Great tips as usual. One tip though about the refrigerator insect screen. You need to cut a hole and get the drip hose out of the RV. If you don’t want the refrigerator discharging fluid into the back of the RV make sure you snake that drip hose out through the insect screen
We must be lucky, our Geo Pro came with most of these upgrades. Including the Goodyear endurance tires and TPM. The mattress is actually more comfortable than the one in our house. We need an upgrade on that. I found similar hooks to the command hooks at our dollar store. These have been working just as well and were a lot less expensive. I enjoy your videos, especially the one on how to use a convention microwave.
Thank you for your comments on dometic commodes. We were able to call dometic and receive a new commode in our 18 months old rv. 12 months was warranty from manufacturer of rv.
Go one more big step ,, Balance your camper tires, install a Road Armour equalizer with heavy duty shackles with greaseable bolts, last install gas shocks on each camper wheel this improvement really smooths out our rough rodes...
Thanks for such a helpful video, John. We just bought an R Pod 193, our first camper ever, and your videos are incredibly helpful. I would add a back-up camera. The newer models are already wired for the Furrion or similar models, and it's of great help when backing into a campsite or driving safely on the highway, especially for newbies. One question on the screens for bugs - I assume the size of the screens one needs differ from model to model? My camper is in a secure lot, and I will measure the next time I use it. Also, the 193 has a design flaw, as the Murphy bed hangs out about 12+ inches when it's down. We ordered some plastic supports so that we will not break the wood when sliding in and out of the bed.
Yep, a backup camera is a great idea as well. I did get one with my Keystone Bullet as it was prewired. The older Pods would require a bit more work to get one installed. I am not sure which bug screens would work on the 193. The furnace and water heater may be the same as the 179, the fridge likely is not the same. Thanks for sharing!
The one thing that worries me I probably looked at a thousand RV upgrades and I have never seen anyone upgrade their SMOKE DETECTOR. That is very disturbing and the crazy thing about that is it isn't an expensive upgrade. I have a 2017 34 footer and it came with one smoke detector that is unacceptable. I recently changed the batteries in that one smoke detector and pushed the test button nothing happened. So I took it out to the range and used it as a clay pigeon and I promptly replaced my RV smoke detector I installed one at the bunk room one in the kitchen and on at the door of the master bedroom now i'm happy because all other upgrade's can wait my FAMILY COME'S FIRST.
John, Like you I own a 2017 RP-179 to which I added bug screens on the furnace vents, the water heater vents and the refrigerator vents. Afterwards I noticed this warning in the furnace manual: "Do not install screens over the vent for any reason. Screens will become restricted and cause unsafe furnace operation. Accessories are being marketed for RV products which we do not recommend. For your safety, only factory authorized parts are to be used on your furnace." I still have the screens installed, however.
I have had these screens on my furnace since about a month since I purchased the 179 new in April 2017. No issues at all in closing in on four seasons.
@JohnMarucci just started outfitting my new 2023 R-Pod 202. Have you had any issues with Command Strips damaging the finish on your walls? I’ve seen a couple of negative comments on Facebook forums. Great videos. The starter series o for new RV’ers is incredibly helpful.
Sorry about that. I have used command strips for years without issue. Main thing is to know the weight capacity of the strips you are using and not exceeding this. Thanks!
On our 2018 179 the two outdoor porch lights seemed to take on water and had the older 1141 incandescent bulbs which ran hot. I was afraid the fixture would melt or get damaged so my upgrade was to switch to LED's with the correct 1141 style base. I also have since drilled a small hole in the bottom of each plastic porch light to allow any errant water to drain out.
I have had a back turn signal indicator take on water, but never a porch light. Are you certain the caulk around the light is secure without any cracks?
@@JohnMarucci The caulk around the outside of both the front and side oval shaped porch lights is very good. I noticed a problem on the inside below the bed where a water stain showed up on the bottom the curved wall where it meets the floor in the front storage compartment. The only place water could come in or follow any wiring was the front porch light. When I took off the lens I noticed a high water mark or lines in the dust/dirt in the bottom. I sealed the wiring with some caulk but concluded that water must pass freely around that light lens. Thus I felt the need to drill a drain hole. (That particular porch light has a switch on the bottom which also suffers from excess water all around it after washing or in a heavy rain.) The lights look OK upon taking off the lens and the caulk looks OK from the outside. Did Forest River drill a hole extra large for the wires? Perhaps they didn't align the light correctly with the hole and extra water sneaks past the light fixture? Wish I knew
Here is the video of upgrading the R-Pod 179 dinette foam. The exact dimensions and foam type are in the description: ua-cam.com/video/dAzBMtCHH1c/v-deo.html
You’re much more helpful than the Forest River people. In the front of my R-Pod 190 there is a big switch labeled “battery.” This was not explained to me when I took delivery. What does that do?
It is likely a battery disconnect switch so you don’t run your battery out when not using the trailer. Easy to confirm by seeing if your LED lights work when you flip the switch. If it is a disconnect switch, everything should go dead. It can come in handy when storing the trailer or between uses. I actually pull my battery because I use a public storage facility. Thanks!
Love your videos, John. Great help for newbies like Carol and I. We want buy bug screens through your Amazon shop. We have a 2021 R-Pod 190. Can you give any advice on how we figure out what sizes to order?
I am fairly sure the screens on my Amazon store will work for the 190. Go to: www.amazon.com/shop/johnmarucci then the R-Pod Next Steps Section. There are screens for the water heater and furnace plus the refrigerator screens. Thanks!
I appreciated all the tips. I've had some mosquito trouble inside the r-pod (2019 180 model), and have no idea how they're getting in (windows all closed). The bug screens are for preventing insects from nesting--any ideas to prevent mosquito penetration into the r-pod itself?
My R-Pod 179 had a bad air intake leak under the slide. I could feel it at my legs with the bathroom exhaust fan on and all the windows closed. You may have a similar issue.
We love our frog baby but the LED lights glow all night. I need it dark to sleep and can't stand anything on my face.like eye-masks. Can we replace the LED's with other types of ceiling lighting, and if so, what would you recommend? Or...would a master battery shut off switch be the way to go? If so, would the propane fridge or heater still work at night?
Hi John- Great Videos! We just purchased our first R Pod (2021 171) and are looking to take your advice with the upgrades. Do you have a link to the vendors of the fan cover and bug screens? That's probably the first thing we'll do. Thanks again for posting these videos. They're a huge help for R Pod newbies.
Many, many years ago I installed the bug screens on a 1968 Timberline trailer. I can’t remember which, either the refrigerator or the hot water heater instantly started to malfunction. It was either starved for air or had too much back pressure exhaust. As soon as I removed the screen it functioned properly again. Has anyone with the screens installed had similar issues? I would like to install them on my 22 192 pod.
I just recently came across the rpod while researching affordable rvs...i dont understand why the mfr just doesnt fix some of these problems before ppl buy them...we are hesitant to purchase one.....and probably wont...poor quality seems to be a big issue....
Susan, there are quality issues with most trailers in this price range and if you purchase new, you should expect to do some warranty work. It may take some work, but you can probably get the trailer to where you want it to be so it is enjoyable. I think I've had more issues than average, but my R-Pod is is at an excellent place for usability now. If you just don't want to deal with quality issues, buy a more expensive unit like a Lance or Airstream. If you do want an R-Pod, you can find a used one where someone else has gone through the work of getting it right. You will pay a premium but sometimes can get a used one actually better than new. Thanks!
Great tips as usual. One tip though about the refrigerator insect screen. You need to cut a hole and get the drip hose out of the RV. If you don’t want the refrigerator discharging fluid into the back of the RV make sure you snake that drip hose out through the insect screen
Great tip! Thanks for sharing.
I made that mistake once brother! Never again! Good job.
Screens on some of your exhaust vents may void warranty on the device you put it in. Check with the manufacturer if the device
We must be lucky, our Geo Pro came with most of these upgrades. Including the Goodyear endurance tires and TPM. The mattress is actually more comfortable than the one in our house. We need an upgrade on that. I found similar hooks to the command hooks at our dollar store. These have been working just as well and were a lot less expensive. I enjoy your videos, especially the one on how to use a convention microwave.
Ralph, great to hear. Thanks for letting me know that the convection microwave video has been helpful. All the best!
Thank you for your comments on dometic commodes. We were able to call dometic and receive a new commode in our 18 months old rv. 12 months was warranty from manufacturer of rv.
Glad to hear that the video was helpful!
We upgraded our mattress to a Mattress Insider and love it!
Glad to hear it. Thanks for letting us know the brand you upgraded to!
Go one more big step ,, Balance your camper tires, install a Road Armour equalizer with heavy duty shackles with greaseable bolts, last install gas shocks on each camper wheel this improvement really smooths out our rough rodes...
If you did this to your rig, what rig was it and how much was the overall cost?
@@JohnMarucci Have a new 34' 274 RK Cherokee , everything I've done was about $400
Thanks Steve for the info!
Thanks for such a helpful video, John. We just bought an R Pod 193, our first camper ever, and your videos are incredibly helpful. I would add a back-up camera. The newer models are already wired for the Furrion or similar models, and it's of great help when backing into a campsite or driving safely on the highway, especially for newbies.
One question on the screens for bugs - I assume the size of the screens one needs differ from model to model? My camper is in a secure lot, and I will measure the next time I use it.
Also, the 193 has a design flaw, as the Murphy bed hangs out about 12+ inches when it's down. We ordered some plastic supports so that we will not break the wood when sliding in and out of the bed.
Yep, a backup camera is a great idea as well. I did get one with my Keystone Bullet as it was prewired. The older Pods would require a bit more work to get one installed. I am not sure which bug screens would work on the 193. The furnace and water heater may be the same as the 179, the fridge likely is not the same. Thanks for sharing!
Which plastic supports did you purchase?
Thanks for the video
Excellent! Just bought a Class C
Glad the video was helpful!
The one thing that worries me I probably looked at a thousand RV upgrades and I have never seen anyone upgrade their SMOKE DETECTOR. That is very disturbing and the crazy thing about that is it isn't an expensive upgrade. I have a 2017 34 footer and it came with one smoke detector that is unacceptable. I recently changed the batteries in that one smoke detector and pushed the test button nothing happened. So I took it out to the range and used it as a clay pigeon and I promptly replaced my RV smoke detector I installed one at the bunk room one in the kitchen and on at the door of the master bedroom now i'm happy because all other upgrade's can wait my FAMILY COME'S FIRST.
Great comment here. Thanks for sharing!
John, Like you I own a 2017 RP-179 to which I added bug screens on the furnace vents, the water heater vents and the refrigerator vents. Afterwards I noticed this warning in the furnace manual: "Do not install screens over the vent for any reason. Screens will become restricted and cause unsafe furnace operation. Accessories are being marketed for RV products which we do not recommend. For your safety, only factory authorized parts are to be used on your furnace." I still have the screens installed, however.
I have had these screens on my furnace since about a month since I purchased the 179 new in April 2017. No issues at all in closing in on four seasons.
How could the screens become restricted unless it is a dryer vent? Mud, maybe. Just keep them clean. It’s lawyers talking, anyway.
@JohnMarucci just started outfitting my new 2023 R-Pod 202. Have you had any issues with Command Strips damaging the finish on your walls? I’ve seen a couple of negative comments on Facebook forums. Great videos. The starter series o for new RV’ers is incredibly helpful.
@@JohnMarucci Thanks John. That is very useful info since I too drive a Tundra. However you may have answered a different question. 😁
Sorry about that. I have used command strips for years without issue. Main thing is to know the weight capacity of the strips you are using and not exceeding this. Thanks!
A lift kit on these silly R Pods!! Just bought a 2011 and my first trip is to a suspension shop to lift it 6 inches!
Thanks for your feedback!
On our 2018 179 the two outdoor porch lights seemed to take on water and had the older 1141 incandescent bulbs which ran hot. I was afraid the fixture would melt or get damaged so my upgrade was to switch to LED's with the correct 1141 style base. I also have since drilled a small hole in the bottom of each plastic porch light to allow any errant water to drain out.
I have had a back turn signal indicator take on water, but never a porch light. Are you certain the caulk around the light is secure without any cracks?
@@JohnMarucci The caulk around the outside of both the front and side oval shaped porch lights is very good.
I noticed a problem on the inside below the bed where a water stain showed up on the bottom the curved wall where it meets the floor in the front storage compartment. The only place water could come in or follow any wiring was the front porch light. When I took off the lens I noticed a high water mark or lines in the dust/dirt in the bottom. I sealed the wiring with some caulk but concluded that water must pass freely around that light lens. Thus I felt the need to drill a drain hole. (That particular porch light has a switch on the bottom which also suffers from excess water all around it after washing or in a heavy rain.) The lights look OK upon taking off the lens and the caulk looks OK from the outside. Did Forest River drill a hole extra large for the wires? Perhaps they didn't align the light correctly with the hole and extra water sneaks past the light fixture? Wish I knew
Carbon Monoxide monitors and Humidity/Condensation monitor.
All my trailers came with carbon monoxide monitors. The humidity gauge is a great idea. Thanks!
Thanks John! I live in MI and was curious where you ordered your foam cushions from? We have a 2018-179 as well. Thank you!
Foam Factory in Macomb MI... www.foambymail.com
Here is the video of upgrading the R-Pod 179 dinette foam. The exact dimensions and foam type are in the description: ua-cam.com/video/dAzBMtCHH1c/v-deo.html
@@JohnMarucci Thank you!
Foam Factory does a bang up job on all their work. I'd recommend as well.
You’re much more helpful than the Forest River people. In the front of my R-Pod 190 there is a big switch labeled “battery.” This was not explained to me when I took delivery. What does that do?
It is likely a battery disconnect switch so you don’t run your battery out when not using the trailer. Easy to confirm by seeing if your LED lights work when you flip the switch. If it is a disconnect switch, everything should go dead. It can come in handy when storing the trailer or between uses. I actually pull my battery because I use a public storage facility. Thanks!
Love your videos, John. Great help for newbies like Carol and I. We want buy bug screens through your Amazon shop. We have a 2021 R-Pod 190. Can you give any advice on how we figure out what sizes to order?
I am fairly sure the screens on my Amazon store will work for the 190. Go to: www.amazon.com/shop/johnmarucci then the R-Pod Next Steps Section. There are screens for the water heater and furnace plus the refrigerator screens. Thanks!
I appreciated all the tips. I've had some mosquito trouble inside the r-pod (2019 180 model), and have no idea how they're getting in (windows all closed). The bug screens are for preventing insects from nesting--any ideas to prevent mosquito penetration into the r-pod itself?
My R-Pod 179 had a bad air intake leak under the slide. I could feel it at my legs with the bathroom exhaust fan on and all the windows closed. You may have a similar issue.
We love our frog baby but the LED lights glow all night. I need it dark to sleep and can't stand anything on my face.like eye-masks. Can we replace the LED's with other types of ceiling lighting, and if so, what would you recommend? Or...would a master battery shut off switch be the way to go? If so, would the propane fridge or heater still work at night?
I’d try using small pieces of painters tape to dim the lights at night.
2nd battery
Hi John- Great Videos! We just purchased our first R Pod (2021 171) and are looking to take your advice with the upgrades. Do you have a link to the vendors of the fan cover and bug screens? That's probably the first thing we'll do. Thanks again for posting these videos. They're a huge help for R Pod newbies.
You can find these items on my store front in the R-Pod Next Steps area and the Mods area: amazon.com/shop/johnmarucci
@@JohnMarucci Got it. Thanks again!
The RV mattress was the first thing we replaced. Most are HORRIBLE
Yes, the r-pod mattress is really bad.
Many, many years ago I installed the bug screens on a 1968 Timberline trailer. I can’t remember which, either the refrigerator or the hot water heater instantly started to malfunction. It was either starved for air or had too much back pressure exhaust. As soon as I removed the screen it functioned properly again. Has anyone with the screens installed had similar issues? I would like to install them on my 22 192 pod.
I haven't had such and issue, but the screens I used were for the specific trailer. Hopefully other people will comments. Thanks!
Thanks for the reply John. I appreciate it.
I just recently came across the rpod while researching affordable rvs...i dont understand why the mfr just doesnt fix some of these problems before ppl buy them...we are hesitant to purchase one.....and probably wont...poor quality seems to be a big issue....
Susan, there are quality issues with most trailers in this price range and if you purchase new, you should expect to do some warranty work. It may take some work, but you can probably get the trailer to where you want it to be so it is enjoyable. I think I've had more issues than average, but my R-Pod is is at an excellent place for usability now. If you just don't want to deal with quality issues, buy a more expensive unit like a Lance or Airstream. If you do want an R-Pod, you can find a used one where someone else has gone through the work of getting it right. You will pay a premium but sometimes can get a used one actually better than new. Thanks!
Was the TPS wireless? Looked like it. NM, links provided thx
Great video! Keep up the good work. If you have a second go have a browse of my account 😁🤙