R-pod Owners Forum : 2013 177 Advice Before Purchase http://www.rpod-owners.com/ This is an XML content feed of; R-pod Owners Forum : Introduce Yourself : 2013 177 Advice Before Purchase Copyright (c) 2006-2009 Web Wiz Forums - All Rights Reserved. Sat, 02 May 2026 16:00:51 +0000 Fri, 07 Mar 2014 07:23:15 +0000 http://blogs.law.harvard.edu/tech/rss Web Wiz Forums 9.64 360 www.rpod-owners.com/RSS_post_feed.asp?TID=3143 R-pod Owners Forum http://www.rpod-owners.com/forum_images/web_wiz_forums.png http://www.rpod-owners.com/ 2013 177 Advice Before Purchase : barefoot, I moved your post to... http://www.rpod-owners.com/forum_posts.asp?TID=3143&PID=43276#43276 Author: techntrek
Subject: 3143
Posted: 07 Mar 2014 at 7:23am

barefoot, I moved your post to the Flea Market section.]]> Fri, 07 Mar 2014 07:23:15 +0000 http://www.rpod-owners.com/forum_posts.asp?TID=3143&PID=43276#43276 2013 177 Advice Before Purchase : Looks like a nice RV. Congratulations. ... http://www.rpod-owners.com/forum_posts.asp?TID=3143&PID=30199#30199 Author: danthoman
Subject: 3143
Posted: 11 Jan 2013 at 2:22pm

Looks like a nice RV.  Congratulations.]]> Fri, 11 Jan 2013 14:22:56 +0000 http://www.rpod-owners.com/forum_posts.asp?TID=3143&PID=30199#30199 2013 177 Advice Before Purchase : Yup, always welcome to hang out.... http://www.rpod-owners.com/forum_posts.asp?TID=3143&PID=30190#30190 Author: techntrek
Subject: 3143
Posted: 11 Jan 2013 at 1:32pm

Yup, always welcome to hang out.  Definitely want to see/hear about your experiences with the Visa (Cruiser) line!]]> Fri, 11 Jan 2013 13:32:11 +0000 http://www.rpod-owners.com/forum_posts.asp?TID=3143&PID=30190#30190 2013 177 Advice Before Purchase : Congratulations and Happy... http://www.rpod-owners.com/forum_posts.asp?TID=3143&PID=30187#30187 Author: coopercdrkey
Subject: 3143
Posted: 11 Jan 2013 at 11:12am

Congratulations and Happy Camping to both barefoot and wildflorwerz!
 
I'm pretty sure the Administrators would extend their welcome to continue hanging out with us Podders
here, and let us know how your new RV's are working out.  Drop in from time to time!
]]> Fri, 11 Jan 2013 11:12:06 +0000 http://www.rpod-owners.com/forum_posts.asp?TID=3143&PID=30187#30187 2013 177 Advice Before Purchase : Congratulations on your purchase,... http://www.rpod-owners.com/forum_posts.asp?TID=3143&PID=30183#30183 Author: wildflowerz
Subject: 3143
Posted: 11 Jan 2013 at 7:46am

Congratulations on your purchase, I'm sure you will love it.  My husband and I trading in the rPod next week for a Keystone Passport 252BH.  I love the rPod but the husband and the dogs need more room.]]> Fri, 11 Jan 2013 07:46:15 +0000 http://www.rpod-owners.com/forum_posts.asp?TID=3143&PID=30183#30183 2013 177 Advice Before Purchase : Well we've done it! Made... http://www.rpod-owners.com/forum_posts.asp?TID=3143&PID=30182#30182 Author: barefoot14
Subject: 3143
Posted: 10 Jan 2013 at 10:20pm

Well we've done it! Made down payment today on a 2014 Gulf Stream Visa 17RWD, HOWEVER, Gulf Stream is changing the name to Vista Cruiser to match their motorized line name, and adding risers and more improvements over the 2012-13 models. We like the floor plan as I can get out of bed without crawling over, and there is a full wet bath with sink, toilet, tub/shower. I am sorry to be bailing out on you loyal Podders, as we thought we might be joining you, but I am ready for a bathroom I can stretch my arms out in and storage space. Safe journeys!!!
]]> Thu, 10 Jan 2013 22:20:04 +0000 http://www.rpod-owners.com/forum_posts.asp?TID=3143&PID=30182#30182 2013 177 Advice Before Purchase : The Visa looks really nice, especially... http://www.rpod-owners.com/forum_posts.asp?TID=3143&PID=29950#29950 Author: Racer|X|
Subject: 3143
Posted: 24 Dec 2012 at 7:48am

The Visa looks really nice, especially for a tall person, like me.  However....for me....at this stage of my camping life I couldn't give up the outdoor kitchen area / garage on my 182g.  My kids are still young...camping for us is about enjoying the outdoors...the garage model keeps me outside except to sleep and grab stuff outta the fridge.  

I would like the Visa as my retirement model, when / should I ever be fortunate enough to reach that time 😜.


]]> Mon, 24 Dec 2012 07:48:49 +0000 http://www.rpod-owners.com/forum_posts.asp?TID=3143&PID=29950#29950 2013 177 Advice Before Purchase : The first model that caught... http://www.rpod-owners.com/forum_posts.asp?TID=3143&PID=29944#29944 Author: techntrek
Subject: 3143
Posted: 23 Dec 2012 at 9:26pm

The first model that caught my eye was the 19ERD, I love that the shower is separate from the rest of the bathroom, and it has a walk-around queen even though it is only 19 feet long.  But if I pulled the trigger I would probably go for the 23RBK due to pressure from the rest of the family.

There is now a "sister" line under a different brand name which is identical but I can't think of the model/brand right now.  Might be useful to price both of them out and pick the cheaper one.

http://gulfstreamrvtrailers.com/visa/floorplans.php

]]> Sun, 23 Dec 2012 21:26:05 +0000 http://www.rpod-owners.com/forum_posts.asp?TID=3143&PID=29944#29944 2013 177 Advice Before Purchase : Thanks- My dyslexia was inserting... http://www.rpod-owners.com/forum_posts.asp?TID=3143&PID=29938#29938 Author: coopercdrkey
Subject: 3143
Posted: 23 Dec 2012 at 8:46am

Thanks-  My dyslexia was inserting a 't' in Visa.  I'll look it up.

(edit)-  OK, found it!  Very attractive, but I noticed that some of the features I liked were on the 23' model,
so I guess that would compare more to the 'new R-Pod' that we've only seen in floor plan.
]]> Sun, 23 Dec 2012 08:46:33 +0000 http://www.rpod-owners.com/forum_posts.asp?TID=3143&PID=29938#29938 2013 177 Advice Before Purchase : Sorry, that is "Visa",... http://www.rpod-owners.com/forum_posts.asp?TID=3143&PID=29935#29935 Author: Podsible Dream
Subject: 3143
Posted: 23 Dec 2012 at 8:36am

Sorry, that is "Visa", no 't'.
]]> Sun, 23 Dec 2012 08:36:53 +0000 http://www.rpod-owners.com/forum_posts.asp?TID=3143&PID=29935#29935 2013 177 Advice Before Purchase : Cooperdcdrkey, try www.gulfstreamrvtrailers.com... http://www.rpod-owners.com/forum_posts.asp?TID=3143&PID=29934#29934 Author: Podsible Dream
Subject: 3143
Posted: 23 Dec 2012 at 8:35am

Cooperdcdrkey, try www.gulfstreamrvtrailers.com for the Vista web site. It looks like a nice unit.
Walt
]]> Sun, 23 Dec 2012 08:35:59 +0000 http://www.rpod-owners.com/forum_posts.asp?TID=3143&PID=29934#29934 2013 177 Advice Before Purchase : Google search the term Gulf Stream... http://www.rpod-owners.com/forum_posts.asp?TID=3143&PID=29933#29933 Author: barefoot14
Subject: 3143
Posted: 23 Dec 2012 at 8:34am

Google search the term Gulf Stream Visa 17RWD, there are a few You Tube videos that give a good walk through. It's a very lightweight travel trailer, no slide out. Bed with storage cabinets at one end (with room for interior sleeper to slip out at end of bed), dinette with lots of windows at the other end. Kitchen along side with 2 sinks, cooktop, microwave and cabinets/drawers. And the best part, a bathroom with shower/tub, sink, toilet, storage cabinet, medicine cabinet/mirror! Our dog could sleep in the tub! Dry weight less than 3,000 lbs, about 18' long.
]]> Sun, 23 Dec 2012 08:34:38 +0000 http://www.rpod-owners.com/forum_posts.asp?TID=3143&PID=29933#29933 2013 177 Advice Before Purchase : Is the Vista you reference a motor... http://www.rpod-owners.com/forum_posts.asp?TID=3143&PID=29932#29932 Author: coopercdrkey
Subject: 3143
Posted: 23 Dec 2012 at 8:21am

Is the Vista you reference a motor vehicle, or a trailer?  All I see when I Google 'Gulf Stream Vista'
is a small motor coach.
]]> Sun, 23 Dec 2012 08:21:11 +0000 http://www.rpod-owners.com/forum_posts.asp?TID=3143&PID=29932#29932 2013 177 Advice Before Purchase : We really like the Visa line,... http://www.rpod-owners.com/forum_posts.asp?TID=3143&PID=29929#29929 Author: techntrek
Subject: 3143
Posted: 22 Dec 2012 at 8:12pm

We really like the Visa line, too.]]> Sat, 22 Dec 2012 20:12:27 +0000 http://www.rpod-owners.com/forum_posts.asp?TID=3143&PID=29929#29929 2013 177 Advice Before Purchase : Thanks for all the great advice!... http://www.rpod-owners.com/forum_posts.asp?TID=3143&PID=29914#29914 Author: barefoot14
Subject: 3143
Posted: 22 Dec 2012 at 7:55am

Thanks for all the great advice! We did look at a 177 and now would like to compare a Gulf Stream Visa 17RWD which we have only seen You Tube videos of so far. It's similar in size but has more storage and a dry bath which looks awesome. I think the dealer in PA carries this too so maybe we should head up that way.
]]> Sat, 22 Dec 2012 07:55:54 +0000 http://www.rpod-owners.com/forum_posts.asp?TID=3143&PID=29914#29914 2013 177 Advice Before Purchase : Wow, lots of good stuff on this... http://www.rpod-owners.com/forum_posts.asp?TID=3143&PID=29913#29913 Author: techntrek
Subject: 3143
Posted: 21 Dec 2012 at 11:13pm

Wow, lots of good stuff on this thread.  I'll confirm that memory foam added to the factory mattress has worked well for us.  You will need a 2" receiver hitch on your Highlander and I highly recommend a weight distribution hitch (WDH) which includes sway control.  While the pod is the most comfortable and easy-towing trailer I've pulled in 24 years, and I towed it for a year without weight distribution or sway control, once I had my E2 in place I wish I had done it much earlier.  It makes the ride much more comfortable and no issues with passing trucks.  I also highly recommend the Tekonsha Prodigy brake controller line, which is much better than old style timer-based controllers.  The Prodigy senses your tow vehicle's (TV) inertia and brakes proportionately.

Stoltzfus RV in Adamstown, PA has worked with several people here including us to come very close to matching the price of that dealer in OH.  If they are closer to you its something to look into.  If you do go there you'll likely go right past my house (northern MD near I-83) so you are welcome to crash in the driveway on your way home (I have water and 30 amp hookups).  There's also a decent year-round campground a mile from us, which I can see from our back yard.

]]> Fri, 21 Dec 2012 23:13:39 +0000 http://www.rpod-owners.com/forum_posts.asp?TID=3143&PID=29913#29913 2013 177 Advice Before Purchase : We put a 2 inch foam pad (memory... http://www.rpod-owners.com/forum_posts.asp?TID=3143&PID=29905#29905 Author: danthoman
Subject: 3143
Posted: 20 Dec 2012 at 9:34pm

We put a 2 inch foam pad (memory foam) on the mattress and it's more comfortable than our expensive serta mattress.  Definitely get the risers, you need them.   I also suggest you take a few short trips before you modify the inside.  An anti sway/WD hitch is also a good idea.  I installed an Andersen and like it.  Several people on this forum also like the equalizer hitch.
]]> Thu, 20 Dec 2012 21:34:39 +0000 http://www.rpod-owners.com/forum_posts.asp?TID=3143&PID=29905#29905 2013 177 Advice Before Purchase : looks like a bit of weight difference... http://www.rpod-owners.com/forum_posts.asp?TID=3143&PID=29854#29854 Author: gnawbone
Subject: 3143
Posted: 15 Dec 2012 at 9:17am

looks like a bit of weight difference too
]]> Sat, 15 Dec 2012 09:17:39 +0000 http://www.rpod-owners.com/forum_posts.asp?TID=3143&PID=29854#29854 2013 177 Advice Before Purchase : The MPG is back in production,... http://www.rpod-owners.com/forum_posts.asp?TID=3143&PID=29851#29851 Author: barefoot14
Subject: 3143
Posted: 15 Dec 2012 at 8:39am

The MPG is back in production, their units are still very similar to the r-Pod, the tires are larger and they have 2 propane tanks, that's the biggest difference I could find on the Heartland site.
]]> Sat, 15 Dec 2012 08:39:00 +0000 http://www.rpod-owners.com/forum_posts.asp?TID=3143&PID=29851#29851 2013 177 Advice Before Purchase : I was told that the MPG is no... http://www.rpod-owners.com/forum_posts.asp?TID=3143&PID=29850#29850 Author: gnawbone
Subject: 3143
Posted: 15 Dec 2012 at 8:29am

I was told that the MPG is no longer in production and had a lot of warranty issues.Don't know if that's true, but I only found 1 used one. and I lost interest.
]]> Sat, 15 Dec 2012 08:29:55 +0000 http://www.rpod-owners.com/forum_posts.asp?TID=3143&PID=29850#29850 2013 177 Advice Before Purchase : Hi Barefoot14. Here's our... http://www.rpod-owners.com/forum_posts.asp?TID=3143&PID=29849#29849 Author: gnawbone
Subject: 3143
Posted: 15 Dec 2012 at 8:15am


Hi Barefoot14. Here's our story...We have been in RVing with large and small units but decided on the R-Pod 177. Went to the dealer in Ohio because of the best price and no add-ons or hidden extras.
Probably not allowed to recommend them by name. We went out on Tuesday Dec 11, 2012. Stayed in the Marriott for $95, went to the dealers on Wed and after demo started for home. Got home Thurs eve very tired. we're both over 70 so our long distance drives are difficult. I think this is one of the most exciting trailers I've had and perfect for what we want: state parks, short trips.
We drove out in our 2004 Dodge 3500 diesel pickup truck and averaged 22.5 mpg going out thru hilly PA. COMING HOME: 'nother story: 14.4 mpg. frontal area and headwind dropped our mileage and I kept way under the speed limits most of the time. Small price to pay for what we got. Next is to hook up to our 2013 Toyota Sienna and see what happens. I'm looking at the Andersen weight distributing hitch on Ebay. The other forum on R-Pods has a few mods that are interesting and Facebook has an R-Pod owners group too. I like to read all of this stuff as these are very friendly and experienced folks.
Best wishes for your purchase. Feel free to email if you like...

]]> Sat, 15 Dec 2012 08:15:15 +0000 http://www.rpod-owners.com/forum_posts.asp?TID=3143&PID=29849#29849 2013 177 Advice Before Purchase : We spent some time in a new... http://www.rpod-owners.com/forum_posts.asp?TID=3143&PID=29848#29848 Author: barefoot14
Subject: 3143
Posted: 15 Dec 2012 at 8:09am

We spent some time in a new 2013 177 yesterday, also checked out a new Forest River Vibe, the bathroom is awesome! However the Vibe would be too heavy for our Highlander. There's an RV show in PA in a few weeks, we are thinking we might go to it and check out some more models, has anyone ever been? Did anyone compare the knock off Heartland MPGs to the RPod before purchase? ]]> Sat, 15 Dec 2012 08:09:47 +0000 http://www.rpod-owners.com/forum_posts.asp?TID=3143&PID=29848#29848 2013 177 Advice Before Purchase : "I had the same thought...all... http://www.rpod-owners.com/forum_posts.asp?TID=3143&PID=29845#29845 Author: Keith-N-Dar
Subject: 3143
Posted: 14 Dec 2012 at 6:08pm

"I had the same thought...all backs are different! Did you keep the sink in the shower? I noted that some folks removed it for more space but I thought sitting down for a shower was fine. My husband definitely will sleep on the outside! And our dog, I expect, will be at the table!"
 
The first couple of showers were interesting.  After a few I got the hang of it.  I will try a sit down shower next season.  The sink stayed in place and I have no plans to move it.  Using the toilet is more of an adveture at first.  I started with the door open for a little more room, but now it is fine with the door closed.  Not as much room as at home but it is enough.  I am full sized plus and also a senior.
]]> Fri, 14 Dec 2012 18:08:52 +0000 http://www.rpod-owners.com/forum_posts.asp?TID=3143&PID=29845#29845 2013 177 Advice Before Purchase : My Wife and I have owned a... http://www.rpod-owners.com/forum_posts.asp?TID=3143&PID=29844#29844 Author: rpodcamper.com
Subject: 3143
Posted: 14 Dec 2012 at 1:50am

My Wife and I have owned a 171 since early 2009 and have really enjoyed it.  Yes the person on the inside of the bed needs to crawl over the other person but has not really bothered us at all.  My wife has me trapped on the inside.  As for size I feel it is perfect and has just what we need  iwould have gone with a teardrop if my wife did not want the bathroom. It is easy to get in and out of parking lots, gas stations and camps due to the size.  ]]> Fri, 14 Dec 2012 01:50:37 +0000 http://www.rpod-owners.com/forum_posts.asp?TID=3143&PID=29844#29844 2013 177 Advice Before Purchase : Many posts so I have not read... http://www.rpod-owners.com/forum_posts.asp?TID=3143&PID=29843#29843 Author: RPodWeGo
Subject: 3143
Posted: 14 Dec 2012 at 1:41am

Many posts so I have not read all but scanned some. You asked what you needed when you pick up the Pod. We have a 2013 177 and regardless of which Pod you have I would highly recommend a sway bar.  Several posts on the forum as to which one and/ or weight equalizer thig a ma jig ... Simply get something. ]]> Fri, 14 Dec 2012 01:41:26 +0000 http://www.rpod-owners.com/forum_posts.asp?TID=3143&PID=29843#29843 2013 177 Advice Before Purchase : Barefoot... we just went to Disney... http://www.rpod-owners.com/forum_posts.asp?TID=3143&PID=29839#29839 Author: wildflowerz
Subject: 3143
Posted: 13 Dec 2012 at 10:30pm

Barefoot... we just went to Disney with our rPod last week.  Just arrived home on Tuesday night.  Our last camping spot was in Virginia to winterize before coming home to PA.  I highly recommend Ft. Wilderness, we enjoyed hanging out there, riding bikes, visiting the hotels.  We never even went into the theme parks.  We stayed in a few state parks on the way home.  You can definitely head south and enjoy your pod as soon as you get it.

Somewhere on the modifications board someone mentioned to take a few trips before doing any mods. Try it out a bit before you figure out what you want to do.  Let us know when you get it.Smile
]]> Thu, 13 Dec 2012 22:30:56 +0000 http://www.rpod-owners.com/forum_posts.asp?TID=3143&PID=29839#29839 2013 177 Advice Before Purchase : We have a 177 and love it. My... http://www.rpod-owners.com/forum_posts.asp?TID=3143&PID=29838#29838 Author: LarryK
Subject: 3143
Posted: 13 Dec 2012 at 9:59pm

We have a 177 and love it. My wife sleeps in the bed and we set up the dinette each night as a bed for me to sleep in. It takes less than 2 minutes.  That way we neither has to crawl over, just have to try not to trip over the dog. I can hardly wait for early spring to get out there, again.]]> Thu, 13 Dec 2012 21:59:29 +0000 http://www.rpod-owners.com/forum_posts.asp?TID=3143&PID=29838#29838 2013 177 Advice Before Purchase : Originally posted by barefoot14Thanks... http://www.rpod-owners.com/forum_posts.asp?TID=3143&PID=29836#29836 Author: Racer|X|
Subject: 3143
Posted: 13 Dec 2012 at 9:36pm

Originally posted by barefoot14

Thanks to everyone who has posted so far! Question: Looks like I will have to crawl over my husband to get out of bed to hit the "lew." Any advice on that? Also does anyone have advice on customizing the bed area...I have to have my water, eye drops etc close by all night long. I've read the posts on mattresses and realize it will not be comfortable so that will be a problem to solve too. Thanks for your help!!!!


Easy...make him sleep on the inside!  Ouch
]]> Thu, 13 Dec 2012 21:36:39 +0000 http://www.rpod-owners.com/forum_posts.asp?TID=3143&PID=29836#29836 2013 177 Advice Before Purchase : OOH I am so afraid I will... http://www.rpod-owners.com/forum_posts.asp?TID=3143&PID=29834#29834 Author: barefoot14
Subject: 3143
Posted: 13 Dec 2012 at 9:15pm

OOH I am so afraid I will fall off the top bunk! Too many broken bones in my life...and my hubby for sure would want the bottom bunk. So that def won't work! Thanks!
]]> Thu, 13 Dec 2012 21:15:11 +0000 http://www.rpod-owners.com/forum_posts.asp?TID=3143&PID=29834#29834 2013 177 Advice Before Purchase : Originally posted by barefoot14Thanks... http://www.rpod-owners.com/forum_posts.asp?TID=3143&PID=29832#29832 Author: CharlieM
Subject: 3143
Posted: 13 Dec 2012 at 9:03pm

Originally posted by barefoot14

Thanks to everyone who has posted so far! Question: Looks like I will have to crawl over my husband to get out of bed to hit the "lew." Any advice on that? Also does anyone have advice on customizing the bed area...I have to have my water, eye drops etc close by all night long. I've read the posts on mattresses and realize it will not be comfortable so that will be a problem to solve too. Thanks for your help!!!!



Barefoot14. "The climb over" problem is exactly why we chose the R-172 with bunk beds. And it gives us a sleeping area separate from the sitting area and requires no setup of the bed each night.
]]> Thu, 13 Dec 2012 21:03:47 +0000 http://www.rpod-owners.com/forum_posts.asp?TID=3143&PID=29832#29832