179 Axle Issues
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URL: http://www.rpod-owners.com/forum_posts.asp?TID=5018
Printed Date: 04 May 2024 at 8:04am
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Topic: 179 Axle Issues
Posted By: Budward
Subject: 179 Axle Issues
Date Posted: 23 Jul 2014 at 9:03am
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I mentioned in another thread about some axle issues with my new 179. After 1000 miles or less I noticed the wheels started to lean it at the top- negative camber. I also noticed the upward bend in the middle of the axle, put there during manufacture to give positive camber unloaded, with ideally close to zero camber when loaded, is now gone from the axle. IOW it has bent. So- curious I headed off to the CAT truck scale. The axle of the trailer has 3320 lbs on it ready to travel with a full tank of water, the stuff we usually carry and zero food or clothing, nothing in the black or grey tanks. Note this is without the weight distributing hitch hooked up which would easily add 100 lbs to the trailer axle, and probably more. I'm guessing with another 100 lbs between the fridge items other food and clothes we would be around 3520. The axle is rated for 3500. Just for reference the tow vehicle, a Toyota FJ Cruiser weighed in at 5360 lbs with 3/4 tank of gas and no driver or passengers. Note a good 400 of this is tongue weight from the trailer. Now I see why the axle is bending after only a 1000 miles of road pounding.... Question for other 179 owners- are you seeing this? Oh and spare me the lecture about not traveling with a full tank of water- we are heading out soon on a long trip where we will spend up to 6 days at a time in remote campgrounds out west without any water source so the tank will be full at times.. ------------- 2014 179 Towed by a 2015 Ford Transit Diesel Supervised by a German/Aussie mix and a Labradoodle! |
Replies:
Posted By: Pod-a-terre
Date Posted: 23 Jul 2014 at 1:06pm
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Be really interested in responses, especially if any from FR. We are looking at the 179 also with a TV being a 2014 Lexus GX (6,500lbs tow rating). The dealer we deal with orders all his R Pods with the risers. Have you raised this issue with FR? John ------------- John Kris "Lady Sarah" our Golden Aiken SC |
Posted By: Budward
Date Posted: 23 Jul 2014 at 1:21pm
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Called FR this morning and actually got a live person! They never heard of it, see the dealer yada yada... Meanwhile Dexter, who told me they could build a heavier duty axle for it a few weeks ago now says they can't. ------------- 2014 179 Towed by a 2015 Ford Transit Diesel Supervised by a German/Aussie mix and a Labradoodle! |
Posted By: CharlieM
Date Posted: 23 Jul 2014 at 2:22pm
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Budward, It looks like you are right at the limit, but I would not have expected the axle to act that way at its limit. All the bow could be gone, but the wheels should still be vertical and the tires wearing properly. It seems David and Danette were able to upgrade from a 3500# axle to a 4500# version on their Vibe. I don't know if they had Dexter or Lippert, but you might check with them. The axles are probably very similar physically. ------------- Charlie Northern Colorado OLD: 2013 RP-172, 2010 Honda Pilot 3.5L 4WD PRESENT: 2014 Camplite 21RBS, 2013 Supercharged Tacoma 4L V6 4WD |
Posted By: David and Danette
Date Posted: 23 Jul 2014 at 2:30pm
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This sounds like the same complaints Vibe owners had with a 3,500 lb. axle at times I wonder what the designers are thinking when they build these trailers. In time most likely when they have had enough complaints they will upgrade the axle to one stronger. I think Dexter makes a 6,000 lb. axle and I think that is what someone replaced there Vibe 3,500 lb. axle with. I am not sure if the frame could handle that much weight that is something you need to think about if you put on a stronger axle will frame support the weight. I just went to the Forest River web site you are about 500 lbs lighter than the heaviest Vibe. You are not in that bad of shape as the Vibes but I agree a stronger axle would be safer.
------------- 2018 Vista Cruiser 19BFD (2018- 2012 Vibe 6503 (2014-2019) 2009 r-pod 171 (2009-2014) Middle Tn 2014 Ram 1500 Quad cab |
Posted By: David and Danette
Date Posted: 23 Jul 2014 at 2:58pm
------------- 2018 Vista Cruiser 19BFD (2018- 2012 Vibe 6503 (2014-2019) 2009 r-pod 171 (2009-2014) Middle Tn 2014 Ram 1500 Quad cab |
Posted By: Budward
Date Posted: 23 Jul 2014 at 4:41pm
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I can't see ever being much heavier than it weighed today, as said clothes and food for a trip weren't in it but everything else pretty much was. I've been digging through the Dexter info and have emailed them back about their stating a heavier axle would require "undercarriage alteration". From what I see the mounting holes for the #11 axle, the rpod has a #10, are one inch farther apart. If that is the only issue I can take care of that. I'm heading out on a 10,000 mile plus trip in a few weeks and I sure don't want problems 3000 miles from home.... The local Dexter dealer tells me they can have an axle in 3-5 days which I kind of doubt as ALL Dexter axles are custom made to order. I bought a pair for my enclosed trailer 10 years ago and can't recall how long it took for them to come in. The other issue is the tires FR used on the rpod are only rated at 1760 lbs each so 3520 lbs total for the pair! RV's are rarely weight balanced side to side so I'm guessing the left side, which is usually heavier -slide out/fridge/heater/water heater etc- is already over the individual tire rating on that side. Visually the left side does look worse. If I go to a heavier axle I will also have to go to 15" tires/rims, not a bad thing really. But the heavier axle takes a 6 bolt pattern, so the other 3 trailers I already own with 15" tires are 5 lug- won't fit, so spares I already have etc won't fit. Can't win. ------------- 2014 179 Towed by a 2015 Ford Transit Diesel Supervised by a German/Aussie mix and a Labradoodle! |
Posted By: Budward
Date Posted: 23 Jul 2014 at 4:45pm
I have had this problem in the past on another trailer- a car trailer loaded to 5500 lbs total with tandem axles rated at 7000 total. 1500 mile trip on lousy interstate and same thing- camber lost, tires leaning, wear on inside. ------------- 2014 179 Towed by a 2015 Ford Transit Diesel Supervised by a German/Aussie mix and a Labradoodle! |
Posted By: David and Danette
Date Posted: 23 Jul 2014 at 5:08pm
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Budward our Vibe has a 4,400 lb. axle and 15" tires with 5 lug nuts. It would be expensive to change everything axle and wheels I know there are those that have done it with their Vibe. That's why I would recommend having it checked by a RV technician to see if it is defective and have it replaced under warranty. ------------- 2018 Vista Cruiser 19BFD (2018- 2012 Vibe 6503 (2014-2019) 2009 r-pod 171 (2009-2014) Middle Tn 2014 Ram 1500 Quad cab |
Posted By: Budward
Date Posted: 23 Jul 2014 at 6:39pm
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Yes Lippert makes a 4400 lb axle with 5 lug hubs. Dexter does not, they go to 6 lug once you get above their 3500 lb class, same thing for Al-Ko.
------------- 2014 179 Towed by a 2015 Ford Transit Diesel Supervised by a German/Aussie mix and a Labradoodle! |
Posted By: Budward
Date Posted: 24 Jul 2014 at 9:01am
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I forgot I have two brand new 225/15 Goodyear Marathon radial trailer tires made in 2011. So they are still within the recommended age limit. I also forgot my 1999 toy hauler has 6 lug 15" tires and rims....that's what the Marathons were bought for.. Since the toy hauler hasn't moved in years I will use those tires and rims to get this project going at lower cost- if I can get the axle in time. So I'm waiting on a quote to come in but looks like a new axle will be around $600- as said, the question is how quick can I get it... Dexter has an axle plant in Georgia I'd be willing to drive to in order to pick up the axle, if that is allowed, as otherwise it will have to ship freight which can be slow. I hope to be on the road heading out west in just over 2 weeks so time is a big issue. If I can't get an axle in time I will swap two 15" 5 lug tires and rims from my enclosed trailer to the rpod, to go on this trip- that way the tires will be within their weight rating even if the axle is not. That would add some comfort factor back in. ------------- 2014 179 Towed by a 2015 Ford Transit Diesel Supervised by a German/Aussie mix and a Labradoodle! |
Posted By: Pod-a-terre
Date Posted: 24 Jul 2014 at 10:29am
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Ya I called FR yesterday and got a live person. Mentioned that there are a lot of comments in re the 179 and the axle bending thus eliminating the camber etc. He said they have not heard of any issues. Said he would look into it. Perhaps they will get something to dealers if they see a problem ( hope springs eternal). I wonder how much it would cost them to just put the heavier axle/tires etc on the 179? Perhaps this is an issue that was not foreseen or analyzed by the engineers when they enlarged /changed the layout/footprint of the new 179? ------------- John Kris "Lady Sarah" our Golden Aiken SC |
Posted By: furpod
Date Posted: 24 Jul 2014 at 10:59am
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I would think, if you have decided to buy a new axle, and already know a modification might be needed, you should buy whichever brand best fits your needs, regardless of brand. Get the one that doesn't require you to buy new wheels and tires.
------------- |
Posted By: CharlieM
Date Posted: 24 Jul 2014 at 11:57am
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If the axles are generally defective or undersized why haven't we heard of problems on the 181s and 182s? They are slightly heavier than the 179. That said, I've always thought the larger Pods should have been dual axle. They're just too close. If an axle upgrade is planned I would favor 15 inch 6 bolt wheels. No use skimping to save two or three wheels. ------------- Charlie Northern Colorado OLD: 2013 RP-172, 2010 Honda Pilot 3.5L 4WD PRESENT: 2014 Camplite 21RBS, 2013 Supercharged Tacoma 4L V6 4WD |
Posted By: Budward
Date Posted: 24 Jul 2014 at 1:00pm
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Don't know why my 179 is having issues- but since I leave soon on an extended trip and don't have time to have a dealer look at it etc.. I just got back from visiting the local Dexter distributor and have a 5000 lb rated axle on the way and 2ea 15x6 rims to mount my tires I already have. His Dexter contact promised the axles will ship on 7/28 and will be here by 7/31! So that gives me enough time to do all the work and hit the road as scheduled- I'll deal with whoever, Dexter or FR, when I get back. I also spec'd the axle to have a 10deg down arm instead of 0, that will raise the trailer a couple of inches, which I wanted to do anyway, and give enough clearance for the larger tires in the fenders. The 15" tires will have a total rating of 5,080 lbs instead of just 3,520. The trailer will never be loaded anywhere near that of course but I like overkill when it comes to tires  ------------- 2014 179 Towed by a 2015 Ford Transit Diesel Supervised by a German/Aussie mix and a Labradoodle! |
Posted By: CharlieM
Date Posted: 24 Jul 2014 at 2:34pm
My Camplite came with that mod as part of the "off road" package. "Off road" means more that 50 feet from the cable TV connector  ------------- Charlie Northern Colorado OLD: 2013 RP-172, 2010 Honda Pilot 3.5L 4WD PRESENT: 2014 Camplite 21RBS, 2013 Supercharged Tacoma 4L V6 4WD |
Posted By: Budward
Date Posted: 24 Jul 2014 at 2:51pm
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I had an Aliner with the "off road package"- same deal, different angle arms and 14 rather than 13 in tires/wheels. Just about any normal RV would literally come apart in short order if you did any real offroading despite the clearance Check this out for offroad RV'ing- https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=wk6KJXeOM0k ------------- 2014 179 Towed by a 2015 Ford Transit Diesel Supervised by a German/Aussie mix and a Labradoodle! |
Posted By: CharlieM
Date Posted: 24 Jul 2014 at 5:53pm
Budward, Note this guy not only has two axles, but also two spares. No skimping here, though the wheels are 5 studs! ------------- Charlie Northern Colorado OLD: 2013 RP-172, 2010 Honda Pilot 3.5L 4WD PRESENT: 2014 Camplite 21RBS, 2013 Supercharged Tacoma 4L V6 4WD |
Posted By: Keith-N-Dar
Date Posted: 24 Jul 2014 at 6:08pm
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Bud if I ever camp near a 179 I will come and see if it is you. With all the things you share that are wrong with your pod, and the troubles you have had with other campers I would be afraid of camping to close due to lightening strikes or something. ------------- Keith-N-Dar Boris & Betty (Boston Terriers) 2011 R-Pod 177 2010 Ford F-150 |
Posted By: Budward
Date Posted: 24 Jul 2014 at 6:23pm
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I did mention on here the nearby strike that took out my fridge control board- and I wasn't even plugged into external power- the campground had none. Perfect example of EMP. Was sure glad I had on my tinfoil hat when that happened..  ------------- 2014 179 Towed by a 2015 Ford Transit Diesel Supervised by a German/Aussie mix and a Labradoodle! |
Posted By: kymooses
Date Posted: 24 Jul 2014 at 7:10pm
Yup, my 181g is the fattest Pod on the road. 4 seasons now with the Dexter axle and we've not had issue one out of it. I hate to see things like this happening to other Podders!  ------------- https://calendar.google.com/calendar?cid=cnBvZC5zcG90dGVyQGdtYWlsLmNvbQ - RPod Rallies https://www.google.com/maps/d/embed?mid=1W1foQXGtrjf8aYly1uh0b-bHPfI&hl=en_US - RPod Owner Map |
Posted By: fwunder
Date Posted: 24 Jul 2014 at 7:42pm
I now have 10,000 miles on my 2014 178. 8,200 the last month. Never traveled with less than a full case of wine and full case of beer and dodged a few buffalo. No axle problems here!  ------------- 2014 RPod 178 => https://goo.gl/CV446f - MyMods and Buying Habits 2008 4Runner Limited 4.0-liter V6 Yes, those are wild ponies dining on grass while dumping tanks! |
Posted By: wildfire305
Date Posted: 27 Jul 2014 at 2:57pm
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Just bought my 2015 179 and I can confirm the appearance of the axle. As mine sits empty, it is toed out/camber in. I don't think this will be much of a problem for me as we will likely only put one to two thousand miles on it a year. The tires will age-out before they wear-out for me. BUT it still looks bad. Also some QC issues with mine - fortunately I am a plumber. My trap in the lav sink was leaking, low point drain caps needed teflon tape on the threads - one was leaking. Kitchen faucet aerator exploded when that burst of air hit it when I practiced draining the system - I should have opened it slower. My windows will not slide smoothly. Thinking that excessive sealant is stuck in the track channel. I might try silicone lubricant - any thoughts? OOPS - don't want to hijack this thread, I'll do a search. ------------- 2005 Dodge Durango 4.7 V8 OLD Tow Vehicle 2004 Honda Odyssey 2015 RP179 "73b" OLD 2005 Viking Saga 2480ST popup |
Posted By: techntrek
Date Posted: 28 Jul 2014 at 9:58pm
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I believe my tires have always leaned in at the top. 15,000+ miles so far and the only oddity is the 2nd ring of tread from the inside, on both sides, is worn down more noticeably than the rest of the tire. ------------- Doug ~ '10 171 (2009-2015) ~ 2008 Salem ~ http://www.rpod-owners.com/forum_posts.asp?TID=1723 - Pod instruction manual 
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Posted By: lippy1979
Date Posted: 30 Jul 2014 at 9:42pm
| Its typical for torsion axels to behave in such a way. The wheels will canter out when unloaded and as you increase the load, they will canter farther in. I personally would never travel with a full tank of fresh water. Fill up at the campground or just buy 3 gallon containers. Water weighs A LOT and puts undue strain on the axel. Not to mention making it harder to control going down the road. |
Posted By: Budward
Date Posted: 31 Jul 2014 at 7:29am
Yes the wheels have positive camber when unloaded. When loaded they should ideally have zero camber. If they have negative camber at rest the axle is bent or overloaded. The axles are made with an upward bow in the axle tube to create the positive camber. My axle on the rpod has no such bow now, it had it when new. I own multiple trailers with torsion axles and NONE of them except the rpod have negative camber. As for filling up at the campground- some campgrounds out west have NO water, it has to arrive with you. Water places no undue strain on an axle- unless the manufacturer under spec'd the axle. Proper engineering would require the axle rating exceeds the weight of the trailer with ALL tanks full. To do otherwise is poor design. FR cut it too close with a 3500 lb axle with a trailer that weighs right at that or over ready to go....add some road pounding and there goes the axle alignment. ------------- 2014 179 Towed by a 2015 Ford Transit Diesel Supervised by a German/Aussie mix and a Labradoodle! |
Posted By: wildfire305
Date Posted: 31 Jul 2014 at 7:51am
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I rarely have a water hookup. But our campgrounds usually have a filling place. The manufacturer doesn't say we shouldn't carry water, they just warn you that it's a significant amount of extra weight. I carry 5 gallons in the tank for toilet flushes and dishwasher while out on the road.
My axle had no upward bend on it when purchased. Strangely, when I pull it the camber straightens under the right circumstances. Never had this type of axle before, could it be the nature of the beast? ------------- 2005 Dodge Durango 4.7 V8 OLD Tow Vehicle 2004 Honda Odyssey 2015 RP179 "73b" OLD 2005 Viking Saga 2480ST popup |
Posted By: Budward
Date Posted: 31 Jul 2014 at 8:01am
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It may not have had the upward bend when purchased but it did when it left the axle factory! I confirmed with Dexter that MY axle, which they looked up the specs by the serial number, was built with positive camber via the upward bend. As I said I have other trailers with Dexter Torflex axles and they do not have the negative camber issue. Of course neither trailer has ever been run with anywhere near axle capacity, both are 7,000 lbs rated with two 3,500 lb axles. Heaviest has probably been in the range of 5-6000 lbs loaded max.. Anyway- my replacement 5000 lb rated axle is due to arrive at the distributor today...I hope it is on time as a forecast 2 days of rain is on the way. Need to get this swapped ASAP as we head out soon on a multi week 10,000 mi+ trip! ------------- 2014 179 Towed by a 2015 Ford Transit Diesel Supervised by a German/Aussie mix and a Labradoodle! |
Posted By: wildfire305
Date Posted: 31 Jul 2014 at 8:08am
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Huh... I would have used the trip to wear the tires badly and prove evidence to forest river and make them or dealer buy a new one while under warranty. I doubt you would encounter a catastrophic failure, so risk would be low. I agree that it is probably undersized and will wait for a recall or complain vehemently in 11 months. ------------- 2005 Dodge Durango 4.7 V8 OLD Tow Vehicle 2004 Honda Odyssey 2015 RP179 "73b" OLD 2005 Viking Saga 2480ST popup |
Posted By: Budward
Date Posted: 31 Jul 2014 at 8:16am
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Would be no point with them replacing it with the same axle and tires, which by the way the tires are over weight spec also, especially on the left. No way am I going 3000 miles from home with a known issue. An axle or tire failure could easily cost more than the replacement axle and tires, not to mention the hassle. When I get back I will probably put the original axle and tires back on and press the point with FR. Don't have time to deal with them before the trip. ------------- 2014 179 Towed by a 2015 Ford Transit Diesel Supervised by a German/Aussie mix and a Labradoodle! |
Posted By: Budward
Date Posted: 05 Aug 2014 at 6:53am
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New axle is in! Will try to get pics up soon, but I'm very busy as our departure date for a long trip approaches. Old axle was heavy, could barely lift it. New axle I can't lift! Thankfully my Kubota front end loader got it out of the cargo trailer I brought it home in. I used my transmission jack to position it under the trailer, which was perched high on jack stands. Brakes are massive compared to old axle, that will be nice in mountains as they will heat up less, and they will wear less. Rpod is 3" higher than before, that is good as I always thought it was too low even with risers. I hate dragging stuff on steep drives etc. Dexter was a week late delivering the axle to the distributor and then they made it with the wrong mounting plates, I ordered high and they put standard on it. Fortunately it all worked out as the rpod ended up plenty high, another 3/4" would have been getting near too much. I had planned to make new risers anyway but ended up using the original. Test drive later today ------------- 2014 179 Towed by a 2015 Ford Transit Diesel Supervised by a German/Aussie mix and a Labradoodle! |
Posted By: Leo B
Date Posted: 05 Aug 2014 at 6:59am
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Good Luck!! ------------- Leo & Melissa Bachand 2017 Ford F150 2021 Vista Cruiser 19 csk Previously owned 2015 Rpod 179 2010 Rpod 171 |
Posted By: techntrek
Date Posted: 05 Aug 2014 at 6:08pm
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pics! ------------- Doug ~ '10 171 (2009-2015) ~ 2008 Salem ~ http://www.rpod-owners.com/forum_posts.asp?TID=1723 - Pod instruction manual
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Posted By: Budward
Date Posted: 06 Aug 2014 at 11:17am
 
------------- 2014 179 Towed by a 2015 Ford Transit Diesel Supervised by a German/Aussie mix and a Labradoodle! |
Posted By: techntrek
Date Posted: 06 Aug 2014 at 12:21pm
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Definitely some serious lift. ------------- Doug ~ '10 171 (2009-2015) ~ 2008 Salem ~ http://www.rpod-owners.com/forum_posts.asp?TID=1723 - Pod instruction manual
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Posted By: Budward
Date Posted: 06 Aug 2014 at 12:50pm
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Yep! Looks really good behind the FJC which being very off road capable is higher than most SUVs.
------------- 2014 179 Towed by a 2015 Ford Transit Diesel Supervised by a German/Aussie mix and a Labradoodle! |
Posted By: wildfire305
Date Posted: 06 Aug 2014 at 1:26pm
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Maybe add mud flaps or lower the fenders? The angle of spray from that tire is gonna cover the side. ------------- 2005 Dodge Durango 4.7 V8 OLD Tow Vehicle 2004 Honda Odyssey 2015 RP179 "73b" OLD 2005 Viking Saga 2480ST popup |
Posted By: Leo B
Date Posted: 06 Aug 2014 at 2:57pm
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Great off road clearance!! ------------- Leo & Melissa Bachand 2017 Ford F150 2021 Vista Cruiser 19 csk Previously owned 2015 Rpod 179 2010 Rpod 171 |
Posted By: Bill-GA
Date Posted: 03 Oct 2014 at 10:11am
I take it you ordered from Dexter with(?) brakes attached? New hubs? New bearings/racers on ordered axle? Was it more heavy duty ( supports more than 3500 #?) What did you use as a reference? Axle part number? Called FR? Then went to Dexter site? What was the approx. cost? Sorry for all the Q's but never did an axle before. Many thanks, Bill from GA ------------- Bill & Bev 13 yr old dachshund 'Elsa' 2010 RP-176T (tent & slide-out) 2011 Toyota Tundra 2WD TV |
Posted By: rcamper
Date Posted: 03 Oct 2014 at 7:51pm
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to much weight! 1 gallon of water equals 7.49 lbs ------------- gone camping |
Posted By: SandD
Date Posted: 18 Oct 2014 at 1:22pm
| Anyone have axle issues with rpod178 or is it only the 179? |
Posted By: kymooses
Date Posted: 19 Oct 2014 at 11:23am
It's not "an issue" with any Pod SanD. While this owner might have experienced an issue with theirs, it is not any type of known problem in the R-Pod travel trailers, on the 179's or any previous model. ------------- https://calendar.google.com/calendar?cid=cnBvZC5zcG90dGVyQGdtYWlsLmNvbQ - RPod Rallies https://www.google.com/maps/d/embed?mid=1W1foQXGtrjf8aYly1uh0b-bHPfI&hl=en_US - RPod Owner Map |
Posted By: Budward
Date Posted: 19 Oct 2014 at 4:29pm
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"Might" have experienced an issue?
------------- 2014 179 Towed by a 2015 Ford Transit Diesel Supervised by a German/Aussie mix and a Labradoodle! |
Posted By: wildfire305
Date Posted: 19 Oct 2014 at 7:25pm
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I think all of the 2800+ pound pods toe the tires out at bottom. This gives the visual appearance that the axle is bent. It is at the capacity rating for the axle they use which doesn't leave much of a safety buffer, but isn't technically a problem. It will probably cause excessive tire wear, but I don't believe it is going to be recalled unless units start failing. I don't think we have any examples of an axle failure. Nearly all our camping is local, so I won't put enough miles on my tires to wear them out before they need to be replaced from age. This is probably what Forest River is betting on for most buyers also.
All should be more concerned about checking the lug nut torque before each trip and every 500 miles, we do have some examples of wheels falling off due to lack of proper torque. On our second trip, I got half a turn out of nearly all lugs. They were 100 pounds and tight from the dealer, so those aluminum wheels WILL loosen them. ------------- 2005 Dodge Durango 4.7 V8 OLD Tow Vehicle 2004 Honda Odyssey 2015 RP179 "73b" OLD 2005 Viking Saga 2480ST popup |
Posted By: kymooses
Date Posted: 19 Oct 2014 at 7:36pm
The use of that word is not meant to diminish your issue or deny it, please don't think that at all. I only mean to say that while you personally may have experienced some issue with yours, it is not true of R-Pods in general, nor the 179. ------------- https://calendar.google.com/calendar?cid=cnBvZC5zcG90dGVyQGdtYWlsLmNvbQ - RPod Rallies https://www.google.com/maps/d/embed?mid=1W1foQXGtrjf8aYly1uh0b-bHPfI&hl=en_US - RPod Owner Map |
Posted By: Old Dingo&Mrs.Dingo
Date Posted: 19 Oct 2014 at 11:57pm
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I have a "heavyweight" 'pod, I've never experienced any axle problems. When I pull it, it is always near Forest River's suggested maximum weight. I do check the lug nut torque and tire pressure before every trip. ------------- Old Dingo and/or Mrs. Dingo 181G 2013 Jeep Grand Cherokee |
Posted By: David and Danette
Date Posted: 20 Oct 2014 at 4:10am
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The Vibes had the same 3,500 lb.axle as the r-pods and it was replaced with a 4,400 lb. axle for 2015. But the Vibe is 200 to 400 lbs. heavier than the r-pod 179. With the Vibes there was some problems with the 3,500 lb. axle in it not being able to properly handle the weight. I think if you are careful not to overload the 179 it would have no problems but it would be nice to have that extra margin of safety with a stronger axle. Perhaps in the future Forest River will replace the axle on the heavier r-pods with one stronger as they did with the 2015 Vibes. ------------- 2018 Vista Cruiser 19BFD (2018- 2012 Vibe 6503 (2014-2019) 2009 r-pod 171 (2009-2014) Middle Tn 2014 Ram 1500 Quad cab |
Posted By: krkees
Date Posted: 06 Nov 2014 at 10:47am
| Hey guys, just seeing this forum. So I have a 2013 RPOD 176. I noticed after no more than 2000 miles, that I had bad tread wear on the outside of the tire, opposite of slide out. My RV dealer took measurements provided by Dexter, and the wheel was forward about a .5 centimeter I think it was. They are testing it this week and will have more details to see if they are covering this under warranty. Needless to say, I was unable to take my camper LAST MINUTE to Colorado for the 6 weeks I was there. So I was furious, after putting on new tires for the trip and finding this. And no, I have never carried a full tank of water anywhere. I filled up and took it down the road one time, which was a 2-3 mile trip down the road at 30mph. Definitely no habit. The way it was bent or out of alignment, I would have to be hauling butt backwards and hit something to make it bend forward. I am positive it is 'defective' because I have never hit anything, never had it off road, etc. I was looking at selling it and getting the 179, and now I'm afraid to get one because of all the axel issues! |
Posted By: krkees
Date Posted: 06 Nov 2014 at 10:48am
| Oh and yes $600 for a new axle, $150 for new tire and mount, $125 shipping my axle for testing back to Dexter, $150 to install the new axle. Yep, I'm PO'd!!! AND didn't get to take it to Colorado. Thanks Dexter for selling crap! |
Posted By: techntrek
Date Posted: 06 Nov 2014 at 7:43pm
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Welcome. Personally I would have taken it with me to CO with the original tires and taken care of fixing it when I got back. The tire was already damaged so nothing worse would have happened to it for one trip, and the axle wouldn't have been unsafe. Would I have taken it on a 5000 mile trip, no. I hope those costs are being covered by FR. ------------- Doug ~ '10 171 (2009-2015) ~ 2008 Salem ~ http://www.rpod-owners.com/forum_posts.asp?TID=1723 - Pod instruction manual
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Posted By: krkees
Date Posted: 06 Nov 2014 at 8:31pm
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The tire was almost bald on the outside at 2000 miles. My colorado trip was going to be 3000 total. It was obvious I shouldnt travel with it. Belt would have been showing. Forest river and dealer are making me deal directly with dexter. Not under forest river warranty, since it's over 1 year. Honestly not very pleased with this situation. Dexter has had my axle now for 2 full months and still have no word if it's covered. They send to a 3rd party for testing. It was supposed to be done by the first week of october..... ------------- 2013 RPOD 176 |
Posted By: techntrek
Date Posted: 07 Nov 2014 at 11:38am
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Depending on just how bald the tire was, swapping the 2 tires left-right might have gotten you there and back. Or, by using the other tire and the spare. All just speculation at this point since it is in the past. I hope to hear how this turns out considering a few here have had axle issues. ------------- Doug ~ '10 171 (2009-2015) ~ 2008 Salem ~ http://www.rpod-owners.com/forum_posts.asp?TID=1723 - Pod instruction manual
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Posted By: krkees
Date Posted: 07 Nov 2014 at 11:43am
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My next rpod purchase will require measurement of the axle to see if it is bent, by the dealership. They can quickly get specs from dexter. Im not dealing with this again. ------------- 2013 RPOD 176 |
Posted By: krkees
Date Posted: 07 Nov 2014 at 11:47am
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And why forest river doesn't inspect that before they leave...poor QA in my opinion. ------------- 2013 RPOD 176 |
Posted By: dsmiths
Date Posted: 07 Nov 2014 at 9:17pm
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Axles on these travel trailers should be rated by at least 25 % or better of what they are designed to carry. 4000 lb gross weight trailer should have a minimum rating of 5000 lbs. come on engineers weight in. ------------- Dane and Donna Smith 2011 RP-172 2008 Chevrolet Trailblazer 4X4 lift kit prodigy wireless brake controller |
Posted By: furpod
Date Posted: 07 Nov 2014 at 10:28pm
Unfortunately, any number of things could have happened to it during transport, all of which are beyond FR's direct control, and post QC. ------------- |
Posted By: krkees
Date Posted: 07 Nov 2014 at 10:38pm
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The problem is that the consumer doesn't see the wear on a tire, until out of warranty, in my case. I just don't put the miles on my camper. Forest river didn't do anything to help with this. Dealer took measurements, yep its bent, work with dexter directly. 4 months out of warranty. Lamo! ------------- 2013 RPOD 176 |
Posted By: David and Danette
Date Posted: 08 Nov 2014 at 7:15am
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If I am right that the axles only come with a one year warranty, one year seems kind of short. The appliances have a two year warranty. The Lippert axle on our Vibe was bent but thankfully it was still with in the one year warranty and it was replaced with in a months time. Dealers in my opinion have some incentive to have things happen if they are large dealers. That is why I like Camping World they are a large company and I believe have some authority, that manufactures will listen regarding warranty claims. ------------- 2018 Vista Cruiser 19BFD (2018- 2012 Vibe 6503 (2014-2019) 2009 r-pod 171 (2009-2014) Middle Tn 2014 Ram 1500 Quad cab |
Posted By: Appocalexx
Date Posted: 26 May 2015 at 9:36pm
I know this is an old post but a good one. Been searching all day for a post like this one on the web and finally found someone with the same issue i am having with dragging things on the ground. Planning on doing some boon docking and this type of mod i feel is well worth the time and $$ plus you can add more things to your load when traveling. Unfortunatley this will have to wait till i get back to the lower 48. If your still around the forum, have you thought about adding a leaf kit, either under axle with the set up you have or over axle without the block or smaller block? Also any update on this new axle and how it has held up for you? ------------- |
Posted By: Plantguy
Date Posted: 09 Aug 2016 at 7:05pm
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Hi Budward and other axle problem people, I thought I had bent my axle when I hit a pothole going at low speed. Now, from what I read in this forum, the chamber bends in at the top when the Pod is parked. When being towed, the wheel straightens up. From the rear, the axle looks bent. I have had a difficult time with FV, the axle manufacturer and the service company.  I think I will tow it like it is...------------- Life is too important to be taken seriously!i |
Posted By: Plantguy
Date Posted: 10 Aug 2016 at 9:58am
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I have the same problem. FR sent photos of axle to axle manufacturer. Not covered as they claim it was driver error. I am not so sure about that. Pothole? I had just bought the 179 and while at a friends house nearby, we notice the chamber being out of line. I just found this forum and am starting to wonder about FR's concerns for their customers. Plantguy ------------- Life is too important to be taken seriously!i |
Posted By: Plantguy
Date Posted: 10 Aug 2016 at 10:01am
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Kymooses, I have "an issue" with my axle as do many members of this forum. Plantguy ------------- Life is too important to be taken seriously!i |
Posted By: kymooses
Date Posted: 10 Aug 2016 at 2:10pm
I've never said you or anyone else can't have a problem with an axle. Anything I've stated is only that it is not some widespread problem with the R-Pod travel trailers as a whole. ------------- https://calendar.google.com/calendar?cid=cnBvZC5zcG90dGVyQGdtYWlsLmNvbQ - RPod Rallies https://www.google.com/maps/d/embed?mid=1W1foQXGtrjf8aYly1uh0b-bHPfI&hl=en_US - RPod Owner Map |
Posted By: Plantguy
Date Posted: 16 Aug 2016 at 12:10am
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Hi Budward,
I also have a 179 with a bent axle. I have had no help from FR or the axle manufacturer. My trailer weighs out at 3450 lbs. almost empty of my things and very little water. I have come across my Rpod owners with axle problems. My axle is rated at 3550 lbs. I don't think that axle is strong enough for the 179 unit. I am going to the Department of Transportation and look for their regulations concerning axle to weight requirements. I am not a lawyer but think this could become a class action case. I would like your help in contacting other owners in order to get as much support as possible. Also, I just picked up my trailer from a FR certified repair shop. I was hung up on while trying to get some information about the axle twice by the owner and called a jerk. Customer service??? Please let me know if you want to help. Plantguy ------------- Life is too important to be taken seriously!i |
Posted By: Keith-N-Dar
Date Posted: 16 Aug 2016 at 7:01pm
Another class action threat. Go figure ------------- Keith-N-Dar Boris & Betty (Boston Terriers) 2011 R-Pod 177 2010 Ford F-150 |
Posted By: David and Danette
Date Posted: 16 Aug 2016 at 7:35pm
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The Forest River Vibe had a issue with bent axles then the last year they were made they increased the axle capacity by 900 lbs. The Division V-Cross Vibe is no longer a RV manufacturing division of Forest River. But I never heard of forest river replacing the axles on the earlier made Vibes. I don't know the truth of why V-Cross Vibe doesn't exist anymore but could only guess the axle problem may have had something to do with it. ------------- 2018 Vista Cruiser 19BFD (2018- 2012 Vibe 6503 (2014-2019) 2009 r-pod 171 (2009-2014) Middle Tn 2014 Ram 1500 Quad cab |
Posted By: Keith-N-Dar
Date Posted: 17 Aug 2016 at 7:03pm
How many? Counting you I think of three. out of now many members? ------------- Keith-N-Dar Boris & Betty (Boston Terriers) 2011 R-Pod 177 2010 Ford F-150 |
Posted By: Plantguy
Date Posted: 18 Aug 2016 at 1:17am
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Isn't 3 enough? How many don't make a comment or are not in this owners group. Are you trying to say that there is not an issue with this axle? Just curious. ------------- Life is too important to be taken seriously!i |
Posted By: Keith-N-Dar
Date Posted: 18 Aug 2016 at 8:33pm
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Three isn't many on this forum. One is enough, but your grievance is not stronger by trying to make it seem like it is common. ------------- Keith-N-Dar Boris & Betty (Boston Terriers) 2011 R-Pod 177 2010 Ford F-150 |
Posted By: Bill-GA
Date Posted: 18 Aug 2016 at 9:24pm
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I'm another bent axle recipient! I have a 2010 176T and noticed the obvious after returning from the Northeast last summer. $500 + $100 shipping + installation charge I'm back on the road. I tried to discuss a higher rated axle with FR ..... No help from FR. I saw some info on this forum (?) by a savvy owner who upgraded to 5000# + by himself but it seemed beyond my capability. ------------- Bill & Bev 13 yr old dachshund 'Elsa' 2010 RP-176T (tent & slide-out) 2011 Toyota Tundra 2WD TV |
Posted By: Gregm
Date Posted: 19 Aug 2016 at 8:04am
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I also have a bent axle on my 2014 171 and never travel with my tanks full or carry much other weight since our trips are usually 4 days or less ------------- Gregm 2014 171 2015 Toyota Tacoma Prerunner |
Posted By: krkees
Date Posted: 19 Aug 2016 at 9:24am
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I ended up selling my 176 after replacing my axle, and getting a LANCE. I was not impressed with FR's service on more than one issue. But spending $850 to replace an bad axle is ridiculous beyond words when the unit was 2 years old. Never hit a dip, speed bump, pot hole or anything. Never overloaded it and was very well taken care of. This crap they push on you, that you must have hit something is B.S. My axle was bent to where there was outside wear on the tire, meaning it was tweaked the opposite direction a pot hole or hitting anything would have bent it. I'm happy with my Lance 1995. Good luck! ------------- 2013 RPOD 176 |
Posted By: Plantguy
Date Posted: 19 Aug 2016 at 11:48am
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Thanks for the feedback. Now, what to do? ------------- Life is too important to be taken seriously!i |
Posted By: Plantguy
Date Posted: 19 Aug 2016 at 11:56am
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I just got 2 more bent axle replies today. Maybe there is a weak axle issue. Not to be harsh nor argumentative , but are you supporting FR's do nothing policy? ------------- Life is too important to be taken seriously!i |
Posted By: Plantguy
Date Posted: 19 Aug 2016 at 1:44pm
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Hi David and Danette, If you had a new axle put on your 179, I would really appreciate the specifications of the axle. Like manufacturer, vin number, anything at all that would help me find the correct axle for my 179. Thanks for any help. Ken ------------- Life is too important to be taken seriously!i |
Posted By: David and Danette
Date Posted: 19 Aug 2016 at 2:07pm
------------- 2018 Vista Cruiser 19BFD (2018- 2012 Vibe 6503 (2014-2019) 2009 r-pod 171 (2009-2014) Middle Tn 2014 Ram 1500 Quad cab |
Posted By: MDPaddlersPod
Date Posted: 20 Aug 2016 at 12:04pm
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How do you tell which axle you have, and which is better? I have a 2017 179. ------------- MDPaddlersPod 2017 RPod 179 2002 Silverado1500 |
Posted By: Plantguy
Date Posted: 20 Aug 2016 at 2:09pm
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Good question. There is a sticker on the axle with all the details. I am told the Dexter axle is better. I am now just looking in to a replacement. When I find the correct axle I will post. ------------- Life is too important to be taken seriously!i |
Posted By: MDPaddlersPod
Date Posted: 20 Aug 2016 at 2:19pm
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There is a data sticker on top of the axle but no mention of manufacturer. ------------- MDPaddlersPod 2017 RPod 179 2002 Silverado1500 |
Posted By: Plantguy
Date Posted: 20 Aug 2016 at 6:33pm
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I found a sticker on the trailer tongue also. It had the name Lippert on it. ------------- Life is too important to be taken seriously!i |
Posted By: techntrek
Date Posted: 20 Aug 2016 at 9:15pm
Who? ------------- Doug ~ '10 171 (2009-2015) ~ 2008 Salem ~ http://www.rpod-owners.com/forum_posts.asp?TID=1723 - Pod instruction manual
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Posted By: mtbmitch
Date Posted: 26 Aug 2016 at 10:34am
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Thinking about a Lance 1575. How is your 1995 holding up? thanks Mitch ------------- enjoy the fresh air |
Posted By: Bill-J
Date Posted: 04 Feb 2017 at 12:27pm
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From what I am experiencing with FR and my 180 I bet they did NOT do anything for you. ------------- When in doubt, don't. |
Posted By: Bill-J
Date Posted: 04 Feb 2017 at 12:48pm
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I am finding FR takes responsibility for nothing. Everything was installed per spec and that is it. The dealer also will not do anything because they say it is FR responsibility so guess who gets left holding the bag. Sure wish I had found this blog BEFORE I bought my Rpod... PS Mine are not axle problems..... yet. Just everything else. ------------- When in doubt, don't. |
Posted By: karllindgren
Date Posted: 05 Feb 2017 at 3:10pm
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I have an 2013 R-171 with axial issues like the rest of you.I have a 3000 lb lippert axial,and in the process of replacing it with a dexter as high of weight that i can get with 5 lugs.I hear different sizes from everybody even them.I now they have a 3500 lb hope its enough,good luck everybody karl |
Posted By: kymooses
Date Posted: 06 Feb 2017 at 5:13am
If the dealer you bought it from is not honoring the warranty and doing repairs for you that is the dealer issue and their responsibility, not Forest River. Only thing FR ever has to do is approve it. If you're in your warranty period and something is messed up and it's not due to lack of care of user caused then your dealer is giving you the run around. ------------- https://calendar.google.com/calendar?cid=cnBvZC5zcG90dGVyQGdtYWlsLmNvbQ - RPod Rallies https://www.google.com/maps/d/embed?mid=1W1foQXGtrjf8aYly1uh0b-bHPfI&hl=en_US - RPod Owner Map |
Posted By: furpod
Date Posted: 06 Feb 2017 at 7:36am
Quoted for truth. If you are under warranty, and have an issue, it's the DEALER who does the repair, FR only approves the repair if needed. Any issue you are having with the dealer is the dealer. It will help if you actually tell us what the issue is. Since you report that FR says it's "to spec".. ------------- |
Posted By: Bill-J
Date Posted: 06 Feb 2017 at 10:59am
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I bought the rig Oct. 22, 2017 and it was bought brand new so we are the first owners and it is definitely under factory warranty. There are many problems some minor some major. We cancelled the last 2 weeks of our vacation, for weather AND problems... Anyway we got home and I delivered it back to the dealer. I was suppose to pick it up today. I could then give an accurate description of who did what or did not do what. Can not pick up today because of snow but tomorrow I'll go get it then I can post the whole story. ------------- When in doubt, don't. |