Print Page | Close Window

Tow vehicles

Printed From: R-pod Owners Forum
Category: R-pod Discussion Forums
Forum Name: Podmods, Maintenance, Tips and Tricks
Forum Discription: Ask maintenance questions, share your podmods (modifications) and helpful tips
URL: http://www.rpod-owners.com/forum_posts.asp?TID=10723
Printed Date: 29 Apr 2024 at 8:23am
Software Version: Web Wiz Forums 9.64 - http://www.webwizforums.com


Topic: Tow vehicles
Posted By: WillyBob
Subject: Tow vehicles
Date Posted: 28 Sep 2017 at 10:00am
We purchased our 2013 R177 in March and have a problem with overheating our Chev S10 when towing.  The 2003 S10 has a rated towing capacity of 5,000 pounds so we are bummed that it overheats while towing our Rpod. Crywhich weights in at half that.  We think it is height of the pod and wind resistance.  Any thoughts?  We are now faced with selling the podDead


-------------
JivinWilly



Replies:
Posted By: rawest50
Date Posted: 28 Sep 2017 at 10:22am
S10 have a towing package? I pulled with my Jeep Unlimited which has the tow package with no problem of over heating. It is rated at 3,500 pound tow. On hills it did turn high RPMs to maintain speed. I did not like that. We traded our wife car for a Chevy Colorado Z71 Crew Cab Off Road edition. No problem pulling at all.

How much other stuff are you loading in your S10 and Pod? That has to be added in also.

-------------
2017.5 RPod 179
2017 Jeep Unlimited Wrangler
2017 Chevy Colorado Z71 Off Road Crew Cab
2 Weiner dogs
Great wife puts up with my BS
❤️ Thoroughbred Racing.


Posted By: JandL
Date Posted: 28 Sep 2017 at 10:32am
From 2003 Trailer Life Magazine, what model do you have?
2003 S-10 and Sonoma
Vehicle, Engine, Tow Limit (lb)
Regular Cab 2.2 I-4 3,100 a,f
Regular Cab 4.3L V-6 3,900 b,c
Regular Cab 4.3L V-6 5,900 a,d
Regular Cab LB 4.3L V-6 3,900 b,c
Regular Cab LB 4.3L V-6 5,900 a,d
Extended Cab 2.2 I-4 2,000 b,f
Extended Cab 2.2 I-4 3,000 a,f
Extended Cab 4.3L V-6 3,800 b,c
Extended Cab 4.3L V-6 5,600 a,d
Extended Cab 4WD 4.3L V-6 4,000 b,d
Extended Cab 4WD 4.3L V-6 5,500 a,d/e
S-10 ZR2 4.3L V-6 4,200 b,e
S-10 ZR2 4.3L V-6 4,700 a,e
Crew Cab 4WD 4.3L V-6 5,200 a,d/e
a=Automatic transmission; b=Manual transmission; c=3.08:1 rear-axle ratio;
d=3.42:1 rear-axle ratio; e=3.73:1 rear-axle ratio; f=4.10:1 rear-axle ratio.


-------------
JandL
2013 Honda Ridgeline
2012 177
2 Paynes in a Pod


Posted By: Keith-N-Dar
Date Posted: 28 Sep 2017 at 10:48am
There also may be cooling system issues with a 14 year old vehicle.  The radiator may not be flowing enough air, the coolant may be old, etc.  If you haven't already done it have the system lushed and inspected before giving up on your pod.

-------------
Keith-N-Dar
Boris & Betty (Boston Terriers)
2011 R-Pod 177
2010 Ford F-150


Posted By: Hayduke
Date Posted: 28 Sep 2017 at 10:01pm
Originally posted by WillyBob

We purchased our 2013 R177 in March and have a problem with overheating our Chev S10 when towing.  The 2003 S10 has a rated towing capacity of 5,000 pounds so we are bummed that it overheats while towing our Rpod. Crywhich weights in at half that.  We think it is height of the pod and wind resistance.  Any thoughts?  We are now faced with selling the podDead


Just to help you make an informed decision about how to resolve your problem.  Your pod likely weighs (the only sure way to know is to weigh it) somewhere around 3100-3200 lbs loaded for camping.

I would guess that the S10 needs some cooling system fixes or improvements to resolve the overheating


-------------
2012 177 HRE
2017 Tacoma Double Cab


Posted By: JandL
Date Posted: 28 Sep 2017 at 10:18pm
We have a 2012 177 and when we go on long trip I take it to the truck scales and it close to 3400 pounds trailer axle weight

-------------
JandL
2013 Honda Ridgeline
2012 177
2 Paynes in a Pod


Posted By: WillyBob
Date Posted: 29 Sep 2017 at 4:13pm
The Chev does not have a tow package that I know of.  It is 4wd. We load the truck with most of our camping gear and just the two of us.  We probably add between 200-300 lbs in the pod with cooking, clothing and accessory camping stuff.  I think the height of the pod to the low S10 may add the wind resistance that causes the overheating.  Three years ago the radiator leaked and was replaced.  This summer we removed the thermostat to create more cooling flow, but that didn't help either. ???Ouch

-------------
JivinWilly


Posted By: WillyBob
Date Posted: 29 Sep 2017 at 4:26pm
Our S10 is the Ext Cab 4.3L v6 5,500 rating_a d/e.  I am going to stop at the local Chev dealer and see if they can give me some insight.
Thanks for the response.


-------------
JivinWilly


Posted By: WillyBob
Date Posted: 29 Sep 2017 at 4:30pm
Keith, thanks for the response.  Two years ago the radiator was leaking in the S10  and we had it replaced.  This summer when the overheating began, we removed the thermostat but that did not solve the issue.  It took a little longer to overheat, but that is all.  

-------------
JivinWilly


Posted By: WillyBob
Date Posted: 29 Sep 2017 at 4:37pm
HayDuke Lives!  Love Ed Abbey!  Love the Canyonlands and S Utah.  We lived in Colorado before moving to Oregon and spent a lot of time around Moab mountain biking way before it became popular there.  Miss the slick rock riding!
Anyway, two years ago the radiator started leaking in the S10 and we had it replaced.  When the overheating start when pulling the pod, I had our mechanic remove the thermostat for more cooling flow, but that didn't solve the issue.  Still overheats.  Even at 3,300 lbs, the S10 is rated to 5,500Ouch


-------------
JivinWilly


Posted By: mcarter
Date Posted: 29 Sep 2017 at 4:43pm
Removing the thermostat will not fix an overheat issue, it just allows engine to be at a certain temp before allowing free flow. I agree with Keith you need to have to coolant system flushed and inspected. There are several things that can cause reduced coolant flow. You may need to increase airflow, I don't know without working on it personally. I would start with cleaning it up and proceed from there, selling the Pod will not fix the truck.

-------------
Mike Carter
2015 178
" I had the right to remain silent, I just didn't have the ability."


Posted By: WillyBob
Date Posted: 29 Sep 2017 at 5:41pm
Mike:
Your right....removing the thermostat did not solve the overheating.  Will take your advice about flushing the system.  Increasing air flow?  Better take it to the Chev dealer and ask.
Thanks


-------------
JivinWilly


Posted By: WillyBob
Date Posted: 29 Sep 2017 at 6:40pm
Looking at maybe trading the S10 for an older Tacoma with extended cab.  The one with the 245hp motor should pull the pod ok?  Don't know all the specs though.  Have to investigate.
Thanks


-------------
JivinWilly


Posted By: mcarter
Date Posted: 30 Sep 2017 at 8:11am
WillyBob,

After you have insured the coolant system is right, folks have added aux fans, normally electric to increase air flow over the radiator, the more expensive ones are temp controlled, and would come on when needed. Just a suggestion to look at, and again not until you have the coolant system checked.

-------------
Mike Carter
2015 178
" I had the right to remain silent, I just didn't have the ability."


Posted By: GlueGuy
Date Posted: 30 Sep 2017 at 8:56am
Originally posted by WillyBob

Looking at maybe trading the S10 for an older Tacoma with extended cab.  The one with the 245hp motor should pull the pod ok?  Don't know all the specs though.  Have to investigate.
Thanks
How old is the S10? How many miles? It really shouldn't have issues towing the R-pod unless it's old and past its prime. The V6 Tacoma with the tow package should be good for 6500 lbs or in that neighborhood depending on vintage. Our Tacoma is the crew cab version plus the tow package. It would tow the R-pod easily.

-------------
bp
2017 R-Pod 179 Hood River
2015 Ford F150 SuperCrew 4WD 3.5L Ecoboost


Posted By: WillyBob
Date Posted: 01 Oct 2017 at 10:05am
Our S10 is a 2003 with 85K miles and in great shape.  Just don't think it has the umph to tow the rpod with it's 195hp V6.  Thanks for the info on the Tacoma.

-------------
JivinWilly


Posted By: GlueGuy
Date Posted: 02 Oct 2017 at 10:34am
Originally posted by WillyBob

Our S10 is a 2003 with 85K miles and in great shape.  Just don't think it has the umph to tow the rpod with it's 195hp V6.  Thanks for the info on the Tacoma.
14 years is enough time for the cooling system to become clogged. I would think that a radiator flush or re-coring would be advised, especially if you haven't had it serviced for 14 years. Likewise, the water passages in the engine could be gunked up. It's not just the miles on an engine/cooling system. Time is the larger factor.

-------------
bp
2017 R-Pod 179 Hood River
2015 Ford F150 SuperCrew 4WD 3.5L Ecoboost


Posted By: lostagain
Date Posted: 02 Oct 2017 at 12:56pm
On our next trip this weekend, our 2004 Dakota will pass 140K.  it pulls just fine in all the mountains of the Sierra, though on really steep climbs, I to go slowly.  Never had a problem with over heating. As normal maintenance, I just had the cooling system flushed and put in fresh coolant.  The prior owner of our truck used synthetic oil for all of its life before our purchase and we've done likewise.  Supposedly, the synthetic oil is more stable and maintains it's lubricity at higher temperatures.  

What I've found is that for smaller trucks, it's best to keep your speed down.  But then when you're out with your Pod, you probably don't need to be in a hurry anyway [unless you're trying to out run a hurricane or tornado].   We rarely go over 65 on the freeway, and my practice is to set the cruise control to about 60.  i turn off the overdrive if it starts shifting up and down on a grade.  For steep grades, I'll shift down to 2nd.  I use the turnouts a lot since the rest of the world is in a hurry and I don't want to tempt fate with someone's road rage.


-------------
Never leave footprints behind.
Fred & Maria Kearney
Sonoma 167RB
Our Pod 172
2019 Ford F-150 4x4 2.7 EcoBoost


Posted By: WillyBob
Date Posted: 02 Oct 2017 at 6:00pm
Thanks Fred.  Your Dakota has a V8, while the S10 is a V6. Big difference.  

-------------
JivinWilly


Posted By: GlueGuy
Date Posted: 02 Oct 2017 at 7:04pm
Originally posted by WillyBob

Thanks Fred.  Your Dakota has a V8, while the S10 is a V6. Big difference.
It's not that simple. Our Tacoma has a V6, and is a fine tow vehicle. Our F-150 is a V6, and will out-pull the available V8. The vintage and/or cooling systems are probably at issue.

-------------
bp
2017 R-Pod 179 Hood River
2015 Ford F150 SuperCrew 4WD 3.5L Ecoboost


Posted By: lostagain
Date Posted: 02 Oct 2017 at 11:00pm
Willy, I honestly don't know what the S10 V6 is like.  Years ago, I had a Ford Ranger with a 4L V6 and it would have done fine.  I actually looked for one because they seem to age a little better than the Dakotas but none was in my price range.  Ahh the joys of living on a retiree's budget.  

 I shy away from GM products, personally, b/c all the GM products I ever owned seemed to rattle apart and didn't last.  I also looked for a Nissan Frontier V6, but alas, as with the Ford, all were out of my price range.  Fortunately, the prior owner took pretty good care of the Dakota and we've done some improvements like new ball joints and shocks and it's doing pretty well, uh err at least so far.  

So, I'll keep on driving slowly and using turnouts and, hopefully, the Dakota will not break down or over heat on me.


-------------
Never leave footprints behind.
Fred & Maria Kearney
Sonoma 167RB
Our Pod 172
2019 Ford F-150 4x4 2.7 EcoBoost


Posted By: Nomad2
Date Posted: 10 Nov 2017 at 5:13pm
My wife & I are new Poders (2016 179) and are hoping to use my 2002 S10 (same specs as yours). We have the same concerns. Were you able to resolve your overheating problem?  If so, how and what kind of hitch and sway control are you using?

Appreciate hearing from you.  Thanks. 


-------------
Gary & Julie
2016 Rpod 179
2010 Toyota Highlander


Posted By: zappapod
Date Posted: 10 Nov 2017 at 5:43pm
towed my 2017.5 178 from Va. to Tenn. this summer to catch the eclipse.  I had I thought readied my 2005 toyota tundra for its maiden voyage with this camper.  Once I hit the mtns however I watched as the temp gauge climbed and climbed (remembering that was one thing I had not gone through as the truck had never overheated so assumed it was not a problem).  Pulled off and had the radiator drained and refilled.  Kept going, but still with the temp gauge climbing.  Finally had to pull off again, find a shop, spend the night, and had the radiator replaced the next morning.  No more cooling issues.  Tundra does have towing package although I had to add some heavy lifting springs in the back.

-------------
2017.5 178 (Blue Bell)
2005 Tundra Double Cab
Outer Banks Bound


Posted By: zappapod
Date Posted: 10 Nov 2017 at 5:44pm
towed my 2017.5 178 from Va. to Tenn. this summer to catch the eclipse.  I had I thought readied my 2005 toyota tundra for its maiden voyage with this camper.  Once I hit the mtns however I watched as the temp gauge climbed and climbed (remembering that was one thing I had not gone through as the truck had never overheated so assumed it was not a problem).  Pulled off and had the radiator drained and refilled.  Kept going, but still with the temp gauge climbing.  Finally had to pull off again, find a shop, spend the night, and had the radiator replaced the next morning.  No more cooling issues.  Tundra does have towing package although I had to add some heavy lifting springs in the back.

-------------
2017.5 178 (Blue Bell)
2005 Tundra Double Cab
Outer Banks Bound


Posted By: RVC
Date Posted: 10 Nov 2017 at 7:05pm
I had the same problem with my Silverado 1500. We tow up to the mountains a lot so I said screw it and bought an older F350 7.3, put a chip in it with a 4" exhaust and it pulls like a mad man! A little overkill but hey!

-------------
2013 178
2001 Ford F350 diesel
2010 Jeep Wrangler Unlimited
2016 Dodge Challenger Hellcat


Posted By: zappapod
Date Posted: 10 Nov 2017 at 7:20pm
diesel.  overkill is good.



-------------
2017.5 178 (Blue Bell)
2005 Tundra Double Cab
Outer Banks Bound


Posted By: WillyBob
Date Posted: 12 Nov 2017 at 4:26pm
Nomad....we found no solution to the overheating issue. Now the pod is winterized and sitting in the drive till spring when we plan on selling it and getting another Forest River product that folds down.  Sadly.  But, I do intend on having the the cooling system flushed before towing anything.  

-------------
JivinWilly


Posted By: ToolmanJohn
Date Posted: 12 Nov 2017 at 7:50pm
WillyBob, it might be prudent to test your S10 by towing a popup or fold down camper as you describe it.

I don't know if you could rent one for a weekend, but it could be cheap insurance that you're not making a mistake. It could still very well be that your S10 has issues related to being stressed by towing.

I suggest visiting an S10 forum, there must be a few, and gleaning some info from other owners.

Your 195Hp is not a lot, and the torque rating is probably similar. I owned a 2003 Toyota 4Runner  4.0L V6 for ten years, and when I purchase my first camper, I thought it was the camper that caused my highway towing issues (weak on hills and highway speeds). So I bought an R-Pod 177 thinking it was more aerodynamic, and guess what, the 4Runner was still not great at towing at highway speeds (65mph). I was in 3rd gear for entire trips (4 speed auto). I upgraded the tow vehicle instead of making another camper purchase.


-------------
2017 ATC 7X20 Custom Toy Hauler
2013 R-Pod 177 (SOLD)
2013 VW Touareg TDI


Posted By: zappapod
Date Posted: 12 Nov 2017 at 7:54pm
excellent advice. thanks

-------------
2017.5 178 (Blue Bell)
2005 Tundra Double Cab
Outer Banks Bound


Posted By: Woody.1
Date Posted: 18 Feb 2018 at 11:57am
Hey gang,
First post here - we just bought a 179 and I’ll be towing it with 2013 4x4 Tacoma double cab with tow package. I’m having dealer add the WDH.
My question is should I get air bag suspension for the Tacoma? I’ve been searching in the forum, but haven’t come across any mention of using them.
Will have a couple of bikes and probably a cooler in truck bed. No serious weight.
Thanks,
Woody


Posted By: Tars Tarkas
Date Posted: 18 Feb 2018 at 12:32pm
The WDH should get rid of most of any droop if it's installed and adjusted correctly.  I'm not an expert by any means, but from what I've gleaned, air bags probably aren't necessary.  Try it without for while and add them later if you think you need them.  A lot of people with your class tow vehicle don't have air bags or a WDH.

TT


-------------
2010 176
FJ Cruiser


Posted By: GlueGuy
Date Posted: 18 Feb 2018 at 2:12pm
Originally posted by Woody.1

Hey gang,
First post here - we just bought a 179 and I’ll be towing it with 2013 4x4 Tacoma double cab with tow package. I’m having dealer add the WDH.
My question is should I get air bag suspension for the Tacoma? I’ve been searching in the forum, but haven’t come across any mention of using them.
Will have a couple of bikes and probably a cooler in truck bed. No serious weight.
Thanks,
Woody
+1 to what TT said. I have put some serious loads in our previous Tacomas and they've handled it very well (well over the 300-400 lbs of an R-pod). However, if you're going to use a WDH, that transfers a significant portion of the load to the front wheels. A recent vintage of Tacoma (like yours) with a tow package should handle "up to" 6500 lbs. A long-winded way of saying that I don't believe that you will need the air bags. Save the air bag money on some nice fru-fru for your R-pod.


-------------
bp
2017 R-Pod 179 Hood River
2015 Ford F150 SuperCrew 4WD 3.5L Ecoboost


Posted By: StephenH
Date Posted: 18 Feb 2018 at 2:22pm
+2 to what TT said. From what I understand, you do NOT want air bag suspension if you are using a WDH. Both of them will reduce the rear end sag, but the air bags would conflict with what the hitch needs to do to transfer weight to the front wheels. http://www.fastwaytrailer.com/blog/weight-distribution-versus-air-bags - Fastway (makers of the e2 hitch) has a video on the differences which may be helpful.

-------------
StephenH
Happy is the man that findeth wisdom,...

http://www.rpod-owners.com/forum_posts.asp?TID=7712 - ouR escaPOD mods
Former RPod 179
Current Cherokee Grey Wolf 24 JS


Posted By: Woody.1
Date Posted: 19 Feb 2018 at 10:33am
Thanks for the advice gang.
I’ll pass on the air bags and try it out.


Posted By: DavMar
Date Posted: 20 Feb 2018 at 11:26am
Originally posted by Woody.1

Hey gang,
First post here - we just bought a 179 and I’ll be towing it with 2013 4x4 Tacoma double cab with tow package. I’m having dealer add the WDH.
My question is should I get air bag suspension for the Tacoma? I’ve been searching in the forum, but haven’t come across any mention of using them.
Will have a couple of bikes and probably a cooler in truck bed. No serious weight.
Thanks,
Woody


Take a look at Sumo SuperSrings which replace your stock springs rubber stops.

http://https://www.supersprings.com/products/sumosprings/ - https://www.supersprings.com/products/sumosprings/

I have them installed on my Tacoma run them with a WDH and am happy with the results. I also load my bed of the truck with coolers, storage chest and such. Never had any problem with overheating with running in the mountains that some with older trucks have experienced. If by chance you do look into added radiator or transmission cooler.
 


-------------
Dave & Marlene J with Zoey the
wonder dog.
2017 Rpod 180
2016 Toyota Tacoma SR5 4x4
Lexington, NC


Posted By: Hayduke
Date Posted: 20 Feb 2018 at 12:54pm
Originally posted by DavMar



Take a look at Sumo SuperSrings which replace your stock springs rubber stops.

http://https://www.supersprings.com/products/sumosprings/ - https://www.supersprings.com/products/sumosprings/

I have them installed on my Tacoma run them with a WDH and am happy with the results. I also load my bed of the truck with coolers, storage chest and such. Never had any problem with overheating with running in the mountains that some with older trucks have experienced. If by chance you do look into added radiator or transmission cooler.
 


Hey Dave,
Which model of sumosprings are you using?  I'm planning on installing some this spring, and appreciate any feedback you've got.


-------------
2012 177 HRE
2017 Tacoma Double Cab


Posted By: DavMar
Date Posted: 20 Feb 2018 at 1:53pm
 
[/QUOTE]
Hey Dave,
Which model of sumosprings are you using?  I'm planning on installing some this spring, and appreciate any feedback you've got.
[/QUOTE]

I went with the Black 47 density SumoSprings, just a few extra bucks over the Blue 40 and I figure the best of both worlds don't need the heavy duty Yellow 54. Been using them for over a year now and pleased with the performance. The only other suspension upgrade I've been thinking about is better shocks.


-------------
Dave & Marlene J with Zoey the
wonder dog.
2017 Rpod 180
2016 Toyota Tacoma SR5 4x4
Lexington, NC


Posted By: Woody.1
Date Posted: 20 Feb 2018 at 2:26pm
will look into these.



Posted By: GlueGuy
Date Posted: 20 Feb 2018 at 3:06pm
Super springs or Sumo springs are no different in their dynamics than air bags. You would still have better vehicle/trailer dynamics with a WDH instead of any of those.

-------------
bp
2017 R-Pod 179 Hood River
2015 Ford F150 SuperCrew 4WD 3.5L Ecoboost


Posted By: DavMar
Date Posted: 20 Feb 2018 at 4:11pm
Originally posted by GlueGuy

Super springs or Sumo springs are no different in their dynamics than air bags. You would still have better vehicle/trailer dynamics with a WDH instead of any of those.


I will have to respectfully disagree with your conclusion in that there is a difference between SumoSprings and airbag suspension systems. SumoSprings are a “passive” system where air bags are “active” suspension system. In all airbags you have compressed air inside which uses some type of bladder system. They work great as long as they are always maintained, correct pressure and such, and never have a puncture. Where as SumoSprings are made out of a type of foam which requires no maintenance and no worries about leaking from punctures. Unlike airbags SumoSprings, which replace your leaf springs rubber bump stops, only exert full compression under heavy load. The SumoSprings are used to help stabilize and support your load which can only help not hinder when using a WDH. In no way have I found them negatively effecting the suspension stabilization but only improving it which is what your after by also using a WDH. If you believe something like SumoSprings or airbag suspension systems don’t work when you use a WDH. Then I suggest that after you do a long haul with your camper reach under your rear wheel fender opening and grab your shock and I’ll bet you’ll find it quite warm to say the least. Its why many people upgrade their shocks or suspension systems using products like SumoSprings or airbags with or without WDH when they are pulling a trailer or hauling heavy loads. If you still don’t think either suspension systems work then I ask you why do you think tractor trailer trucks use airbag systems? If that doesn’t convince you well to each their own more power to you brother.



-------------
Dave & Marlene J with Zoey the
wonder dog.
2017 Rpod 180
2016 Toyota Tacoma SR5 4x4
Lexington, NC


Posted By: rawest50
Date Posted: 20 Feb 2018 at 5:29pm
I have not read all the post and not clear about the towing and suspension? I pull with a Colorado Z71 Off Road with weight and stabilazation. No problem with balance. My Jeep Unlimited with the tow package has no problem but I am close to tow capacity of the vehicle.

-------------
2017.5 RPod 179
2017 Jeep Unlimited Wrangler
2017 Chevy Colorado Z71 Off Road Crew Cab
2 Weiner dogs
Great wife puts up with my BS
❤️ Thoroughbred Racing.


Posted By: mcarter
Date Posted: 20 Feb 2018 at 6:10pm
rawest50,

I also have a 2016 Colorado, and there is not one pertinent post with my ability to tow, nice info, and interesting read. Appreciate conversation, end of the day, if vehicle is rated and capable - good to go.

-------------
Mike Carter
2015 178
" I had the right to remain silent, I just didn't have the ability."


Posted By: GlueGuy
Date Posted: 21 Feb 2018 at 9:10am
Originally posted by DavMar

I will have to respectfully disagree with your conclusion in that there is a difference between SumoSprings and airbag suspension systems. SumoSprings are a “passive” system where air bags are “active” suspension system.


If the springs are compressed, and carrying the additional load, there is little difference. What I'm talking about is discussed in this video: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=XBZu39pQ8Gg - https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=XBZu39pQ8Gg


-------------
bp
2017 R-Pod 179 Hood River
2015 Ford F150 SuperCrew 4WD 3.5L Ecoboost


Posted By: DavMar
Date Posted: 21 Feb 2018 at 10:32am
Originally posted by GlueGuy


If the springs are compressed, and carrying the additional load, there is little difference. What I'm talking about is discussed in this video: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=XBZu39pQ8Gg - https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=XBZu39pQ8Gg


Great video! Thanks for sharing it and its one that I think anyone pulling a trailer should view. I completely agree with the video and your conclusion. If you’re ONLY using an airbag system or a product such as SumoSprings to compensate for trailer weight distribution you will not get the benefits that a good weight distribution hitch (WDH) gives you when towing. Even if you have an additional suspension system improvement such as the airbag or SumoSprings it should not take the place of a WDH so we are in agreement. I too use the Fastway e2 WDH system that also gives me additional anti-sway control which I believe is very important. Any aftermarket shocks, airbag, helper springs, or a product such as SumoSprings should only be used as an additional improvement to your vehicle suspension system and again not as a replacement for the WDH. I think we’ve may have gotten our apples and oranges mixed up on this subject, if so forgive me.



-------------
Dave & Marlene J with Zoey the
wonder dog.
2017 Rpod 180
2016 Toyota Tacoma SR5 4x4
Lexington, NC


Posted By: mcarter
Date Posted: 21 Feb 2018 at 2:44pm
+1 to DavMar

-------------
Mike Carter
2015 178
" I had the right to remain silent, I just didn't have the ability."


Posted By: GlueGuy
Date Posted: 21 Feb 2018 at 3:19pm
Originally posted by DavMar

I think we’ve may have gotten our apples and oranges mixed up on this subject, if so forgive me.
It happens all the time. I misunderstand you, you misunderstand me, or we both misunderstand each other. It will all come out in the wash if we give it enough time and thought.


-------------
bp
2017 R-Pod 179 Hood River
2015 Ford F150 SuperCrew 4WD 3.5L Ecoboost


Posted By: Woody.1
Date Posted: 21 Feb 2018 at 3:30pm
Man I didn’t mean to start a s*#t storm. I like the idea of the sumosprings to give the truck less sag when carrying weight in the bed. I would get those and for sure the WDH. Once we get the trailer I will post a pic of how it looks. Should be next week weather permitting. We bought the trailer on the east side of Wolf Creek Pass and we live on the west side and it’s been snowing everyday on the pass. I’d like dry roads when I bring the trailer home. I’ll find out how it all handles over a Pass right out of the shoot.



Posted By: DavMar
Date Posted: 21 Feb 2018 at 3:39pm
Originally posted by Woody.1

Man I didn’t mean to start a s*#t storm. I like the idea of the sumosprings to give the truck less sag when carrying weight in the bed. I would get those and for sure the WDH. Once we get the trailer I will post a pic of how it looks. Should be next week weather permitting. We bought the trailer on the east side of Wolf Creek Pass and we live on the west side and it’s been snowing everyday on the pass. I’d like dry roads when I bring the trailer home. I’ll find out how it all handles over a Pass right out of the shoot.


Fear not you didn't start a sh*t storm, far from it. LOL

Just an open discussion of different opinions, as long as they are respectful nothing wrong with that and I'm sure everyone would agree. Smile




-------------
Dave & Marlene J with Zoey the
wonder dog.
2017 Rpod 180
2016 Toyota Tacoma SR5 4x4
Lexington, NC


Posted By: Hayduke
Date Posted: 21 Feb 2018 at 5:03pm
Originally posted by DavMar

 
I went with the Black 47 density SumoSprings, just a few extra bucks over the Blue 40 and I figure the best of both worlds don't need the heavy duty Yellow 54. Been using them for over a year now and pleased with the performance. The only other suspension upgrade I've been thinking about is better shocks.



Thank you much!  One more for you: is your part number 610-47 or 612-47?  (the 612 seems to be the new model redesigned for the 3rd generation Tacoma, I don't know how long they've been available)

Thanks again


-------------
2012 177 HRE
2017 Tacoma Double Cab


Posted By: lostagain
Date Posted: 21 Feb 2018 at 5:10pm
Woody, your topic was really interesting and, far from it being stormy, was really educational.  I for one, had never seen the calculated and measured effect of a WDH and it makes me feel a lot more confident in my decision to have spent the dough on an E2.  Now I understand better why it works so well.

Kudos for bringing up the topic!!


-------------
Never leave footprints behind.
Fred & Maria Kearney
Sonoma 167RB
Our Pod 172
2019 Ford F-150 4x4 2.7 EcoBoost


Posted By: DavMar
Date Posted: 21 Feb 2018 at 5:45pm
Originally posted by Hayduke


Thank you much!  One more for you: is your part number 610-47 or 612-47?  (the 612 seems to be the new model redesigned for the 3rd generation Tacoma, I don't know how long they've been available)
Thanks again


I believe the part number is SSR-612-47. You can call their tech support # 866-898-0720 and they will be glad to help you out.

Hope this helps.


-------------
Dave & Marlene J with Zoey the
wonder dog.
2017 Rpod 180
2016 Toyota Tacoma SR5 4x4
Lexington, NC


Posted By: rawest50
Date Posted: 21 Feb 2018 at 5:54pm
I trusted my dealer to give me what I needed. Brake controller and sway & load control. Watching the video makes me comfortable with the way they set it up. If you look from the side after hooking up it is a straight line from my PU through the Pod wheels. I do check my tongue weight and adjust. I do not put much in the back on the Pod. Maybe 50 pounds. I like about 300-350 pound tongue weight.

-------------
2017.5 RPod 179
2017 Jeep Unlimited Wrangler
2017 Chevy Colorado Z71 Off Road Crew Cab
2 Weiner dogs
Great wife puts up with my BS
❤️ Thoroughbred Racing.


Posted By: Woody.1
Date Posted: 02 Mar 2018 at 2:41pm
Picked up our new R pod yesterday and had to go over Wolf Creek Pass right out of the shoot.
Added Sumo Springs and WDH. No sag on Taco. Pulled pretty good.


Posted By: jato
Date Posted: 02 Mar 2018 at 7:51pm
Nice looking setup.  Looks like you have a bit more snow there than what we have in northern Michigan.

-------------
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."


Posted By: DavMar
Date Posted: 02 Mar 2018 at 9:51pm
Originally posted by Woody.1

Picked up our new R pod yesterday and had to go over Wolf Creek Pass right out of the shoot.
Added Sumo Springs and WDH. No sag on Taco. Pulled pretty good.

Hey! Looking good! Glad to hear everything worked out well for you.

Thinking seriously about heading out to your state with my rig this summer so the wife can visit her home town, Boulder.


-------------
Dave & Marlene J with Zoey the
wonder dog.
2017 Rpod 180
2016 Toyota Tacoma SR5 4x4
Lexington, NC


Posted By: Leo B
Date Posted: 03 Mar 2018 at 5:28am
Nice looking set up!  We hooked on this winter and towed around the Lyndonville area, just to see how the truck towed the Pod in the snow...............................handled really nice!!!

-------------
Leo & Melissa Bachand
2017 Ford F150
2021 Vista Cruiser 19 csk
Previously owned
2015 Rpod 179
2010 Rpod 171



Print Page | Close Window

Bulletin Board Software by Web Wiz Forums® version 9.64 - http://www.webwizforums.com
Copyright ©2001-2009 Web Wiz - http://www.webwizguide.com