Surprised when I found this shackel bolt

minnow wrote:
If he replaces the bolt with an O.E. or equivelent bolt and has any problems going forward, how is the dealer or manufacturer going to know he repaired it himself unless he tells them ? Some of you guys always crying wolf need to grow a pair. Replace the bolt and go camping.

So, the OP then has a =bad= warranty issue, and they deny the whole thing because he replaced the bolt with something the factory didn't insall. Don't think they won't? I've got some beach-front property for you in Gila Bend... Call the manufacturer and tell them what needs to be done and that the trailer's not moving until it's fixed.

Lyle

I would check the hanger on the inside to see if it looked like there ever was a nut on the bolt. A good close up picture should show if the paint is rubbed. The lock washer should have left a grove in the hanger.

Looks like a manufacturing defect and poor quality control!
The manufacture needs to be involve3d with this and DON'T take it on the road in this condition!
The dealer shares part of the blame unless they don't inspect the products they receive from the distributor or the manufacturer.

I would try and find the torque specs for that bolt so that you can properly install the replacement, and check the other suspension bolts for proper torque.

Keep us posted, thanks for sharing.

Send pics to dealer and manufacture to show them what a krap job they doing building and predelivering their units. Then fix it yourself. I have never been satisfied with any RV dealers service and fix my own things if possible even under warranty if it isn't a difficult or expensive repairProcess.

If he replaces the bolt with an O.E. or equivelent bolt and has any problems going forward, how is the dealer or manufacturer going to know he repaired it himself unless he tells them ? Some of you guys always crying wolf need to grow a pair. Replace the bolt and go camping.

woodchip wrote:
The dealer is 200 miles away so I will fix it myself. The bolt is bent so I will need to replace that bolt.

X....Its a simple fix that I would do. If I do it then I know it will be done the right way. Use the correct shackle pin and a new bushing.

From looking at the picture (zinc wore off) it seems it has been riding on the bolt in that position for some time. Usually you find locknuts on shackles so my guess is you have never had a nut there from the factory. Take a picture to document (and send to both the manufacturer and dealer) and replace with a Grade 8 bolt and lock nut. With proper torque there would be no reason to double nut nor use a serrated head in this joint. Good thing you happened on this when you did.

Good reminder to just "tinker" and check things as you walk around your camper.

I would just replace the bolt. Inspect the rest of the suspension (which you probably already have), and if there is an ongoing problem then start the hoop jumping with the dealer and manufacturer.

If the rest is fine, go camping!

Before doing any work yourself or getting someone else to do it for you, make sure you let the manufacturer know first, or your warranty could be voided or they will not cover the work because you didn't get their permission. I had work done by my dealer and called Forest River after the fact. Pictures were sent and the dealer told them the story but no coverage.