I have a 2016 Hood River 171 that I will be getting to know this coming summer and was wondering about a couple of issues.

1) I see no straps supporting the holding tanks and was wondering if an addition like that would be in order if travelling on our ample supply of frost-heaved roads in Alaska?  It appears the tanks are supported by a hidden lip that fits over part of the frame and nothing else.  Any additional info appreciated.

2) Has anyone added additional length to the rear of the left side wheel fender to protect the black and gray water outlets from stone damage if travelling on gravel roads?  Is this even a concern?

Thanks!

I have reported on how mud-flaps were added to the fenders to protect the holding tank dump valves. This was also done to reduce the amount of spray thrown up by the tires during wet weather. My report of this modification can be found on the following link:

http://www.rpod-owners.com/forum_posts.asp?TID=7964&KW=Mud+flap&PID=84570&title=mudflap-to-protect-171-hre-dump-valves#84570 - http://www.rpod-owners.com/forum_posts.asp?TID=7964&KW=Mud+flap&PID=84570&title=mudflap-to-protect-171-hre-dump-valves#84570

Also regarding the supports for holding tanks, I would recommend checking all of the large sheet metal screws attaching the cross members to the frame. These cross members are what keep the holding tanks in place so that the lip on the tanks you mention can support the tanks. An additional strap under each tank would certainly help. There have been some reports of holding tanks dropping to the pavement during travel. 

If you decide to do this, start early and use some superglue and a 1/4 x 20 bolt and nut as a clamp to make yourself some washers of the correct thickness to match the gap.  It’s extremely frustrating to attempt to place one washer, let alone three washers in a blind vertical gap.  This will save you some time and frustration. An even better solution would be to fabricate some shims that match the drilling of the flange.  

I took mine to the dealer who tightened the screws and closed up the gaps, but sheared one screw off in the process. After that, I still did not like the looks of it so I drilled through and  each bracket now has one stainless steel bolt with stainless steel washers and nylock nuts. If you drill, use a slow speed on the drill as a fast speed is an easy way to overheat the drill and then it gets dull and won't work. I went through several bits. Later I found some Cobalt bits at Home Depot that are much more durable. Even those will become dull eventually. I haven't yet found an effective way to sharpen them.

It isn't just the tank supports though that need work. The black and gray water drains also need better support. See my mods for my solution. I have had the black tank drain support fail twice, both times allowing the end to drag on the pavement. There won't be a third time!

StephenH - one thing that I've found helpful when drilling through the steel on the Pod - put a few drops of 3&1 oil on the bit when starting the hole and partway through - saves the bit from overheating. Just be careful if drilling overhead, don't want drops of hot oil landing on your face (don't ask me how I know).

Vann

Greetings

I have the lift kit on my R-179.  So I got a couple of heavy truck mud flaps, cut them to size used some stainless steel bolts to fasten them to the fender. They go past the center point of the tire and stay down in place when driving down the road.  they help keep the back sides clean.

Crankster78