oct 2012 19:59:02 +0000 http://www.rpod-owners.com/forum_posts.asp?TID=3054&PID=28890#28890 New Owners Questions : Having the risers is one less... http://www.rpod-owners.com/forum_posts.asp?TID=3054&PID=28888#28888 Author: Bill Ky
Subject: 3054
Posted: 24 Oct 2012 at 6:29pm

Having the risers is one less area of concern for me. From my experience with several trailers over the years and now the pod, my advice for better MPG is if you can, take your time getting there. I have found driving at 60mph instead of 70 increases my MPG by as much as 30% depending on conditions.]]> Wed, 24 Oct 2012 18:29:17 +0000 http://www.rpod-owners.com/forum_posts.asp?TID=3054&PID=28888#28888 New Owners Questions : I get around 17 MPG normally and... http://www.rpod-owners.com/forum_posts.asp?TID=3054&PID=28885#28885 Author: HuronSailor
Subject: 3054
Posted: 24 Oct 2012 at 5:33pm

I get around 17 MPG normally and 10-12 towing, so that's about right. 

We used our pod for the first two years without risers. This past spring I finally installed them myself and I'd say they're worth it. The risers do tend to mess up the fit of the rdome, a problem we haven't taken time to solve yet, but it's on my to do list for next spring. Four inches is a nominal dimension, mine were actually 3 1/2". Never heard of a 2" riser. The risers are axle-specific depending on maker.

]]> Wed, 24 Oct 2012 17:33:59 +0000 http://www.rpod-owners.com/forum_posts.asp?TID=3054&PID=28885#28885 New Owners Questions : Originally posted by Jimgi3Hello... http://www.rpod-owners.com/forum_posts.asp?TID=3054&PID=28882#28882 Author: Seanl
Subject: 3054
Posted: 24 Oct 2012 at 4:04pm

Originally posted by Jimgi3

Hello Podders! 
We've always been tent campers, but wanted to get a trailer for longer trips we hope to make after retirement. We live in beautiful Georgia, but want to go west and explore!

After doing months of research, I finally settled on an R Pod 177 for us! Then after looking on Craigslist for another month or more I found a 2010 close by and we went and bought it! We picked it up with my 2000 Chevy Astro with tow package. We found that it towed fine as long as there wasn't a big head wind and fairly flat, but the van shifted into 3rd gear in big wind and going up larger hills. I am now thinking my van will not be big enough to pull in the mountains....and my mileage was cut in half... I usually get 18-20 mpg.... Got 10 mpg towing.  So, I am wondering what you all pull your Pod with and what kind of mileage do you get towing.  I figure if I can get the same 10 mpg with a bigger engine towing, I might as well get a bigger towing vehicle! 

My other question is about putting risers on our Pod. Do you all think that's essential ? I know you can get 4" risers....is there such a thing as 2" risers? 

Thank You Everyone!
Jimgi

Your mileage as others have said is typical. I tow with a jeep liberty and It has enough power to pull the Rod but no extra. it takes a little time to get up to speed and  I learned real quick to pick up speeds on the downhills in order to carry enough speed into the uphills. I am not going anywhere fast but I can average 60mph which is fast enough. It's great when I get a tailwind because that is good for another 10 mph. Smile You will probably  find you would get the same milage with a bigger TV but you would not get as good millage when you were not towing. 
]]> Wed, 24 Oct 2012 16:04:42 +0000 http://www.rpod-owners.com/forum_posts.asp?TID=3054&PID=28882#28882 New Owners Questions : My driveway apron is about six... http://www.rpod-owners.com/forum_posts.asp?TID=3054&PID=28868#28868 Author: Podsible Dream
Subject: 3054
Posted: 24 Oct 2012 at 10:07am

My driveway apron is about six inch drop over three feet. First time in and out, I scraped the jack and then the rear . Added the risers (actually about 3.5") and now clear just fine. We've gotten into a couple of "unimproved" sites that would have removed some dirt without the extra clearance (also they keep the drain points on the water tank higher too). Definitely recommend them.
Your mileage sounds typical-10 to 12 mpg is the standard, it seems.

Welcome to the podding culture, let us know how we can make your experience more enjoyable!

]]> Wed, 24 Oct 2012 10:07:28 +0000 http://www.rpod-owners.com/forum_posts.asp?TID=3054&PID=28868#28868 New Owners Questions : We tow with an F-150 with... http://www.rpod-owners.com/forum_posts.asp?TID=3054&PID=28866#28866 Author: Keith-N-Dar
Subject: 3054
Posted: 24 Oct 2012 at 9:34am

We tow with an F-150 with a large V8 and the factory tow package,so we have lots of headroom to the towing limits.  If I try and drive 70-75 MPH on the interstate then mileage drops to 10MPG (in half).  at 55-60 it gets 14mpg on the flat.
 
I will have risers before our next trip.  I replaced a destroyed stabilizer that scraped getting on the Washington Island (WI) ferry last summer.  In spring the risers will go on.  I hadn't thought they were needed until then.
]]> Wed, 24 Oct 2012 09:34:25 +0000 http://www.rpod-owners.com/forum_posts.asp?TID=3054&PID=28866#28866 New Owners Questions : We are holding off on getting... http://www.rpod-owners.com/forum_posts.asp?TID=3054&PID=28864#28864 Author: Paige
Subject: 3054
Posted: 24 Oct 2012 at 9:21am

We are holding off on getting the risers as most of our camping adventures are in Florida, the flat state. Also we don't want to lower the MPG anymore than we have to! We had our light package recall put on two weeks ago and I think we increased our mpg by about one mile more. The jury is still out on that one.
]]> Wed, 24 Oct 2012 09:21:20 +0000 http://www.rpod-owners.com/forum_posts.asp?TID=3054&PID=28864#28864 New Owners Questions : Congrats on becoming a Podder!... http://www.rpod-owners.com/forum_posts.asp?TID=3054&PID=28861#28861 Author: P&M
Subject: 3054
Posted: 24 Oct 2012 at 8:48am

Congrats on becoming a Podder!  We picked up our 171 last weekend for the first time and averaged 10.4 mpg over 70+ miles, down from the 19.6 mpg I have been getting combined city/hwy up to that point, so yup just about half.  That was with a headwind and driving through some hilly parts of NC, so I believe it will improve a bit on flatter stretches.  I have a 6 cyl with 3500# capacity and also found myself downshifting on the hills, but I have a manual shifter option so it made it easier for me to keep it at the right rpm's that I wanted.

As for risers, I don't have them ... yet.  Definitely on the to-do list for next year.
 
Have fun and enjoy your Pod!
]]> Wed, 24 Oct 2012 08:48:08 +0000 http://www.rpod-owners.com/forum_posts.asp?TID=3054&PID=28861#28861 New Owners Questions : Pretty much everyone's... http://www.rpod-owners.com/forum_posts.asp?TID=3054&PID=28858#28858 Author: kymooses
Subject: 3054
Posted: 24 Oct 2012 at 8:28am

Pretty much everyone's gas mileage gets cut in half pulling our pods.  They are very similar to large brick walls behind us.  So you're on point with the rest of us on that one.
 
Risers.  I've never heard of 2 inch risers.  Are the 4 inches necessary?  Some would say yes, some would say no.  It only takes on time for you to be leaving a campground or a weirdly slanted gas station and to drag or rip off a stabilizer to wish you'd had them.  Personally we have them and have been at some camgrounds where without them we would have scraped stablizers.  Having risers will affect how your dome fits your Pod, and that's one thing that I do not like about having them.
 
Lastly big hills and strong winds sound about right for not having quite as much oomph when towing.  Happens to me with my Jeep from time to time.  What is the towing capacity of your van?
 
 
Good luck and congrats on the Pod!
 
 
]]> Wed, 24 Oct 2012 08:28:23 +0000 http://www.rpod-owners.com/forum_posts.asp?TID=3054&PID=28858#28858 New Owners Questions : Hello Podders!We've always... http://www.rpod-owners.com/forum_posts.asp?TID=3054&PID=28856#28856 Author: Jimgi3
Subject: 3054
Posted: 24 Oct 2012 at 8:22am

Hello Podders! 
We've always been tent campers, but wanted to get a trailer for longer trips we hope to make after retirement. We live in beautiful Georgia, but want to go west and explore!

After doing months of research, I finally settled on an R Pod 177 for us! Then after looking on Craigslist for another month or more I found a 2010 close by and we went and bought it! We picked it up with my 2000 Chevy Astro with tow package. We found that it towed fine as long as there wasn't a big head wind and fairly flat, but the van shifted into 3rd gear in big wind and going up larger hills. I am now thinking my van will not be big enough to pull in the mountains....and my mileage was cut in half... I usually get 18-20 mpg.... Got 10 mpg towing.  So, I am wondering what you all pull your Pod with and what kind of mileage do you get towing.  I figure if I can get the same 10 mpg with a bigger engine towing, I might as well get a bigger towing vehicle! 

My other question is about putting risers on our Pod. Do you all think that's essential ? I know you can get 4" risers....is there such a thing as 2" risers? 

Thank You Everyone!
Jimgi
]]> Wed, 24 Oct 2012 08:22:22 +0000 http://www.rpod-owners.com/forum_posts.asp?TID=3054&PID=28856#28856