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Topic ClosedTorsion Axle Failure

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ronahue View Drop Down
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Direct Link To This Post Topic: Torsion Axle Failure
    Posted: 23 Oct 2020 at 11:43am
Yesterday while driving my 2015 R-Pod 179 to winter storage I heard a loud bang (like a shotgun going off) I stopped and could see no visible damage. However when I resumed driving I notice the trailer had no bounce. After jacking the trailer on both sides I determined their was limited downward movement of the torsion bars. I assume a broken torsion axle. Anyone experience this? 
 
Ron & Sharon
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StephenH View Drop Down
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Direct Link To This Post Posted: 23 Oct 2020 at 1:14pm
No, but please keep us posted as to what you find out.
StephenH
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Direct Link To This Post Posted: 23 Oct 2020 at 2:14pm
The axle torsion arms are independent, they only extend into the axle tube a short distance at each end and are embedded in rubber, which is what flexed under load. So, it seems unlikely that there would be simultaneous failures of the torsion arms at both ends. If you haven't already, take a close look at the axle to frame attachments and at the frame rails themselves in that area. We have had a couple of failures reported on the forum in those. Let us know what you find. 
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ronahue View Drop Down
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Direct Link To This Post Posted: 23 Oct 2020 at 3:42pm
Frame attachments look fine I’m in touch with Lippert customer service and will keep the forum posted.

Ron & Sharon
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Direct Link To This Post Posted: 26 Oct 2020 at 2:53pm
I spoke with a Lippert Tech today and he agrees that I experienced an internal failure of the axle. New axle $1,000 with shipping.

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Direct Link To This Post Posted: 26 Oct 2020 at 3:15pm
Did he say what he thinks failed? Doesn't make sense that both sides would fail simultaneously since they are independent.  

A new axle shouldn't cost that much unless you are replacing the brake assemblies too, maybe. 
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Direct Link To This Post Posted: 26 Oct 2020 at 3:42pm
He did not say what he thinks failed but indicated that a failure of both sides simultaneously was indeed possible. They will only ship the axle with the full hub assemblies. $699.50 for the axle and $300 for shipping. While I'm not happy about this this axle has seen some very rough roads all through Colorado, Montana, Wyoming and a trip to Alaska so I can't say I'm surprised. 
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Direct Link To This Post Posted: 26 Oct 2020 at 4:39pm
Once you get the old axle off see if you can tell what failed.
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Direct Link To This Post Posted: 26 Oct 2020 at 6:45pm
Having had to replace an axle out of warranty, I feel your pain. That axle had a bad weld on the brake mounting bracket, so it got replaced under warranty. I hope I never have to replace the axle again.
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Direct Link To This Post Posted: 26 Oct 2020 at 7:05pm
You could consider getting a higher load rated axle, the 3500 lb one is marginal for a loaded 179. But the higher rated ones have 6 lug brake drums so you would be looking at new tires and wheels as well. If my axle needed to be replaced I would bite the bullet and do it though. 
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