R-pod Owners Forum : Bought a camper (isn't a pod) https://www.rpod-owners.com/ This is an XML content feed of; R-pod Owners Forum : Miscellaneous / Off-topic : Bought a camper (isn't a pod) Copyright (c) 2006-2009 Web Wiz Forums - All Rights Reserved. Mon, 13 Jul 2026 23:55:08 +0000 Fri, 10 Oct 2014 14:31:59 +0000 http://blogs.law.harvard.edu/tech/rss Web Wiz Forums 9.64 360 https://www.rpod-owners.com/RSS_post_feed.asp?TID=5284 R-pod Owners Forum https://www.rpod-owners.com/forum_images/web_wiz_forums.png https://www.rpod-owners.com/ Bought a camper (isn't a pod) : That looks like a nice one! A... https://www.rpod-owners.com/forum_posts.asp?TID=5284&PID=52634#52634 Author: Guests
Subject: 5284
Posted: 10 Oct 2014 at 2:31pm

That looks like a nice one!
A couple of years ago, when I was pondering replacing my "Lil Screamer", I was looking at those. Then, I found the Vortex and decided to take a $60 gamble. Worst case, I would have gone back to plan "A" and bought the one you have purchased.

In order to not pirate the thread, I'm going to open a thread in the tips, tricks, maintenance topic about slowing down fan speed. Hopefully, some our electrical gurus will chime in with their thoughts.]]> Fri, 10 Oct 2014 14:31:59 +0000 https://www.rpod-owners.com/forum_posts.asp?TID=5284&PID=52634#52634 Bought a camper (isn't a pod) : Originally posted by DavidTech,If... https://www.rpod-owners.com/forum_posts.asp?TID=5284&PID=52633#52633 Author: techntrek
Subject: 5284
Posted: 10 Oct 2014 at 1:34pm

Originally posted by David

Tech, 
If you have not seen these, ...

http://www.campingworld.com/shopping/item/vortex-replacement-vent-fan-upgrade/49448

Interesting, no I hadn't seen this before, I might have gone for that had I known!  For better or worse I've already ordered (and received) one of these all-in-one models:  http://www.maxxair.com/products/maxxfan/maxxfan_deluxe_manual.php
]]> Fri, 10 Oct 2014 13:34:49 +0000 https://www.rpod-owners.com/forum_posts.asp?TID=5284&PID=52633#52633 Bought a camper (isn't a pod) : Originally posted by fwunderWhat's... https://www.rpod-owners.com/forum_posts.asp?TID=5284&PID=52632#52632 Author: techntrek
Subject: 5284
Posted: 10 Oct 2014 at 1:27pm

Originally posted by fwunder

What's your definition of a kid? Got Heath Bars and Snickers? Star
fred

LOL
]]> Fri, 10 Oct 2014 13:27:25 +0000 https://www.rpod-owners.com/forum_posts.asp?TID=5284&PID=52632#52632 Bought a camper (isn't a pod) : It sounds like you may want... https://www.rpod-owners.com/forum_posts.asp?TID=5284&PID=52630#52630 Author: fwunder
Subject: 5284
Posted: 10 Oct 2014 at 12:13pm

It sounds like you may want yours even slower than I have mine. If you need help figuring the resistor value (fixed or variable), just say and one of us can help (should you decide to get one).

Raising hand. I do, I do. Even if I did dig out one of my old EE textbooks, it probably wouldn't help.

Do we need to know the "low" voltage and amperage of the Fantastic fan on "low" to figure out correct resistor for, say, 50% reduction? Is there any heat issue? Should we just buy a Radio Shack handful and test?

Interesting solution!

fred
]]> Fri, 10 Oct 2014 12:13:55 +0000 https://www.rpod-owners.com/forum_posts.asp?TID=5284&PID=52630#52630 Bought a camper (isn't a pod) : Originally posted by CharlieMDoug,If... https://www.rpod-owners.com/forum_posts.asp?TID=5284&PID=52627#52627 Author: Guests
Subject: 5284
Posted: 10 Oct 2014 at 10:32am

Originally posted by CharlieM

Doug,If you look into this fan I'd be interested in your evaluation. I have the OEM "Lil' Screamer" , also made by Hengs, in my bath and I was considering replacing it with a Fanrastic. I had also planned to do the resistor thing as David did because even the FF on low is more than I need. I also dont need a multi-speed, reversing, thermostat controlled fan in the bath. I just need a quiet, slow and inexpensive upgrade. David may have found it.David: Thanks for the tip.





You are welcome & happy to help. This is one of those few times in life (for me, anyway) that taking the cheaper route worked out well. This fan will blow a lot of air! My resistor is probably equal to the Fantastic Fan on the "medium" speed setting. A variable resistor would be nice to fine tune the speed but, I used what I had on hand in my parts/junk box. (They do make a 3 speed model but more $$$).

Also, the circular screen is very easy to clean...a short twist and it comes right out.

It sounds like you may want yours even slower than I have mine. If you need help figuring the resistor value (fixed or variable), just say and one of us can help (should you decide to get one). ]]> Fri, 10 Oct 2014 10:32:55 +0000 https://www.rpod-owners.com/forum_posts.asp?TID=5284&PID=52627#52627 Bought a camper (isn't a pod) : Doug,If you look into this fan... https://www.rpod-owners.com/forum_posts.asp?TID=5284&PID=52626#52626 Author: CharlieM
Subject: 5284
Posted: 10 Oct 2014 at 10:04am

Doug,

If you look into this fan I'd be interested in your evaluation. I have the OEM "Lil' Screamer" , also made by Hengs, in my bath and I was considering replacing it with a Fanrastic. I had also planned to do the resistor thing as David did because even the FF on low is more than I need. I also dont need a multi-speed, reversing, thermostat controlled fan in the bath. I just need a quiet, slow and inexpensive upgrade. David may have found it.

David: Thanks for the tip.
]]> Fri, 10 Oct 2014 10:04:13 +0000 https://www.rpod-owners.com/forum_posts.asp?TID=5284&PID=52626#52626 Bought a camper (isn't a pod) : Originally posted by techntrek  Still... https://www.rpod-owners.com/forum_posts.asp?TID=5284&PID=52623#52623 Author: Guests
Subject: 5284
Posted: 10 Oct 2014 at 8:22am

Originally posted by techntrek



 
Still to come: new bathroom fan (which means replacing the whole vent assembly), another work light at the rear, clean the A/C coils, new curtains, additional turn/brake lights mounted high up (like I did with the pod), add a receiver hitch, add a few shelves, fix the fresh water tank vent line, and possibly adjust the WDH.
 
Camping is a lot of work.  Embarrassed
 





Tech,
If you have not seen these, suggest looking at them. I put one in my Coleman and am very pleased with it. I bought the single speed model. It was not as noisy as the OEM (cheapo fan), but a little more so than I liked. Plus, I didn't need to move as much air as it was moving. I added a 10watt/10 ohm resistor (Radio Shack) in line and it is just perfect. (Cheaper than buying the 3 speed model). The whole job took about 30 minutes (not rushing) and you don't have to disturb the existing opening - just remove the screen and existing fan (all done from inside the trailer).

Outside, I have one of the "regular" MaxxAir vent covers and it is really too small for the fan. I plan to change it to one that is for the high volume fans. I get a certain amount of "air noise" and testing removing the vent cover eliminated it. (I still want a vent cover, however).

http://www.campingworld.com/shopping/item/vortex-replacement-vent-fan-upgrade/49448]]> Fri, 10 Oct 2014 08:22:59 +0000 https://www.rpod-owners.com/forum_posts.asp?TID=5284&PID=52623#52623 Bought a camper (isn't a pod) : What's your definition of... https://www.rpod-owners.com/forum_posts.asp?TID=5284&PID=52615#52615 Author: fwunder
Subject: 5284
Posted: 09 Oct 2014 at 10:18pm

What's your definition of a kid? Got Heath Bars and Snickers? Star

fred
]]> Thu, 09 Oct 2014 22:18:42 +0000 https://www.rpod-owners.com/forum_posts.asp?TID=5284&PID=52615#52615 Bought a camper (isn't a pod) : The weekend before Halloween!... https://www.rpod-owners.com/forum_posts.asp?TID=5284&PID=52610#52610 Author: techntrek
Subject: 5284
Posted: 09 Oct 2014 at 8:47pm

The weekend before Halloween!  Annual bash at our local state park.  We hand out several hundred dollars worth of candy to a thousand kids that come from all over.  Big smile]]> Thu, 09 Oct 2014 20:47:52 +0000 https://www.rpod-owners.com/forum_posts.asp?TID=5284&PID=52610#52610 Bought a camper (isn't a pod) : When's the party?fred https://www.rpod-owners.com/forum_posts.asp?TID=5284&PID=52599#52599 Author: fwunder
Subject: 5284
Posted: 09 Oct 2014 at 2:33pm

When's the party? Smile

fred
]]> Thu, 09 Oct 2014 14:33:11 +0000 https://www.rpod-owners.com/forum_posts.asp?TID=5284&PID=52599#52599 Bought a camper (isn't a pod) : MD requires an inspection... https://www.rpod-owners.com/forum_posts.asp?TID=5284&PID=52597#52597 Author: techntrek
Subject: 5284
Posted: 09 Oct 2014 at 2:03pm

MD requires an inspection for used trailers, and yesterday mine passed with no problems.  Yay!  I knew the prior owners hadn't travelled much with it and the inspection tech mentioned the brake pads all measure nearly new (within something like 0.005 inches).  I now have all the paperwork to finally transfer the title and transfer the registration/plates from the pod, although I need to find a notary for the bill of sale first.
 
I've knocked a lot off the to-do list so far.  New door catches (cargo and man door), an extra work light on the side, repair the front work light, convert all the existing fixtures to LEDs, re-caulk a spot where it was necessary, check the lug nuts and tires, fix a propane leak by the tanks, fix a trim piece inside, fill the LP tanks, once-over on all appliances, tighten up the cargo door locks, extra keys for the man door.
 
Still to come: new bathroom fan (which means replacing the whole vent assembly), another work light at the rear, clean the A/C coils, new curtains, additional turn/brake lights mounted high up (like I did with the pod), add a receiver hitch, add a few shelves, fix the fresh water tank vent line, and possibly adjust the WDH.
 
Camping is a lot of work.  Embarrassed
 
]]> Thu, 09 Oct 2014 14:03:14 +0000 https://www.rpod-owners.com/forum_posts.asp?TID=5284&PID=52597#52597 Bought a camper (isn't a pod) : I have issues breathing in high... https://www.rpod-owners.com/forum_posts.asp?TID=5284&PID=52407#52407 Author: techntrek
Subject: 5284
Posted: 03 Oct 2014 at 9:02am

I have issues breathing in high humidity so I could see myself doing the same thing.  Ironically it isn't a possibility at home, either, due to the all-in one thermostats.

After seeing all the issues with the digital thermostats on this forum, I'm glad my pod had the old manual type (the new camper does, too).

My TV has a similar problem.  The clock on the radio.  It is there when the radio is on or off.  If the key is out of the ignition you can bring up the clock by pushing a button.  But make or receive a cell phone call (via bluetooth which routes through the radio) and the clock goes away.  Pushing a button will bring it up, right?  No.  So right when I'm likely to be telling someone when I'm going to arrive, or be late, I have to look at my watch to see what time it is.  A lot of people don't wear watches anymore so they would have to fumble for their cell phone - and the whole reason for that bluetooth connection is so they don't have to fumble with their cell phone while driving.
]]> Fri, 03 Oct 2014 09:02:48 +0000 https://www.rpod-owners.com/forum_posts.asp?TID=5284&PID=52407#52407 Bought a camper (isn't a pod) : Yep high tech is not a good thing... https://www.rpod-owners.com/forum_posts.asp?TID=5284&PID=52404#52404 Author: Budward
Subject: 5284
Posted: 03 Oct 2014 at 4:39am

Yep high tech is not a good thing when camping when old school low tech does the job just fine. 
I'm going to mount a second t'stat in my pod at some point for the heater and not have it run off the digital Dometic one that controls the heater and the A/C in one unit.
Had a humidity issue on a trip when it rained for 24+ hours in the pacific northwest- really wanted to run the A/C to dehumidify while running the heater at the same time to keep the temperature warm enough.  
Have done that in the past with old school campers, can't do it now with new stuff.

BTW how stupid is it that the Dometic t'stat can show you the current temp but NOT when heat or A/C is running, you have to turn them off to check the current temp.Ying Yang

]]> Fri, 03 Oct 2014 04:39:21 +0000 https://www.rpod-owners.com/forum_posts.asp?TID=5284&PID=52404#52404 Bought a camper (isn't a pod) : Insane? Yes. I foresee the next... https://www.rpod-owners.com/forum_posts.asp?TID=5284&PID=52396#52396 Author: CharlieM
Subject: 5284
Posted: 02 Oct 2014 at 10:43pm

Insane? Yes. I foresee the next "improvement" will be a small internal circulating fan, which will of course, require 120 VAC!  Confused ]]> Thu, 02 Oct 2014 22:43:01 +0000 https://www.rpod-owners.com/forum_posts.asp?TID=5284&PID=52396#52396 Bought a camper (isn't a pod) : Wow, that is insane. They keep... https://www.rpod-owners.com/forum_posts.asp?TID=5284&PID=52395#52395 Author: techntrek
Subject: 5284
Posted: 02 Oct 2014 at 10:13pm

Wow, that is insane.  They keep going backwards.  From fridges needing no power for LP mode, to needing some no matter what, and now making them so they are sucking down 12 additional amps (on top of what the fridge control board uses) and giving you no way to stop it.

I just checked the manual for my Dometic and this is what it says:  "Note that when turned on, the climate control will draw 12 VDC power continuously. Turn it off when a charging source is not available."

And now that is a permanent feature.  Right.
]]> Thu, 02 Oct 2014 22:13:59 +0000 https://www.rpod-owners.com/forum_posts.asp?TID=5284&PID=52395#52395 Bought a camper (isn't a pod) : Doug,We tech types who have moved... https://www.rpod-owners.com/forum_posts.asp?TID=5284&PID=52392#52392 Author: CharlieM
Subject: 5284
Posted: 02 Oct 2014 at 9:48pm

Doug,

We tech types who have moved on to bigger campers (Camplite 21) with a bigger fridge (Dometic 7 cu ft) ran head on into this issue. These new Dometics have a 6 watt wire heater that runs off 12 VDC 24/7 and has no switch. They call it a "feature". They used to provide a switch, but either cost or customer confusion led them to delete it. Now it sucks 12 AH per day with no hint in the manual. Several of us have now installed switches to disable same when on battery power.  Welcome to the bigger world.
]]> Thu, 02 Oct 2014 21:48:09 +0000 https://www.rpod-owners.com/forum_posts.asp?TID=5284&PID=52392#52392 Bought a camper (isn't a pod) : You stirred a long lost memory....seems... https://www.rpod-owners.com/forum_posts.asp?TID=5284&PID=52389#52389 Author: Budward
Subject: 5284
Posted: 02 Oct 2014 at 8:04pm

You stirred a long lost memory....seems like I ran into that condensation heater thing on a Norcold. 
]]> Thu, 02 Oct 2014 20:04:33 +0000 https://www.rpod-owners.com/forum_posts.asp?TID=5284&PID=52389#52389 Bought a camper (isn't a pod) : I discovered something last... https://www.rpod-owners.com/forum_posts.asp?TID=5284&PID=52357#52357 Author: techntrek
Subject: 5284
Posted: 02 Oct 2014 at 11:24am

I discovered something last night while doing some work on the Salem.  When we did a test camp a few weeks ago, no hookups, I wondered why the lights were noticably dimmer by the 2nd day.  I forgot my voltage meter so I couldn't do an actual voltage reading, but with incandescent lights its easy to get a seat-of-the-pants low/med/high reading.  When I ran the generator they were back to full brightness so I could compare, plus that confirmed there wasn't a wiring issue somewhere.  New battery which I had purchased for the pod before this summer's big trip, it was fully charged before we left, plus a good charge line on the TV, and the fridge doesn't even have a DC mode so I didn't accidentally kill the battery that way.  We were careful about not using too many lights and turning them off (I've now switched to LED lights).  So that eliminates just about every reason.
 
My discovery last night is probably the answer.  The fridge doesn't have a DC mode, but it does have a hidden switch that I stumbled on, which controls external condensation.  Via a 12 volt heater.  Like running a big light bulb 24/7.  While I was trying to conserve since we were off-grid.  Yeah.  That little hidden switch got turned off really quickly.  Why isn't that switch right on the main control panel?  Who knows.  At least I now know about it.
 
I never got around to installing a permanent voltmeter or shunt (to measure amps via a voltage reading) on the pod, but I think it is on my long-term to-do list now for the new camper. 
]]> Thu, 02 Oct 2014 11:24:59 +0000 https://www.rpod-owners.com/forum_posts.asp?TID=5284&PID=52357#52357 Bought a camper (isn't a pod) : The wood stove option must have... https://www.rpod-owners.com/forum_posts.asp?TID=5284&PID=52354#52354 Author: techntrek
Subject: 5284
Posted: 02 Oct 2014 at 10:36am

The wood stove option must have been special to the 2013 models.  Smile]]> Thu, 02 Oct 2014 10:36:01 +0000 https://www.rpod-owners.com/forum_posts.asp?TID=5284&PID=52354#52354 Bought a camper (isn't a pod) : I'm betting they had a... https://www.rpod-owners.com/forum_posts.asp?TID=5284&PID=52345#52345 Author: Budward
Subject: 5284
Posted: 02 Oct 2014 at 4:57am

I'm betting they had a wooden stove coverLOL]]> Thu, 02 Oct 2014 04:57:31 +0000 https://www.rpod-owners.com/forum_posts.asp?TID=5284&PID=52345#52345 Bought a camper (isn't a pod) : Originally posted by KokopodYes,... https://www.rpod-owners.com/forum_posts.asp?TID=5284&PID=52342#52342 Author: CharlieM
Subject: 5284
Posted: 01 Oct 2014 at 10:40pm

Originally posted by Kokopod

Yes, couldn't figure out how to edit my message. Anyway, our son got the cover, the dome, Paha Que awning, wood stove cover, and all the other mods we'd completed. In the Premier, we do like the very large bathroom with tub. We needed to stay short and high because of where we camp. Have a good fall everyone.


You had a cover for your wood stove?? How did that work??  Wink
]]> Wed, 01 Oct 2014 22:40:32 +0000 https://www.rpod-owners.com/forum_posts.asp?TID=5284&PID=52342#52342 Bought a camper (isn't a pod) : Originally posted by David... https://www.rpod-owners.com/forum_posts.asp?TID=5284&PID=52338#52338 Author: techntrek
Subject: 5284
Posted: 01 Oct 2014 at 10:23pm

Originally posted by David and Danette

Bought A Camper (isn't a R-pod) would that make a good discussion forum for the front page?    

So all of the ex-podders can cry in our beer!  Something to consider.
]]> Wed, 01 Oct 2014 22:23:38 +0000 https://www.rpod-owners.com/forum_posts.asp?TID=5284&PID=52338#52338 Bought a camper (isn't a pod) : Yes, couldn't figure out... https://www.rpod-owners.com/forum_posts.asp?TID=5284&PID=52328#52328 Author: Kokopod
Subject: 5284
Posted: 01 Oct 2014 at 8:34pm

Yes, couldn't figure out how to edit my message. Anyway, our son got the cover, the dome, Paha Que awning, wood stove cover, and all the other mods we'd completed. In the Premier, we do like the very large bathroom with tub. We needed to stay short and high because of where we camp. Have a good fall everyone. ]]> Wed, 01 Oct 2014 20:34:59 +0000 https://www.rpod-owners.com/forum_posts.asp?TID=5284&PID=52328#52328 Bought a camper (isn't a pod) : Bought A Camper (isn't a... https://www.rpod-owners.com/forum_posts.asp?TID=5284&PID=52316#52316 Author: David and Danette
Subject: 5284
Posted: 01 Oct 2014 at 4:23pm

Bought A Camper (isn't a R-pod) would that make a good discussion forum for the front page?    ]]> Wed, 01 Oct 2014 16:23:39 +0000 https://www.rpod-owners.com/forum_posts.asp?TID=5284&PID=52316#52316 Bought a camper (isn't a pod) : Do you mean the 19FBPR? I... https://www.rpod-owners.com/forum_posts.asp?TID=5284&PID=52310#52310 Author: techntrek
Subject: 5284
Posted: 01 Oct 2014 at 1:49pm

Do you mean the 19FBPR?  I like it, almost the same length as the pod but with a dry bath and walk-around queen.
 
And you, too, are still welcome to hang out here! 
]]> Wed, 01 Oct 2014 13:49:37 +0000 https://www.rpod-owners.com/forum_posts.asp?TID=5284&PID=52310#52310 Bought a camper (isn't a pod) : We couldn't handle climbing... https://www.rpod-owners.com/forum_posts.asp?TID=5284&PID=52294#52294 Author: Kokopod
Subject: 5284
Posted: 01 Oct 2014 at 9:58am

We couldn't handle climbing over each other in bed, so we purchased a Premier 19fblp by Keystone. Broke our hearts to sell the Pod, but the good news - the trade-in was going to be pathetic, so we asked our son if he'd like to buy it for that price - $10,000. He jumped at the chance, so now we still have our Pod in the family.]]> Wed, 01 Oct 2014 09:58:38 +0000 https://www.rpod-owners.com/forum_posts.asp?TID=5284&PID=52294#52294 Bought a camper (isn't a pod) : Nope we only ban spammers. Everyone... https://www.rpod-owners.com/forum_posts.asp?TID=5284&PID=52269#52269 Author: rpodcamper.com
Subject: 5284
Posted: 30 Sep 2014 at 9:11pm

Nope we only ban spammers.  Everyone one is welcome here even if you do not own a pod.  We all started out with something in common.]]> Tue, 30 Sep 2014 21:11:33 +0000 https://www.rpod-owners.com/forum_posts.asp?TID=5284&PID=52269#52269 Bought a camper (isn't a pod) : Charlie, hey, I'd have... https://www.rpod-owners.com/forum_posts.asp?TID=5284&PID=52265#52265 Author: techntrek
Subject: 5284
Posted: 30 Sep 2014 at 8:31pm

Charlie, hey, I'd have to banish you, too!  Tongue
]]> Tue, 30 Sep 2014 20:31:30 +0000 https://www.rpod-owners.com/forum_posts.asp?TID=5284&PID=52265#52265 Bought a camper (isn't a pod) : Thanks, Camper Bob. Sorry I didn't... https://www.rpod-owners.com/forum_posts.asp?TID=5284&PID=52264#52264 Author: techntrek
Subject: 5284
Posted: 30 Sep 2014 at 8:27pm

Thanks, Camper Bob.  Sorry I didn't see your response until now.  I think the west coast will be on our to-do summer after next.  Haven't firmed up the next 2 summers yet...]]> Tue, 30 Sep 2014 20:27:19 +0000 https://www.rpod-owners.com/forum_posts.asp?TID=5284&PID=52264#52264 Bought a camper (isn't a pod) : Techntrek,Now with your new Salem... https://www.rpod-owners.com/forum_posts.asp?TID=5284&PID=52263#52263 Author: CharlieM
Subject: 5284
Posted: 30 Sep 2014 at 8:04pm

Techntrek,

Now with your new Salem and your position here as CINCPOD are you going to banish yourself from this forum and slink off to some other FROG forum? Tongue Tongue Tongue Tongue]]> Tue, 30 Sep 2014 20:04:31 +0000 https://www.rpod-owners.com/forum_posts.asp?TID=5284&PID=52263#52263