Frames and axels

As I understand it the DOT requires the manufacturer to post a max trailer weight (dry plus cargo) not to exceed the axle weight rating plus tongue weight (or lowest tongue weight if there is a range). The DOT  doesn't mandate what constitutes a reasonable axle or frame weight rating as far as I can tell. 

When I looked into the safety factors (expressed as g forces) engineers use when designing vehicle structures and suspensions I found numbers in the range of 2.5-3 g's for heavy trucks and more like 3-3.5 gs for lighter passenger vehicles, which get thrown around more. I could find general ranges only, the actual numbers used by each vehicle manufacturer are proprietary. 

The knowledge you have to offer is appreciated. The Axel lifts was installed by the dealer I purchased the trailer from. I hope someone covers the damage. The trailers being 2 years old. 

I will keep you informed as to how FR chooses to handle this.

If the axle they provide does not meet the dimensional and performance specifications either specified by the trailer builder or as listed in the Lippert specifications, then ultimately they bear responsibility for the failure.  If the chassis and axle are built to the trailer builder's specifications and it fails when the trailer is used in a manner that is reasonably foreseeable for a vacation trailer, then it is the trailer manufacturer's responsibility if a failure occurs within the warranty period.  If the use of the trailer is unreasonable or constitutes an abuse, then the warranty is void.

The real question are what constitutes reasonable and foreseeable use, and what is a "subtantial" defect.  [The pre-June, 30,2021, warranty language is pretty much irrelevant as the warranty period has already expired, except to the extent the Lippert axle warranty may apply.  The Lippert frame warranty, according to their web site, is 1 year.]  Under the current "warranty," Forrest River is not responsible for much.  https://www.forestriverinc.com/downloads/TowableWarranty2021.pdf  If the defect is not "substantial," then it's not covered. "Substantial Defects are those defects which prevent the RV from performing its intended use for short term recreational camping." [Emphasis added.] Dealer representations about what is covered or not covered by the warranty are specifically disowned by FR.  The warranty only applies to the first retail sale of the trailer by an authorized dealer.  It is not transferable.  If you purchase a trailer that is not the current "model year" then the warranty is 90 days, not 1 year.  Also, little stuff, such as door or window adjustments, are only covered for 90 days.  Specifically excluded from the warranty:  "The chassis including without limitation, any mechanical parts or systems of the chassis, frame, axles, tires, tubes, batteries, gauges, or optional generators."  [Emphasis added.]  Also excluded are road hazard damage and damage from "off road" use.  So if you hit a pothole on I-20 in Louisiana, which I am told there are some huge ones, tough luck.  The warranty limitations can vary from state to state, but in most states where there is little in the way of consumer protection law, you're screwed unless FR or the dealer feels like being nice to you.

The warranty overrides the Uniform Commercial Code protections in most states, so the implied warranty of fitness for the intended use doesn't help you.  A failure of the product which damages the product leaves you with essentially no remedy, except as specifically stated in the warranty.  If there is a design defect in the trailer, such an axle or chassis failure, that leads to an accident, then different rules apply and the manufacturer is responsible for compensation for the injury, but not consequential damages to the trailer.

If you have a warranty claim, the best you can hope for is that FR wants you to buy another trailer from them someday and might be nice to you.  If they deny your warranty claim, even if you are right and they are giving you the proverbial middle finger, there is really not much you can do.  Of course, you can sue them, but the attorneys fees would very quickly exceed the value of the trailer.  Also, you have to go to Indiana to sue.  They chose the forum in their warranty and you can count on Indiana law not being very favorable to consumers with travel trailer warranty disputes.

Speaking for myself, I would never, ever, buy a new FR travel trailer product again.  The warranty is illusory and it isn't worth the extra money you'd spend on a new trailer.  If I were to be in the travel trailer market again, I would buy a used one that has been used enough to reveal any structural or other defects.  If you can't fully inspect the used trailer for defects yourself, then it's worth hiring an independent trailer mechanic to do a thorough pre-purchase inspection.  Also, buying a trailer that is out of warranty and your not being in "privity" [having a contractual relationship] with FR means that the limitations for legal remedies, such as having to sue in Indiana, would not apply in the event someone got hurt using the trailer.  As for fixing or replacing the trailer itself, you are on your own.

 

So I do think the two piece fiberglass RVs (either trailers or motorized) are going to result in a better long termownership experience. That's where I'm heading, in my case motorized this time. I'm looking at old 1980s Toyota mini motorhomes with fiberglas cabins. But I'd have to find a rust free unit, rust was a big problem in vehicles of that vintage. The other options are Chinooks and Xplorers on Ford, Chevy, or Dodge chassis, and Casita or Scamp on the towable RV side. And one other option I'm looking at on the motorized side. 1990s Japanese domestic imported micro motorhomes on 4wd diesel light truck chassis. Right hand drive, manual transmissions with 2 speed transfer cases, what could be more fun than that?