Pod Prod
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Category: R-pod Discussion Forums
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=4060
Printed Date: 01 Sep 2025 at 11:24am
Software Version: Web Wiz Forums 9.64 - http://www.webwizforums.com
Topic: Pod Prod
Posted By: fwunder
Subject: Pod Prod
Date Posted: 05 Oct 2013 at 10:36am
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Good day and hello from Stockton, NJ. This forum has already providing us with a wealth of information concerning our potential purchase of an R-Pod. It has been a great Pod Prod!  So Monday we will visit a dealer within a two hour drive who happens to have a number of R-Pods in inventory. We think we have narrowed it down to a "new" 2013 177. We have never done this before and although I do have 10's of thousands of (nautical) miles logged cruising small boats, this land yacht thing is totally new to both of us. Any pre-sales advice would be most appreciated. First question would be price. I'm quoted $13,500 for a 2013 177. Realistically, in your opinion, how close would that be to the "roll-away" price? Our TV is a 2007 4Runner Limited (V6) w/towing package. Following the above question, I'd love to hear from any member experiences with the same TV. Are there any specific fit-n-finish areas you would concentrate on when looking at a R-Pod? Gelcoat blisters, thru hull fittings, prop damage...woops, sorry, former life... Anyway, thanks for all the information already provided by this congenial group and thanks in advance for any further advice or Pod Prodding you may provide! Have a great weekend! fred
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Replies:
Posted By: Lefty
Date Posted: 05 Oct 2013 at 10:59am
| We bought a new 2014 178 for $14, 500 in NC. You are also looking at a weight distribution anti sway hitch. We bought the Equalizer for $750. Also will need a brake controller. We bought the Prodigy P3. We also pull with a 2007 4Runner Limited with the towing package. We love everything. |
Posted By: Sleepless
Date Posted: 05 Oct 2013 at 11:25am
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$13,537 is the price Couch's in Hamilton, OH quoted me for a 2014 178 with all the options (except for a bicycle carrier) inluding the R-Dome and axle risers. I believe the 177 is about the same price, maybe a little less. I don't know where you are located, but if you are not too far from there, you might ask them for a quote. The 2014 has many options not found on the 2013 models. Bob ------------- 2014 R-Pod 178 (OUR POD) 2009 Chevrolet Avalanche |
Posted By: fwunder
Date Posted: 05 Oct 2013 at 12:51pm
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Wow. Thanks already for some great information. Looks like I got a little more studying to do. Hey, here's a crazy question... If we do decide to do this, I will want to move the pod around our property a bit. I can't just plop it in my driveway and I have a wonderful spot in the back of our relatively flat property. Sooo, what do y'all use to move your pod around besides your TV? I have a 22HP lawn tractor that I haul around quite a bit with. Would that do it? Thanks! fred
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Posted By: fwunder
Date Posted: 05 Oct 2013 at 3:19pm
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Sorry to be such a pest, but I just discovered that many, if not all, dealers list as options: Interior Luxury Package Exterior Luxury Package Lamilux 4000 Cool Vanilla Gel-Coated Fbg 13.5Btu A/C Convection Microwave Oven So what is "Lamilux 4000 Cool Vanilla Gel-Coated Fbg"? Is that like the old "undercoating option" days"? And, what would one expect to pay for A/C and microwave? Are there other "must have options" like an anchor? ;) Thanks and I will certainly report back after meeting w/dealer Monday. fred
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Posted By: Sleepless
Date Posted: 05 Oct 2013 at 3:45pm
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Here is the feature and option page from the 2014 R-Pod brochure. http://www.forestriverinc.com/TravelTrailers/rpod/default.aspx?page=features The Lamilux 4000 Cool Vanilla Gel-coated fiberglass is the laminate "skin" applied to the exterior walls and roof of all R-Pods. It is not undercoating, but is the outer surface of the laminate. Note that in the brochure it is listed as a standard feature on all units, and is not listed under options. I have never seen a fiberglass RV, boat or car that can be sold without the gel coat. I have noticed that some dealers offer an exterior protectant (Zxilon or similar) which is a money-maker for them. There is an Interior Luxury Package, an Exterior Luxury Package and the Crown Package. Then, you can choose from the options list for other items such as axle risers, R-Dome, etc. Bob ------------- 2014 R-Pod 178 (OUR POD) 2009 Chevrolet Avalanche |
Posted By: fwunder
Date Posted: 05 Oct 2013 at 4:01pm
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Thanks Bob. I kinda assumed the Gel-coat shouldn't be listed as an option. Dealer misprint, I'm sure. Thanks for the options link. I guess most rpods come with A/C? I can't seem to find specific prices for the A/C or Microwave options. No big deal, but just trying to compare. Thanks again. fred
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Posted By: techntrek
Date Posted: 05 Oct 2013 at 4:32pm
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Welcome. Definitely get the anchor option, it is useful in hurricanes and tornadoes. I agree the price you quoted is a little high for a year-old model, but it can't hurt to go and see it in person and take a printout of a lower quote for a current model as leverage. I got my local dealer within a few hundred dollars after pulling out the quote where they wouldn't come within a few thousand before that moment.
------------- Doug ~ '10 171 (2009-2015) ~ 2008 Salem ~ http://www.rpod-owners.com/forum_posts.asp?TID=1723 - Pod instruction manual 
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Posted By: fwunder
Date Posted: 05 Oct 2013 at 4:39pm
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What's new in the 2014s? It takes some digging, but I did find this listing which I think is the unit I discussed with dealer over the phone. Anyway, with all this, you still think 13.5 sounds a bit high? 2013 Forest River RV R Pod RP 177 Single Slide R-Pod Travel Trailer Rear Queen Bed w/Overhead Ent. Center Bath w/Toilet Slideout Single Galley Sink/2 Burner Range and Refrig. Overhead Cab. Front Booth Dinette and Much More. Front Living Area Rear Bedroom INTERIOR LUXURY PACKAGE EXTERIOR LUXURY PACKAGE LAMILUX 4000 COOL VANILLA GEL-COATED FBG 13.5BTU A/C CONVECTION MICROWAVE OVEN DOLBY DIGITAL AM/FM/CD/DVD/TV COMBO R-DOME AWNING W/SCREENROOM AXLE RISER You guys are great! fred |
Posted By: fwunder
Date Posted: 05 Oct 2013 at 5:07pm
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This may help others. Did help me. Sticker on 2014 177. http://www.demartini.com/ws/2113.pdf - http://www.demartini.com/ws/2113.pdf fred
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Posted By: Camper Bob
Date Posted: 05 Oct 2013 at 5:32pm
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When I was shopping for ours, I was shown a price list that indicated that the Deluxe Interior and Exterior was extra. I called FR and they confirmed that all Pods come with that as a standard. Don't let them try and charge you extra for that. Good luck. Safe Travels. ------------- Camper Bob and Camper Sue Gracie the Wonder Dog (12 LB. Mini Dachshund) 2013 Rpod 171HRE(ORPod) 2016 Lance 1685 2015 Nissan Pathfinder |
Posted By: Sleepless
Date Posted: 05 Oct 2013 at 5:48pm
That sticker raises some questions. Tuscany is not a 2014 color scheme. It is my understanding that the only 2014 choices are Saddle, Pebble and Java, which are shown on the Forest River R-Pod order form for 2014. I also did not catch the word "new" 2013 in your initial post. Prices will vary tremendously, depending on where you live. The Florida dealers wanted about $2000 more than the one in Ohio, largely because of the higher transportation costs to Florida. The 2014 models have some nice added features. If I were you, I would try to get at least another price quote. I received "best" offers from 6 different dealers before I bought. ------------- 2014 R-Pod 178 (OUR POD) 2009 Chevrolet Avalanche |
Posted By: Paige
Date Posted: 05 Oct 2013 at 9:16pm
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When we were looking for our rPod, we had a new salesperson who wasn't willing to go to bat for us and wouldn't give us a decent deal on our truck/camper trailer trade in. We walked out...the dealers have wiggle room. We ended up buying a two year old rPod for $10,000 off of craigslist with all the bells and whistles. And we sold our truck and camper on our own. Shortly after we left that dealership, the salesperson was fired! ------------- Paige and Pete 2010 177 - RPug 2012 Rav (six cylinder) New York & Florida residents 
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Posted By: Sleepless
Date Posted: 05 Oct 2013 at 10:37pm
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Paige, you are right about the amount of wiggle room in new R-Pod prices. Just as an example, my (on order) 178 has a MSRP of over $22,000 and Couch's RV in Ohio shows a price of a little over $17,000, but advises you to contact them for their low price which is too low to show on the Internet. I emailed them, and right away they came up with a price slightly over $13,500. I probably could have negotiated an even lower price with them, but it would have been almost a 2000 mile round trip to pick it up. I used that price to negotiate with Lazy Days in Tampa, FL and ended up with an equivalent price if you take into account my travel costs to Ohio and back. So, disregarding their transportation costs, it appears that many dealers have around a 40% markup if they sell at the MSRP. But, no one would ever pay the MSRP. Bob ------------- 2014 R-Pod 178 (OUR POD) 2009 Chevrolet Avalanche |
Posted By: shroomer
Date Posted: 05 Oct 2013 at 11:03pm
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Don't forget to factor in "dealer prep" charges. Couch's were included in my quote. My local dealer wanted another $400 or so. Got my 177 from Couch and had it delivered. Saved a bunch. On another note - I would think a 22hp tractor should have enough guts to move the trailer. Only other caveat is how much tongue weight you can put on your tractor without doing a wheelie (as my friend did when he tried to move his boat that way). Good to see you're doing your research. It'll be worth it. ------------- Larry and Debbie w/Rosie the mutt. Old: '13 177, '06 Silverado V6 New: '15 Whitehawk 20MRB '14 Silverado V8 |
Posted By: techntrek
Date Posted: 05 Oct 2013 at 11:16pm
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Overall weight could be the deciding factor. My over-3000 pound popup could push my 18 hp John Deere down a slight incline with the tractor's wheels locked up. So I stopped using it.
------------- Doug ~ '10 171 (2009-2015) ~ 2008 Salem ~ http://www.rpod-owners.com/forum_posts.asp?TID=1723 - Pod instruction manual
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Posted By: fwunder
Date Posted: 05 Oct 2013 at 11:30pm
You didn't consider wife holding rope tied to back of camper? But seriously folks, thanks for all the great advice, insights and education. I have no problem with any dealer making a living, but I do think the best buyer is an educated buyer. I would imagine most reputable dealers think the same. fred
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Posted By: fwunder
Date Posted: 08 Oct 2013 at 7:11pm
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Weather really sucked around here yesterday. (Meteorological term) So we had our first Pod visit today! The dealer was very laid back and friendly. In fact, we explored several Pods before anyone approached. That was very welcome. When we did speak with salesperson (who was aware we were coming), he was polite and patient. I've never seen so many RV's in one place! I should tell you about this RV we walked through that looked like Tony Saprono's (RIP) clubhouse! Complete with a kitchen island and one heckuva Badda Bing, Badda Boom sofa!! Probaly had a pole somewhere. Sorry, I diverged. OK folks! We like them. We really like them. Damnit. We particularly liked the 2014 178. It fits us. The 178 feels considerably larger to me than the 177. Larger than the 16" length difference suggests. I think part of the perception is the removal of the "entertainment center" over the queen. Personally, I think it shouldn't be there. The wrap around dinette also adds to the illusion, I think. Of course, only a small child or otherwise adorable little person could possibly sit at the tabvle without neck bending posture. I did picture myself sitting lengthwise with a beer, watching the game while wife prepared sgetti. Erhhh, I meant I pictured wife lounging across the dinette with a '83 Bordeaux whilst I prepared the the catch-of-the-day. Whew! Yeah, we are (.) that close. BTW, I talked with Couch today. Lessee. Went online, filled in what I wanted (built 178), submitted. Within 30 seconds I got a *very good* email quote. Within five minutes I got a call from a very pleasant rep from his car who saw my quote request (I hope he pulled over). He was great! Very helpful. This RV shopping thing is kinda fun. But, I need a cocktail (or three) right now to digest all this stuff. Thanks for all your help! fred P.S. I can see some great fishing adventures and writing. Podcasting. |
Posted By: fwunder
Date Posted: 10 Oct 2013 at 12:01pm
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We did it! 2014 178 loaded w/crown package axle risers and r-dome. Java interior. Pick it up next Friday! Now I just gotto figure out where to park it! fred
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Posted By: techntrek
Date Posted: 10 Oct 2013 at 12:47pm
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Congrats! In front of your house, where you are guaranteed lots of questions from the neighbors.
------------- Doug ~ '10 171 (2009-2015) ~ 2008 Salem ~ http://www.rpod-owners.com/forum_posts.asp?TID=1723 - Pod instruction manual
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Posted By: kymooses
Date Posted: 10 Oct 2013 at 1:38pm
congrats ------------- https://calendar.google.com/calendar?cid=cnBvZC5zcG90dGVyQGdtYWlsLmNvbQ - RPod Rallies https://www.google.com/maps/d/embed?mid=1W1foQXGtrjf8aYly1uh0b-bHPfI&hl=en_US - RPod Owner Map |
Posted By: dman
Date Posted: 10 Oct 2013 at 7:40pm
I'm jealous
 We are heading to an RV show on Saturday, hopefully they will have some Pods to look at. How much did you end up paying if you don't mind my asking? |
Posted By: Keith-N-Dar
Date Posted: 11 Oct 2013 at 4:55am
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Is that park still open in Santa Barbara with all the campers living full time there? I remember hearing about it last time I was in
SB. It wasn't like that 40 years ago when I grew up there. ------------- Keith-N-Dar Boris & Betty (Boston Terriers) 2011 R-Pod 177 2010 Ford F-150 |
Posted By: fwunder
Date Posted: 11 Oct 2013 at 8:06am
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Dman, we paid $14,700 @ Stoltzfus RV in Adamstown, PA. Couch's RV in Ohio was cheaper @ $13,795 with a six week lead time. Stoltzfus had the unit we wanted with the options we wanted and they are close by (relatively). I should say both dealers were very pleasant to deal with. For what it's worth, Couch's RV told me their price was going up $300 next week. 2014 R-Pod 178 Crown Package Exterior Luxury Package Interior Luxury Package Java Interior 13,500 BTU Air Conditioner 19" LCD Flat Screen TV Axle Riser Convection Microwave Oven R-Dome Awning w/Screen Room |
Posted By: dman
Date Posted: 11 Oct 2013 at 1:03pm
There is a rv park on Salinas St. Right off the 101 that has been there a long time, I think it is called Sunrise RV. I would not call it a campground and I would not recomend it though. It may have gotten better over the years but I. Remember it being pretty much a parking lot right off the freeway. There is a campground up the coast called Ocean Mesa, right across from El Capitan State beach that is pretty nice. Not for full timing though it is expensive but clean and with an ocean view.
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Posted By: Keith-N-Dar
Date Posted: 11 Oct 2013 at 7:26pm
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I am thinking of a city park that there were lots of "homeless" folks with campers who lived there. Maybe it is gone. I grew up in Summerland, and went to school in Carpinteria. Then moved east. SB is a beautiful place. I just can't afford it. I haven't been there since the stoplights on 101 were removed. One of these years I have to get back and enjoy it again. ------------- Keith-N-Dar Boris & Betty (Boston Terriers) 2011 R-Pod 177 2010 Ford F-150 |
Posted By: dman
Date Posted: 11 Oct 2013 at 7:56pm
It is beautiful and expensive. I grew up here and have managed to stay. Still lots of homless folks.
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Posted By: Keith-N-Dar
Date Posted: 11 Oct 2013 at 9:51pm
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Carpinteria High reunions are becoming multi-year, and my brother's is next year. I may fly out for that. I can't bring the pod but may come and look around a little. It would be fun I think. We will see. ------------- Keith-N-Dar Boris & Betty (Boston Terriers) 2011 R-Pod 177 2010 Ford F-150 |
Posted By: Bubink
Date Posted: 14 Oct 2013 at 2:40pm
| Congrats on your new purchase!! We are in the final stages of getting a 2014 178 to replace our T@DA we just sold. Hate to say goodbye to our bring yellow camper but SOOOOO looking forward to head room, lol! Hopefully by this time next week, we'll have back to its new home!! |
Posted By: Thinker
Date Posted: 14 Oct 2013 at 5:09pm
If you get the anchor, be sure to get the storm jib.... comes in handy in a blow. ------------- Tow Vehicle: 2013 Pathfinder 4WD R-POD Model 171 
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Posted By: techntrek
Date Posted: 14 Oct 2013 at 8:13pm
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Welcome, Bubink.
------------- Doug ~ '10 171 (2009-2015) ~ 2008 Salem ~ http://www.rpod-owners.com/forum_posts.asp?TID=1723 - Pod instruction manual
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Posted By: Bubink
Date Posted: 14 Oct 2013 at 11:03pm
| Thanks! In the process of getting our 2014 178 and so excited! Need all the help we can get! |
Posted By: Fj
Date Posted: 16 Oct 2013 at 1:13am
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Hi, I saw your information on the gel-coating on the
pods. I wanted to share what I was told
this Monday at the Pomona ca. rv show and see if anyone could share more
information. The sales rep from RV SPA OF UPLAND CALIFORNIA said the 2014
r-pods have the limulus 4000 gel coating and the new 2014 models (with the
royal crown options) only have a 1000 gel coating. He said the FR rep told him that is how they
saved money to add the new features on the crown package. The new trailer will look duller up close. I did a little research and saw were the sides of the r-pods
are 4000 and the roofs are 1000. But I
did not see where any changes were made to the coating with the new royal crown
options for 2014. I was surprised to see
the roofs were 1000 since the roof on the pod is also the front and back side. I was going to call FR but decided to give you all a first
crack at this question. I started
reading this sight a few weeks ago and it has been a big help on learning about
the pods. I did order a 177 crown
package with the r-dome. The wife and I
want to thank you all for the great information. ------------- 2013 R pod 177 HRE 07 Toyota Fj |
Posted By: Sleepless
Date Posted: 16 Oct 2013 at 9:11am
I am looking at the Purchase order/Invoice for the 2014 178 I have on order that my dealer emailed to me. On yours, the 4000 gel coating is shown under the "Reserve Item" with no other items. On mine, the same option item is "Crown Package." It is my understanding that the 4000 coating is included with the Crown Package for all models in 2014. Rather confusing. Bob ------------- 2014 R-Pod 178 (OUR POD) 2009 Chevrolet Avalanche |
Posted By: fwunder
Date Posted: 16 Oct 2013 at 10:05am
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Yeah Bob, it is a little confusing and seems to vary a bit from dealer to dealer. That PDF invoice was something I found on the web while trying to compare with what we bought. The unit we pick up tomorrow lists the following: 2014 R-Pod 178 Equipment: Carbon Monoxide Detector Crown Package: -Jensen "Bluetooth" AM/FM/CD/DVD Stereo w/Wire Remote Control -Two Interior Speakers -Two Exterior Speakers -Keyless Entry Door Lock -Residential Goose Neck Faucet w/Pull Out Sprayer -Pleated Shades Exterior Luxury Package Interior Luxury Package Java 13,500 BTU Air Conditioner 19" LCD Flat Screen TV Axle Riser Convection Microwave Oven R-Dome Awning w/Screen Room I'll let you know when we get it home what the gelcoat is! fred |
Posted By: Sleepless
Date Posted: 16 Oct 2013 at 11:58am
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Fred, your listing is almost identical to what is on the order my dealer sent to FR. Other than my interior color being Saddle, the only difference is that my order details what are in the Interior Luxury and Exterior Luxury packages. It looks like we are both receiving all the options except for the bike carrier. My 178 is not due to arrive at my Tampa dealer until November 15. Bob ------------- 2014 R-Pod 178 (OUR POD) 2009 Chevrolet Avalanche |
Posted By: fwunder
Date Posted: 16 Oct 2013 at 12:32pm
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Congrats Bob! Great minds think alike! Would you mind parking yours in Sanibel in February so I don't have to tow ours down? I'll leave you the keys to ours up here in New Jersey! Might be a good break for you to get away from that relentless Florida winter!  We are excited about bringing the pod home tomorrow. Hoping to get a few days of rookie podding in before winter sets in! fred
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