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CamanoMike View Drop Down
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Joined: 12 Jul 2023
Location: Camano Isl WA
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Posts: 2 		Post Options Post Options   Quote CamanoMike Quote  Post ReplyReply Direct Link To This Post Topic: Introduction -
    Posted: 18 Aug 2024 at 6:52pm
First joined late 2022, but efforts setting up 2020 R-Pod 190 Hood River Edition didn't get far before work project took me away, and included mistakes. I've also been concerned that my plan to tow with Toyota Sienna would not work.

Started work in earnest about 3 months ago. All the checking I've done, and review by towing specialist, tell me that the Sienna will work, as long as I'm cautious about weight both in R-Pod and Sienna. The outside kitchen was the first to go, along with a custom platform for a Wen 2250W inverter generator; previous owners had a 4Runner, which has a higher towing capacity.

Mistakes previously included using City Water without regulator - that probably ruined the water pump - now replaced. I did keep an oil-heater in one of the storage areas, but something caused problem with toilet water line even with a new water pump. I replaced the toilet with a Thetford Aqua-Magic VI a couple of days ago, and all seems fine now.

Why the Sienna you might be wondering.  I have two Scottish Deerhounds, and a minivan is wonderful for them. A minivan capable of towing 5,000lbs would be perfect, but that doesn't exist. The current frenzy is for an event early September in part of Washington State that's been extremely hot. I won't go if it doesn't cool down, but indications are that we may be past the worst. I've just tested the generator being able to handle the Dometic A/C - so far, so good. I live North, on Camano Island, which has never reached the temps of the event location.

I think my first actual question will be about KIB panels.  What a great resource this forum is. And thanks to RpodAdmin for fixing it so I can use the original username.

Mike


Edited by CamanoMike - 18 Aug 2024 at 7:08pm
2020 R-Pod 190,towed by Toyota Sienna
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poston View Drop Down
podders Helping podders - pHp
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Joined: 28 Mar 2018
Location: Nevada
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Posts: 197 		Post Options Post Options   Quote poston Quote  Post ReplyReply Direct Link To This Post Posted: 18 Aug 2024 at 8:02pm
Originally posted by CamanoMike

All the checking I've done, and review by towing specialist, tell me that the Sienna will work, as long as I'm cautious about weight both in R-Pod and Sienna. 

Welcome to the group!  

You probably know you're living on the edge - both in tow vehicle and generator.

My 180 has a dry weight of about 2,600 lbs.  Outfitted for travel with a little water, propane, and not too much concern with weight, I'm at about 3,500 lbs.  Your 2020 190 Hood River is listed at 2,800 dry, which puts you at the recommended 80% of tow capacity (3,500 lbs) before adding water, propane, dishes, food, misc camping gear, etc.  Like you said, you need to be very cautious about trailer weight and cargo weight in the van. 
 
Originally posted by CamanoMike

I've just tested the generator being able to handle the Dometic A/C - so far, so good.

I also have the Wen 2250W inverter generator, and I've found it to be the bare minimum to run the a/c.  I did have to rejet it for higher elevations, and I put a soft start on it to make it easier to get running.  But it does run the a/c!

--
Jim
Virginia City, Nevada
2016 R-pod 180
2015 Nissan Xterra Pro-4X
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gpokluda View Drop Down
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Posts: 323 		Post Options Post Options   Quote gpokluda Quote  Post ReplyReply Direct Link To This Post Posted: 19 Aug 2024 at 8:26am
Welcome CamanoMike. As you already are aware, your rig will be operating at the tip top of its limits. I hope you are using a weight distribution hitch and a good brake controller. Be safe and please share your adventures.
Gpokluda
2017 Rpod 179(sold 2023)
2022 Escape 5.0TA
2022 Ford F150 4X4 3.5EB
Kawasaki KLR650
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CamanoMike View Drop Down
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Joined: 12 Jul 2023
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Posts: 2 		Post Options Post Options   Quote CamanoMike Quote  Post ReplyReply Direct Link To This Post Posted: 19 Aug 2024 at 3:39pm
Thanks poston and Gpokluda

You probably know you're living on the edge - both in tow vehicle and generator.
As you already are aware, your rig will be operating at the tip top of its limits.

There's no doubt in my mind that higher 'sanctioned' towing capacity would mean greater confidence. However:
  • The 190 Hood River Edition has at least two different specs for dry weight on posted information.
  • Recommendations for percentage of towing capacity used don't seem to have consensus
  • Toyota doesn't see to be consistent either, and there have been discussions about differences between model variations as well as Sienna to Highlander. The range of information has become more variable, and I'm basing my assessment on the model/year I have.
  • I've removed as much as I can from the R-Pod. I've also modified the Sienna - took out 2nd row seats and rails. This makes a bit of difference with only one driver, two dogs and equipment.
  • Yes, there's a weight distribution hitch. And a Curtis wired brake controller.
  • I plan to start a trip with only a little water in the fresh water tank, and to fill up with more as close as I can to the camping site. The generator will be in the Sienna.
And fingers crossed!
2020 R-Pod 190,towed by Toyota Sienna
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jato View Drop Down
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Posts: 3252 		Post Options Post Options   Quote jato Quote  Post ReplyReply Direct Link To This Post Posted: 19 Aug 2024 at 3:52pm
Also remember to have at least 11% of the total weight of your loaded 190 on the a-frame (tongue) to reduce/eliminate sway.   Hopefully in case of a panic stop you will be able to stop your Sienna/190 in a reasonable/safe distance before having an unfortunate event happen.  To be certain of your weights go to your local county garage or similar and have your loaded and ready to camp in 190 and Sienna weighed and find out if you are within safe specs to tow with what you have.  Normally it is free to have this done at the county garage.  It is one thing to be able to safely tow your 190; it can be a totally different scenario and end event to be able to stop it safely.


Edited by jato - 19 Aug 2024 at 3:53pm
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."
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