Stuck in Tampa NEED Front end repairs

[mlhartford]

2008 MADP 4523:
I know this is my fault. I waited too long to get the work done. Now we are in the Tampa area and need major front end work done.

I looked at the Spartan locator to find a MH repair shop and only two to choice from. Both have some good reviews and both have several horror stories.

Not really sure if there is another option?

If you have a recommendation for Spartan front end mechanic in the central Florida area please let me know.

[wolfe10]

What kind of work?


Another option is to contact the maker of your front suspension and ask for their recommendations.

[Twomed]

Two choices...American Frame and Axle in Tampa or Josams in Orlando

Both are top notch big rig shops. I have used both over the last twenty years.

[Fishrsafe]

Originally Posted by Twomed

Two choices...American Frame and Axle in Tampa or Josams in Orlando

Both are top notch big rig shops. I have used both over the last twenty years.

I second the American Frame and Axle recommendation.

[mlhartford]

According to Newmar, I need Tie tods, idler arm and crank rod.

[wolfe10]

Originally Posted by mlhartford

According to Newmar, I need Tie tods, idler arm and crank rod.

Wow. How many miles on it?


Are they suggesting the cause of all this wear in what are basically HD truck components?

[paulwhitaker]

I’ll vouch for Barry Hampton at JoSams in Tampa. Very capable outfit.
They did great and timely work for me.

[Dutch Star Don]

Wherever you go, I would just ask them to look at your front suspension for any issues. I wouldn't list what Newmar said as that can often send a shop down the wrong path. Let them diagnose your issue.

[bentjm]

I have only dealt with Josams. Barry will listen somewhat politely to what you have to say, then hook your coach up to their equipment and let the equipment tell the story.

They are good at what they do.

[mlhartford]

I got out the manual for Reyco Granning today. Not sure but I think I have the 1800FT front end. Looking at the Newmar QT for parts, many items do not make sense. One LH and one RH tie rod ends and 6 tube links? There are only 4 tube links in the entire front end. Why 6 if only 2 Tie Rode Ends? The Newmar wanted two different Bell Crank. Still only one Tie Rod with two bell cranks. Also there are no ball joints on the estimate. Isn’t that the part that most people have issues with?

[mlhartford]

Originally Posted by paulwhitaker

I’ll vouch for Barry Hampton at JoSams in Tampa. Very capable outfit.
They did great and timely work for me.

Isn’t JoSams in Orlando?

[paulwhitaker]

Originally Posted by mlhartford

Isn’t JoSams in Orlando?

I’m heading to Tampa for the RV show. My mistake JoSams is in Orlando. The work performed was reasonable. Replaced power steering pump and installed TRW steering gear box.

[ziaptrn]

Josams is in Orlando, not Tampa, but not super-far, either.

Barry is an interesting character, but they absolutely will take good care of you and at a reasonable expense. They do not change parts that don't need it, but will absolutely let you know what needs to be done and give a quick and fair (my opinion) estimate on the work.

I've been to them several times with different rigs and have never been disappointed.

John

[mark2459]

Originally Posted by mlhartford

If you have a recommendation for Spartan front end mechanic in the central Florida area please let me know.

Spartan has a link for service centers
https://www.spartanrvchassis.com/service-locator/