R-pod Owners Forum : New to forum, many questions http://www.rpod-owners.com/ This is an XML content feed of; R-pod Owners Forum : Introduce Yourself : New to forum, many questions Copyright (c) 2006-2009 Web Wiz Forums - All Rights Reserved. Sun, 03 May 2026 15:23:02 +0000 Sat, 28 Jan 2017 15:11:32 +0000 http://blogs.law.harvard.edu/tech/rss Web Wiz Forums 9.64 360 www.rpod-owners.com/RSS_post_feed.asp?TID=9255 R-pod Owners Forum http://www.rpod-owners.com/forum_images/web_wiz_forums.png http://www.rpod-owners.com/ New to forum, many questions : I'll bet soap on a rope... http://www.rpod-owners.com/forum_posts.asp?TID=9255&PID=87282#87282 Author: ronahue
Subject: 9255
Posted: 28 Jan 2017 at 3:11pm

I'll bet soap on a rope shaped like an r-pod would be a big sellerTongue]]> Sat, 28 Jan 2017 15:11:32 +0000 http://www.rpod-owners.com/forum_posts.asp?TID=9255&PID=87282#87282 New to forum, many questions : Thanks to all for the feedback... http://www.rpod-owners.com/forum_posts.asp?TID=9255&PID=87281#87281 Author: Sidewinder
Subject: 9255
Posted: 28 Jan 2017 at 3:00pm

Thanks to all for the feedback and advice.  It looks like the KIA will be ok as a TV, and I'll stay far away from the 3500 lb limit.  I'd still like to hear from Leo about how his minivan/179 rig handles.  Our other vehicle will be due for replacement in a few years, and I could look for higher tow capacity then (unless experience tells me to get it sooner).  The Ford Explorer seems like a good upgrade, but its engine is only slightly bigger than the KIA (3.5L vs. 3.3L), with slightly more HP (290 vs. 276), is only a couple hundred pounds heavier than the KIA, and it is also front wheel drive like the KIA, so I'm not sure why it has a much higher tow rating.  Beefier frame and suspension, maybe? 

Hadn't thought of the "George Washington Crossing the Delaware" posture for showering, but I guess it would work ok.  I'm very familiar with the "submarine shower" concept, having served on a submarine for a few years a long, long time ago.  Fell right back into that shower routine when we had a Class A.

Thanks again, and keep the comments and advice coming.
]]> Sat, 28 Jan 2017 15:00:51 +0000 http://www.rpod-owners.com/forum_posts.asp?TID=9255&PID=87281#87281 New to forum, many questions : Fascinating. I wouldn't describe... http://www.rpod-owners.com/forum_posts.asp?TID=9255&PID=87273#87273 Author: computerfixitguy
Subject: 9255
Posted: 28 Jan 2017 at 10:52am

Fascinating.  I wouldn't describe it as severely, more annoying.  You lack the information that my vehicle is self leveling because it has computer controlled air suspension.  However, because of physical bulk of the WDR hitch that I have, the part where the ball is, lets tall it a pumpkin.  The clearance is substandard.  The hitch itself just isn't that far from the ground because of its size.  I have an Equalizer hitch.  On my jeep its not really night and day better but its farther up.  I did get the riser blocks put on so I hope that does the trick.

Given I have transported the trailer without that WDR hitch, once, and never intend on doing it again, the trailer certainly had its way with the van.  However, I was even in a Tornado in Kansas with this setup; you know, the kind that tosses roadside lane closed light signs over fences, the winds were not a negative driving experience.  As for the weight, its a guess.  I don't know what my stuff weighs. More than I want to carry on my back.  The trailer is weighed without a battery or propane or fluids.  So my guess its somewhere around 3500 or more, but who knows really.  Since the SAE update in how to rate vehicles for towing capacity, my vehicle might worse than what Chrysler publishes.  I would be more suspect that the trailer does not way 2700 like it says it does because FR seems to lack attention to detail.  I didn't even have a valid VIN.

The small engine has limited utility when climbing the passes here in Colorado, but its bigger than my Jeep's and its just fine.   I don't think you are being harsh either, you emote concern in a constructive way, which is more than a lot of anonymous online posters attempt to do. Kudos to your maturity.

May 2017 be a year where we all get something we seek.

Derek 
]]> Sat, 28 Jan 2017 10:52:01 +0000 http://www.rpod-owners.com/forum_posts.asp?TID=9255&PID=87273#87273 New to forum, many questions : Most KOA campgrounds will let... http://www.rpod-owners.com/forum_posts.asp?TID=9255&PID=87270#87270 Author: john in idaho
Subject: 9255
Posted: 28 Jan 2017 at 10:28am

Most KOA campgrounds will let you shower for a reasonable fee.]]> Sat, 28 Jan 2017 10:28:48 +0000 http://www.rpod-owners.com/forum_posts.asp?TID=9255&PID=87270#87270 New to forum, many questions : SidewinderThe Rp-172 is the lightest... http://www.rpod-owners.com/forum_posts.asp?TID=9255&PID=87269#87269 Author: mjlrpod
Subject: 9255
Posted: 28 Jan 2017 at 10:18am

Sidewinder
The Rp-172 is the lightest pod going. Dryweight is 2125. Maybe you wont want bunk beds, but since your thinking about weight concerns, thought i'd mention it. I was back and forth between the Rp-176 and the Rp-172 when i was looking, and opted for the lighter Rp-172. Ive since purchased a new T.V. cause i was concerned about being so close to max load, and kinda wish i got the Rp-176, but i'll be just fine.
]]> Sat, 28 Jan 2017 10:18:12 +0000 http://www.rpod-owners.com/forum_posts.asp?TID=9255&PID=87269#87269 New to forum, many questions : To shower in our 177 I begin showering... http://www.rpod-owners.com/forum_posts.asp?TID=9255&PID=87265#87265 Author: codycountry
Subject: 9255
Posted: 28 Jan 2017 at 10:08am

To shower in our 177 I begin showering by sitting on the toilet, and then I stand up, turn around, and assume the "George Washington crossing the Delaware River" position.  It works quite well and I am 6' 185#s.I removed the shower hose from the wall holder so as to have full range of motion with it.]]> Sat, 28 Jan 2017 10:08:30 +0000 http://www.rpod-owners.com/forum_posts.asp?TID=9255&PID=87265#87265 New to forum, many questions : Originally posted by computerfixitguyI... http://www.rpod-owners.com/forum_posts.asp?TID=9255&PID=87263#87263 Author: mjlrpod
Subject: 9255
Posted: 28 Jan 2017 at 9:50am

Originally posted by computerfixitguy

I have a town & country with a 4.0L pulling a 2016 176T. 2750 dry, probably over 3500 loaded. I've driven from Omaha back to Denver then down to Mississippi and back. Drives just fine. I have a WISH which does help a lot. I drove once without it and will never do that again. Only complaint is rear end sag. It's so bad that I lost all my plumbing underneath because the drains were closer to the ground d. Two dealers could not fix the sag. A local hitch only place says they can. The sag caused less then optimal front end traction.

Clearance is an issue at the hitch, but livable. Otherwise it pulls fine at speed, 75+. My controller is a Prodigy RF because I also have a Jeep, which is why I bought all this. If I go east, I take the van, west it's the Jeep.

If you have a transmission cooler you will be OK. Love the RPod.


Derek

I would have to say that this is not my idea of a great endorsement. Nothing personal, but towing an admittedly over loaded, severely sagging, vehicle over 75 miles an hour is something i gotta speak up about. That is completely irresponsible. I hope you never severely hurt yourself, family, or some other innocent family driving along minding their business. I personally strive to give people the most sensible and responsible feedback to fellow podders here. I have to say, i dont find this either. I apologise for being harsh, but i cant help myself. I didnt want to be seen as being in agreement with those statements.
]]> Sat, 28 Jan 2017 09:50:56 +0000 http://www.rpod-owners.com/forum_posts.asp?TID=9255&PID=87263#87263 New to forum, many questions : I have a town & country with a... http://www.rpod-owners.com/forum_posts.asp?TID=9255&PID=87256#87256 Author: computerfixitguy
Subject: 9255
Posted: 28 Jan 2017 at 3:45am

I have a town & country with a 4.0L pulling a 2016 176T. 2750 dry, probably over 3500 loaded. I've driven from Omaha back to Denver then down to Mississippi and back. Drives just fine. I have a WISH which does help a lot. I drove once without it and will never do that again. Only complaint is rear end sag. It's so bad that I lost all my plumbing underneath because the drains were closer to the ground d. Two dealers could not fix the sag. A local hitch only place says they can. The sag caused less then optimal front end traction.

Clearance is an issue at the hitch, but livable. Otherwise it pulls fine at speed, 75+. My controller is a Prodigy RF because I also have a Jeep, which is why I bought all this. If I go east, I take the van, west it's the Jeep.

If you have a transmission cooler you will be OK. Love the RPod.


Derek]]> Sat, 28 Jan 2017 03:45:50 +0000 http://www.rpod-owners.com/forum_posts.asp?TID=9255&PID=87256#87256 New to forum, many questions : Don't drop the soap.lol I've... http://www.rpod-owners.com/forum_posts.asp?TID=9255&PID=87253#87253 Author: Bugout
Subject: 9255
Posted: 27 Jan 2017 at 8:57pm

Don't drop the soap.lol I've been there ]]> Fri, 27 Jan 2017 20:57:59 +0000 http://www.rpod-owners.com/forum_posts.asp?TID=9255&PID=87253#87253 New to forum, many questions : 1. I don't tow with a... http://www.rpod-owners.com/forum_posts.asp?TID=9255&PID=87244#87244 Author: Guests
Subject: 9255
Posted: 27 Jan 2017 at 2:28pm



1. I don't tow with a minivan. While at the lower end of capability, it sounds like you'll get where you are going - just don't plan on using 6th gear and no drag racing!

2. How to shower.....well.....you'll get used to it. The shower and toilet is one of my main reasons for owning a TT. Sitting - I did it at times. You just have to figure out what works. Whatever you do... DON'T DROP THE BAR OF SOAP! It's difficult to retrieve in such a small area.

3. I'd recommend it - especially since the van is probably softly sprung in the rear (and the 350lbs dead hitch weight limit). The FASTWAY E2 is very popular among this group (I use it).

4. I use the Prodigy controller and have been well pleased with it. There are cheaper ones and more expensive ones. I would not go with the cheaper (I've owned in the past). The few dollars more for the Prodigy is worth it.

If you are at all "handy", installation of the hitch and controller is not that bad and you can save a lot DIY. Many folks here have done it and can help with questions.

Good Luck!]]> Fri, 27 Jan 2017 14:28:15 +0000 http://www.rpod-owners.com/forum_posts.asp?TID=9255&PID=87244#87244 New to forum, many questions : I am sure Leo will share with... http://www.rpod-owners.com/forum_posts.asp?TID=9255&PID=87238#87238 Author: jato
Subject: 9255
Posted: 27 Jan 2017 at 12:17pm

I am sure Leo will share with you his experiences with his Dodge mini-van, he has done it for years going up and down the east coast pulling his pod.
My wife and I usually use campground showers (if available) to save on water usage since we normally dry camp.  Having been to third world countries like Mexico, Nicaragua, Guyana, Kosova, Albania, it isn't a big deal to get wet, turn water off, soap up, rinse off.  My shower takes about a minute, my wife takes longer, lots of hair on her head!  We leave the door open, gives a bit more room, beside, the curtain contains the water to inside the shower.
We do not use a WDH, just a sway bar control, works well with our Explorer.
Our current Explorer came equipped with a Prodigy controller, no complaints.
]]> Fri, 27 Jan 2017 12:17:00 +0000 http://www.rpod-owners.com/forum_posts.asp?TID=9255&PID=87238#87238 New to forum, many questions : Looking at Rpod 171 and 177, because... http://www.rpod-owners.com/forum_posts.asp?TID=9255&PID=87232#87232 Author: Sidewinder
Subject: 9255
Posted: 27 Jan 2017 at 10:31am

Looking at Rpod 171 and 177, because these are on the lighter side, around 2500 lbs dry, according to the shipping labels I've been able to view in Rpod listings on rvtrader. Other Rpods have more room, but I'm not comfortable with their heavier weight.

I'm looking for input and feedback from anybody with experience in these areas. My TV is a 2016 Kia Sedona minivan. 3.3L engine, 276 hp, 6 speed transmission, with manual shift capability. Rated for 3500 lb tow capacity and 350 lb hitch weight. Will just be DW and me, no kids, grandkids, or pets. We are not completely new to camping, having previously owned a pop-up camper and then a class A rv, but never a real travel trailer.

1. I'd like to hear from anybody using a minivan as TV for these Rpods. Is it unsafe, or unrealistic, to use a 3500 lb rated minivan to pull a 2500 lb Rpod (so maybe 2700 to 2800 lb actual loaded weight)? I plan to travel with mostly empty holding tanks, and use camping sites with full hookups, so won't be traveling with 250 lbs of water. Any dry camping would be only a day or two at most.

2. Both DW and I are wondering how anybody can take a shower in the wet bath. We are not big people, but just standing up in the wet bath is a trick, the backs of my legs are against the toilet, and turning around is next to impossible. So what do you guys do? Take a shower sitting down? Or simply forget showering in the camper and just use campground showers?

3. Should we use a WDH right from the start? If so, what hitch do you recommend?

4. What brake controller do you recommend? Any other advice or experience you want to share about using brake controllers would be very welcome. My only experience towing trailers was 30 years ago with a popup camper and a small boat trailer, each towed by a full-size van. Neither trailer had brakes.

I appreciate any feedback you want to share.]]> Fri, 27 Jan 2017 10:31:05 +0000 http://www.rpod-owners.com/forum_posts.asp?TID=9255&PID=87232#87232