R-pod Owners Forum : Newb http://www.rpod-owners.com/ This is an XML content feed of; R-pod Owners Forum : Introduce Yourself : Newb Copyright (c) 2006-2009 Web Wiz Forums - All Rights Reserved. Sun, 03 May 2026 00:18:39 +0000 Sun, 28 Sep 2014 07:30:49 +0000 http://blogs.law.harvard.edu/tech/rss Web Wiz Forums 9.64 360 www.rpod-owners.com/RSS_post_feed.asp?TID=5308 R-pod Owners Forum http://www.rpod-owners.com/forum_images/web_wiz_forums.png http://www.rpod-owners.com/ Newb : I'm BaaaaaAAAaack. Wow what... http://www.rpod-owners.com/forum_posts.asp?TID=5308&PID=52137#52137 Author: Podster
Subject: 5308
Posted: 28 Sep 2014 at 7:30am

I'm BaaaaaAAAaack. Wow what a trip. Left San Antonio at Noon last Wednesday, arrived the dealer in Wescott Iowa the next morning at 9:30am. Left the dealer before noon and then back to San Antonio by Noon yesterday (Saturday). My biggest discovery on the trip was the Kansas Turn Pike, OMG, what a beast! Once I found the sweet spot on the tachometer, the Ranger pulled it real nice, it just won't do it a 70mph. Its like to pull at 2,800 rpm (12mpg). I wonder how that RPM compares with others pulling with a V6. Yep watching the world go by at 70-80 MPH on such a long trip gives you the sensation from time to time that your're going backwards, but that's OK, I'm perfectly content at 60-65 MPH. I can't say enough about the buying experience, for me, it was perfect all the way around and worth the drive. Send me an PM if you want details. Thanks again to everybody that helped with all the questions to help me get ready for the trip and get this done. I'm now a bonafide RP-178 owner. Big smile  ]]> Sun, 28 Sep 2014 07:30:49 +0000 http://www.rpod-owners.com/forum_posts.asp?TID=5308&PID=52137#52137 Newb : Thanks for the feedback, it's... http://www.rpod-owners.com/forum_posts.asp?TID=5308&PID=51966#51966 Author: Podster
Subject: 5308
Posted: 23 Sep 2014 at 7:53pm

Thanks for the feedback, it's really appreciated. I start the trek to go pick up the POD tomorrow.  We are going camping shortly thereafter so I really appreciate you'all sharing and getting up to speed. Still have tons to learn, but, I fell like I have a good start. Cheers!]]> Tue, 23 Sep 2014 19:53:03 +0000 http://www.rpod-owners.com/forum_posts.asp?TID=5308&PID=51966#51966 Newb : We use plastic tubs (for that... http://www.rpod-owners.com/forum_posts.asp?TID=5308&PID=51964#51964 Author: ron_whitt
Subject: 5308
Posted: 23 Sep 2014 at 7:40pm

We use plastic tubs (for that area) from CTC with wheels on the bottom to store our clothes and then put smaller ones on top for our unmentionables... We also use a small ceramic heater and don't/haven't used the heater yet. If we do then we'll just slide the tubs out to the table. Welcome to the wonderful world of podding. ]]> Tue, 23 Sep 2014 19:40:00 +0000 http://www.rpod-owners.com/forum_posts.asp?TID=5308&PID=51964#51964 Newb : Originally posted by Podster Another... http://www.rpod-owners.com/forum_posts.asp?TID=5308&PID=51960#51960 Author: Keith-N-Dar
Subject: 5308
Posted: 23 Sep 2014 at 7:21pm

Originally posted by Podster

Another newbie question. On the PR-178, do you think its safe to store a couple of sport bags with clothes in this area if they don't make direct contact with the heater? If not what a terrible waste of space. What do you folks out there with 178's do with this area?



We use laundry baskets that fill the area.  No problems.








]]> Tue, 23 Sep 2014 19:21:35 +0000 http://www.rpod-owners.com/forum_posts.asp?TID=5308&PID=51960#51960 Newb : Tech, that's a great solution!... http://www.rpod-owners.com/forum_posts.asp?TID=5308&PID=51952#51952 Author: Podster
Subject: 5308
Posted: 23 Sep 2014 at 6:40pm

Tech, that's a great solution! I like it, it's not expensive and WILL get the job done. Thanks!
]]> Tue, 23 Sep 2014 18:40:05 +0000 http://www.rpod-owners.com/forum_posts.asp?TID=5308&PID=51952#51952 Newb : Even on fairly steep inclines... http://www.rpod-owners.com/forum_posts.asp?TID=5308&PID=51945#51945 Author: techntrek
Subject: 5308
Posted: 23 Sep 2014 at 5:37pm

Even on fairly steep inclines I've only used a sturdy set of chocks (I like the ones made out of recycled tires).  There is no way to engage the brakes permanently - they are electric and intended just to stop the pod.

One idea for an emergency backup, something usually used to prevent theft, is to wrap a heavy chain through a wheel and around the axle.  In the worst case that will stop it dead within a foot or two, depending on how much slack was in the chain.
]]> Tue, 23 Sep 2014 17:37:24 +0000 http://www.rpod-owners.com/forum_posts.asp?TID=5308&PID=51945#51945 Newb : Originally posted by PodsterAnother... http://www.rpod-owners.com/forum_posts.asp?TID=5308&PID=51937#51937 Author: kymooses
Subject: 5308
Posted: 23 Sep 2014 at 3:34pm

Originally posted by Podster

Another newbie question: Is there a way to secure the POD in my driveway? Assuming I can get it in there, my drive way has a considerable up grade. There is no parking brake to how to I secure it? Chalks only? That's not enough. 

Anchor a 10,000lb rated D ring to the garage floor and run a cable to the frame of the POD to ensure it doesn't crush my neighbor Better on her evening walk? Is that crazy?

Is there a tech trick or hack that I can use to lock the breaks in this situation?

What do others do in this situation? I have storage, but it would be nice to be able to prep for trips and work the mods in the driveway. 

Thanks for taking the time to respond, your feedback is very appreciated. I have already learned a ton from you folks here on the forum. 

maybe some sort of a wheel lock device?
]]> Tue, 23 Sep 2014 15:34:57 +0000 http://www.rpod-owners.com/forum_posts.asp?TID=5308&PID=51937#51937 Newb : Another newbie question: Is there... http://www.rpod-owners.com/forum_posts.asp?TID=5308&PID=51936#51936 Author: Podster
Subject: 5308
Posted: 23 Sep 2014 at 3:04pm

Another newbie question: Is there a way to secure the POD in my driveway? Assuming I can get it in there, my drive way has a considerable up grade. There is no parking brake to how to I secure it? Chalks only? That's not enough. 

Anchor a 10,000lb rated D ring to the garage floor and run a cable to the frame of the POD to ensure it doesn't crush my neighbor Better on her evening walk? Is that crazy?

Is there a tech trick or hack that I can use to lock the breaks in this situation?

What do others do in this situation? I have storage, but it would be nice to be able to prep for trips and work the mods in the driveway. 

Thanks for taking the time to respond, your feedback is very appreciated. I have already learned a ton from you folks here on the forum. 
]]> Tue, 23 Sep 2014 15:04:55 +0000 http://www.rpod-owners.com/forum_posts.asp?TID=5308&PID=51936#51936 Newb : That would be awesome, but I think... http://www.rpod-owners.com/forum_posts.asp?TID=5308&PID=51932#51932 Author: Podster
Subject: 5308
Posted: 23 Sep 2014 at 1:15pm

That would be awesome, but I think the slide module is just out of the frame. I will certainly take a closer look. Thanks!]]> Tue, 23 Sep 2014 13:15:42 +0000 http://www.rpod-owners.com/forum_posts.asp?TID=5308&PID=51932#51932 Newb : What is to the right of that... http://www.rpod-owners.com/forum_posts.asp?TID=5308&PID=51928#51928 Author: techntrek
Subject: 5308
Posted: 23 Sep 2014 at 12:58pm

What is to the right of that picture?  Would it be possible to turn the heater around so it is on the "wall" that is just barely visible in that pic?]]> Tue, 23 Sep 2014 12:58:59 +0000 http://www.rpod-owners.com/forum_posts.asp?TID=5308&PID=51928#51928 Newb : I'm not sure I like the idea... http://www.rpod-owners.com/forum_posts.asp?TID=5308&PID=51920#51920 Author: Podster
Subject: 5308
Posted: 23 Sep 2014 at 10:34am

I'm not sure I like the idea of have a 20,000 BTU heater under my behind while I'm sleeping, anyway. LOL

]]> Tue, 23 Sep 2014 10:34:32 +0000 http://www.rpod-owners.com/forum_posts.asp?TID=5308&PID=51920#51920 Newb : good question that we have been... http://www.rpod-owners.com/forum_posts.asp?TID=5308&PID=51918#51918 Author: 2dogseniors
Subject: 5308
Posted: 23 Sep 2014 at 10:28am

good question that we have been asking ourselves.  Following this post with interest.]]> Tue, 23 Sep 2014 10:28:46 +0000 http://www.rpod-owners.com/forum_posts.asp?TID=5308&PID=51918#51918 Newb : Originally posted by PodsterHmm,... http://www.rpod-owners.com/forum_posts.asp?TID=5308&PID=51912#51912 Author: kymooses
Subject: 5308
Posted: 23 Sep 2014 at 9:40am

Originally posted by Podster

Hmm, I'm thinking that heater may just have to go! I'm having a vision that includes a nice set of deep over and under drawers in that space. Smile 

seen similar mods done to that space, someone did some long drawers on rollers that slid out.  very nice idea if you know you'll never use the heater.

most of us use small electric heaters anyways.
]]> Tue, 23 Sep 2014 09:40:08 +0000 http://www.rpod-owners.com/forum_posts.asp?TID=5308&PID=51912#51912 Newb : Hmm, I'm thinking that heater... http://www.rpod-owners.com/forum_posts.asp?TID=5308&PID=51907#51907 Author: Podster
Subject: 5308
Posted: 23 Sep 2014 at 9:16am

Hmm, I'm thinking that heater may just have to go! I'm having a vision that includes a nice set of deep over and under drawers in that space. Smile ]]> Tue, 23 Sep 2014 09:16:45 +0000 http://www.rpod-owners.com/forum_posts.asp?TID=5308&PID=51907#51907 Newb : Originally posted by Podster Another... http://www.rpod-owners.com/forum_posts.asp?TID=5308&PID=51897#51897 Author: kymooses
Subject: 5308
Posted: 23 Sep 2014 at 8:47am

Originally posted by Podster

Another newbie question. On the PR-178, do you think its safe to store a couple of sport bags with clothes in this area if they don't make direct contact with the heater? If not what a terrible waste of space. What do you folks out there with 178's do with this area?


If you're not using the heater by all means fill that space up, a lot of owners do.  But if you're using it you really should mind the warning sticker and not use that area.  Forest River is very adamant that we tell people to never put anything there.

Just be careful however you proceed!!
]]> Tue, 23 Sep 2014 08:47:10 +0000 http://www.rpod-owners.com/forum_posts.asp?TID=5308&PID=51897#51897 Newb : I would be worried about the... http://www.rpod-owners.com/forum_posts.asp?TID=5308&PID=51887#51887 Author: techntrek
Subject: 5308
Posted: 23 Sep 2014 at 8:13am

I would be worried about the "what ifs".  What if the bag(s) has shifted towards the front of that area during travel, and you forget to check when you get into camp and turn the furnace on?  What if you fill that area up with stuff and forget to remove some/all of it before turning the furnace on?  What if you accidentally bump the switch for the furnace on your way out the door (probably only an issue for the older manual thermostats)?
 
I've done that last thing several times in our pod, although always in the other direction, turning the A/C on.  This past Sunday I walked out to our driveway and was surprised to hear the pod's A/C running.  We bumped the switch as we were unpacking and it has stayed cool over the last 2 weeks, until Sunday when it got into the 80's.
]]> Tue, 23 Sep 2014 08:13:53 +0000 http://www.rpod-owners.com/forum_posts.asp?TID=5308&PID=51887#51887 Newb : Just found a pretty good video... http://www.rpod-owners.com/forum_posts.asp?TID=5308&PID=51877#51877 Author: Podster
Subject: 5308
Posted: 23 Sep 2014 at 5:13am

Just found a pretty good video on how to set up the R-Dome.

https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=Kq9TRVFPZrY 
]]> Tue, 23 Sep 2014 05:13:17 +0000 http://www.rpod-owners.com/forum_posts.asp?TID=5308&PID=51877#51877 Newb : Another newbie question. On... http://www.rpod-owners.com/forum_posts.asp?TID=5308&PID=51876#51876 Author: Podster
Subject: 5308
Posted: 23 Sep 2014 at 4:48am

Another newbie question. On the PR-178, do you think its safe to store a couple of sport bags with clothes in this area if they don't make direct contact with the heater? If not what a terrible waste of space. What do you folks out there with 178's do with this area?

]]> Tue, 23 Sep 2014 04:48:53 +0000 http://www.rpod-owners.com/forum_posts.asp?TID=5308&PID=51876#51876 Newb : Definitely a plus. http://www.rpod-owners.com/forum_posts.asp?TID=5308&PID=51685#51685 Author: techntrek
Subject: 5308
Posted: 19 Sep 2014 at 10:25pm

Definitely a plus.]]> Fri, 19 Sep 2014 22:25:55 +0000 http://www.rpod-owners.com/forum_posts.asp?TID=5308&PID=51685#51685 Newb : Yay! Thanks! http://www.rpod-owners.com/forum_posts.asp?TID=5308&PID=51684#51684 Author: Podster
Subject: 5308
Posted: 19 Sep 2014 at 10:14pm

Yay! Thanks! ]]> Fri, 19 Sep 2014 22:14:04 +0000 http://www.rpod-owners.com/forum_posts.asp?TID=5308&PID=51684#51684 Newb : Newb I have a 178 and yes the... http://www.rpod-owners.com/forum_posts.asp?TID=5308&PID=51681#51681 Author: svskier
Subject: 5308
Posted: 19 Sep 2014 at 9:55pm

Newb
I have a 178 and yes the bathroom is accessible when the slide is in. ]]> Fri, 19 Sep 2014 21:55:58 +0000 http://www.rpod-owners.com/forum_posts.asp?TID=5308&PID=51681#51681 Newb : I pick up my 178 next Friday,... http://www.rpod-owners.com/forum_posts.asp?TID=5308&PID=51679#51679 Author: Podster
Subject: 5308
Posted: 19 Sep 2014 at 9:24pm

I pick up my 178 next Friday, but what I'm really dying to know now is, is the bathroom accessible when the slide is in?
Thanks for taking the time to respond, I really appreciate it.]]> Fri, 19 Sep 2014 21:24:16 +0000 http://www.rpod-owners.com/forum_posts.asp?TID=5308&PID=51679#51679 Newb : Ok, thanks! Yep, this was the... http://www.rpod-owners.com/forum_posts.asp?TID=5308&PID=51545#51545 Author: Podster
Subject: 5308
Posted: 17 Sep 2014 at 1:48pm

Ok, thanks! Yep, this was the dealer's response when I asked about a cover for the pod.

"we do not stock or recommend covers as our experience with them has not been good.

 

·        They never seem to fit properly

·        They retain moisture and promote mold and mildew

·        They tear and fail prematurely

·        They tend to rub off the finish on the corners of the campers"

 

]]> Wed, 17 Sep 2014 13:48:58 +0000 http://www.rpod-owners.com/forum_posts.asp?TID=5308&PID=51545#51545 Newb : Welcome. Considering that Forest... http://www.rpod-owners.com/forum_posts.asp?TID=5308&PID=51539#51539 Author: techntrek
Subject: 5308
Posted: 17 Sep 2014 at 1:26pm

Welcome.  Considering that Forest River sells covers for the R-pods, your dealer is incorrect.  They are designed to "breathe", unlike a tarp, so there isn't anything to worry about.  Personally I don't use one at all and just give it a good scrub every spring.  They scrub to bright white w/o much problem.

]]> Wed, 17 Sep 2014 13:26:49 +0000 http://www.rpod-owners.com/forum_posts.asp?TID=5308&PID=51539#51539 Newb : Congrats and welcome to the group.... http://www.rpod-owners.com/forum_posts.asp?TID=5308&PID=51538#51538 Author: Leo B
Subject: 5308
Posted: 17 Sep 2014 at 1:25pm

Congrats and welcome to the group.]]> Wed, 17 Sep 2014 13:25:57 +0000 http://www.rpod-owners.com/forum_posts.asp?TID=5308&PID=51538#51538 Newb : Hello, I just want to introduce... http://www.rpod-owners.com/forum_posts.asp?TID=5308&PID=51529#51529 Author: Podster
Subject: 5308
Posted: 17 Sep 2014 at 11:32am

Hello, I just want to introduce myself...my name is Cliff and I live in San Antonio. I'll be picking up a new RP-178 next week. I'm towing with a Ford Ranger Super Cab 4.0 V6 equipped with a factory tow package rated at 5,800 lbs. I'll be using a Resse WDH, 800lb sping bars with double sway control. I don't expect to be able to tow the R-pod like it's not there, but I do expect the Ranger will get the job done, safely. I look forward to reading and hearing more about all of your experiences. I''m a long time camper, but this is my first travel trailer. One of my first questions is...since the dealer does not recommend using a cover for the pod, what do you all do to keep your camper looking good? 
Thanks and have a great day and Happy Camping!
Cliff 
]]> Wed, 17 Sep 2014 11:32:27 +0000 http://www.rpod-owners.com/forum_posts.asp?TID=5308&PID=51529#51529