R-pod Owners Forum : Pod People Wannabees http://www.rpod-owners.com/ This is an XML content feed of; R-pod Owners Forum : Introduce Yourself : Pod People Wannabees Copyright (c) 2006-2009 Web Wiz Forums - All Rights Reserved. Mon, 04 May 2026 16:26:28 +0000 Wed, 18 May 2016 07:00:41 +0000 http://blogs.law.harvard.edu/tech/rss Web Wiz Forums 9.64 360 www.rpod-owners.com/RSS_post_feed.asp?TID=7875 R-pod Owners Forum http://www.rpod-owners.com/forum_images/web_wiz_forums.png http://www.rpod-owners.com/ Pod People Wannabees : Originally posted by larbearWe... http://www.rpod-owners.com/forum_posts.asp?TID=7875&PID=75311#75311 Author: Guests
Subject: 7875
Posted: 18 May 2016 at 7:00am

Originally posted by larbear

We finally pulled the trigger on an old but good shape 2009 rp 171.  We decided we need to get our feet wet without a large outlay of dollars and made a good deal with a reputable dealer who is cleaning and prepping (including repack wheels) didn't know if needed but my old camper days remembered that as important.  They're also putting on a new battery, filling lp tank and checking and washing so it's ready for pick-up after a final instructional walk-thru on Friday.
I do want to add a lift kit but did not want to push things...I'll check the forum to see if it's something I can do myself????
I really appreciate all the input...we were sure we were going with a new 177 or 178 but had a hard time pulling the trigger as our camping time will be limited this year.
My 171 friends made some good points and modification suggestions THANKS!
I'll give a future update....feeling rejuvinatedSmile


Congratulations!

You can do the risers yourself, if you are handy/comfortable around tools.]]> Wed, 18 May 2016 07:00:41 +0000 http://www.rpod-owners.com/forum_posts.asp?TID=7875&PID=75311#75311 Pod People Wannabees : We finally pulled the trigger... http://www.rpod-owners.com/forum_posts.asp?TID=7875&PID=75305#75305 Author: larbear
Subject: 7875
Posted: 18 May 2016 at 12:57am

We finally pulled the trigger on an old but good shape 2009 rp 171.  We decided we need to get our feet wet without a large outlay of dollars and made a good deal with a reputable dealer who is cleaning and prepping (including repack wheels) didn't know if needed but my old camper days remembered that as important.  They're also putting on a new battery, filling lp tank and checking and washing so it's ready for pick-up after a final instructional walk-thru on Friday.
I do want to add a lift kit but did not want to push things...I'll check the forum to see if it's something I can do myself????
I really appreciate all the input...we were sure we were going with a new 177 or 178 but had a hard time pulling the trigger as our camping time will be limited this year.
My 171 friends made some good points and modification suggestions THANKS!
I'll give a future update....feeling rejuvinatedSmile
]]> Wed, 18 May 2016 00:57:02 +0000 http://www.rpod-owners.com/forum_posts.asp?TID=7875&PID=75305#75305 Pod People Wannabees : Great Ideas!Thanks! http://www.rpod-owners.com/forum_posts.asp?TID=7875&PID=74536#74536 Author: larbear
Subject: 7875
Posted: 07 May 2016 at 5:51pm

Great Ideas!
Thanks!
]]> Sat, 07 May 2016 17:51:53 +0000 http://www.rpod-owners.com/forum_posts.asp?TID=7875&PID=74536#74536 Pod People Wannabees : Originally posted by larbearWhere... http://www.rpod-owners.com/forum_posts.asp?TID=7875&PID=74534#74534 Author: Retroactive
Subject: 7875
Posted: 07 May 2016 at 4:20pm

Originally posted by larbear

Where and how did you install your oh sh@t handle?  I still prefer the simplicity of the 171.  I felt from the inputs that 177 or 178 was winning me over but looking at all the reports it seems a lot of leaking problems on the slide out models (including windows) as compared to 171's.  The 179 model appears to have more than their share of leakage complaints but my target is 171/177/178....so far.
As a larger and older than average guy, I think I should be in a 177/178 if only I could get past the negative idea I have on the slide (leakage/ wires, drains feed lines in& out).
Oh me oh my!

Try this link below, the pics are on the bottom of the page it brings you to. You can scroll through the other six pages and see all the other stuff I have done with my 171 so far.

http://www.rpod-owners.com/forum_posts.asp?TID=7641&PN=6&title=diary-of-a-madmodder
]]> Sat, 07 May 2016 16:20:09 +0000 http://www.rpod-owners.com/forum_posts.asp?TID=7875&PID=74534#74534 Pod People Wannabees : I try to keep up with the issues... http://www.rpod-owners.com/forum_posts.asp?TID=7875&PID=74533#74533 Author: Mountainrev
Subject: 7875
Posted: 07 May 2016 at 4:01pm

I try to keep up with the issues people report concerning their Pods (both on this forum as well as the R-pod Owners Facebook page, which gets a lot more traffic), and I honestly can't recall the last time I saw anyone report leakage issues specifically pertaining to the slideout.  I'm not saying that they don't occur, but I'm very confident they are rare.

Some have reported windows leaking, but that seems to be confined to the rear window, which is the same on all Pods, slide or not. 

Can the slideout have issues?  Sure.  Do they?  Very, very rarely.  Get the R-pod floorplan that works best for you, and don't worry about the slideout.  Really.
]]> Sat, 07 May 2016 16:01:28 +0000 http://www.rpod-owners.com/forum_posts.asp?TID=7875&PID=74533#74533 Pod People Wannabees : Where and how did you install... http://www.rpod-owners.com/forum_posts.asp?TID=7875&PID=74532#74532 Author: larbear
Subject: 7875
Posted: 07 May 2016 at 3:23pm

Where and how did you install your oh sh@t handle?  I still prefer the simplicity of the 171.  I felt from the inputs that 177 or 178 was winning me over but looking at all the reports it seems a lot of leaking problems on the slide out models (including windows) as compared to 171's.  The 179 model appears to have more than their share of leakage complaints but my target is 171/177/178....so far.
As a larger and older than average guy, I think I should be in a 177/178 if only I could get past the negative idea I have on the slide (leakage/ wires, drains feed lines in& out).
Oh me oh my!
]]> Sat, 07 May 2016 15:23:32 +0000 http://www.rpod-owners.com/forum_posts.asp?TID=7875&PID=74532#74532 Pod People Wannabees : See my post somewhere in this... http://www.rpod-owners.com/forum_posts.asp?TID=7875&PID=74530#74530 Author: julieboyles
Subject: 7875
Posted: 07 May 2016 at 2:57pm

See my post somewhere in this thread as I, too, was vacillating between the 177 and 178. It looks like if you're buying new, there's no debate--it's the 178 hands down--for length, barely added weight, barely more expensive, resale, everything.]]> Sat, 07 May 2016 14:57:31 +0000 http://www.rpod-owners.com/forum_posts.asp?TID=7875&PID=74530#74530 Pod People Wannabees : We were trying to decide between... http://www.rpod-owners.com/forum_posts.asp?TID=7875&PID=74520#74520 Author: Retroactive
Subject: 7875
Posted: 07 May 2016 at 9:27am

We were trying to decide between a 171 or 178. We ended up getting the 171 becuase we will be empty nesters in two years, and don't need extra sleeping space. The one thing to consider about the 171 is that it is a PITA to get out of bed, slide out models may make it easier to access the bed compartment. We love our 171, but I had to install an "Oh sh*t! Handle" in mine (so I don't come crashing down on the wife in the middle of the night).]]> Sat, 07 May 2016 09:27:08 +0000 http://www.rpod-owners.com/forum_posts.asp?TID=7875&PID=74520#74520 Pod People Wannabees : VannThanks for the input...I've... http://www.rpod-owners.com/forum_posts.asp?TID=7875&PID=74518#74518 Author: larbear
Subject: 7875
Posted: 06 May 2016 at 10:07pm

Vann
Thanks for the input...I've my concerns about KISS...that's why my initial thoughts were the 171 but most most seem to think "a little" bigger is better.  So I've now been thinking 177 or 178...I know the odds of slide problems must be low or there wouldn't be so many out there.
I plan to take a look next week if time permits.
Thanks again (and to all other podders too!)
Larry
]]> Fri, 06 May 2016 22:07:15 +0000 http://www.rpod-owners.com/forum_posts.asp?TID=7875&PID=74518#74518 Pod People Wannabees : I'm in a similar position... http://www.rpod-owners.com/forum_posts.asp?TID=7875&PID=74517#74517 Author: julieboyles
Subject: 7875
Posted: 06 May 2016 at 9:55pm

I'm in a similar position as the original poster. I've looked at the 177 and 178 two times at the dealership and it's true, the 178 is absolutely the way to go. It's very slightly heavier, only a small bit cheaper, and 1 1/2 ft longer. I'll, too, occasionally have two grandkiddos (and sometimes my adult daughter) and they will not fit in the 177, but will all be able to cram into the 178 table/bed, if need be. From resale, the 178 is, too, the only way to go.

I'm trying to decide new or used. New comes with a 1 yr warranty and some of the new features that may not be had used (LEDs, flush sink with cover, solar ready, etc.). But, of course, the cost, as well as I'm not 100% sure that this is the right path for me and that I'm going to love it. I'm pretty convinced, but gotta do it first to know for sure. I know nothing about this trailer world so that means I should buy used and have the warranty and deal to cover everything. Oh wait, that means that it's not a sure enough thing and I should spend less with someone else having already eaten the depreciation. Help!
]]> Fri, 06 May 2016 21:55:35 +0000 http://www.rpod-owners.com/forum_posts.asp?TID=7875&PID=74517#74517 Pod People Wannabees : Hello Pod People wannabee! we... http://www.rpod-owners.com/forum_posts.asp?TID=7875&PID=74494#74494 Author: Pod People
Subject: 7875
Posted: 06 May 2016 at 4:40pm

Hello Pod People wannabee! we are Pod People!! welcome.
we have an older model 173 which is no longer made.  We love it -simple, easy and no problems.  However, having said that if I had to buy a new model I would seriously consider a model with a slide out. I think the extra room would be a major plus factor. We don't miss it because we've never had it. but if we could have it, I think we would love our Pod even more.

there are a couple of  potential  downsides that I see with the slides.  A buddy of ours has a slide model(not an Rpod, but a competitor). His kitchen cabinet/sink slides out and he has had several problems with the flexible drain hose becoming disconnected and leaking.  The slide definitely is the culprit in this case.  The other problem with the kitchen slide is that it will not allow you to extend the outer edges of the countertop. A lot of people use a folding shelf on either(or both) ends of the sink cabinet to extend the usable counter space. when the cabinet is in the slide, there is not enough clearance for any extensions.

Look closely, sit in each model for a while and think about how your use will best be accommodated.
you will make the right decision and love it

Vann
]]> Fri, 06 May 2016 16:40:04 +0000 http://www.rpod-owners.com/forum_posts.asp?TID=7875&PID=74494#74494 Pod People Wannabees : Originally posted by larbearI... http://www.rpod-owners.com/forum_posts.asp?TID=7875&PID=74464#74464 Author: Mountainrev
Subject: 7875
Posted: 05 May 2016 at 7:23pm

Originally posted by larbear

I gotta get my sea legs on the posting thing...I guess I shouldn't be trying to reply to each individually.
Couple of great suggestions....I guess my subconscious mind had me thinking 177 or 178.
I found a dealer who has both with the 178 only $300 more but with the 177 being a little lighter and a touch shorter, it may be better for mileage/maneuvering.
Plan to check them out next week.  The floorplans "look" like the floor space is the same in both? Does the larger dinette make it worth more?
This is a Great service...love getting opinions from someone other than just the dealer I'll be meeting for the first time.
Thanks All!   


Since the 178 is only something like 150 pounds heavier (maybe less) than the 177, any mileage improvement with the 177 would be miniscule.  And since it's only like a foot longer, I doubt you'd find the 178 harder to maneuver.  Personally, as a 177 owner, I'd go for the 178 unless you find a screaming deal on a 177.  I believe the larger dinette is worth it, especially if you have a couple of grandkids sleeping on it. 

As far as floorplans, you're correct--they are the same, other than the u-shaped dinette (and outside-access storage in the front). 
]]> Thu, 05 May 2016 19:23:08 +0000 http://www.rpod-owners.com/forum_posts.asp?TID=7875&PID=74464#74464 Pod People Wannabees : Originally posted by TheBum Originally... http://www.rpod-owners.com/forum_posts.asp?TID=7875&PID=74461#74461 Author: furpod
Subject: 7875
Posted: 05 May 2016 at 6:51pm

Originally posted by TheBum

Originally posted by furpod

The 179 is really a couples trailer, the spare bed seems to be the worst of all floor plans.


If you put an air mattress on it, it's very usable as a bed. In that respect, it has the largest second bed of any model as far as I can tell.


178 has a queen size dinette 58 inches wide.. biggest of the group. The 176T sleeps more, and has an equal size dinette, but you have to deal with the whole "T" thing.. Based on how rare they are, most people don't want to fool with it.

The 179 dinette is 45 inches wide..
]]> Thu, 05 May 2016 18:51:25 +0000 http://www.rpod-owners.com/forum_posts.asp?TID=7875&PID=74461#74461 Pod People Wannabees : Originally posted by furpodThe... http://www.rpod-owners.com/forum_posts.asp?TID=7875&PID=74455#74455 Author: TheBum
Subject: 7875
Posted: 05 May 2016 at 6:14pm

Originally posted by furpod

The 179 is really a couples trailer, the spare bed seems to be the worst of all floor plans.


If you put an air mattress on it, it's very usable as a bed. In that respect, it has the largest second bed of any model as far as I can tell. ]]> Thu, 05 May 2016 18:14:12 +0000 http://www.rpod-owners.com/forum_posts.asp?TID=7875&PID=74455#74455 Pod People Wannabees : As already mentioned above, spend... http://www.rpod-owners.com/forum_posts.asp?TID=7875&PID=74449#74449 Author: jato
Subject: 7875
Posted: 05 May 2016 at 5:40pm

As already mentioned above, spend a good 30 + minutes in each of the models you are serious about.  Take notes, talk to each other about your likes/dislikes about each, sleep on it for a few days before making the final decision.

]]> Thu, 05 May 2016 17:40:28 +0000 http://www.rpod-owners.com/forum_posts.asp?TID=7875&PID=74449#74449 Pod People Wannabees : You won't notice one little... http://www.rpod-owners.com/forum_posts.asp?TID=7875&PID=74447#74447 Author: Guests
Subject: 7875
Posted: 05 May 2016 at 4:57pm


You won't notice one little bit of difference, in economy, towing any of the models. Plan on 12mpg (+or-).   A couple of inches won't really make much difference in maneuvering, either. Get the one that best fits your needs/wants...the one that makes you happy!    ]]> Thu, 05 May 2016 16:57:36 +0000 http://www.rpod-owners.com/forum_posts.asp?TID=7875&PID=74447#74447 Pod People Wannabees : I gotta get my sea legs on the... http://www.rpod-owners.com/forum_posts.asp?TID=7875&PID=74446#74446 Author: larbear
Subject: 7875
Posted: 05 May 2016 at 4:50pm

I gotta get my sea legs on the posting thing...I guess I shouldn't be trying to reply to each individually.
Couple of great suggestions....I guess my subconscious mind had me thinking 177 or 178.
I found a dealer who has both with the 178 only $300 more but with the 177 being a little lighter and a touch shorter, it may be better for mileage/maneuvering.
Plan to check them out next week.  The floorplans "look" like the floor space is the same in both? Does the larger dinette make it worth more?
This is a Great service...love getting opinions from someone other than just the dealer I'll be meeting for the first time.
Thanks All!   
]]> Thu, 05 May 2016 16:50:53 +0000 http://www.rpod-owners.com/forum_posts.asp?TID=7875&PID=74446#74446 Pod People Wannabees : There is going to be no discernible... http://www.rpod-owners.com/forum_posts.asp?TID=7875&PID=74445#74445 Author: furpod
Subject: 7875
Posted: 05 May 2016 at 4:45pm

There is going to be no discernible tow feeling difference between Pod models. You have enough truck that weight isn't an issue. Frontal area is the same on all pods. Sway or WDH are often personal decisions that only you can decide on. Most often with a capable truck, if you have sway, it's user error. Usually the pod isn't loaded right.

Based on your description of wants, I would say the 178 should be a good fit. If the bathroom isn't workable for you, then the 180. While I own and love a 177, IF the 178 had been out when we bought, we would have bought it. The 179 is really a couples trailer, the spare bed seems to be the worst of all floor plans.
]]> Thu, 05 May 2016 16:45:24 +0000 http://www.rpod-owners.com/forum_posts.asp?TID=7875&PID=74445#74445 Pod People Wannabees : Welcome to the forum and good... http://www.rpod-owners.com/forum_posts.asp?TID=7875&PID=74444#74444 Author: Guests
Subject: 7875
Posted: 05 May 2016 at 4:42pm


Welcome to the forum and good luck deciding.
Yep, your truck will take you and your Pod anywhere you want to go...no problem there.

(Anti) sway devices...some use them some don't. The long wheelbase of the truck will help.]]> Thu, 05 May 2016 16:42:38 +0000 http://www.rpod-owners.com/forum_posts.asp?TID=7875&PID=74444#74444 Pod People Wannabees : Thanks! http://www.rpod-owners.com/forum_posts.asp?TID=7875&PID=74439#74439 Author: larbear
Subject: 7875
Posted: 05 May 2016 at 4:26pm

Thanks!]]> Thu, 05 May 2016 16:26:53 +0000 http://www.rpod-owners.com/forum_posts.asp?TID=7875&PID=74439#74439 Pod People Wannabees : I'm sure my truck would do... http://www.rpod-owners.com/forum_posts.asp?TID=7875&PID=74438#74438 Author: larbear
Subject: 7875
Posted: 05 May 2016 at 4:25pm

I'm sure my truck would do okay...it's me I'm worried about.  I have a 2012 ram 1500 4x4 with 5.7 hemi and automatic transmission.
I want something easy to pull without having to get anti-sway bars etc.
Thanks for the reply!
]]> Thu, 05 May 2016 16:25:38 +0000 http://www.rpod-owners.com/forum_posts.asp?TID=7875&PID=74438#74438 Pod People Wannabees : +1 on a model with a slide out.... http://www.rpod-owners.com/forum_posts.asp?TID=7875&PID=74437#74437 Author: GLBCamper
Subject: 7875
Posted: 05 May 2016 at 3:40pm

+1 on a model with a slide out. Two average size people can actually pass each other in the middle. In my opinion it gets old fast if you can't do that. But, as mentioned, spend some time in each at the dealer. Don't just stand in the doorway and look. Both of you should actually walk around. Act like you are cooking and then try to go into the bathroom, etc. You will know what works for you.]]> Thu, 05 May 2016 15:40:22 +0000 http://www.rpod-owners.com/forum_posts.asp?TID=7875&PID=74437#74437 Pod People Wannabees : With a dog and occasionally... http://www.rpod-owners.com/forum_posts.asp?TID=7875&PID=74435#74435 Author: Mountainrev
Subject: 7875
Posted: 05 May 2016 at 3:25pm

With a dog and occasionally grandkids along, my vote would be for a 177 or 178.  The slide-out doesn't seem to cause any issues for most folks (I've read of some occasional problems on the 179, but that's a larger slide requiring two motors, which are made by a different company than the motor used in the 177/178).  Sit inside each.  See what you think.

We were set on getting a 171 until we sat in a 177 and 178.  The 178 offers a larger, u-shaped dinette and extra outside storage.  It's a bit longer and weighs a bit more than the 177.  We have the 177.  Our 70 lb. goldendoodle camps with us sometimes, and we've had a grown kid tag along as well.  We don't regret getting the slide-out model.  In fact, I sort of wish we had gone with the 178, but the deal we got on our 177 was too good to pass up.

The question about tow vehicle is a good one.  Although the R-pod is fairly light, don't underestimate the amount of drag the high(ish) profile causes.  We had zero issues pulling our popup with our former tow vehicle (Dodge Durango with 4.7 liter V-8), but it struggled a bit with the Pod.  Ended up getting a diesel Jeep Grand Cherokee, which handles towing admirably. 

My recommendation for towing the R-pod is to make sure you have at at least 5,500 lbs. towing capacity on your vehicle, and even better, make sure you have 300+ horsepower and/or lbs. ft. torque.

Good luck on your quest! 
]]> Thu, 05 May 2016 15:25:46 +0000 http://www.rpod-owners.com/forum_posts.asp?TID=7875&PID=74435#74435 Pod People Wannabees : Welcome to the group! http://www.rpod-owners.com/forum_posts.asp?TID=7875&PID=74434#74434 Author: Leo B
Subject: 7875
Posted: 05 May 2016 at 3:05pm

Welcome to the group!]]> Thu, 05 May 2016 15:05:18 +0000 http://www.rpod-owners.com/forum_posts.asp?TID=7875&PID=74434#74434 Pod People Wannabees : What tow vehicle do you intend... http://www.rpod-owners.com/forum_posts.asp?TID=7875&PID=74431#74431 Author: TheBum
Subject: 7875
Posted: 05 May 2016 at 2:14pm

What tow vehicle do you intend to use? That will play a large part in the decision.]]> Thu, 05 May 2016 14:14:46 +0000 http://www.rpod-owners.com/forum_posts.asp?TID=7875&PID=74431#74431 Pod People Wannabees : Hello Pod PeopleAfter many years... http://www.rpod-owners.com/forum_posts.asp?TID=7875&PID=74429#74429 Author: larbear
Subject: 7875
Posted: 05 May 2016 at 12:12pm

Hello Pod People
After many years of camping when our kids were little...canvas tent...home made used pop up...new Jayco pop up...We then purchased a very small cabin in the woods and gave our middle daughter and son-in-law the old idle Jayco.  
The past 20+ years our time away from home has been cabin trips....but now the bug to camp and maybe travel a bit has bit us.  After much research on-line we feel the best for our re-entry is the R-Pod!
Now the choice:  We want an easy tow and set up and want to keep it simple and less costly...so thought the rp171 was the way to go.  We'll travel alone/ with our lab-mix/ maybe a grandkid or two (grandkids range from 33 to 5 years and a 9 year old great grandson) I'm sure the grandchildren who may want to tag along for a short overnight would be the little ones.
Anyway...we are also like (even tho not keen on slide out idea) the 177, 178, 179 and maybe 180.  Plan to look at 2016 or 2017 models.
So we wannabee Podders need help deciding on a model and year....any suggestions as we get going would be appreciated.
Sorry for the loong winded message.
Thanking you in advance!
Larbear from MN
]]> Thu, 05 May 2016 12:12:52 +0000 http://www.rpod-owners.com/forum_posts.asp?TID=7875&PID=74429#74429