Frame Flex

[Jetson]

I am now seeing frame flex signs in my 2002 Montana. I think since it is a smaller unit, a 2880, that it did not happen as soon as the larger units.

I took it to a RV welding company and they contacted Lippert and Keystone, but refused to fix it after they got a lengthy fax and email with the recommended repair. They said removing walls and bracing was more than they wanted to get into.

I talked to their welder when I picked it up and he said that if I took the bottom off the 5th wheel overhang area and removed the insulation so they could see exactly where the flex was occuring, they might fix the frame, but they're not going to do anything with the aluminum framework.

They referred me to a RV company, not a welding company, to do all the bodywork. I can't afford a fix like that anyway, so I am considering my options. Any ideas?

[richfaa]

Perhaps Keystone or Lippert can direct you to a Rv dealer or shop that can do the repair.

[ols1932]

To fix the frame flex, there are not many options. We had ours fixed by Truck Builders in Marion, IA. We were able to stay in the rig for three days while they made the repairs.

The welders you talked to gave you good information. Some of the aluminum has to be welded also. For our unit, Truck Builders not only welded gussets to the frame next to the king pin, but they also inserted three large bolts on each side of the rig from the propane bottle area (we have a propane bottle on each side) through the wall to strengthen the front end to the rest of the RV chassis.

If you'd like some information, you can call Truck Builders at 319-377-5670 or e-mail them at TruckB@msn.com
Ask to speak to Tim Wentz. He's the owner and will give you some good advice. Tell him that Orv Schinke recommended that you call him. He'll remember what he did to our rig.

Orv