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#1 Need to Know

Printed From: r-pod Nation
Category: Forest River r-pod
Forum Name: r-pod wish list, what we love, what we would love to see
Forum Description: Share what you love about your r-pod and what FR needs to add to an already great camper
URL: http://www.rpodNation.com/forum_posts.asp?TID=3799
Printed Date: 28 Mar 2024 at 3:35am
Software Version: Web Wiz Forums 11.0 - http://www.webwizforums.com


Topic: #1 Need to Know
Posted By: Zade
Subject: #1 Need to Know
Date Posted: 24 May 2013 at 4:40pm
The first time I saw an r-pod, I said, "I want that"--in a tone somewhat akin to what you might hear from a 5-year-old.

Now, three years later, I actually have my very own 2013 r-pod nestled, somewhat crookedly, in my driveway.

I brought her home yesterday. Spent an hour or two backing the pod into my driveway--success, no dents or scratches! Today has been devoted to walking around the pod, casting admiring glances her way, and imagining the future we will have together.

But I am a novice. The pod was purchased in expectation of my retirement adventures--adventures that really won't begin until next year. This summer is practice.

So, pod owners, help me out. What's the number one thing I need to know, understand or do, as my pod (I call her Whimsy) and I get to know each other?

Thanks in advance,

Zade

For what it's worth: the Pod is Whimsy and the towing vehicle, a 2006 Mitsubishi Raider pickup, is named BeWaba (short for "I'm really nothing more than a Big Boy Wanna Be":)



Replies:
Posted By: Peggy L.
Date Posted: 24 May 2013 at 5:06pm
Congratulations on your new pod.

First go through the FAQ section (under "maintenance") in this message board. A lot of good information there.

I would say the most important thing is to have a checklist before you hook up and tow. At first it might be written but will become a mental checklist. Too many things can go wrong by not hitching up correctly.

And be aware that everyone on this board is willing to help you by sharing their experiences. Between us we've made every mistake that can be made and a lot of lessons have been learned the hard way.

Whimsy is an excellent name for a pod.

-------------
Traveling with Herb and the Boon-doggie

2010 r-pod 171 pulled by '11 Silverado


Posted By: furpod
Date Posted: 24 May 2013 at 8:10pm
There are a couple good apps for camping, checklists and campground info stuff...

EDIT.. OH, and, WELCOME!!!



-------------
Mark, Susie, Micah, and The Maggie.
'11 RP177(sold) '17 Lance 2295 http://www.rpodnation.com/some-of-our-mods-so-far-with-pics_topic2786.html" rel="nofollow - FurPodsMods
'17 Ford F250 CCSB


Posted By: IPodAlong
Date Posted: 24 May 2013 at 8:11pm
I made myself a list like that and I used it faithfully.  And you can glance at the list and say "yup, I did that" but you're remembering the time before so before pulling out, get the list and do a walk thru / walk around.  Even though I used it last year, (my first year), I used it the first time I went out this year....
 
I would also say to go somewhere close and camp before thinking about mods, etc.  Get a feel for what you like and how you want to organize.


-------------
2010 Rp 171
Towed with 2011 Ford Expedition
Co-pilots: Abby & Brownie
"No one can go back and start a new beginning, but anyone can start today and make a new ending." -- Anon


Posted By: furpod
Date Posted: 24 May 2013 at 8:13pm
No shame in spending the weekend at Camp Driveway..

-------------
Mark, Susie, Micah, and The Maggie.
'11 RP177(sold) '17 Lance 2295 http://www.rpodnation.com/some-of-our-mods-so-far-with-pics_topic2786.html" rel="nofollow - FurPodsMods
'17 Ford F250 CCSB


Posted By: Racer|X|
Date Posted: 24 May 2013 at 8:19pm
#1 thing is read the forums and reread.  Great info in them to help you.

Congrats and enjoy!

X


Posted By: Camper Bob
Date Posted: 25 May 2013 at 8:43am
Congratulations.  All above, good advice.  Before your first trip, replace the mattress with a real one.  After that read the forums.  Safe Travels.

-------------
Camper Bob and Camper Sue
Gracie the Wonder Dog (12 lb.) Mini Dachshund
2013 Rpod 171HRE (Pods-of-Luck)
2005 Chev. Tahoe


Posted By: Heidi
Date Posted: 25 May 2013 at 8:48am
WELCOME! to the forum and to the family. There are lots of helpful people here and TONS of information. so read away and make plans for all the things you are going to do. I think the number one thing is relax and enjoy. You are never alone and no question is too small and no mod is too big. 

-------------
we R-pod people
175 ,2 peeps and one small horse


Posted By: anchorout
Date Posted: 26 May 2013 at 12:50am
The only problem I had when I got "Toad Along" was semi hot water on shore power.  The hot water heater was in bypass position.  All else has been rosey.

-------------
Retired: Been there. Done that. Can't remember. And loving every minute.

"TOAD ALONG"

177 pod   F150 v6 tow C-Dory 22 boat


Posted By: kymooses
Date Posted: 27 May 2013 at 1:17pm
Only because I haven't seen anyone say this lately on threads and it is a pretty important thing.

CHOCKS --  First thing on, last thing off.


-------------
Travis & Carrie
http://goo.gl/maps/Vlelv - 181g - MoosePod Adventures Map
http://goo.gl/maps/ho9Rf - RPod Owners Map


Posted By: Camper Bob
Date Posted: 27 May 2013 at 1:21pm
Gotta agree with you on that.  From experience, don't forget to chock before you do anything else.  Safe Travels.

-------------
Camper Bob and Camper Sue
Gracie the Wonder Dog (12 lb.) Mini Dachshund
2013 Rpod 171HRE (Pods-of-Luck)
2005 Chev. Tahoe


Posted By: Little Sweet Pea Pod
Date Posted: 28 May 2013 at 11:29pm
Chock agree. Test lights & turn signals before you roll. Read the forums & have fun!


Posted By: Lark
Date Posted: 31 May 2013 at 9:56am
When you tow, after you hook up always do a walk a round the entire rig before starting out. Check to see if the lights are working, turn signals etc. Jacks are all the way up, safety chains in place, (crossed over) doors secured, nothing dragging, chocks removed. Remember, you are now 20 foot longer so take corners wider, check for low branches, overheads. Adjust your mirrors properly, enjoy your trip.

Lark F150 R171

-------------
Lark


Posted By: kymooses
Date Posted: 02 Jun 2013 at 6:43pm
Another one I'll add, since we made this mistake last trip.....


Always make sure nothing is in the path of your slideout as your are pulling it back in.  Most all items will get crunchy if you forget!

ConfusedOuchCry




-------------
Travis & Carrie
http://goo.gl/maps/Vlelv - 181g - MoosePod Adventures Map
http://goo.gl/maps/ho9Rf - RPod Owners Map


Posted By: 1shadowsabre
Date Posted: 07 Jun 2013 at 11:22pm
Check the lug nuts on your tires every trip!  + 1 on replacing the mattress. (check rv mattresses on overstock.com. We scored a 6 inch memory foam for 169.00) Congrats on your R Pod!

Steve and Suzy
R Pod 171


Posted By: Tomcamper
Date Posted: 23 Jun 2013 at 3:40pm
Hey welcome to the group!! All good advice for you so far. Here's my nickel's worth (no longer have pennies up here), as in any new love affair, you need to get to know each other intimitly through practice. Tomcamper

-------------
Tomcamper
2016 4runner
Dreampod 177

06 GMC Envoy


Posted By: IPodAlong
Date Posted: 23 Jun 2013 at 8:46pm
Well I had been checking tire pressure before leaving but never thought to check lug nuts so did that before my last trip!

-------------
2010 Rp 171
Towed with 2011 Ford Expedition
Co-pilots: Abby & Brownie
"No one can go back and start a new beginning, but anyone can start today and make a new ending." -- Anon


Posted By: rollinstone
Date Posted: 13 Jul 2013 at 5:11pm
Originally posted by anchorout anchorout wrote:

The only problem I had when I got "Toad Along" was semi hot water on shore power.  The hot water heater was in bypass position.  All else has been rosey.


'Splain me a little more about the water heater bypass function...when would I use it/not use it?


-------------
Rollinstone

2014 Draggin'Pod 178

'97 Explorer 5.0L AWD



Posted By: furpod
Date Posted: 13 Jul 2013 at 5:42pm
Search "winterizing"..

-------------
Mark, Susie, Micah, and The Maggie.
'11 RP177(sold) '17 Lance 2295 http://www.rpodnation.com/some-of-our-mods-so-far-with-pics_topic2786.html" rel="nofollow - FurPodsMods
'17 Ford F250 CCSB


Posted By: sylviablue
Date Posted: 15 Jul 2013 at 8:44am


-------------
In the end there's just a song comes cryin up the night



Posted By: Nancy0679
Date Posted: 16 Jul 2014 at 3:14pm
I was glad to see someone else who is new to the RPod. I also saw the RPod and told myself, I want one. I retired in Nov 2011 and purchased my RPod in February 2014. I had to upgrade my vehicle (for towing) then expanded my driveway, so I don't have to store it, then I bought the RPod.   I have been to the a nearby lake (about an hour away) twice, once Memorial weekend, then again July 4th weekend. Both times I was with friends who have a larger travel trailer and are more experienced. I have purchased items after each time that I found would make my setting up easier and faster. I got a fitting for my cordless drill to make the stabilizers easier to lower and raise. I got the little support fences for the sewer hoses, and an extra hose to rinse out the black tank (don't want to use the fresh water hose for that) I have now been looking at shelving and storage items for the kitchen area. IKEA is looking good for some items. Question though, I have not mounted anything on the inside walls, afraid to mess them up. What are they made of and what kind of support is needed for hanging shelves, etc??


Posted By: Lark
Date Posted: 19 Jul 2014 at 5:21pm
Before leaving the driveway always do a walkaround and make sure everything is secure lights work, hitch is locked, chains hooked up & crossed and enjoy your adventures don't forget tire pressure!


Lark F 150 R171

-------------
Lark


Posted By: jan
Date Posted: 19 Jul 2014 at 7:08pm
What is the correct tire pressure for a 178? I have those mud tires. Thanks!


Posted By: furpod
Date Posted: 19 Jul 2014 at 7:28pm
The correct tire pressure is on the side of the pod, up at the front left, on a sticker, that tells you the proper size/type/tire pressure for your pod.

-------------
Mark, Susie, Micah, and The Maggie.
'11 RP177(sold) '17 Lance 2295 http://www.rpodnation.com/some-of-our-mods-so-far-with-pics_topic2786.html" rel="nofollow - FurPodsMods
'17 Ford F250 CCSB


Posted By: Marven
Date Posted: 07 Sep 2016 at 9:39am
If you have an Ipod or similar device, go on the app store and search for trailer parking.  These apps will help a lot in getting better at backing.  You need to build a new set of reflexes.

-------------
2016 Honda Pilot Touring - 2017 R-Pod 176



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