Caution...Roof Rail Flew Off while Driving!
Today we were driving to Houston from the Texas Hill Country in our 16 DS 4369 we purchased new in April 16.
Driving in 15mph wind, not too bad really and going east on IH 10.
We were hearing some buffeting up on the roof, but this had occurred before with Max Air covers on vents without issue (in higher winds). Thought that was the problem.
Anyway, while driving, happened to catch my outside mirror in time to see my Driver Side Roof Rail flying through the air going West Bound!
A Holy S*#t moment for sure. It went into the air over a vehicle without hitting anything and landed in the grass median. Couldn't stop right away but several miles up stopped at a rest stop to assess the situation.
Of course it was gone and only remained the 3 brackets that once held it in.
When we got to our RV park, got on the roof to check the rest of the rails and also attempt to determine where the fail was. On our model, there are 2 self tapping screws on the top and two on the sides of the bracket. It appears the fiberglass that the rail is made of that wraps to the bracket had a failure as part of the fiberglass was still attached to the top brackets. Not sure if it was over tourqued and cracked and over time got bigger or what. Called Newmar once we stopped. My warranty was no longer in active but wanted them to know that I was "in shock" that this happened at all. It seemed like the service rep was as stunned. I did ask if this was something they would consider replacing or fixing. He was going to consult with his superiors and get back to me.
We also checked the other rails for fit and security and all seemed fine. But when we were on the ladder we also noticed that almost all brackets that hold the slide toppers were loose and needed tightening.
I post this because my coach will be 2 years old in April. I have 20k miles on it.
While this may not be a typical model issue, ( I have not heard of this before) most of the newer models all have roof rails. I believe folks should consider making these items part of a regular maintenance check even if you have someone else get up there to do it.
The potential for danger to others may be avoided and it was pure luck that no one got hurt. Now I just have a coach that looks stupid with one rail missing.
I will be sending Newmar some photos of the brackets and what remains of the bolts etc. and post any new news.
Safe travel all. You never know about these things. Thought I seen a lot of crazy things with all our coaches in the last 8 years. This one probably beats most of them.
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Ciao for Now, Sal
2016 Dutch Star 4369
"Harley's & Guitars" USAF 71-77
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