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Old 08-06-2019, 10:13 PM   #1
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5th wheel exterior seems separating

Our KZ venom is roughly two years old. We are returning from a trip to Alaska (currently in Canada). I just noticed some gaps on the 5th wheel overhang where the siding meets the trim. At the most extreme, the siding has pulled alway 1/8”-3/16” ... not much. However, curious if this should be cause for concern or is this common. Btw, the trim rail is not loose. It’s solid and will not budge. Looks more like the siding itself shifted / pulled away from the trim. You can see where the caulk separated from the trim. Anyone have experience with this?

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Thanks!

Kirk
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Old 08-06-2019, 10:14 PM   #2
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Yikes ... looks like images posted upside down. Not sure why that is. ��
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Old 08-07-2019, 05:44 AM   #3
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I would sent some good photos to KZ and see what they say. Panel cut too short? Something moved?
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Old 08-07-2019, 07:54 AM   #4
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More than likely the problem is frame damage. The frames on most of the 5th wheels and travel trailers are built by Lippert and they have proven to be of questionable quality material and welding.

The repair will entail removing some of the front side skins and chin material. Then the frame and side wall framing is braced with additional material. We had this done to one side of our Carriage Cameo about 6 years ago and it was $2800 then.

Contact K-Z and ask for resolution.

Ken
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Old 08-07-2019, 08:20 AM   #5
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Yep...a round trip to Alaska shakes the hell out of the trailers and coaches.

Good test cruise, you should contact the builder, something has separated due to shock loading and vibration. Looks to be a involved repair.
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Old 08-07-2019, 09:30 AM   #6
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This is a common issue.


To reduce weight in the steel frame manufacturers connect the frame to the sidewalls.

The connection between the sidewall and the frame is the weak point.

As the trailer is bouncing down the road the frame is being pushed up past the sidewalls.

Failure starts with caulking separating and then proceeding to broken screws/ bolts.


Lippert is responsible for workmanship issues but the strength/durability of the frame is the responsibility of the trailer manufacture.
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Old 08-07-2019, 11:00 AM   #7
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I’m suspecting a frame issue as well. Thanks for all your feedback. Here is my dilemma. We are in Canada headed back to AZ. Is this enough concern to not move the rv or should I continue on. I know thAts a loaded question.
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Old 08-07-2019, 07:57 PM   #8
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Keep going but try to avoid the hump and bump that causes the front of the trailer to heave up and down.


Trailer Saver and Badger Hitches are types of hitches that will reduce the shock load on the trailer.
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Old 08-10-2019, 09:45 PM   #9
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Quote:
Originally Posted by ALLOY View Post
Keep going but try to avoid the hump and bump that causes the front of the trailer to heave up and down.


Trailer Saver and Badger Hitches are types of hitches that will reduce the shock load on the trailer.
Believe it or not we hAve a trail air the uses a standard air bag. We also have a b&m hitch that pivots in all directions. Yet those frost heaves still did a number on us. I’ll be moving some weight to the rear garage just to reduce pin weight. We are around 23-24%. We are keeping it slow on the cassiar and so far we aren’t seeing the flex getting worse. Did contact KZ and they said it sounded like we would be ok to limp home. They also said if it was frame related Lippert would likely own up to it.

Depending on the issue, I’m going to see if we can get gussets and additional supports added to the frame to avoid this down the road. We are also looking at the moryde independent suspension which will reduce stress and beef up the undercarriage.

Wish us luck
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