Sandpiper 5th frame cracks

[polarbull]

Just found some serious frame cracks on both frame rails just to the rear of spring perches. What really irritates me is I just got it de-winterized by Camping World & asked them to check it over closely to be sure it is road ready as I was takin it from Seattle to south Texas. Cracks on both sides were originating from where cross brace attached. Have advised Forest River who manufactures Sandpiper. Waiting to hear if they will stand behind their product with an obvious defect.

 

[firemanram]

What year is the 5th wheel?

 

[polarbull]

Its a 2004 30 ft

 

[SHobbs]

Got a Forest River here, guess I need to look at mine as well. Of course I have the enclosed under belly so it might be a chore to do.

 

[doppx006]

I hate to break it to you guys, but I dont think the problem lies with just forest River Products. It is a camper which means it was probably made in Indiana like most of them are, what is their 2 furnace mfg's for Rv's, 2 fridge mfg's, 2 water heater mfg's? Get the idea? I hope you guys dont think all of these RV mfg's are designing and producing their own frames... TO my current knowledge like all other RV appliances and products I believe it is only 1 or 2 frame manufacturers supplying frames to these companies.

 

[P Pacatang]

2002 Forest River Sierra Sport frame cracks

Are your frame cracks in front of the front wheels and rear of the rear wheels. If so I had the same problem. Went to Forest River and they referred me to Lippert Components Inc. they made my frame. They rewelded the cracks shut and welded a 1/8 thick 8x8 plate over it. My trailer is a triple axle. They also added in between the 1st and 2nd and 2nd and 3rd axle a 2x6 box tubing from the frame to the outter edge of the floor. They said I needed more support in that area because of the overhead cabinets. I hope this might help you.

 

[TowPro]

This really should be recalled by NTSA. Fleetwood had a problem sort of like this, they were forced to recall them and weld an additional cross member, and some other stuff to the frame. I had my dealer take it to a certified welder. I told them I want a bill of sale from the welding shop as proof.

 

[polarbull]

Got the word today that Forest River would not cover it as it was out of warranty period. Doesnt surprise me, I mean those frame rails were too old & deteriorated over the course of 2 years, strange that they had diagrams & instructions of how to strengthen frame rails lmao. My dealer, Valley RV in Palmer Alaska said they would stand behind it even though Forest River wouldnt. Its nice to see a business who has integrity even when they dont have to. I will never buy a Forest River product again.