Next trip out, on this coming Saturday, we're leaving with the tank nearly full because the camp ground where we're going has a problem with contamination in the water system that they're trying to fix.  We'll just pay attention to keeping the load balanced.  But then, we tend to travel very light overall.  

What we do notice is if the tank is full, or the other tanks for that matter, it slows us down a bit on the steep Sierra Nevada grades.e  Then, again, I set the cruise control for 55 most of the time when we're not climbing, and let every else pass me.  Why hurry?  We're out there to be relaxed.

I've had 4 Casitas and really loved them, but the R-pod has a lot more standard features for less money, but I'm starting to see some really bad designing in these.  For instance, I have the forward bunk beds.  There's no windows in the bed area at all (so you can crack a window and turn on the ceiling fan and bring in some cooler air to help you sleep).  No ventilation in the sleeping area at all unless you install a fan yourself or are hooked up to electricity so you can run the A/C all night.  And the three windows my 176 does have are all sliding windows, instead of crank-out windows, so you can't leave them open when it's raining!  REALLY?  Who doesn't want some ventilation when it's hot and rainy?  Bad Bad design.

You could put in portholes on each side though 2 vertically mounted portholes (one for each bunk) may look a little strange.  But when it comes to comfort, aesthetics are overruled by function.  The porthole we put in the door lets in a surprising amount of air and the screen door keeps the bugs out when both are closed.  

I'd sure like to see a picture of your portals.  Where do you get them?  Do you have a price or a supplier?  Thanks

If you put in portholes, you need to make sure the flange is deep enough to accommodate the wall thickness.  For the door, the flange was perfect and it has been problem free.  My recollection is that the flange is about 2" but that's something you need to check to be sure as the walls are also 2"" thick so your margin of error is not much.  I was able to confirm the door thickness before cutting by removing part of the lock set.  

If you would like to see the door mounted porthole I put in, p.m. me and we can figure out how I can send you a picture.  I still haven't set up a public website picture account which you need to post pictures here.

Thanks for the link.  After looking at it I don't think that's what I want.  I want a crank out window so I can leave it open in the rain (like my Casita and my Pleasure-way Sprinter van RV had).  I'll have to start searching for actual RV windows.  In fact, I'd really like to replace the 3 sliding windows I have with crank-outs also if I can find the exact same size.

Best of luck finding what you want.

(Speaking about the freshwater thank and travelling with a full, partially full or empty fresh water tank.)

I would prefer to travel with an empty fresh water tank.

I see the fresh water drain and the white cap. I tried to open it with bear hands; however, I didn't want force it buy using a plyer.  Is it a press and turn or what.

I did my best to search the forum, google, and youtube.

Please forgive my ignorance.  Help!