Palomino-Pony RV Exposed: Leaks, Lift Failures, Soft Floors, Service Delays, Safety Risks

Introduction and context for the Palomino-Pony

AI-powered research tools have systematically collected and analyzed public information to produce this report. The Palomino-Pony is a folding (pop-up) camping trailer historically marketed as a budget-friendly, lightweight way to get into RVing. Palomino is a Forest River brand, and the Pony name appeared across multiple model years and floorplans (often alongside “Pony Express”). While some owners appreciate the simplicity and low tow weight, a sizable volume of owner reports point to structural water intrusion, lift-system failures, soft floors, wiring and propane issues, and persistent service and parts delays. This report aims to help shoppers identify patterns of risk and verify them through linked sources, forums, and review sites.

If you own or previously owned a Palomino-Pony, your insights can help other families make informed decisions—would you add your experience to our community report?

Where to research and connect with real owners

High-value owner communities and watchdog resources

• YouTube owner reviews and teardown footage: Start with a broad video search for documented issues: YouTube search: Palomino-Pony Problems.
• Google review aggregations: Scan 1-star experiences and patterns: Google search: Palomino-Pony Problems.
• Better Business Bureau (BBB): Search for Palomino/Forest River and filter by model where possible: BBB search: Palomino-Pony.
• Reddit owner threads: Cross-check recurring complaints in multiple subreddits:
  r/rvs,
  r/RVLiving,
  r/GoRVing.
• NHTSA recalls: Check recalls by year and model: NHTSA: Palomino-Pony recall search.
• RVInsider owner reviews: Look for trend lines in low-star notes: RVInsider: Palomino-Pony Problems.
• Good Sam Community: Legacy threads can reveal long-term issues: Good Sam: Palomino-Pony Problems.
• PissedConsumer: Use the on-site search for “Palomino Pony” and “Palomino folding camper”: PissedConsumer browse page (search on page).
• Owner forums: Use forum search for model-specific threads:
  RVForums.com,
  RVForum.net,
  RVUSA Forum.
• Facebook groups: Join multiple Palomino-Pony or Palomino pop-up owner groups for unfiltered posts and photos. Use this Google search to find active groups: Search for Palomino-Pony Facebook groups.

Independent creators are also surfacing chronic industry problems. Consider exploring the Liz Amazing channel—she routinely publishes buyer education and exposes RV quality issues. Try searching her channel for the exact model you’re considering: Investigative RV buyer education by Liz Amazing.

Before you buy: insist on a third-party inspection

Budget-squeezed pop-up lines are especially vulnerable to water damage, lift-system neglect, and makeshift repairs that aren’t visible on a dealer lot. To avoid costly surprises, hire a certified, independent RV inspector before you sign any paperwork. This is your only real leverage—if problems are found, you can ask for remediation or price concessions before the dealer has your money. Once you take delivery, owners often report months-long delays for parts and service, derailing planned trips.

• Find local inspectors: Use this query to locate certified pros: Search “RV Inspectors near me”.
• Put inspection results in writing: Require deficiencies to be fixed and re-inspected before you take possession.
• Verify recalls and TSBs: Confirm any recalls were completed and documented.

What the Palomino-Pony is—and its reputation

The Palomino-Pony is a lightweight folding camping trailer family aimed at first-time buyers and minimalists. Owners often value easy storage and low tow weight. However, in owner forums and low-star review narratives, budget construction methods (thin roof skins, limited sealant details, light-duty lift system components) are cited frequently, with many saying they experienced leaks and soft floors after only a few seasons in wet climates. Because many Palomino-Pony units on the market are now older, deferred maintenance compounds the original vulnerabilities—making diligent inspection even more important. If you’ve lived through these problems, would you describe what happened and how you resolved it?

Structural and water intrusion issues

Roof leaks, seam failures, and delamination

Owner complaints repeatedly mention seam failures around roof edges, marker lights, and vent penetrations. On older Palomino-Pony roofs, thin exterior skin bonded to luan can delaminate after water intrusion, leading to “spongy” areas, ripples, and discoloration. Some report season-over-season battles with resealing, only to discover hidden rot in roof boards and corner framing. In severe cases, the roof sags and the lift system struggles to raise it, causing alignment issues with the door and canvas.

• Evidence you can verify: Scan photo threads and repair walkthroughs:
  Google: Palomino-Pony roof leak problems,
  YouTube: Palomino-Pony roof repair.
• Red flags during inspection: Soft spots near the A/C cutout or vent, stained ceiling vinyl, rusty staples at roof edges, and musty odor.

Soft floors and rot at door, sink, and dinette areas

Water entry through poorly sealed exterior trim or underfloor splash points often migrates to traffic areas by the door, the galley, and dinette bases. Owners describe a “trampoline” feel underfoot or screw heads losing bite. Subfloor replacement on a pop-up is invasive and can easily exceed the resale value of the trailer if rot has spread to surrounding framing.

• Owner reports and DIY fixes:
  Google: Palomino-Pony soft floor problems,
  YouTube: Palomino-Pony floor rot.
• Quick checks: Tap-test for hollow sounds; lift floor vents where possible to check for discoloration; inspect the underside for blackened wood and peeling underbelly coatings.

Lift system cable, pulley, and crank failures

Palomino pop-ups commonly rely on steel cable lift systems routed through pulleys to push spring rods that elevate the roof. Failures include frayed or snapped cables, seized pulleys, misaligned push-plates, and stripped crank mechanisms. Owners describe roofs that bind mid-lift or drop abruptly on one corner—an obvious safety hazard for fingers and frames. Cable replacement requires partial disassembly of cabinets and body panels; alignment afterward is critical and time-consuming.

• Research threads and how-tos:
  Google: Palomino-Pony lift system problems,
  YouTube: Palomino-Pony lift cable repair.
• Safety tip: Inspect all four corners during raising/lowering. Any unevenness is a stop-work signal—forcing the crank can twist and crack the roof structure.

Running gear, frame, and weight-related complaints

Axle capacity, tire blowouts, and alignment wear

Budget pop-ups often ride on minimally spec’d axles and ST tires. Owners report premature tire wear on the inner shoulders, chronic low ride height, bent spindles after minor curb strikes, and heat-related blowouts on summer interstates. A blowout can shred the wheel well liner and damage the body, with repairs exceeding the trailer’s blue book value.

• Owner documentation:
  Google: Palomino-Pony axle problems,
  Reddit: Palomino-Pony tire blowout.
• Mitigations: Scale the trailer loaded for a trip; keep 10–15% tongue weight; use quality ST tires at proper pressure; consider an axle upgrade if long-distance towing is planned.

Tongue weight and sway at highway speeds

Light pop-ups are sensitive to load placement. Several owners describe sway above 55 mph when water or gear is biased to the rear. Without a proper weight distribution/sway control hitch, crosswinds and passing trucks can destabilize the tow vehicle. Owners also complain of tongue jack failures and bent couplers after jackknifing or rough campsites.

• Verification threads:
  Good Sam: Sway problems with Palomino-Pony,
  Reddit GoRVing: Palomino-Pony sway.
• What to test on a pre-purchase road drive: Braking stability, sway behavior with rapid lane change, tire and hub temperatures after 20–30 minutes at highway speed.

Electrical and propane systems

12V wiring defects, converter failures, and shorts

Multiple low-star reviews describe fuse-blowing when lights are turned on, intermittent water pump power, and converters overheating or humming loudly. In pop-ups that endured roof leaks, corroded grounds are common—owners find multiple splices and wire nuts hidden behind panels. A converter failure can cascade into dead batteries and damage to 12V appliances if voltages spike or sag.

• Start your research here:
  Google: Palomino-Pony electrical problems,
  RVInsider: Palomino-Pony owner complaints.
• Inspection tip: Pull the converter cover and check for burnt smells, discolored wiring, and unsecured grounds to the chassis.

Propane leaks, furnace ignition failures, and stove issues

Reports include propane odor near the regulator, brittle pigtails, and furnaces locking out due to weak spark or airflow obstructions. On older units, owners sometimes find cracked rubber lines and corroded fittings. Uncorrected propane leaks present serious fire and explosion risks. Stove burners with yellow flames signal incomplete combustion and carbon monoxide risk.

• Evidence trail:
  Google: Palomino-Pony propane leak,
  YouTube: Palomino-Pony furnace problems.
• Immediate safety steps: Replace aged pigtails and regulators, leak-test with soapy water, and install fresh propane and CO detectors with current date codes.

Absorption refrigerator performance and recall checks

Many Pony-era units use small Dometic or Norcold absorption refrigerators, which are sensitive to leveling and ventilation. Owners report poor cooling in hot weather, soot buildup on burners, and door latch failures. Absorption models have had well-documented recalls historically; buyers should confirm specific model numbers for recall applicability.

• Owner experiences:
  Google: Palomino-Pony refrigerator problems,
  NHTSA recall lookup.
• Test before buying: Bring pre-chilled water bottles and a fridge thermometer. Demand an 8–12 hour cold soak test on propane and on 120V.

Battery charging, thin wiring, and “solar prep” upselling

Buyers report undersized wiring and weak charging rates from legacy converters, making boondocking or cold-weather furnace usage challenging. Some dealers upsell “solar prep” kits that amount to a port and light wiring incapable of carrying real amperage. Owners have had to rewire with proper gauge to achieve safe and effective charging.

• Verification resources:
  Reddit: Palomino-Pony electrical upgrades,
  Google: Palomino-Pony solar prep problems.

Fit, finish, and materials

Canvas, vinyl windows, and zipper longevity

Owners note UV-brittling of vinyl windows, zipper failures on frequently used panels, and seam tape drying out. Once the envelope is compromised, wind-driven rain enters and accelerates interior damage. Replacement canvas is available, but costs can rival the trailer’s resale value.

• Photo evidence and vendors:
  Google: Palomino-Pony canvas replacement,
  YouTube: Palomino-Pony canvas leaks.

Hardware corrosion, latches, and cabinet fasteners

Budget hinges and latches often corrode, and owners describe screws that strip out of particleboard cabinetry. In motion, poorly anchored cabinets loosen and squeak, with some reports of broken door catches and sliding hardware. Rebuilding with better fasteners and backers is a common DIY fix.

• Owner narratives:
  RVInsider: Palomino-Pony owner complaints,
  Good Sam: Palomino-Pony cabinet issues.

Dealer prep and missed quality checks

Buyers repeatedly state that basic prep items were missed: underinflated tires, loose propane fittings, dead CO/propane detectors, unlatched roof clamps, or missing sink drains. A weak dealer prep leaves new or used buyers to discover faults mid-trip—hardly a minor inconvenience when you’re hours from home with kids and pets.

• Corroborating sources:
  BBB: complaints mentioning Palomino/Forest River,
  Google: Palomino-Pony dealer prep complaints.

Warranty, service, and parts delays

Warranty denials and fine-print exclusions

Owners report claims denied as “wear and tear,” “owner maintenance,” or “water intrusion not covered.” Pop-ups straddle a gray area where canvas, seals, and lift systems are considered consumables. Some buyers said they were not clearly told about these carve-outs, creating frustration when early failures occur.

• Research negative experiences:
  Google: Palomino-Pony warranty complaints,
  Reddit: Palomino-Pony warranty discussions.

Parts backorders, seasonal delays, and trip cancellations

In-season service backlogs leave some owners waiting weeks or months for lift cables, roof trim, or canvas parts. During that time, the RV sits at the dealer—non-campable—while payments and insurance continue. Families report lost reservation fees and missed vacations while stuck in service limbo.

• Proof points:
  Google: Palomino-Pony parts delay,
  RVInsider: long service times.
• Tip: If a third-party inspection reveals parts are needed, require the dealer to order them immediately and notate that delivery and installation are prerequisites for closing the sale. If you’ve been through a months-long parts purgatory, will you warn other shoppers in the comments?

Pricing, options, and resale value

Overpriced options and steep depreciation

Owner threads describe add-ons—“solar prep,” basic awnings, or convenience packages—priced disproportionately high relative to the base unit. Because many buyers eventually discover water damage or lift issues, resale value can drop sharply, with some reporting it was more economical to walk away than to fund major structural repairs.

• Check real-world resale data: Look up private seller listings and filter by condition to see price differences for “no leaks, new canvas” versus “needs roof work.”

Owner testimonies and media spotlights

Independent creators have helped normalize pre-purchase skepticism in the RV market. We recommend you watch consumer education content and teardown videos that highlight what to inspect, how to pressure-test for leaks, and which “too good to be true” dealer promises to avoid. For example, Liz Amazing frequently produces content that pushes for transparency and better quality:

• Watch Liz Amazing’s buyer-beware tips and search her channel specifically for “Palomino Pony” to see if she or her community has covered relevant issues.
• Industry quality exposés by Liz Amazing often include practical pre-delivery inspection checklists and negotiation advice.
• Use Liz Amazing’s channel as a research jump-start to identify red flags you can verify on your target unit.

For additional voices on the Palomino-Pony, review owner videos and forums: YouTube: Palomino-Pony Problems, plus long-form threads on RVForums and RVForum.net. If you’ve created repair content for this model, can you drop a link in the comments to help future buyers?

Product and safety impact analysis

From a safety and financial risk perspective, the Palomino-Pony’s most consequential failure modes are roof leaks (leading to structural rot), lift system failures (creating roof collapse risk), propane system defects (fire and CO exposure), and running gear failures (blowouts and loss of control). Because older pop-ups are often stored outdoors and see intermittent use, deterioration can accelerate unnoticed—meaning the first signs may appear on the road or at a wet campsite.

• Immediate safety hazards:
  • Roof/lift collapse: Risk of injuries when the roof binds and drops.
  • Propane/CO: Cracked hoses and failed detectors can turn a minor leak into a life-threatening event.
  • Tire/axle failure: Blowouts at highway speed jeopardize both the tow vehicle and nearby traffic.
• Financial hazards: Water damage and lift system rebuilds can exceed the trailer’s market value. Owners frequently report choosing between a costly restoration or selling at a loss.
• Recall diligence: Delayed or unperformed recalls on appliances or running gear raise risk. Always check the VIN and year: NHTSA recall lookup.

Legal and regulatory warnings

Consumers have legal protections that may apply if defects are mishandled by sellers or manufacturers.

• Magnuson–Moss Warranty Act (federal): Requires clear written warranties and prohibits tying coverage to use of specific branded parts/services unless provided free. If you have a written warranty on a Palomino-Pony component and your reasonable claim is denied, this law may help.
• State UDAP laws (Unfair and Deceptive Acts and Practices): Misrepresentations about condition (“no leaks,” “fully inspected”) or undisclosed prior damage may trigger state consumer protection claims.
• Lemon laws (state): Coverage for RVs varies significantly and may exclude towables or only cover the “house” portion. Research your state specifics before pursuing a claim.
• Safety complaints and recalls (NHTSA): If a defect affects safety (e.g., propane leaks, running gear failures), file a complaint with NHTSA. Enough similar complaints can force investigations or recalls.
• FTC and advertising standards: Dealers making unsubstantiated claims can draw FTC scrutiny—especially if “inspections” were advertised but not performed.

Document all interactions, maintain a log of service visits, and keep photos and moisture meter readings. If you suspect warranty violations or deceptive practices, consult a consumer protection attorney. Also consider filing complaints with your state attorney general and the BBB: BBB: Palomino/Forest River.

Steps prospective buyers should take

• Hire a third-party inspector first: Use this link to find local pros: Find RV inspectors near me. Your leverage ends when you sign.
• Demand moisture testing: Require written moisture readings around roof edges, door areas, under the galley, and near bed rails. Ask for attic/roof cavity photos if panels are removed.
• Lift system proof: Have the seller demonstrate raising and lowering twice. Inspect cables, pulleys, and corner posts. Any binding is a deal-breaker until corrected.
• Propane/CO safety: Replace dated detectors immediately. Pressure-test propane lines and verify furnace ignition and stable flame color.
• Road test: Tow at highway speed, conduct braking and lane-change drills in a safe location, and check tire and hub temperatures.
• Verify recalls and service bulletins: Run the VIN: NHTSA Palomino-Pony recall search.
• Cross-check complaints: Read 1–2 star posts to identify recurring problems:
  Google,
  Reddit,
  RVInsider.
• Talk to owners directly: Join multiple groups to avoid moderator bias: Find Palomino-Pony Facebook groups. Ask for roof replacement, canvas swap, or lift cable repair receipts.

Balanced note on improvements and official statements

To be fair, some owners report satisfactory experiences after resealing and performing preventative maintenance, and dealers sometimes honor good-will repairs. Replacement canvases built with better fabrics and modern regulators/hoses can improve reliability. When recalls are issued, Palomino/Forest River and component suppliers typically work through dealers to complete them. That said, the owner experience skews negative when water and lift issues arise, as repairs are invasive and costly relative to resale value.

If your dealer or service center went above and beyond on your Palomino-Pony, would you share the details to help balance the picture?

Key problem summaries with sources you can verify

• Roof and floor rot: Photographic evidence and repair diaries show repeated delamination and subfloor replacements:
  Google: Palomino-Pony water damage,
  YouTube: floor repair.
• Lift system: Cables/pulleys and crank gears wear and fail; uneven lifts are widely reported:
  Good Sam: lift cable problems.
• Propane/electrical: Leaks, aging hoses, and weak converters repeat across threads:
  Reddit: propane leak,
  Google: converter failure.
• Service delays: Seasonal backlogs and parts scarcity derail trips:
  RVInsider: service delays,
  BBB complaint search.

Final assessment

The Palomino-Pony offers a light, simple camping experience when everything is dry, square, and tuned. Unfortunately, owner-reported patterns indicate high exposure to water intrusion, lift system failures, and age-related electrical/propane risks—compounded by parts delays and limited warranty coverage for the very components most likely to fail. Thorough, independent inspection and proof of recent, quality repairs (with receipts) are non-negotiable prerequisites. For many shoppers, the probability-adjusted costs of restoring or maintaining a Pony can exceed its market value, especially in wetter climates or for families who need reliable, short-notice mobility.

Based on the volume and consistency of negative owner reports, we do not recommend the Palomino-Pony for buyers seeking reliable, low-maintenance camping. Consider alternative brands or newer models with better-documented moisture protection and lift systems, and always require a third-party inspection before any purchase.

If you disagree—or if your Palomino-Pony has served you well—can you tell us why, and what made your experience different?

Comments and owner reports

Have you owned a Palomino-Pony? Your story—good or bad—can help families avoid regret. Please add your experience, including year, floorplan, repair details, and what you wish you knew before buying.