New R pod owner - Introduction

Originally posted by jprithch2 thanks FP. I called dealer today and tech said they were contrary and that if I came by he could show me how they worked.  He said other people had problems with this as well.  This is the one thing that I found no manual or instructions in the large packet they gave me.

Unfortunately your right they, FR, doesn't supply a manual for our Pods. I emailed the FR service representatives for the R-pod and they sent me a generic manual. Oh well something is better then nothing I figure. Strange, that your usb charging ports didn't work, unfortunately for some reason a wiring diagram that you can use to help you track down any electrical problems is like top secret since I could never get one from FR. Go figure? The first time I used the usb charging port on our 180 when I went to unplug the device I was charging the plug popped off the wall! Was able to fix it myself but still shows a lack of quality control at the factory and stupidity with just using two sheet metal screws to anchor into thin wood paneling.

Originally posted by jprithch2 Thanks Mike, My tv is a 1984 Chevy Silverado, 350 engine, 3 speed auto trans  with a receiver hitch mounted to the frame.  Short wheel base. I read somewhere that short wheel base is less stable for towing.  Maybe this is why they gave me the  extra equipment. jp

A shorter wheelbase will be more sensitive to sway (in general). That vehicle should tow the R-pod just fine, but the age could be a factor. That vintage of 350 "probably" is around 200 HP (I'm just guessing, don't take my word for it). The 3-speed is a little short on speeds compared to newer vehicles that come with 4, 5, 6, 8, and even 10 speeds. Where the gears will make a difference will be in the mountains (and the HP of the engine too). 

I think you have done a good job of prepping the TV. The gross vehicle weight rating (GVWR), or gross vehicle mass (GVM) is the maximum operating weight/mass of a vehicle as specified by the manufacturer including the vehicle's chassis, body, engine, engine fluids, fuel, accessories, driver, passengers and cargo but excluding that of any trailers.

The wheelbase should be either 117" or 131", the 131 is the long wheelbase and should be preferred.

It appears you have added tow capacity, the trans is probably the weak point but they are stout, it would be nice to have that extra gear. A properly equipped 3rd Generation Chevy 1/2 ton could pull 8000 lbs with a braked trailer.. That is non-4WD. I towed a Bayliner overnighter with a 90 Chevy Suburban for years, with a 350 trans. The fact it was used to tow a car and trailer should be considered a plus, and you have added to the capacity.

I have run my trailer on a 120 house circuit with an extension cord and adapter, you are limited as most house circuits are 15/20 amps versus the 30 amp.

yeah,  I plugged into that usb on the radio and wondered why it was not charging phone.