R-pod Owners Forum : Shopping for a tow vehicle https://www.rpod-owners.com/ This is an XML content feed of; R-pod Owners Forum : Reviews and General Information : Shopping for a tow vehicle Copyright (c) 2006-2009 Web Wiz Forums - All Rights Reserved. Fri, 28 Aug 2026 04:09:30 +0000 Mon, 02 Mar 2015 22:15:52 +0000 http://blogs.law.harvard.edu/tech/rss Web Wiz Forums 9.64 360 https://www.rpod-owners.com/RSS_post_feed.asp?TID=5743 R-pod Owners Forum https://www.rpod-owners.com/forum_images/web_wiz_forums.png https://www.rpod-owners.com/ Shopping for a tow vehicle : Our 2010 F150 is like driving... https://www.rpod-owners.com/forum_posts.asp?TID=5743&PID=57429#57429 Author: ChinookPod
Subject: 5743
Posted: 02 Mar 2015 at 10:15pm

Our 2010 F150 is like driving a chesterfield (aka sofa).  Got 16 L per 100 km, sorry don't know mpg, but not much more than without trailer.  Also like the tow/haul transmission that assists on the downgrades.]]> Mon, 02 Mar 2015 22:15:52 +0000 https://www.rpod-owners.com/forum_posts.asp?TID=5743&PID=57429#57429 Shopping for a tow vehicle : You haven't said specifically... https://www.rpod-owners.com/forum_posts.asp?TID=5743&PID=57418#57418 Author: ToolmanJohn
Subject: 5743
Posted: 02 Mar 2015 at 7:23pm

You haven't said specifically what your budget is, and if the new TV must be new or can be used. If it was me , I would buy something that would allow for decent fuel economy when not towing, as well as leaving some tow capacity for towing a bigger trailer in the future. 

 If you can afford a diesel, get one. Good economy when not towing, very strong pullers. Very high torque outputs, HP really doesn't matter much.
]]> Mon, 02 Mar 2015 19:23:44 +0000 https://www.rpod-owners.com/forum_posts.asp?TID=5743&PID=57418#57418 Shopping for a tow vehicle : I have done the calculations a... https://www.rpod-owners.com/forum_posts.asp?TID=5743&PID=57417#57417 Author: Keith-N-Dar
Subject: 5743
Posted: 02 Mar 2015 at 6:58pm

I have done the calculations a few times to determine if it pays to have diesel.  So far it has not come out with the additional cost of equipment and fuel.  If I buy another TV I will do the math again.  Some day it may work out for me.]]> Mon, 02 Mar 2015 18:58:21 +0000 https://www.rpod-owners.com/forum_posts.asp?TID=5743&PID=57417#57417 Shopping for a tow vehicle : Originally posted by PodsterHmm,... https://www.rpod-owners.com/forum_posts.asp?TID=5743&PID=57383#57383 Author: David and Danette
Subject: 5743
Posted: 01 Mar 2015 at 4:12pm

Originally posted by Podster

Hmm, I have heard it suggested that even though diesel cost more at the pump, the overall cost is less to operate because diesel is 33% more efficient. 

How about it diesel operators? Is this true? Is it cheaper in the long run to own and operate a diesel rig?
I read in a comparison between Fords new eco boost small 4 cylinder and the Chrysler eco diesel in their half ton trucks, that the Ford did better cost wise. Diesel fuel cost more than gasoline and that was taken into consideration. Mpg the eco diesel did do better than the eco boostl. But in towing that could change things I forget what the torque rating was between the two.]]> Sun, 01 Mar 2015 16:12:42 +0000 https://www.rpod-owners.com/forum_posts.asp?TID=5743&PID=57383#57383 Shopping for a tow vehicle : I'm towing the 179 with a... https://www.rpod-owners.com/forum_posts.asp?TID=5743&PID=57380#57380 Author: MikeGranberry
Subject: 5743
Posted: 01 Mar 2015 at 3:22pm

I'm towing the 179 with a Buick Enclave. Nice luxury along with good trailer package. Sway bar system works well with trailer brakes.  If we went to a larger TT, I would most likely go to a truck as TV.]]> Sun, 01 Mar 2015 15:22:27 +0000 https://www.rpod-owners.com/forum_posts.asp?TID=5743&PID=57380#57380 Shopping for a tow vehicle : techntrek, I second your advice.... https://www.rpod-owners.com/forum_posts.asp?TID=5743&PID=56145#56145 Author: freezingalaskan
Subject: 5743
Posted: 29 Jan 2015 at 12:10pm

techntrek,
I second your advice. I tow my 172 with a Volvo XC90 with 240hp 5000 lbs towing limit. I have been surprised at how well it tows. I always use the manual shift mode and never bother putting it in sixth gear.

If you need to compromise like I do on what you use your vehicle for, then techntrek's advice is spot on.

freezingalaskan]]> Thu, 29 Jan 2015 12:10:07 +0000 https://www.rpod-owners.com/forum_posts.asp?TID=5743&PID=56145#56145 Shopping for a tow vehicle : Ignoring the pickup vs. SUV... https://www.rpod-owners.com/forum_posts.asp?TID=5743&PID=56136#56136 Author: techntrek
Subject: 5743
Posted: 29 Jan 2015 at 9:07am

Ignoring the pickup vs. SUV decision, the important factors are towing capacity, wheelbase, torque, hp.  In that order IMO.  I would go with 5000 lbs, 120 inches, 250 ft/lb, 250 hp, minimum numbers.]]> Thu, 29 Jan 2015 09:07:46 +0000 https://www.rpod-owners.com/forum_posts.asp?TID=5743&PID=56136#56136 Shopping for a tow vehicle : Here is my two cents. We just... https://www.rpod-owners.com/forum_posts.asp?TID=5743&PID=56135#56135 Author: Camper Bob
Subject: 5743
Posted: 29 Jan 2015 at 8:26am

Here is my two cents. We just recently went through the same hand ringing experience on which TV to purchase. We had a 2005 Chev. Tahoe with a 6,800 towing capacity. Mileage while towing was between 10-12 MPG at 55. After much consideration, test driving, reading reviews, etc. we purchased our first Japanese vehicle. The Nissan Pathfinder with a V-6 engine and a towing capacity of 5,000 lbs. Fits our needs perfectly. I did add a weight dist. hitch, since the wheelbase is shorter than the Tahoe and certainly lighter. We have only towed it to the dealer and back, about 10 miles total to have the WD hitch installed. I ordered the Pathfinder with the factory installed towing package. Our brake controller plugged right into the harness that Nissan provided. The trailer when towed with the new hitch on city streets and on the highway towed perfectly, without straining the Pathfinder. Our in city mileage has increased to about 18 MPG. Up from about 12 with the Tahoe. The new technology in the Nissan is most impressive. My vote goes to the Nissan Pathfinder. Not overcapacity which will drive down mileage, but a decent compromise. Not to mention the backup camera which makes hitching up a breeze. Curious what you finally end up with and why. Safe Travels.]]> Thu, 29 Jan 2015 08:26:41 +0000 https://www.rpod-owners.com/forum_posts.asp?TID=5743&PID=56135#56135 Shopping for a tow vehicle : We have a 2014 Silverado 1500... https://www.rpod-owners.com/forum_posts.asp?TID=5743&PID=56134#56134 Author: retireclose
Subject: 5743
Posted: 29 Jan 2015 at 8:10am

We have  a 2014 Silverado 1500 5.3 and a 2015 179.   This is an awsome combo.  Two trips last year, Smokey moutains averaged 13.5 mpg, Yellowstone 12.9 mpg.  No need for WDH, we do have friction sway bar.]]> Thu, 29 Jan 2015 08:10:37 +0000 https://www.rpod-owners.com/forum_posts.asp?TID=5743&PID=56134#56134 Shopping for a tow vehicle : Originally posted by Podster Originally... https://www.rpod-owners.com/forum_posts.asp?TID=5743&PID=56132#56132 Author: Craneman
Subject: 5743
Posted: 28 Jan 2015 at 10:58pm

Originally posted by Podster

Originally posted by Craneman

We have a 2011 f-150 with 3.5 v/6 eco boost that has 365 hp and pulls our 174 way better than our 2006 Chevy v/6 at about 190 hp. We have been very happy with it.

                    Moe and jo

Holy Smokes! 365HP out of a V6, thats freakin awesome!Thumbs Up
 


 When we first looked at the truck I ask the dealer if I brought our trailer to the dealership could we test drive with the trailer hooked up. He said just take it home over night and give it a good road test. We did and gave it a pretty good test. We bought it!!!!!
       Moe and Jo
]]> Wed, 28 Jan 2015 22:58:33 +0000 https://www.rpod-owners.com/forum_posts.asp?TID=5743&PID=56132#56132 Shopping for a tow vehicle : Originally posted by CranemanWe... https://www.rpod-owners.com/forum_posts.asp?TID=5743&PID=56131#56131 Author: Podster
Subject: 5743
Posted: 28 Jan 2015 at 9:58pm

Originally posted by Craneman

We have a 2011 f-150 with 3.5 v/6 eco boost that has 365 hp and pulls our 174 way better than our 2006 Chevy v/6 at about 190 hp. We have been very happy with it.

                    Moe and jo

Holy Smokes! 365HP out of a V6, thats freakin awesome!Thumbs Up
 


]]> Wed, 28 Jan 2015 21:58:57 +0000 https://www.rpod-owners.com/forum_posts.asp?TID=5743&PID=56131#56131 Shopping for a tow vehicle : Hmm, I have heard it suggested... https://www.rpod-owners.com/forum_posts.asp?TID=5743&PID=56130#56130 Author: Podster
Subject: 5743
Posted: 28 Jan 2015 at 9:56pm

Hmm, I have heard it suggested that even though diesel cost more at the pump, the overall cost is less to operate because diesel is 33% more efficient. 

How about it diesel operators? Is this true? Is it cheaper in the long run to own and operate a diesel rig?
]]> Wed, 28 Jan 2015 21:56:58 +0000 https://www.rpod-owners.com/forum_posts.asp?TID=5743&PID=56130#56130 Shopping for a tow vehicle : We have a 2011 f-150 with 3.5... https://www.rpod-owners.com/forum_posts.asp?TID=5743&PID=56129#56129 Author: Craneman
Subject: 5743
Posted: 28 Jan 2015 at 9:46pm

We have a 2011 f-150 with 3.5 v/6 eco boost that has 365 hp and pulls our 174 way better than our 2006 Chevy v/6 at about 190 hp. We have been very happy with it.

                    Moe and jo
]]> Wed, 28 Jan 2015 21:46:30 +0000 https://www.rpod-owners.com/forum_posts.asp?TID=5743&PID=56129#56129 Shopping for a tow vehicle : I currently tow with a later model... https://www.rpod-owners.com/forum_posts.asp?TID=5743&PID=56125#56125 Author: Fly Pod
Subject: 5743
Posted: 28 Jan 2015 at 6:43pm

I currently tow with a later model C1500 which would be in the F150 camp. When it is time to replace I, like Podster, will seriously look at the newer Colorado crew cab but with the V6 and tow package. My Escape wouldn't have towed my 178 very well long term. If diesel fuel was closer to cost with gas, I might consider the turbo diesel version.]]> Wed, 28 Jan 2015 18:43:36 +0000 https://www.rpod-owners.com/forum_posts.asp?TID=5743&PID=56125#56125 Shopping for a tow vehicle : I like my F150 https://www.rpod-owners.com/forum_posts.asp?TID=5743&PID=56124#56124 Author: Keith-N-Dar
Subject: 5743
Posted: 28 Jan 2015 at 5:53pm

I like my F150]]> Wed, 28 Jan 2015 17:53:39 +0000 https://www.rpod-owners.com/forum_posts.asp?TID=5743&PID=56124#56124 Shopping for a tow vehicle : My choice would be the F150 or... https://www.rpod-owners.com/forum_posts.asp?TID=5743&PID=56119#56119 Author: David and Danette
Subject: 5743
Posted: 28 Jan 2015 at 3:42pm

   My choice would be the  F150 or the Explorer. The Ridgeline is nice but as has been said the engine needs a little more power, for one of the smaller 18 foot r-pods it would have enough power not the 20 foot. I have friends with a Explorer and they love it with three young children there is plenty of room. If you drive in the city a lot the truck may be a little more difficult when in a lot of traffic. When I lived in Miami with the traffic I preferred a smaller vehicle but a truck to has advantages you can see further ahead.]]> Wed, 28 Jan 2015 15:42:49 +0000 https://www.rpod-owners.com/forum_posts.asp?TID=5743&PID=56119#56119 Shopping for a tow vehicle : I already had my TV (f150 5.4... https://www.rpod-owners.com/forum_posts.asp?TID=5743&PID=56118#56118 Author: J&Jcf
Subject: 5743
Posted: 28 Jan 2015 at 2:15pm

I already had my TV (f150 5.4 v8) to tow my previous 5000 lb TT. The difference to me is you can haul extra camp stuff in p up bed and towing capacity. If you get a smaller TV then you absolutely need weight distribution and sway bar setup. I uses these with my big TT,but find them unnecessary when towing the 171 pod. My f150 has towing package and is rated to tow 10,000 lbs. If l would replace my current TV ,it would be a p-up with a standard v6 & tow package to tow at least 5000 lbs.I don't think I would need the 3.73 differential that current TV has. I tow the pod and previous TT at posted speed limits with no problems.]]> Wed, 28 Jan 2015 14:15:58 +0000 https://www.rpod-owners.com/forum_posts.asp?TID=5743&PID=56118#56118 Shopping for a tow vehicle : For pulling steep grades at altitude,... https://www.rpod-owners.com/forum_posts.asp?TID=5743&PID=56117#56117 Author: furpod
Subject: 5743
Posted: 28 Jan 2015 at 1:45pm

For pulling steep grades at altitude, a turbocharger is nice.. and the F150 EcoBoost has a wicked good reputation among podders, and owners of other brands of TT, as a tow vehicle that needs to make no apologies about anything in the gas engine world.]]> Wed, 28 Jan 2015 13:45:38 +0000 https://www.rpod-owners.com/forum_posts.asp?TID=5743&PID=56117#56117 Shopping for a tow vehicle : A 12% grade? I didn't think... https://www.rpod-owners.com/forum_posts.asp?TID=5743&PID=56116#56116 Author: Podster
Subject: 5743
Posted: 28 Jan 2015 at 12:59pm

A 12% grade? I didn't think that was even legal. Check out the specs on this sweet machine!  TV 


Oh my, the 2016 model will offer a 2.8L Duramax Turbo-Diesel. Yes, thank you! Big smile
]]> Wed, 28 Jan 2015 12:59:47 +0000 https://www.rpod-owners.com/forum_posts.asp?TID=5743&PID=56116#56116 Shopping for a tow vehicle : We have towed our 176 with both... https://www.rpod-owners.com/forum_posts.asp?TID=5743&PID=56115#56115 Author: MoPod
Subject: 5743
Posted: 28 Jan 2015 at 12:57pm

We have towed our 176 with both our 2000 F150 4x4 (5.7 V8) super cab and our 2014 Explorer Sport AWD (3.5 V6 Ecoboost) depending on where we are going and what we plan to do.  Both do a great job, no big issues with either.  I'll try to compare and contrast since we use both.

Explorer provides greater creature comforts, rides better, gets slightly better gas mileage, more gears so less engine shifting, and runs like a wild animal.  We haven't found the top end yet with or without rpod.  My husband swears it would pull the rpod 100 mph (we haven't tried!)

I like the F150 because you can haul more stuff, dirty stuff (firewood, bikes, paddleboat and such) and I use the tailgate as an outdoor kitchen.  Its a little more cumbersome because of it's length, so parking lots can be a pain to navigate with the rpod.

Although the 179 is somewhat heavier, I think either vehicle would do fine for you.  It's all what suits you better in your towing and non-towing life.
]]> Wed, 28 Jan 2015 12:57:54 +0000 https://www.rpod-owners.com/forum_posts.asp?TID=5743&PID=56115#56115 Shopping for a tow vehicle : F150 is a great tow vehicle. Totally... https://www.rpod-owners.com/forum_posts.asp?TID=5743&PID=56114#56114 Author: JStrube
Subject: 5743
Posted: 28 Jan 2015 at 12:28pm

F150 is a great tow vehicle.  Totally over rated, which makes it great.  Especially mountains.  Won't stress it, super comfortable if you get upgraded model.  I love the new explorers, not sure if it would be good to tow with.]]> Wed, 28 Jan 2015 12:28:00 +0000 https://www.rpod-owners.com/forum_posts.asp?TID=5743&PID=56114#56114 Shopping for a tow vehicle : Originally posted by Ninjamini Since... https://www.rpod-owners.com/forum_posts.asp?TID=5743&PID=56112#56112 Author: CharlieM
Subject: 5743
Posted: 28 Jan 2015 at 12:22pm

Originally posted by Ninjamini

Since my Acura RDX wont tow the R-Pod 179 I am going to get for summer I need to find a new TV. Which is ok as my wife's Accord is 8 years old with 175,000 miles. I want something that can handle the R-Pod without issue in the mountains and up and down grades. There is a 12% grade in my favorite spot in the smoky mountains. This is where i plan to go for the summer trip.

So the question is what to get. I like my RDX and like the car like ride. I do not like trucks but have resolved to the fact that I may need to go big. Wife does not want a pickup. Well its her car.

So here is what I am thinking:
Honda Odyssey
Ford Explorer
Ford Flex
Ford F150
Subaru??? Dont know the miles.
I liked the Honda Ridgeline but they dont make it.

Any suggestions.




Based on my experience towing a 172 with a Honda 4WD Pilot and a Camplite 21RBS with a Toyota Tacoma:

Odyssey and Subarus probably too small.

Explorer or Flex OK - stick with the AWD, not FWD.

F-150 adequate, but overkill.

My 4WD Pilot did fine on low elevation flat ground, but was straining climbing Rocky Mountains and your 179 starts out 500# heavier.

Look for something rated at least 5000# tow rating with at least a 4.0 L engine. Stick with 4WD or AWD as opposed to FWD. Consider the Toyota Sequoia, Tacoma, or Nissan Frontier. The mid-sized pickups are a nice compromise between SUV and full sized PU.


]]> Wed, 28 Jan 2015 12:22:25 +0000 https://www.rpod-owners.com/forum_posts.asp?TID=5743&PID=56112#56112 Shopping for a tow vehicle : I own a 179. TV is a Check k1500... https://www.rpod-owners.com/forum_posts.asp?TID=5743&PID=56111#56111 Author: RescapePod
Subject: 5743
Posted: 28 Jan 2015 at 11:03am

I own a 179. TV is a Check k1500 PU. I would IMO not pull with anything less. On your list the best is the Ford F150. There are Odyssey and Explorer owners on her so they can input. Buy the biggest TV that meets your overall needs and exceeds the pods towing need. Be safe first.

]]> Wed, 28 Jan 2015 11:03:53 +0000 https://www.rpod-owners.com/forum_posts.asp?TID=5743&PID=56111#56111 Shopping for a tow vehicle : Since my Acura RDX wont tow... https://www.rpod-owners.com/forum_posts.asp?TID=5743&PID=56109#56109 Author: Ninjamini
Subject: 5743
Posted: 28 Jan 2015 at 10:47am

Since my Acura RDX wont tow the R-Pod 179 I am going to get for summer I need to find a new TV. Which is ok as my wife's Accord is 8 years old with 175,000 miles. I want something that can handle the R-Pod without issue in the mountains and up and down grades. There is a 12% grade in my favorite spot in the smoky mountains. This is where i plan to go for the summer trip.

So the question is what to get. I like my RDX and like the car like ride. I do not like trucks but have resolved to the fact that I may need to go big. Wife does not want a pickup. Well its her car.

So here is what I am thinking:
Honda Odyssey
Ford Explorer
Ford Flex
Ford F150
Subaru??? Dont know the miles.
I liked the Honda Ridgeline but they dont make it.

Any suggestions.


]]> Wed, 28 Jan 2015 10:47:23 +0000 https://www.rpod-owners.com/forum_posts.asp?TID=5743&PID=56109#56109