R-pod Owners Forum : Decisions - decisions - decisions http://www.rpod-owners.com/ This is an XML content feed of; R-pod Owners Forum : Introduce Yourself : Decisions - decisions - decisions Copyright (c) 2006-2009 Web Wiz Forums - All Rights Reserved. Sun, 03 May 2026 16:33:53 +0000 Sun, 19 Feb 2017 18:57:20 +0000 http://blogs.law.harvard.edu/tech/rss Web Wiz Forums 9.64 360 www.rpod-owners.com/RSS_post_feed.asp?TID=9342 R-pod Owners Forum http://www.rpod-owners.com/forum_images/web_wiz_forums.png http://www.rpod-owners.com/ Decisions - decisions - decisions : 1. Hondas do not have a serviceable... http://www.rpod-owners.com/forum_posts.asp?TID=9342&PID=88181#88181 Author: ribet
Subject: 9342
Posted: 19 Feb 2017 at 6:57pm

1. Hondas do not have a serviceable transmission filter. Recommend using synthetic ATF and changing it every 30k miles. 
2. It costs to tow no matter what. So I enjoy the trip and accept the cost. Life is shorter than you think and getting shorter every day you wait. 
3. My wife had a stroke last year and made me smell the roses.  We are in the early 70s and I realized better enjoy now!
4  We have a 171 without a slide out. Yes bath is small but it works. Leave door open, more room. 
5. I pull with a Ford Flex, MARGINAL, but we are in no hurry.
6. Scan tools are cheep and some send info to a smart phone.  You can use while driving to monitor  tempt.

]]> Sun, 19 Feb 2017 18:57:20 +0000 http://www.rpod-owners.com/forum_posts.asp?TID=9342&PID=88181#88181 Decisions - decisions - decisions : Originally posted by furpod Go... http://www.rpod-owners.com/forum_posts.asp?TID=9342&PID=88178#88178 Author: StephenH
Subject: 9342
Posted: 19 Feb 2017 at 6:00pm

Originally posted by furpod

Go to the Torque forum, one of the ongoing things there is tracking down the code strings and such to unlock modules and data that may not be native to the port interface. New truck puts transmission info right on the dash.. so, don't use torque anymore for towing. Still use it in the GTi.. Wink

I searched and apparently, there is no code string for transmission temperature. Thumbs Down There may be no sender that can interface with the OBDII device. I'll have to figure out some other way of monitoring transmission temperature. I don't want to add yet another device to do the task.
]]> Sun, 19 Feb 2017 18:00:46 +0000 http://www.rpod-owners.com/forum_posts.asp?TID=9342&PID=88178#88178 Decisions - decisions - decisions : Originally posted by BogieMeisterCurrently... http://www.rpod-owners.com/forum_posts.asp?TID=9342&PID=88165#88165 Author: ToolmanJohn
Subject: 9342
Posted: 19 Feb 2017 at 7:50am

Originally posted by BogieMeister

Currently I am in the decision mode. I'm torn between the r-pod 179 and the T@B. This will be my first RV, and I really don't want to have to replace it because I made a bad choice. I'm an old, big, guy( 6'1" 235 lbs) My tow vehicle will be a 2016 Honda Pilot AWD (tow capacity 5000 lbs) The transmission is a six speed, which drops to a four speed if you take it out of over-drive. Which about doubles the rpm at 55 mph. I will be traveling mostly by myself, but occasionally by sweetie will join me. We live in Texas, which is relatively flat-ish.

So, here's my question. With the miniature T@B (1670 lbs) I will be able to drive in overdrive, but will be living in cramped quarters. From the articles seen on this forum I assume that with the r-pod I will not be able to use overdrive. I believe this will over-tax the drive train and ruin my gas mileage.

What are your thoughts?

  My thoughts on your situation. You are a large guy. You will NOT like the R-Pod bathroom/shower BUT you can use it. If you intend to stay at campgrounds with showers/bathrooms, the T@B might be the best choice for sleeping. Some of them have small kitchens as well. The T@B is smaller, and lighter, but I think you should visit a T@B forum and ask owners there what they comfortably tow with.

 I totally get your thoughts on making the wrong choice. My first small camper was just as you described. I made a wrong choice with a camper that had a very small fresh tank, and only a little while later I bought my R-Pod. It was a huge step up in weekend livability. Now I have a small dual sport motorcycle, and along with my mountain biking habit, I want to take the motorcycle with me much further afield (cross country). This means getting a small toy hauler that is within the capabilities of my tow vehicle.  Research, research, research.
]]> Sun, 19 Feb 2017 07:50:48 +0000 http://www.rpod-owners.com/forum_posts.asp?TID=9342&PID=88165#88165 Decisions - decisions - decisions : Originally posted by StephenHWhen... http://www.rpod-owners.com/forum_posts.asp?TID=9342&PID=88163#88163 Author: furpod
Subject: 9342
Posted: 19 Feb 2017 at 7:14am

Originally posted by StephenH

When we were towing with the Escape, I would put the transmission selector in the Sport (or, as I like to call it, Sclepp) mode. That locked out the top gear and worked quite well with the Escape's 6-speed transmission.

Now, with the Nissan Frontier with its 5-speed transmission, I leave it in drive most of the time. When we were in the Rockies, I did switch off the overdrive. However, on flatter terrain at a lower elevation, the transmission did not seem to be struggling and changing gear much, so I left it the OD engaged. I am using the Torque app, but the Nissan apparently does not have a sender that is available to the Torque app for transmission temperature. I wonder if one could be added in.


Go to the Torque forum, one of the ongoing things there is tracking down the code strings and such to unlock modules and data that may not be native to the port interface. New truck puts transmission info right on the dash.. so, don't use torque anymore for towing. Still use it in the GTi.. Wink
]]> Sun, 19 Feb 2017 07:14:35 +0000 http://www.rpod-owners.com/forum_posts.asp?TID=9342&PID=88163#88163 Decisions - decisions - decisions : When we were towing with the Escape,... http://www.rpod-owners.com/forum_posts.asp?TID=9342&PID=88158#88158 Author: StephenH
Subject: 9342
Posted: 18 Feb 2017 at 8:11pm

When we were towing with the Escape, I would put the transmission selector in the Sport (or, as I like to call it, Sclepp) mode. That locked out the top gear and worked quite well with the Escape's 6-speed transmission.

Now, with the Nissan Frontier with its 5-speed transmission, I leave it in drive most of the time. When we were in the Rockies, I did switch off the overdrive. However, on flatter terrain at a lower elevation, the transmission did not seem to be struggling and changing gear much, so I left it the OD engaged. I am using the Torque app, but the Nissan apparently does not have a sender that is available to the Torque app for transmission temperature. I wonder if one could be added in.
]]> Sat, 18 Feb 2017 20:11:40 +0000 http://www.rpod-owners.com/forum_posts.asp?TID=9342&PID=88158#88158 Decisions - decisions - decisions : I have a 177 R-Pod and my friend... http://www.rpod-owners.com/forum_posts.asp?TID=9342&PID=88136#88136 Author: ToolmanJohn
Subject: 9342
Posted: 18 Feb 2017 at 10:20am

 I have a 177 R-Pod and my friend has a older T@B. We both had 4Runners (he still has his 4Runner). I can say that both of us returned nearly identical results towing with 4Runners, whether it was an R-Pod or T@B. 

The distances were 480 miles round trip from Connecticut to northern Vermont. Both 4Runners returned about 10-12 mpg over a few trips of comparison. Also, both 4Runners had some tail wagging the dog effect when windy outside at highway speed (65mph), and neither can tow in highest transmission gear.

 You should check out both the T@B and the R-Pod, but the R-Pod has a bathroom, toilet, nice kitchen area, and large fresh, gray, and black tanks, which no T@B does to my knowledge. I haven't checked out T@B's in a few years so that may have changed. I never thought the T@B was worth the money they were asking for them compared to the R-Pod. But my friend bought his used, and he uses the dome/tent for his T@B and it works for him. He hasn't had any issues with it.
]]> Sat, 18 Feb 2017 10:20:32 +0000 http://www.rpod-owners.com/forum_posts.asp?TID=9342&PID=88136#88136 Decisions - decisions - decisions : I have no personal experience... http://www.rpod-owners.com/forum_posts.asp?TID=9342&PID=88135#88135 Author: Pod People
Subject: 9342
Posted: 18 Feb 2017 at 9:23am

I have no personal experience towing with a Honda Pilot.  However, one of our friends that we camp with regularly tows his MPG with a Honda Pilot.  the MPG is almost identical in size and weight to an R Pod. we have been all over the country together and he has had no issues towing with a Pilot. I don't know his exact model. engine, transmission, etc.   the only thing I notice is that he has to stop for gas more frequently because of a smaller gas tank.

I would watch your overall cargo weight limit , realizing that the tongue weight is part of that .
good luck with your decision-we obviously love our pod and would recommend it
Safe travels
Vann
]]> Sat, 18 Feb 2017 09:23:59 +0000 http://www.rpod-owners.com/forum_posts.asp?TID=9342&PID=88135#88135 Decisions - decisions - decisions : I never tow the Pod and use OD.... http://www.rpod-owners.com/forum_posts.asp?TID=9342&PID=88112#88112 Author: mcarter
Subject: 9342
Posted: 17 Feb 2017 at 5:52pm

I never tow the Pod and use OD. Both GM and Ford have option to bypass OD. Significant difference in trans temp, while towing in OD. My difference in mileage form non-towing with OD and towing without OD is pretty high. But it is the price you pay. I like the T&B, it's priced like an Airstream product. I had a mid 60s 30' airstream, real quality, just took a 454 Chevy dually to pull it. My opinion go with the 179.]]> Fri, 17 Feb 2017 17:52:57 +0000 http://www.rpod-owners.com/forum_posts.asp?TID=9342&PID=88112#88112 Decisions - decisions - decisions : On a side note.. T@B does have... http://www.rpod-owners.com/forum_posts.asp?TID=9342&PID=88107#88107 Author: furpod
Subject: 9342
Posted: 17 Feb 2017 at 3:39pm

On a side note.. T@B does have a new model, the T@B 400... I have not seen one in person yet, but it's a USA model of the European T@B, and is bigger then the rest of them...]]> Fri, 17 Feb 2017 15:39:55 +0000 http://www.rpod-owners.com/forum_posts.asp?TID=9342&PID=88107#88107 Decisions - decisions - decisions : Plus the T@B cost a few thousand... http://www.rpod-owners.com/forum_posts.asp?TID=9342&PID=88106#88106 Author: mjlrpod
Subject: 9342
Posted: 17 Feb 2017 at 3:25pm

Plus the T@B cost a few thousand more, that'll even out your gas expense for a few years.]]> Fri, 17 Feb 2017 15:25:49 +0000 http://www.rpod-owners.com/forum_posts.asp?TID=9342&PID=88106#88106 Decisions - decisions - decisions : We have a 179 and love it. Lots... http://www.rpod-owners.com/forum_posts.asp?TID=9342&PID=88104#88104 Author: Leo B
Subject: 9342
Posted: 17 Feb 2017 at 2:10pm

We have a 179 and love it. Lots of storage and room to move. We tow with a Dodge Grand Caravan up and down the east coast. We average 13.5 per gallon  in Vermontand 15-17 once we get below Massachusetts ( depending on wind).]]> Fri, 17 Feb 2017 14:10:36 +0000 http://www.rpod-owners.com/forum_posts.asp?TID=9342&PID=88104#88104 Decisions - decisions - decisions : I get crappy mileage all the... http://www.rpod-owners.com/forum_posts.asp?TID=9342&PID=88100#88100 Author: furpod
Subject: 9342
Posted: 17 Feb 2017 at 12:39pm

I get crappy mileage all the time.. But I don't fear overdrive or mountains.. LOL.

I love the construction, materials, and vibe of the T@B's.. BUT.. I am a full sized human, almost always have my sweetie with me, and a couple larger dogs.. But even without them, I think a T@B would get pretty small if you have a couple rainy days..
]]> Fri, 17 Feb 2017 12:39:00 +0000 http://www.rpod-owners.com/forum_posts.asp?TID=9342&PID=88100#88100 Decisions - decisions - decisions : I never drive in OD when towing.... http://www.rpod-owners.com/forum_posts.asp?TID=9342&PID=88099#88099 Author: hogone
Subject: 9342
Posted: 17 Feb 2017 at 12:23pm

I never drive in OD when towing. hogone]]> Fri, 17 Feb 2017 12:23:23 +0000 http://www.rpod-owners.com/forum_posts.asp?TID=9342&PID=88099#88099 Decisions - decisions - decisions : BogieMeister - great points made... http://www.rpod-owners.com/forum_posts.asp?TID=9342&PID=88098#88098 Author: ParPod
Subject: 9342
Posted: 17 Feb 2017 at 11:21am

BogieMeister - great points made by both CharlieM and jato - between the two units - I'd go 179 but then again like most on this forum I'm biased!
Good Luck with your choice
]]> Fri, 17 Feb 2017 11:21:56 +0000 http://www.rpod-owners.com/forum_posts.asp?TID=9342&PID=88098#88098 Decisions - decisions - decisions : Great point Charlie. We have towed... http://www.rpod-owners.com/forum_posts.asp?TID=9342&PID=88097#88097 Author: jato
Subject: 9342
Posted: 17 Feb 2017 at 11:15am

Great point Charlie.  We have towed our 177 with both an '08 and '13 Explorer and rarely put it in
OD for the reasons stated above.  Most anyone towing a pod get from 11-14 mpg overall when you factor in mountains, city, country driving.  That being said, even though I am a small guy compared to you (5'11") I get a bit claustrophobic in the T&B, kinda tight and not very tall inside.  You will experience a significant difference in room between the two. 
]]> Fri, 17 Feb 2017 11:15:43 +0000 http://www.rpod-owners.com/forum_posts.asp?TID=9342&PID=88097#88097 Decisions - decisions - decisions : First, any Pod will lower you... http://www.rpod-owners.com/forum_posts.asp?TID=9342&PID=88095#88095 Author: CharlieM
Subject: 9342
Posted: 17 Feb 2017 at 10:50am

First, any Pod will lower you gas mileage more than the T@B. It's a simple function of frontal cross sectional area. Wind resistance has more effect than weight unless you climbing steep hills.

Second, dropping into a non OD gear is good for the engine and transmission. The engine is able to operate in its design range and the transmission is locked in a gear. I monitor transmission temperature and have experimented with OD and non OD running on flat stretches. Engaging the OD causes an immediate and marked rise in transmission temperature without a noticeable increase in MPG. Heat is bad news for the transmission.
]]> Fri, 17 Feb 2017 10:50:13 +0000 http://www.rpod-owners.com/forum_posts.asp?TID=9342&PID=88095#88095 Decisions - decisions - decisions : My real concern is the wear and... http://www.rpod-owners.com/forum_posts.asp?TID=9342&PID=88094#88094 Author: BogieMeister
Subject: 9342
Posted: 17 Feb 2017 at 10:27am

My real concern is the wear and tear on the TV if I have to drive in fourth gear all the time. Do you use your OD?

The reason I am leaning toward the 179 as opposed to the 178  is because on the 178 I see no obvious place to store clothing and toiletries.
]]> Fri, 17 Feb 2017 10:27:26 +0000 http://www.rpod-owners.com/forum_posts.asp?TID=9342&PID=88094#88094 Decisions - decisions - decisions : My experience with other campers... http://www.rpod-owners.com/forum_posts.asp?TID=9342&PID=88092#88092 Author: ArenaBlanca
Subject: 9342
Posted: 17 Feb 2017 at 10:12am

My experience with other campers is that the drag effects the gas mileage more than the weight.  That said, you are going to experience reduced mileage with either RV.  I'd go with the 179.  I did!]]> Fri, 17 Feb 2017 10:12:18 +0000 http://www.rpod-owners.com/forum_posts.asp?TID=9342&PID=88092#88092 Decisions - decisions - decisions : Currently I am in the decision... http://www.rpod-owners.com/forum_posts.asp?TID=9342&PID=88091#88091 Author: BogieMeister
Subject: 9342
Posted: 17 Feb 2017 at 9:57am

Currently I am in the decision mode. I'm torn between the r-pod 179 and the T@B. This will be my first RV, and I really don't want to have to replace it because I made a bad choice. I'm an old, big, guy( 6'1" 235 lbs) My tow vehicle will be a 2016 Honda Pilot AWD (tow capacity 5000 lbs) The transmission is a six speed, which drops to a four speed if you take it out of over-drive. Which about doubles the rpm at 55 mph. I will be traveling mostly by myself, but occasionally by sweetie will join me. We live in Texas, which is relatively flat-ish.

So, here's my question. With the miniature T@B (1670 lbs) I will be able to drive in overdrive, but will be living in cramped quarters. From the articles seen on this forum I assume that with the r-pod I will not be able to use overdrive. I believe this will over-tax the drive train and ruin my gas mileage.

What are your thoughts?
]]> Fri, 17 Feb 2017 09:57:33 +0000 http://www.rpod-owners.com/forum_posts.asp?TID=9342&PID=88091#88091