First time RV buyer
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Forum Name: Introduce Yourself
Forum Discription: New Members - tell us about yourself and your r-pod
URL: http://www.rpod-owners.com/forum_posts.asp?TID=11793
Printed Date: 29 Aug 2025 at 1:31am
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Topic: First time RV buyer
Posted By: Craigmri
Subject: First time RV buyer
Date Posted: 26 Jun 2018 at 6:16pm
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So here I am...50 years old and looking to purchase my first travel trailer. Used to camp as a child and not looking to tent on the ground...and its Florida so I need A/C too hahahaha... Stumbled upon the R-Pod series and like that I can tow with a Minivan. Really like the 179 and the 190. The 179 offers a great kitchen setup where-as the 190 offers a full bathroom. Both have the U-shaped dinettes we like so much. Questions.... 1) Is the 13.5K A/C enough to keep the R-pod cool in the hottest and humid Florida summer days? 2) Will a new Toyota Sienna with Brake controller be enough to tow with confidence? 3) Are there dealers out there with reputations for offering great deals? I dont care how far I have to travel. Thanks in advance! Craig Spring Hill, FL
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Replies:
Posted By: furpod
Date Posted: 26 Jun 2018 at 7:22pm
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1) Yes. 2) What's the tow rating for your particular Van? Even in 1 ton trucks, there are many different tow ratings based on options and gearing. 3) Lowest prices in the east will be found at Couch's RV Nation in Ohio. Going to a distant dealer can save money, but has a few possible issues, like warranty service. ------------- |
Posted By: Craigmri
Date Posted: 26 Jun 2018 at 8:03pm
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Furpod, Thanks for your reply. The owners manual says with Trailer brakes 3,500 lbs. Combined Vehicle and trailer weight of 8,900 lbs. I know its not a Super Duty but the majority of my towing will be on pancake Flat Florida roads. Craig
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Posted By: Ghosthawk
Date Posted: 27 Jun 2018 at 7:43am
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My wife and I are waiting for a 189 that does not seem to arrive. I looked at all the 3500 lb Tow Vehicles, and went with a Jeep Grand Cherokee with 5500 lb. I just could not justify taking the chance we would never want to see the Blue Ridge Mtns or the Rockies. I think you'll be ok, keep it light as possible. Then if you have no issues slowly add a few luxury's.
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Posted By: Craigmri
Date Posted: 27 Jun 2018 at 7:47am
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Ghost, Is your Grand Cherokee an 8 or 6? I love the Mopar 8 cylinders for sure!!! Heck even their 3.6 is no slouch! Craig
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Posted By: Happy Tripping
Date Posted: 27 Jun 2018 at 10:02am
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I used an 8 cylinder Grand Cherokee, with trailer package, and didn't know the R-pod was back there. Now perfectly satisfied with Cherokee Trail Hawk and trailer package at 4500 lb capacity, east coast to west coast, and Yellowstone, included. Couch's ok, they will find locals for warranty work for you but 'locals' may not be really close-by.
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Posted By: Cannot
Date Posted: 27 Jun 2018 at 8:02pm
Not all Siennas equipped tow package. For example, the tow package is standard for 2007 Sienna but it's optional for 2008-2010. Not sure about 3rd generation Sienna. I would double check with Toyota. Provide them the VIN number to make sure your Sienna has tow package. |
Posted By: Ghosthawk
Date Posted: 28 Jun 2018 at 7:16am
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Mine is a 6 and has the factory trailer package. I have the original Mopar electric brake controller I need to install one of these days. In Theory we should have an R-pod to play with in 2 weeks. In theory. If it don't happen I'm going to be demanding money back and file some paperwork. They have them on the lots down in Minneapolis. Its only some 250 miles away. Not like the other guy is that much closer.
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Posted By: StephenH
Date Posted: 28 Jun 2018 at 7:52am
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You might want to check the specifications on that Mopar brake controller. Is it time delay or proportional? The one you want is proportional as it will react to the intensity of braking in proportion to your application of the TV's brakes. If the Mopar is time delay, it will work, but won't be as good.
------------- StephenH Happy is the man that findeth wisdom,... http://www.rpod-owners.com/forum_posts.asp?TID=7712 - ouR escaPOD mods Former RPod 179 Current Cherokee Grey Wolf 24 JS |
Posted By: ajardina
Date Posted: 28 Jun 2018 at 1:19pm
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Why not consider buying used? I live in Florida and have a 2012 R-Pod 181 for sale. It is in top condition, with new tires plus the spare and comes with the the the dome tent for the Pod. Feel free to reply. Angelo Jaxsonville FL
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Posted By: mcarter
Date Posted: 28 Jun 2018 at 3:47pm
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Ajardina,
I bought used and got a heck of a deal. BUT - I am an experienced RVer, I think some especially those new to the RV community really need and want that warranty and dealer help. I would say if you are a used buyer you have to be able and capable to do the work yourself or financial prepared to pay for it. Mine (knock on wood) has never been in a shop, but I also have done every repair and maintenance task. ------------- Mike Carter 2015 178 " I had the right to remain silent, I just didn't have the ability." |
Posted By: Ben Herman
Date Posted: 28 Jun 2018 at 5:04pm
Same here - I bought my 2016 179 for about $5K less than new, but I've owned several trailers and have a reasonable foundation. But that $5k could buy alot of troubleshooting/repair work if needed. And the guy I bought it from took good care of it.
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Posted By: mcarter
Date Posted: 28 Jun 2018 at 5:06pm
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+1 - makes a difference if you know what you're doing, even if you don't, if you have gumption to try. ------------- Mike Carter 2015 178 " I had the right to remain silent, I just didn't have the ability." |
Posted By: Craigmri
Date Posted: 28 Jun 2018 at 5:23pm
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Guys is $16K a good deal for a new 190? Comes with Power tongue jack and Thule Awning. Craig
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Posted By: mcarter
Date Posted: 28 Jun 2018 at 5:28pm
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I would say so if you compare to Couchs, BTW the jack and awning are pretty much standard. Nothing free there. ------------- Mike Carter 2015 178 " I had the right to remain silent, I just didn't have the ability." |
Posted By: Craigmri
Date Posted: 28 Jun 2018 at 5:34pm
Oh thats cool...I thought those were options. That price is Couchs....Worried though about warranty in FLA....LazyDayz may put me on the back burner if I need warranty service. Craig
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Posted By: mcarter
Date Posted: 28 Jun 2018 at 5:36pm
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Thought so. They are best in nation for volume sales. Can't speak to warranty, RVs not like cars. ------------- Mike Carter 2015 178 " I had the right to remain silent, I just didn't have the ability." |
Posted By: Ben Herman
Date Posted: 28 Jun 2018 at 5:37pm
| How does that compare to FL dealer prices? Have to factor in cost to have delivered and/or expenses to drive from FL to pick it up to get true price. |
Posted By: mcarter
Date Posted: 28 Jun 2018 at 5:47pm
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If a sensible buyer, that was a consideration. I can go a long way for a couple thousand. ------------- Mike Carter 2015 178 " I had the right to remain silent, I just didn't have the ability." |
Posted By: Richand Cindy
Date Posted: 29 Jun 2018 at 12:31pm
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We have bought two new RV's the past two years. Although we winter in Florida we did not buy either RV there. Prices were much cheaper (just a couple of hundred above Couchs) in the northeast than in Florida despite more competition down there. Also the reviews for Lazy Days in Tampa were not great when I researched them. Even the Keystone we got was several thousand cheaper than any dealer in Florida (and a $1000 less than the show price at the Tampa RV show). I would check every dealer north of you until you hit one that will come close to Couchs. Then check for dealer/repair shops locally and see who would do your warranty work. If you find a willing warranty shop then buy wherever you can get the best price.
------------- OLD 2017.5 RPOD 180 + 2015 Jeep Cherokee Trailhawk NEW: 2018 Passport Elite 23RB + 2017 Ram 1500 Diesel |
Posted By: Craigmri
Date Posted: 01 Jul 2018 at 1:01pm
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So after spending the weekend looking at RVs, we looked at everything from R-Pods to Terry Classics to Larger slide out Double bunks(28') and everything in between.....initially we thought the Wet bath was a deal killer on the R-pod however after realizing that we can live with it for the type of usage we intend, we decided to reconsider. After considering several key points: * First Camper so easier to tow and maneuver in the parks, Learn what we like and dont like for next larger investment(or even if we dont like camping at all and want to sell for smaller loss). * Easier to clean and maintain in/out * Fiberglass roof(Really turned off on Rubber membrane roofs * Feature set * Overall Quality seems reasonable by RV standards at least We decided to go with the R-Pod 179. We haven't purchased yet as I now will decide if we want new or pre-owned. We like the 179 over the others as the Kitchen and central U-shaped dinette appeals to us....The wet-bath is a negative but one we can live with. I adore the looks inside and out and think we can have a blast with it. Also a big bonus with the R-Pod is we can safely tow with our Toyota Sienna(with WDH/Anti sway and Brake controller). So now to decide....Do we want new or pre-owned? I believe I can get a new one for approx $16k(With Thule awning and Power tongue jack). I would have to travel out of state to get it however. On the other hand I found a pre-owned 2016 179 with R-Dome, Weight distributing hitch and a cover for an "Asking Price" of $11,900.....He is somewhat negotiable so that number should go a little better. I understand the '16 has smaller alloy wheels, Lacks LP hookup and a few other features but it is in great condition and the price might make the most sense. Stay tuned.... Craig |
Posted By: StephenH
Date Posted: 01 Jul 2018 at 1:58pm
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Welcome! Yes, the 2016 has 14" wheels. Throw a set of Carlisle load range D tires on and you will be good. The 2016 (at least ours does) came with risers. Later, they changed the angle on the axle arms and deleted the risers. The asking price of the used one seems okay, but I think you should check RV Trader to get an idea of prices in your area. Like you, we decided that the larger kitchen of the 179 outweighed the negative of the wet bath. I have not been disappointed with it. Since purchasing it, I have made a number of modifications which you can see by following the link in my signature. Whatever you decide, I wish you many great adventures and the making of many wonderful memories in the process. We recently returned from a trip of almost 6,500 miles from NC to AZ, UT, MT, WY, and points between. Yellowstone NP has been a lifelong dream that we finally were able to fulfill. The R-Pods are great for travel. If we were going to park it at a campground somewhere and use as a vacation home, it would not be ideal. For travel though, it is great! ------------- StephenH Happy is the man that findeth wisdom,... http://www.rpod-owners.com/forum_posts.asp?TID=7712 - ouR escaPOD mods Former RPod 179 Current Cherokee Grey Wolf 24 JS |
Posted By: Ben Herman
Date Posted: 01 Jul 2018 at 2:27pm
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Thats a good price for a used one. We had the same decision to make, for us the 4K price difference was the deal-maker. I figure its easy enough to add an lp connection if I ever want one, and a power tongue jack can be purchased from etrailer for $125. We agonized over the wet bath too, but overall liked the 179 interior layout the best (kitchen is wonderful!). The most frustrating part of the bath for me is the sink - its almost impossible to use it without getting water all over the floor. I'm searching for a small round stainless sink (maybe 8-10 inches) and hope to build a counter for it if I can find a sink. The shower and toilet are no problem, and I'm 6'1". Best of luck with your decision!
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Posted By: StephenH
Date Posted: 01 Jul 2018 at 2:33pm
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I moved the faucet and surround from where it was originally installed over about an inch closer to the corner. It does not eliminate splashing water on the floor, but it did cut it down significantly.
------------- StephenH Happy is the man that findeth wisdom,... http://www.rpod-owners.com/forum_posts.asp?TID=7712 - ouR escaPOD mods Former RPod 179 Current Cherokee Grey Wolf 24 JS |
Posted By: Craigmri
Date Posted: 01 Jul 2018 at 2:41pm
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After negotiating with the owner of the 2016 RP179,. We agreed to a selling price of $10,500 and includes the Blue Ox WDH/anti sway setup and R-Dome. I think it's a good deal.
Thanks Stephen and everyone else who replied with your advice and comments. Craig |
Posted By: StephenH
Date Posted: 01 Jul 2018 at 2:58pm
Congratulations! 
------------- StephenH Happy is the man that findeth wisdom,... http://www.rpod-owners.com/forum_posts.asp?TID=7712 - ouR escaPOD mods Former RPod 179 Current Cherokee Grey Wolf 24 JS |
Posted By: Ben Herman
Date Posted: 01 Jul 2018 at 3:05pm
I remember reading this in your mods but on mine the surround is already as far over as it can go. Still splashes......
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Posted By: Keith-N-Dar
Date Posted: 01 Jul 2018 at 4:05pm
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I have never been in a 179. In our 177 that is not a problem. It is a wet bath and the floor has a drain. I am not understanding the issue.
------------- Keith-N-Dar Boris & Betty (Boston Terriers) 2011 R-Pod 177 2010 Ford F-150 |
Posted By: StephenH
Date Posted: 01 Jul 2018 at 5:27pm
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When one is in the bath and just washing hands, one does not wish to have water splashing on his/her clothes. That is the issue. Otherwise, you are correct.
------------- StephenH Happy is the man that findeth wisdom,... http://www.rpod-owners.com/forum_posts.asp?TID=7712 - ouR escaPOD mods Former RPod 179 Current Cherokee Grey Wolf 24 JS |
Posted By: mcarter
Date Posted: 01 Jul 2018 at 5:51pm
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The bathroom sink is not very accommodating, probably why I use the kitchen sink, which is larger and easier to use. ------------- Mike Carter 2015 178 " I had the right to remain silent, I just didn't have the ability." |
Posted By: Ben Herman
Date Posted: 01 Jul 2018 at 6:10pm
Amen - and try brushing your teeth and spitting out into the sink. Maybe I'm not enough of a contortionist
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Posted By: Wood River Pod
Date Posted: 01 Jul 2018 at 8:27pm
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I ordered the kit from FR. I'm taking out our head sink in our 179. It's worthless in my opinion. Switching out the faucet to one without the spigot. It'll create more room and better function. Waiting to have the time to do the mod. Others that have done have been happy. If we miss it, we can always switch it back. Jeff ------------- Smith's in Hailey Early 2017 179 HRE http://www.rpod-owners.com/forum_posts.asp?TID=9134&PN=1&title=wood-river-179-mods - Wood River Mods |
Posted By: StephenH
Date Posted: 01 Jul 2018 at 8:43pm
I may do the same if I can convince the wife that it would be better. She is the one that wants to keep it, even with its problems. It does provide a convenient handhold to help stand up when in that tight space. At least it does provide a useful purpose. 
------------- StephenH Happy is the man that findeth wisdom,... http://www.rpod-owners.com/forum_posts.asp?TID=7712 - ouR escaPOD mods Former RPod 179 Current Cherokee Grey Wolf 24 JS |
Posted By: Ben Herman
Date Posted: 01 Jul 2018 at 9:56pm
| Well, I'll let you guys know if I can find a round sink that'll work. I'm picturing something 6-8" in diameter max with a mahogany counter. It will only stick out a bit more than the useless trapezoidal sink but the faucet would actually be lined up with the sink - novel idea I know. |
Posted By: Live2Camp
Date Posted: 02 Jul 2018 at 11:22am
Congratulations! And glad you found your way to this forum, it's great. You're going to love your RPod and all the adventures it helps you enjoy. ------------- 2017 R-Pod 179 HRE (the green one) His:Ford F150 double cab 4WD; Hers/mine:Tacoma V6 double cab 4WD Still love rugged, diggin' comfy too |
Posted By: Keith-N-Dar
Date Posted: 02 Jul 2018 at 1:18pm
I need to lok at a 179. The sink is in the corner of the shower next to the outside wall on our 177. It doesn't splash water out when the faucet runs and is really out of the way when using the bathroom. And it is not a problem when brushing teeth. FR nus have changed something from my 2011 177 to now. ------------- Keith-N-Dar Boris & Betty (Boston Terriers) 2011 R-Pod 177 2010 Ford F-150 |
Posted By: jato
Date Posted: 02 Jul 2018 at 3:13pm
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Same here, no problems with our sink and our 177 was built January 2011. It came with the sarengeti decals.
------------- God's pod '11 model 177 '17 Ford F-150 4WD 3.5 Ecoboost Jim and Diane by beautiful Torch Lake "...and you will know the Truth and the Truth will set you free." |