R-pod Owners Forum : Pod Prod http://www.rpod-owners.com/ This is an XML content feed of; R-pod Owners Forum : Introduce Yourself : Pod Prod Copyright (c) 2006-2009 Web Wiz Forums - All Rights Reserved. Sat, 02 May 2026 14:46:08 +0000 Wed, 16 Oct 2013 12:32:08 +0000 http://blogs.law.harvard.edu/tech/rss Web Wiz Forums 9.64 360 www.rpod-owners.com/RSS_post_feed.asp?TID=4060 R-pod Owners Forum http://www.rpod-owners.com/forum_images/web_wiz_forums.png http://www.rpod-owners.com/ Pod Prod : Congrats Bob! Great minds think... http://www.rpod-owners.com/forum_posts.asp?TID=4060&PID=39701#39701 Author: fwunder
Subject: 4060
Posted: 16 Oct 2013 at 12:32pm

Congrats Bob! Great minds think alike! 

Would you mind parking yours in Sanibel in February so I don't have to tow ours down? I'll leave you the keys to ours up here in New Jersey! Might be a good break for you to get away from that relentless Florida winter! Smile

We are excited about bringing the pod home tomorrow. Hoping to get a few days of rookie podding in before winter sets in!

fred
]]> Wed, 16 Oct 2013 12:32:08 +0000 http://www.rpod-owners.com/forum_posts.asp?TID=4060&PID=39701#39701 Pod Prod : Fred, your listing is almost identical... http://www.rpod-owners.com/forum_posts.asp?TID=4060&PID=39699#39699 Author: Sleepless
Subject: 4060
Posted: 16 Oct 2013 at 11:58am

Fred, your listing is almost identical to what is on the order my dealer sent to FR.  Other than my interior color being Saddle, the only difference is that my order details what are in the Interior Luxury and Exterior Luxury packages.

It looks like we are both receiving all the options except for the bike carrier.  My 178 is not due to arrive at my Tampa dealer until November 15.

Bob
]]> Wed, 16 Oct 2013 11:58:40 +0000 http://www.rpod-owners.com/forum_posts.asp?TID=4060&PID=39699#39699 Pod Prod : Yeah Bob, it is a little confusing... http://www.rpod-owners.com/forum_posts.asp?TID=4060&PID=39694#39694 Author: fwunder
Subject: 4060
Posted: 16 Oct 2013 at 10:05am

Yeah Bob, it is a little confusing and seems to vary a bit from dealer to dealer. That PDF invoice was something I found on the web while trying to compare with what we bought. The unit we pick up tomorrow lists the following:

2014 R-Pod 178
Equipment:
Carbon Monoxide Detector
Crown Package:
-Jensen "Bluetooth" AM/FM/CD/DVD Stereo w/Wire Remote Control
-Two Interior Speakers
-Two Exterior Speakers
-Keyless Entry Door Lock
-Residential Goose Neck Faucet w/Pull Out Sprayer
-Pleated Shades
Exterior Luxury Package
Interior Luxury Package
Java
13,500 BTU Air Conditioner
19" LCD Flat Screen TV
Axle Riser
Convection Microwave Oven
R-Dome Awning w/Screen Room

I'll let you know when we get it home what the gelcoat is!

fred


]]> Wed, 16 Oct 2013 10:05:37 +0000 http://www.rpod-owners.com/forum_posts.asp?TID=4060&PID=39694#39694 Pod Prod : Originally posted by fwunder This... http://www.rpod-owners.com/forum_posts.asp?TID=4060&PID=39692#39692 Author: Sleepless
Subject: 4060
Posted: 16 Oct 2013 at 9:11am

Originally posted by fwunder

This may help others. Did help me. Sticker on 2014 177.


fred


I am looking at the Purchase order/Invoice for the 2014 178 I have on order that my dealer emailed to me.  On yours, the 4000 gel coating is shown under the "Reserve Item" with no other items.  On mine, the same option item is "Crown Package."  It is my understanding that the 4000 coating is included with the Crown Package for all models in 2014.

Rather confusing.

Bob
]]> Wed, 16 Oct 2013 09:11:09 +0000 http://www.rpod-owners.com/forum_posts.asp?TID=4060&PID=39692#39692 Pod Prod : Hi, I saw your information... http://www.rpod-owners.com/forum_posts.asp?TID=4060&PID=39688#39688 Author: Fj
Subject: 4060
Posted: 16 Oct 2013 at 1:13am

Hi, I saw your information on the gel-coating on thepods.  I wanted to share what I was toldthis Monday at the Pomona ca. rv show and see if anyone could share moreinformation.

The sales rep from RV SPA OF UPLAND CALIFORNIA said the 2014r-pods have the limulus 4000 gel coating and the new 2014 models (with theroyal crown options) only have a 1000 gel coating.  He said the FR rep told him that is how theysaved money to add the new features on the crown package.  The new trailer will look duller up close.

I did a little research and saw were the sides of the r-podsare 4000 and the roofs are 1000.  But Idid not see where any changes were made to the coating with the new royal crownoptions for 2014.  I was surprised to seethe roofs were 1000 since the roof on the pod is also the front and back side.

I was going to call FR but decided to give you all a firstcrack at this question.  I startedreading this sight a few weeks ago and it has been a big help on learning aboutthe pods.   I did order a 177 crownpackage with the r-dome.  The wife and Iwant to thank you all for the great information.

]]> Wed, 16 Oct 2013 01:13:47 +0000 http://www.rpod-owners.com/forum_posts.asp?TID=4060&PID=39688#39688 Pod Prod : Thanks! In the process of getting... http://www.rpod-owners.com/forum_posts.asp?TID=4060&PID=39633#39633 Author: Bubink
Subject: 4060
Posted: 14 Oct 2013 at 11:03pm

Thanks! In the process of getting our 2014 178 and so excited! Need all the help we can get!]]> Mon, 14 Oct 2013 23:03:47 +0000 http://www.rpod-owners.com/forum_posts.asp?TID=4060&PID=39633#39633 Pod Prod : Welcome, Bubink. http://www.rpod-owners.com/forum_posts.asp?TID=4060&PID=39619#39619 Author: techntrek
Subject: 4060
Posted: 14 Oct 2013 at 8:13pm

Welcome, Bubink.]]> Mon, 14 Oct 2013 20:13:14 +0000 http://www.rpod-owners.com/forum_posts.asp?TID=4060&PID=39619#39619 Pod Prod : Originally posted by techntrekWelcome.... http://www.rpod-owners.com/forum_posts.asp?TID=4060&PID=39607#39607 Author: Thinker
Subject: 4060
Posted: 14 Oct 2013 at 5:09pm

Originally posted by techntrek

Welcome.  Definitely get the anchor option, it is useful in hurricanes and tornadoes.  I agree the price you quoted is a little high for a year-old model, but it can't hurt to go and see it in person and take a printout of a lower quote for a current model as leverage.  I got my local dealer within a few hundred dollars after pulling out the quote where they wouldn't come within a few thousand before that moment.



If you get the anchor, be sure to get the storm jib.... comes in handy in a blow.]]> Mon, 14 Oct 2013 17:09:48 +0000 http://www.rpod-owners.com/forum_posts.asp?TID=4060&PID=39607#39607 Pod Prod : Congrats on your new purchase!!... http://www.rpod-owners.com/forum_posts.asp?TID=4060&PID=39603#39603 Author: Bubink
Subject: 4060
Posted: 14 Oct 2013 at 2:40pm

Congrats on your new purchase!! We are in the final stages of getting a 2014 178 to replace our T@DA we just sold. Hate to say goodbye to our bring yellow camper but SOOOOO looking forward to head room, lol! Hopefully by this time next week, we'll have back to its new home!!]]> Mon, 14 Oct 2013 14:40:20 +0000 http://www.rpod-owners.com/forum_posts.asp?TID=4060&PID=39603#39603 Pod Prod : Carpinteria High reunions are... http://www.rpod-owners.com/forum_posts.asp?TID=4060&PID=39472#39472 Author: Keith-N-Dar
Subject: 4060
Posted: 11 Oct 2013 at 9:51pm

Carpinteria High reunions are becoming multi-year, and my brother's is next year. I may fly out for that. I can't bring the pod but may come and look around a little. It would be fun I think. We will see.]]> Fri, 11 Oct 2013 21:51:15 +0000 http://www.rpod-owners.com/forum_posts.asp?TID=4060&PID=39472#39472 Pod Prod : Originally posted by Keith-N-DarI... http://www.rpod-owners.com/forum_posts.asp?TID=4060&PID=39464#39464 Author: dman
Subject: 4060
Posted: 11 Oct 2013 at 7:56pm

Originally posted by Keith-N-Dar

I am thinking of a city park that there were lots of "homeless" folks with campers who lived there.   Maybe it is gone.

I grew up in Summerland, and went to school in Carpinteria.  Then moved east.  SB is a beautiful place.  I just can't afford it.  I haven't been there since the stoplights on 101 were removed.  One of these years I have to get back and enjoy it again.

It is beautiful and expensive. I grew up here and have managed to stay. Still lots of homless folks. 
]]> Fri, 11 Oct 2013 19:56:01 +0000 http://www.rpod-owners.com/forum_posts.asp?TID=4060&PID=39464#39464 Pod Prod : I am thinking of a city park that... http://www.rpod-owners.com/forum_posts.asp?TID=4060&PID=39462#39462 Author: Keith-N-Dar
Subject: 4060
Posted: 11 Oct 2013 at 7:26pm

I am thinking of a city park that there were lots of "homeless" folks with campers who lived there.   Maybe it is gone.

I grew up in Summerland, and went to school in Carpinteria.  Then moved east.  SB is a beautiful place.  I just can't afford it.  I haven't been there since the stoplights on 101 were removed.  One of these years I have to get back and enjoy it again.
]]> Fri, 11 Oct 2013 19:26:55 +0000 http://www.rpod-owners.com/forum_posts.asp?TID=4060&PID=39462#39462 Pod Prod : Originally posted by Keith-N-DarIs... http://www.rpod-owners.com/forum_posts.asp?TID=4060&PID=39447#39447 Author: dman
Subject: 4060
Posted: 11 Oct 2013 at 1:03pm

Originally posted by Keith-N-Dar

Is that park still open in Santa Barbara with all the campers living full time there? I remember hearing about it last time I was in
SB. It wasn't like that 40 years ago when I grew up there.

There is a rv park on Salinas St. Right off the 101 that has been there a long time, I think it is called Sunrise RV. I would not call it a campground and I would not recomend it though. It may have gotten better over the years but I. Remember it being pretty much a parking lot right off the freeway.

There is a campground up the coast called Ocean Mesa, right across from El Capitan State beach that is pretty nice. Not for full timing though it is expensive  but clean and with an ocean view.
]]> Fri, 11 Oct 2013 13:03:27 +0000 http://www.rpod-owners.com/forum_posts.asp?TID=4060&PID=39447#39447 Pod Prod : Dman, we paid $14,700 @Stoltzfus... http://www.rpod-owners.com/forum_posts.asp?TID=4060&PID=39431#39431 Author: fwunder
Subject: 4060
Posted: 11 Oct 2013 at 8:06am

Dman, we paid $14,700 @ Stoltzfus RV in Adamstown, PA. Couch's RV in Ohio was cheaper @ $13,795 with a six week lead time. Stoltzfus had the unit we wanted with the options we wanted and they are close by (relatively).

I should say both dealers were very pleasant to deal with. For what it's worth, Couch's RV told me their price was going up $300 next week.

2014 R-Pod 178
Crown Package
Exterior Luxury Package
Interior Luxury Package
Java Interior
13,500 BTU Air Conditioner
19" LCD Flat Screen TV
Axle Riser
Convection Microwave Oven
R-Dome Awning w/Screen Room


]]> Fri, 11 Oct 2013 08:06:29 +0000 http://www.rpod-owners.com/forum_posts.asp?TID=4060&PID=39431#39431 Pod Prod : Is that park still open in Santa... http://www.rpod-owners.com/forum_posts.asp?TID=4060&PID=39429#39429 Author: Keith-N-Dar
Subject: 4060
Posted: 11 Oct 2013 at 4:55am

Is that park still open in Santa Barbara with all the campers living full time there? I remember hearing about it last time I was in
SB. It wasn't like that 40 years ago when I grew up there.]]> Fri, 11 Oct 2013 04:55:23 +0000 http://www.rpod-owners.com/forum_posts.asp?TID=4060&PID=39429#39429 Pod Prod : Originally posted by fwunderWe... http://www.rpod-owners.com/forum_posts.asp?TID=4060&PID=39416#39416 Author: dman
Subject: 4060
Posted: 10 Oct 2013 at 7:40pm

Originally posted by fwunder

We did it!

2014 178 loaded w/crown package axle risers and r-dome. Java interior.

Pick it up next Friday!

Now I just gotto figure out where to park it!

fred
 I'm jealous Big smile We are heading to an RV show on Saturday, hopefully they will have some Pods to look at. How much did you end up paying if you don't mind my asking?
]]> Thu, 10 Oct 2013 19:40:31 +0000 http://www.rpod-owners.com/forum_posts.asp?TID=4060&PID=39416#39416 Pod Prod : Originally posted by fwunderWe... http://www.rpod-owners.com/forum_posts.asp?TID=4060&PID=39400#39400 Author: kymooses
Subject: 4060
Posted: 10 Oct 2013 at 1:38pm

Originally posted by fwunder

We did it!

2014 178 loaded w/crown package axle risers and r-dome. Java interior.

Pick it up next Friday!

Now I just gotto figure out where to park it!

fred

congrats
]]> Thu, 10 Oct 2013 13:38:16 +0000 http://www.rpod-owners.com/forum_posts.asp?TID=4060&PID=39400#39400 Pod Prod : Congrats! In front of your house,... http://www.rpod-owners.com/forum_posts.asp?TID=4060&PID=39394#39394 Author: techntrek
Subject: 4060
Posted: 10 Oct 2013 at 12:47pm

Congrats!  In front of your house, where you are guaranteed lots of questions from the neighbors.]]> Thu, 10 Oct 2013 12:47:20 +0000 http://www.rpod-owners.com/forum_posts.asp?TID=4060&PID=39394#39394 Pod Prod : We did it!2014 178 loaded w/crown... http://www.rpod-owners.com/forum_posts.asp?TID=4060&PID=39388#39388 Author: fwunder
Subject: 4060
Posted: 10 Oct 2013 at 12:01pm

We did it!

2014 178 loaded w/crown package axle risers and r-dome. Java interior.

Pick it up next Friday!

Now I just gotto figure out where to park it!

fred
]]> Thu, 10 Oct 2013 12:01:12 +0000 http://www.rpod-owners.com/forum_posts.asp?TID=4060&PID=39388#39388 Pod Prod : Weather really sucked around here... http://www.rpod-owners.com/forum_posts.asp?TID=4060&PID=39293#39293 Author: fwunder
Subject: 4060
Posted: 08 Oct 2013 at 7:11pm

Weather really sucked around here yesterday. (Meteorological term)

So we had our first Pod visit today! The dealer was very laid back and friendly. In fact, we explored several Pods before anyone approached. That was very welcome. When we did speak with salesperson (who was aware we were coming), he was polite and patient. I've never seen so many RV's in one place!

I should tell you about this RV we walked through that looked like Tony Saprono's (RIP) clubhouse! Complete with a kitchen island and one heckuva Badda Bing, Badda Boom sofa!! Probaly had a pole somewhere.

Sorry, I diverged. OK folks! We like them. We really like them. Damnit.

We particularly liked the 2014 178. It fits us. The 178 feels considerably larger to me than the 177. Larger than the 16" length difference suggests. I think part of the perception is the removal of the "entertainment center" over the queen. Personally, I think it shouldn't be there.

The wrap around dinette also adds to the illusion, I think. Of course, only a small child or otherwise adorable little person could possibly sit at the tabvle without neck bending posture. I did picture myself sitting lengthwise with a beer, watching the game while wife prepared sgetti. Erhhh, I meant I pictured wife lounging across the dinette with a '83 Bordeaux whilst I prepared the the catch-of-the-day. Whew!

Yeah, we are (.) that close.

BTW, I talked with Couch today. Lessee. Went online, filled in what I wanted (built 178), submitted. Within 30 seconds I got a *very good* email quote. Within five minutes I got a call from a very pleasant rep from his car who saw my quote request (I hope he pulled over). He was great! Very helpful. This RV shopping thing is kinda fun.

But, I need a cocktail (or three) right now to digest all this stuff. Thanks for all your help!

fred

P.S. I can see some great fishing adventures and writing. Podcasting.


]]> Tue, 08 Oct 2013 19:11:15 +0000 http://www.rpod-owners.com/forum_posts.asp?TID=4060&PID=39293#39293 Pod Prod : Originally posted by techntrekOverall... http://www.rpod-owners.com/forum_posts.asp?TID=4060&PID=39142#39142 Author: fwunder
Subject: 4060
Posted: 05 Oct 2013 at 11:30pm

Originally posted by techntrek

Overall weight could be the deciding factor.  My over-3000 pound popup could push my 18 hp John Deere down a slight incline with the tractor's wheels locked up.  So I stopped using it.

You didn't consider wife holding rope tied to back of camper? 

But seriously folks, thanks for all the great advice, insights and education.

I have no problem with any dealer making a living, but I do think the best buyer is an educated buyer. I would imagine most reputable dealers think the same.

fred
]]> Sat, 05 Oct 2013 23:30:17 +0000 http://www.rpod-owners.com/forum_posts.asp?TID=4060&PID=39142#39142 Pod Prod : Overall weight could be the deciding... http://www.rpod-owners.com/forum_posts.asp?TID=4060&PID=39141#39141 Author: techntrek
Subject: 4060
Posted: 05 Oct 2013 at 11:16pm

Overall weight could be the deciding factor.  My over-3000 pound popup could push my 18 hp John Deere down a slight incline with the tractor's wheels locked up.  So I stopped using it.]]> Sat, 05 Oct 2013 23:16:05 +0000 http://www.rpod-owners.com/forum_posts.asp?TID=4060&PID=39141#39141 Pod Prod : Don't forget to factor in... http://www.rpod-owners.com/forum_posts.asp?TID=4060&PID=39140#39140 Author: shroomer
Subject: 4060
Posted: 05 Oct 2013 at 11:03pm

Don't forget to factor in "dealer prep" charges. Couch's were included in my quote. My local dealer wanted another $400 or so. Got my 177 from Couch and had it delivered. Saved a bunch.

On another note - I would think a 22hp tractor should have enough guts to move the trailer. Only other caveat is how much tongue weight you can put on your tractor without doing a wheelie (as my friend did when he tried to move his boat that way).

Good to see you're doing your research. It'll be worth it.
]]> Sat, 05 Oct 2013 23:03:24 +0000 http://www.rpod-owners.com/forum_posts.asp?TID=4060&PID=39140#39140 Pod Prod : Paige, you are right about the... http://www.rpod-owners.com/forum_posts.asp?TID=4060&PID=39138#39138 Author: Sleepless
Subject: 4060
Posted: 05 Oct 2013 at 10:37pm

Paige, you are right about the amount of wiggle room in new R-Pod prices.  Just as an example, my (on order) 178 has a MSRP of over $22,000 and Couch's RV in Ohio shows a price of a little over $17,000, but advises you to contact them for their low price which is too low to show on the Internet.  I emailed them, and right away they came up with a price slightly over $13,500.  I probably could have negotiated an even lower price with them, but it would have been almost a 2000 mile round trip to pick it up.  I used that price to negotiate with Lazy Days in Tampa, FL and ended up with an equivalent price if you take into account my travel costs to Ohio and back.  So, disregarding their transportation costs, it appears that many dealers have around a 40% markup if they sell at the MSRP.  But, no one would ever pay the MSRP.

Bob
]]> Sat, 05 Oct 2013 22:37:19 +0000 http://www.rpod-owners.com/forum_posts.asp?TID=4060&PID=39138#39138 Pod Prod : When we were looking for our rPod,... http://www.rpod-owners.com/forum_posts.asp?TID=4060&PID=39137#39137 Author: Paige
Subject: 4060
Posted: 05 Oct 2013 at 9:16pm

When we were looking for our rPod, we had a new salesperson who wasn't willing to go to bat for us and wouldn't give us a decent deal on our truck/camper trailer trade in.  We walked out...the dealers have wiggle room.  We ended up buying a two year old rPod for $10,000 off of craigslist  with all the bells and whistles. And we sold our truck and camper on our own. Shortly after we left that dealership, the salesperson was fired!]]> Sat, 05 Oct 2013 21:16:46 +0000 http://www.rpod-owners.com/forum_posts.asp?TID=4060&PID=39137#39137 Pod Prod : Originally posted by fwunder This... http://www.rpod-owners.com/forum_posts.asp?TID=4060&PID=39131#39131 Author: Sleepless
Subject: 4060
Posted: 05 Oct 2013 at 5:48pm

Originally posted by fwunder

This may help others. Did help me. Sticker on 2014 177.
fred


That sticker raises some questions.  Tuscany is not a 2014 color scheme.  It is my understanding that the only 2014 choices are Saddle, Pebble and Java, which are shown on the Forest River R-Pod order form for 2014.

I also did not catch  the word "new" 2013 in your initial post. 

Prices will vary tremendously, depending on where you live.  The Florida dealers wanted about $2000 more than the one in Ohio, largely because of the higher transportation costs to Florida. 

The 2014 models have some nice added features.  If I were you, I would try to get at least another price quote.  I received "best" offers from 6 different dealers before I bought. 
]]> Sat, 05 Oct 2013 17:48:17 +0000 http://www.rpod-owners.com/forum_posts.asp?TID=4060&PID=39131#39131 Pod Prod : When I was shopping for ours,... http://www.rpod-owners.com/forum_posts.asp?TID=4060&PID=39129#39129 Author: Camper Bob
Subject: 4060
Posted: 05 Oct 2013 at 5:32pm

When I was shopping for ours, I was shown a price list that indicated that the Deluxe Interior and Exterior was extra.  I called FR and they confirmed that all Pods come with that as a standard.  Don't let them try and charge you extra for that.  Good luck.  Safe Travels.]]> Sat, 05 Oct 2013 17:32:33 +0000 http://www.rpod-owners.com/forum_posts.asp?TID=4060&PID=39129#39129 Pod Prod : This may help others. Did help... http://www.rpod-owners.com/forum_posts.asp?TID=4060&PID=39126#39126 Author: fwunder
Subject: 4060
Posted: 05 Oct 2013 at 5:07pm

This may help others. Did help me. Sticker on 2014 177.

http://www.demartini.com/ws/2113.pdf

fred
]]> Sat, 05 Oct 2013 17:07:15 +0000 http://www.rpod-owners.com/forum_posts.asp?TID=4060&PID=39126#39126 Pod Prod : What's new in the 2014s?It... http://www.rpod-owners.com/forum_posts.asp?TID=4060&PID=39124#39124 Author: fwunder
Subject: 4060
Posted: 05 Oct 2013 at 4:39pm

What's new in the 2014s?

It takes some digging, but I did find this listing which I think is the unit I discussed with dealer over the phone. Anyway, with all this, you still think 13.5 sounds a bit high?

2013 Forest River RV R Pod RP 177
Single Slide R-Pod Travel Trailer
Rear Queen Bed w/Overhead Ent. Center
Bath w/Toilet
Slideout Single Galley Sink/2 Burner Range and Refrig.
Overhead Cab.
Front Booth Dinette and Much More.
Front Living Area Rear Bedroom
INTERIOR LUXURY PACKAGE
EXTERIOR LUXURY PACKAGE
LAMILUX 4000 COOL VANILLA GEL-COATED FBG
13.5BTU A/C
CONVECTION MICROWAVE OVEN
DOLBY DIGITAL AM/FM/CD/DVD/TV COMBO
R-DOME AWNING W/SCREENROOM
AXLE RISER

You guys are great! 

fred

]]> Sat, 05 Oct 2013 16:39:37 +0000 http://www.rpod-owners.com/forum_posts.asp?TID=4060&PID=39124#39124 Pod Prod : Welcome. Definitely get the anchor... http://www.rpod-owners.com/forum_posts.asp?TID=4060&PID=39121#39121 Author: techntrek
Subject: 4060
Posted: 05 Oct 2013 at 4:32pm

Welcome.  Definitely get the anchor option, it is useful in hurricanes and tornadoes.  I agree the price you quoted is a little high for a year-old model, but it can't hurt to go and see it in person and take a printout of a lower quote for a current model as leverage.  I got my local dealer within a few hundred dollars after pulling out the quote where they wouldn't come within a few thousand before that moment.]]> Sat, 05 Oct 2013 16:32:18 +0000 http://www.rpod-owners.com/forum_posts.asp?TID=4060&PID=39121#39121