R-pod Owners Forum : Bearings and Wheel Problem-Twice

R-pod Owners Forum : Bearings and Wheel Problem-Twice http://www.rpod-owners.com/ This is an XML content feed of; R-pod Owners Forum : I need HELP!!! : Bearings and Wheel Problem-Twice Copyright (c) 2006-2009 Web Wiz Forums - All Rights Reserved. Wed, 20 May 2026 22:30:01 +0000 Mon, 07 Jan 2019 11:38:17 +0000 http://blogs.law.harvard.edu/tech/rss Web Wiz Forums 9.64 360 www.rpod-owners.com/RSS_post_feed.asp?TID=12427 R-pod Owners Forum http://www.rpod-owners.com/forum_images/web_wiz_forums.png http://www.rpod-owners.com/ Bearings and Wheel Problem-Twice : Steve, pretty economical trailer... http://www.rpod-owners.com/forum_posts.asp?TID=12427&PID=119313#119313 Author: Billy Bob
Subject: 12427
Posted: 07 Jan 2019 at 11:38am

Steve, pretty economical trailer for the mx costs vs usage !!!!]]> Mon, 07 Jan 2019 11:38:17 +0000 http://www.rpod-owners.com/forum_posts.asp?TID=12427&PID=119313#119313 Bearings and Wheel Problem-Twice : Sounds good. http://www.rpod-owners.com/forum_posts.asp?TID=12427&PID=119310#119310 Author: offgrid
Subject: 12427
Posted: 07 Jan 2019 at 10:07am

Sounds good. ]]> Mon, 07 Jan 2019 10:07:26 +0000 http://www.rpod-owners.com/forum_posts.asp?TID=12427&PID=119310#119310 Bearings and Wheel Problem-Twice : Unfortunately, I was not able... http://www.rpod-owners.com/forum_posts.asp?TID=12427&PID=119303#119303 Author: StephenH
Subject: 12427
Posted: 07 Jan 2019 at 9:26am

Unfortunately, I was not able to determine it and I don't have the axle here to research further. I'll see if the dealer would be able to answer the questions.]]> Mon, 07 Jan 2019 09:26:06 +0000 http://www.rpod-owners.com/forum_posts.asp?TID=12427&PID=119303#119303 Bearings and Wheel Problem-Twice : StephenH, some forensics could... http://www.rpod-owners.com/forum_posts.asp?TID=12427&PID=119298#119298 Author: offgrid
Subject: 12427
Posted: 07 Jan 2019 at 4:11am

StephenH, some forensics could be useful here. Were you or they able to determine where the axle bent? For example, was it the axle tube or the spindle attachment? If the tube, was the failure inboard or outboard of the frame attachment point? Which side? ]]> Mon, 07 Jan 2019 04:11:41 +0000 http://www.rpod-owners.com/forum_posts.asp?TID=12427&PID=119298#119298 Bearings and Wheel Problem-Twice : Update: No real answers as to... http://www.rpod-owners.com/forum_posts.asp?TID=12427&PID=119290#119290 Author: StephenH
Subject: 12427
Posted: 06 Jan 2019 at 4:30pm

Update: No real answers as to what could have caused it to bend. The replacement axle was the same specifications as the original. Cost was $504.95 plus hardware kit $21.95 plus labor $250 plus tax, or $831.28 installed. Other items installed were two electric brake assemblies, a new hub, and new bearings and seals. Work also included repairing a water leak in the slide. From the way it was described, the work needed to seal it was extensive and included removing parts of the flange to get to the source and seal it.

This ended up being a very expensive trip to the dealer to pick it up. However, given the amount of use we have given it, we have to expect that we would need to do maintenance. If I think of it as that we have towed it over 30,000 miles, it works out to about $.09/mile for what we paid. That does not include the new tires I have purchased or the cost of my modifications. We have spent quite a bit on the modifications, but they are not maintenance as such.

]]> Sun, 06 Jan 2019 16:30:47 +0000 http://www.rpod-owners.com/forum_posts.asp?TID=12427&PID=119290#119290 Bearings and Wheel Problem-Twice : I had a brake problem...when I... http://www.rpod-owners.com/forum_posts.asp?TID=12427&PID=119197#119197 Author: Vector1952
Subject: 12427
Posted: 02 Jan 2019 at 2:54pm

I had a brake problem...when I used the bottom keter rail I damaged the wiring to the right side...only the left brake was being used...when braking trailer would jump jump and was very sensitive to the touch when braking...great wear on left wheel...replaced both left and right brakes with the brake kits sold at tractor supply company...cut the bottom mesh in two pieces...end of my problem...]]> Wed, 02 Jan 2019 14:54:15 +0000 http://www.rpod-owners.com/forum_posts.asp?TID=12427&PID=119197#119197 Bearings and Wheel Problem-Twice : I got the call that our R-Pod... http://www.rpod-owners.com/forum_posts.asp?TID=12427&PID=119177#119177 Author: StephenH
Subject: 12427
Posted: 01 Jan 2019 at 4:47pm

I got the call that our R-Pod is ready to be picked up. I will see if I can find out more about the old axle and what could have bent it when I go to pick it up on Friday.]]> Tue, 01 Jan 2019 16:47:44 +0000 http://www.rpod-owners.com/forum_posts.asp?TID=12427&PID=119177#119177 Bearings and Wheel Problem-Twice : So sorry to hear that. We did... http://www.rpod-owners.com/forum_posts.asp?TID=12427&PID=118844#118844 Author: CAhikers2x2
Subject: 12427
Posted: 14 Dec 2018 at 2:09pm

So sorry to hear that.
We did a long hesitation when we were buying our Pod new. We have used it once before, for a "crack" in one of the stove burners. The flame was trying to go below the burner. Yeah, that seemed scary. We combined with an exterior seal coming loose under the slide out (on the trailer wall section). Again, there was a $100. deductible...so pool the claims together if you can.
]]> Fri, 14 Dec 2018 14:09:49 +0000 http://www.rpod-owners.com/forum_posts.asp?TID=12427&PID=118844#118844 Bearings and Wheel Problem-Twice : We don't have the extended... http://www.rpod-owners.com/forum_posts.asp?TID=12427&PID=118842#118842 Author: StephenH
Subject: 12427
Posted: 14 Dec 2018 at 1:08pm

We don't have the extended warranty, so ours will be out-of-pocket.]]> Fri, 14 Dec 2018 13:08:44 +0000 http://www.rpod-owners.com/forum_posts.asp?TID=12427&PID=118842#118842 Bearings and Wheel Problem-Twice : We too are waiting for a new axle.... http://www.rpod-owners.com/forum_posts.asp?TID=12427&PID=118841#118841 Author: CAhikers2x2
Subject: 12427
Posted: 14 Dec 2018 at 1:03pm

We too are waiting for a new axle. Our extended warranty will cover "like for like" (less deductable and shipping). We hope this will be our resolve. Waiting for job completion and will post any new info when we pick up our Pod. Good luck to you and your Pod.
Joanne and Roger ]]> Fri, 14 Dec 2018 13:03:40 +0000 http://www.rpod-owners.com/forum_posts.asp?TID=12427&PID=118841#118841 Bearings and Wheel Problem-Twice : The dealer ordered the same axle... http://www.rpod-owners.com/forum_posts.asp?TID=12427&PID=118826#118826 Author: StephenH
Subject: 12427
Posted: 13 Dec 2018 at 1:31pm

The dealer ordered the same axle as the original. I would have preferred upgrading. When I get it back, I will look and see if there is a way to make a bracket that would brace the parts of the axle between the mounting bracket and the arms that would be bolt-on and not require welding.
]]> Thu, 13 Dec 2018 13:31:56 +0000 http://www.rpod-owners.com/forum_posts.asp?TID=12427&PID=118826#118826 Bearings and Wheel Problem-Twice : SH, did you replace with the same... http://www.rpod-owners.com/forum_posts.asp?TID=12427&PID=118824#118824 Author: Wood River Pod
Subject: 12427
Posted: 12 Dec 2018 at 9:44pm

SH, did you replace with the same axle as original? Or did you beef it up to the next weight class? I think the next Lippert up is 4,500 or 5,000.

Thanks

Jeff

]]> Wed, 12 Dec 2018 21:44:40 +0000 http://www.rpod-owners.com/forum_posts.asp?TID=12427&PID=118824#118824 Bearings and Wheel Problem-Twice : Thank you. My dealer ordered the... http://www.rpod-owners.com/forum_posts.asp?TID=12427&PID=118823#118823 Author: StephenH
Subject: 12427
Posted: 12 Dec 2018 at 8:40pm

Thank you. My dealer ordered the axle already. It is likely that another Lippert axle was ordered. I will email and ask.
]]> Wed, 12 Dec 2018 20:40:55 +0000 http://www.rpod-owners.com/forum_posts.asp?TID=12427&PID=118823#118823 Bearings and Wheel Problem-Twice : SH, Just a comment. I have a... http://www.rpod-owners.com/forum_posts.asp?TID=12427&PID=118822#118822 Author: mcarter
Subject: 12427
Posted: 12 Dec 2018 at 5:43pm

SH,

Just a comment. I have a Dexter axle. Some time ago I was on phone with etrailer and they told me the Dexter axle is more reliable. I have also seen some talk about Lippert and Dexter being one and the same. I can't verify that. Maybe someone else can. I have had more than one person tell me if you have a failed Lippert replace it with a Dexter. The brake and wheel parts are compatible.]]> Wed, 12 Dec 2018 17:43:56 +0000 http://www.rpod-owners.com/forum_posts.asp?TID=12427&PID=118822#118822 Bearings and Wheel Problem-Twice : SH, I was thinking about my old... http://www.rpod-owners.com/forum_posts.asp?TID=12427&PID=118821#118821 Author: mcarter
Subject: 12427
Posted: 12 Dec 2018 at 5:14pm

SH,

I was thinking about my old racing days. We would attach ladder bars, traction bars or support beams to the axles and then to the frame. Basically to square the axle under torque. Issue with Pod is you probable shouldn't weld to the axle. You can weld to the frame, but I was thinking about a bolt on solution. You could mount outside of present mounting areas and then back to frame. It may possibly add support outside of the present mounting area. I agree you got a non-answer from Lippert. I'll look at it and offer advice. ]]> Wed, 12 Dec 2018 17:14:34 +0000 http://www.rpod-owners.com/forum_posts.asp?TID=12427&PID=118821#118821 Bearings and Wheel Problem-Twice : Roger & Joan,What was the... http://www.rpod-owners.com/forum_posts.asp?TID=12427&PID=118818#118818 Author: lostagain
Subject: 12427
Posted: 12 Dec 2018 at 4:31pm

Roger & Joan,

What was the ultimate outcome of your axle, brake, suspension issue? Hope you got everything fixed okay.

]]> Wed, 12 Dec 2018 16:31:33 +0000 http://www.rpod-owners.com/forum_posts.asp?TID=12427&PID=118818#118818 Bearings and Wheel Problem-Twice : It should be possible to put an... http://www.rpod-owners.com/forum_posts.asp?TID=12427&PID=118817#118817 Author: GlueGuy
Subject: 12427
Posted: 12 Dec 2018 at 4:07pm

It should be possible to put an inverted support cradle over the axle that is attached to the frame. You would only have to weld the part that attaches to the frame, and the part that extends over the outer part of the axle would just "wrap" over the top. This would probably increase the load capability of the axle by several hundred pounds without any modifications to it at all.]]> Wed, 12 Dec 2018 16:07:53 +0000 http://www.rpod-owners.com/forum_posts.asp?TID=12427&PID=118817#118817 Bearings and Wheel Problem-Twice : Well, I got the answer from... http://www.rpod-owners.com/forum_posts.asp?TID=12427&PID=118813#118813 Author: StephenH
Subject: 12427
Posted: 12 Dec 2018 at 1:31pm

Well, I got the answer from the dealer. Lippert sent a non-answer answer to the measurements:

Begin quote:

Thank you for providing the information. It is possible the axle beam is somehow bent. The customer may need to replace the axle beam. Based on the DOP of the unit is out of warranty. Because the unit is 2 years out of warranty I will not be able to assist with this issue.

End quote.

It frustrates me that the person who replied could not say it was or wasn't based on the measurements sent by my dealer. The bottom line is that I will be replacing the axle.

I view this as a Forest River design flaw. The supports for the axle should be closer to the wheels. Then the road forces would be less able to exert excessive force on the axle. I saw one YouTube video where a shop welded extended mounting brackets to the outside of the frame on both sides to provide a mounting point closer to the wheels. However, I expect that the axle that will replace the one that is on there will be of the same type that is already there and will be subject to the same forces that bent the first one.

]]> Wed, 12 Dec 2018 13:31:09 +0000 http://www.rpod-owners.com/forum_posts.asp?TID=12427&PID=118813#118813 Bearings and Wheel Problem-Twice : The dealer said measurements... http://www.rpod-owners.com/forum_posts.asp?TID=12427&PID=118680#118680 Author: StephenH
Subject: 12427
Posted: 05 Dec 2018 at 11:23am

The dealer said measurements were sent to LCI. I have not yet heard the results. I suspect a new axle may be in our 'Pod's future.
]]> Wed, 05 Dec 2018 11:23:38 +0000 http://www.rpod-owners.com/forum_posts.asp?TID=12427&PID=118680#118680 Bearings and Wheel Problem-Twice : Originally posted by seafansCAhikers2x2... http://www.rpod-owners.com/forum_posts.asp?TID=12427&PID=118532#118532 Author: GlueGuy
Subject: 12427
Posted: 29 Nov 2018 at 9:20am

Originally posted by seafans

CAhikers2x2 View Drop Down

have you checked the total axle weight of the trailer? Next time you are out run the trailer through a weight station that is closed so they don't git upset. Go very slowly over the scale. The axle weight should not be over about 3800-3900 to be safe. Depending on the empty weight. They only have about 800lbs. useful load.

That would be overweight for a 177. Full up weight on a 177 should be around 3750 lbs with maybe around 400-450 on the tongue. So without a WDH, the axle weight I would expect to be in the neighborhood of 3300 lbs.

As usual, YMMV.

]]> Thu, 29 Nov 2018 09:20:02 +0000 http://www.rpod-owners.com/forum_posts.asp?TID=12427&PID=118532#118532 Bearings and Wheel Problem-Twice : CAhikers2x2 ,have you checked... http://www.rpod-owners.com/forum_posts.asp?TID=12427&PID=118519#118519 Author: seafans
Subject: 12427
Posted: 28 Nov 2018 at 6:55pm

CAhikers2x2 View Drop Down

]]> Wed, 28 Nov 2018 18:55:18 +0000 http://www.rpod-owners.com/forum_posts.asp?TID=12427&PID=118519#118519 Bearings and Wheel Problem-Twice : I look forward to hear from you... http://www.rpod-owners.com/forum_posts.asp?TID=12427&PID=118325#118325 Author: CAhikers2x2
Subject: 12427
Posted: 21 Nov 2018 at 9:18pm

I look forward to hear from you about what your RV techs find.
Thank you.
Axle was mentioned by our RV tech when the tow truck dropped it off about 100 miles from home.
Joanne

]]> Wed, 21 Nov 2018 21:18:08 +0000 http://www.rpod-owners.com/forum_posts.asp?TID=12427&PID=118325#118325 Bearings and Wheel Problem-Twice : Thanks. That is a simple way to... http://www.rpod-owners.com/forum_posts.asp?TID=12427&PID=118324#118324 Author: StephenH
Subject: 12427
Posted: 21 Nov 2018 at 2:56pm

Thanks. That is a simple way to check. When we get it back (probably before we leave the service department) I will ask if they checked for a bent axle (they are supposed to). If not, then I will have some string with me to do so.]]> Wed, 21 Nov 2018 14:56:12 +0000 http://www.rpod-owners.com/forum_posts.asp?TID=12427&PID=118324#118324 Bearings and Wheel Problem-Twice : All of these issues were experienced... http://www.rpod-owners.com/forum_posts.asp?TID=12427&PID=118313#118313 Author: Woodmiester
Subject: 12427
Posted: 21 Nov 2018 at 8:18am

All of these issues were experienced by me on the bent axle issue. A very easy diagnosis. Merely stretch a string from one end of the axle to the other. The string should sit flat on the axle from end to end. It if does not, you have a problem.]]> Wed, 21 Nov 2018 08:18:06 +0000 http://www.rpod-owners.com/forum_posts.asp?TID=12427&PID=118313#118313 Bearings and Wheel Problem-Twice : We are both looking for answers... http://www.rpod-owners.com/forum_posts.asp?TID=12427&PID=118310#118310 Author: StephenH
Subject: 12427
Posted: 21 Nov 2018 at 7:23am

We are both looking for answers on this issue. When I hear from the dealer's service department, I will let you know.]]> Wed, 21 Nov 2018 07:23:41 +0000 http://www.rpod-owners.com/forum_posts.asp?TID=12427&PID=118310#118310 Bearings and Wheel Problem-Twice : Thanks Stephen for helping me... http://www.rpod-owners.com/forum_posts.asp?TID=12427&PID=118309#118309 Author: CAhikers2x2
Subject: 12427
Posted: 21 Nov 2018 at 1:23am

Thanks Stephen for helping me understand more of the mechanics of our Pod. I will check these links and pursue where I picked up "dropped axle". I could be using the wrong terminology for exactly what you are telling me. Our Pod does seem to sit high off the ground. But it came standard that way because of the large tires. Everything was stock, from my understanding when we purchased it new.
I have been overwhelmed with everyone's great interest.
Thanks again, Joanne ]]> Wed, 21 Nov 2018 01:23:57 +0000 http://www.rpod-owners.com/forum_posts.asp?TID=12427&PID=118309#118309 Bearings and Wheel Problem-Twice : See this for an explanation of... http://www.rpod-owners.com/forum_posts.asp?TID=12427&PID=118307#118307 Author: StephenH
Subject: 12427
Posted: 20 Nov 2018 at 10:19pm

See this for an explanation of camber: http://blog.easternmarine.com/trailer-axle-camber-what-its-all-about/

Also, see the Trailer Axle Owners Manual: http://www.lci1.com/assets/content/support/manuals/Trailer-Axle-Owners-Manual.pdf

I'm, not sure what you mean about a "dropped axle." It could be the angle of the arm to which the spindle is attached. On mine, it is angled a little upward. It was set to a downward angle starting in 2017 (I think). Mine has riser blocks but the ones with the re-clocked axle did not come with riser blocks although they can be added for even more height. I can't find any thing about a "dropped axle" when I am searching.

]]> Tue, 20 Nov 2018 22:19:58 +0000 http://www.rpod-owners.com/forum_posts.asp?TID=12427&PID=118307#118307 Bearings and Wheel Problem-Twice : Thank you for sharing. This sounds... http://www.rpod-owners.com/forum_posts.asp?TID=12427&PID=118305#118305 Author: CAhikers2x2
Subject: 12427
Posted: 20 Nov 2018 at 9:34pm

Thank you for sharing. This sounds like we have some similar symptoms. The brakes wanting to stop quickly and the wheels not vertical to the ground...is this called camber? On trailers like our pods, are the wheels supposed to be at a vertical camber?
We do have the west coast Hood River Edition with the beefy tires so tire wear is something I would not notice.
Somewhere I recall the Hood River Edition having a "dropped axle". Is this so and is this common with other trailers?
Many thanks, this sounds so similar.
Joanne
]]> Tue, 20 Nov 2018 21:34:27 +0000 http://www.rpod-owners.com/forum_posts.asp?TID=12427&PID=118305#118305 Bearings and Wheel Problem-Twice : Ours is having the bearings replaced... http://www.rpod-owners.com/forum_posts.asp?TID=12427&PID=118302#118302 Author: StephenH
Subject: 12427
Posted: 20 Nov 2018 at 8:10pm

Ours is having the bearings replaced as well as brakes along with a new drum for the door side. Symptoms were much the same - wheels tilted in at the top, brakes grabbing unevenly. On the door side, there was excessive wear of the magnet. On the slide side, the grease seal had failed. I had replaced the grease seal and hand packed the bearings before our last trip, however, I had noticed unusual tire wear on the inside edge of the slide side tire as well as the excess camber. I had asked them to check the axle. I am waiting on word as to the final verdict when the other work is complete. It did not look to me like the bearings were worn excessively. However, I will have to trust the judgment of the technicians who know what they are supposed to look like instead of my untrained judgment.]]> Tue, 20 Nov 2018 20:10:45 +0000 http://www.rpod-owners.com/forum_posts.asp?TID=12427&PID=118302#118302 Bearings and Wheel Problem-Twice : Thank you. I was wondering about... http://www.rpod-owners.com/forum_posts.asp?TID=12427&PID=118300#118300 Author: CAhikers2x2
Subject: 12427
Posted: 20 Nov 2018 at 7:06pm

Thank you. I was wondering about that. Nice to know something is an easy verification!
Joanne]]> Tue, 20 Nov 2018 19:06:11 +0000 http://www.rpod-owners.com/forum_posts.asp?TID=12427&PID=118300#118300