I just wanted to introduce myself to the forum. I'm Russ from Coos Bay, Oregon. My wife Renee & I just purchased a 2016 Rpod 171 from Porter's RVs here locally . We won't be picking it up until this coming Saturday. This is so that Renee can be present during the walk-thru (she works during the week).

So far our experience has been quite nice with Porter's, getting the 171 on a special dealer's promotion price. We chose the 171 for its lessor weight and good storage compared to the 177. We decided that a slide-out wasn't necessary and weight was important. 

We almost decided not to buy, when I looked into my tow vehicle's manual. While the 2009 RAV4 (V6) has a 3500 lb. tow limit and 350 lb. max hitch weight, that is only with the tow package. Since mine doesn't have that package the limits are 2000/200 lbs. This would put any of the Rpods out of the picture. But on talking to the local Toyota dealer and others knowledgeable in trailer towing, they said the biggest thing with a tow package is the transmission cooler. It also could include a tow hitch, wiring, larger alternator and possibly a larger radiator. 

 So I had a good sized transmission cooler and 7-pin electrical jack installed. The vehicle has the standard Toyota hitch and separate 4-pin jack. At the Toyota dealer the person said things should be OK with the Rpod - just use a weight-distributing hitch, be sensible in driving and keep the speeds down. He also said trailer towing is "severe service" so that maintenance intervals should be adjusted accordingly. So with our fears largely calmed we bought the 171 and are looking forward to using it this summer.

I had been concerned  with the possibility of legal problems exceeding the tow rating for my 2009 Toyota RAV4, V6 (269 HP). I had assumed that I didn't have the tow package, which would limit the tow rating to 2000 lbs. and 200 lbs. max. tongue weight. Our Rpod 171, having 2475/250 lbs. would be over these limits. But on reviewing some information kept with the owner's manual, I came across the original sales sticker that came from the car's window in the dealer's lot, giving the vehicle options, pricing etc. Much to my delight  it does mention the optional "Towing Prep Package - V6, 3500 lbs. Towing (includes upgraded radiator, fan coupling and alternator)". It doesn't mention a transmission cooler. But I did have one installed at a local transmission shop.

In any case the trailer towed home quite easily. Without any cargo, there was minimal need for tension on the Husky Centerline TS weight distributing hitch. But when adding cargo, including 250 lbs. of fresh water, I'm sure there will be some more tension needed. The sway control feature will be of use as well. The trailer sticker mentions cargo capacity of ~750 lbs. So after adding water, I will have around 500 lbs. for other cargo before reaching the 3225 lbs. GVWR. I hope to stay well below the GVWR. But things add up quickly.

Before towing on our first outing I will be having the vehicle's fluids changed - automatic transmission, 4wd transfer case, rear differential, etc. Under normal usage, these fluids would not be up for changing. But at 75,000 miles with the severe service of trailer towing ahead, it is time to get them changed. We're looking forward to some camping trips this summer. 

In the meantime I'm learning how to use the Rpod's appliances. I have secured the battery with a chain and lock. Also the trailer coupler is padlocked in the unlocked position. The propane bottle along with the spare tire will be stored in the garage out of sight. I'm sure these measures won't stop a determined thief. But I don't want to make it easy for someone.

Any comments would be welcomed.