You guys are way behind as NHTSA has already been made aware of RV axle/wheels/tire issues in the '07 NPRM I made clickable in one of my above posts. The NPRM resulted in the new 571.110/120 regs...
page 68452 (close to bottom)
NPRM clickyH. Other Issues
1. Whether the Final Rule Should Protect Against Overloading Tires,
Wheels, Axles and Suspensions on RVs--NHTSA received numerous comments
to the NPRM which suggested other possible actions that may be taken in
addition to or in lieu of the proposed labeling approach. Weston, a
private citizen who during his first long trip with a 2005, 36-foot,
5th wheel travel trailer experienced two rim failures resulting in tire
deflation, suggested that NHTSA address common practices for suspension
component sizing to include a safety factor built into the design of
axles, suspension components, wheels and tires to accommodate
horizontal and vertical dynamic loads that are higher than the static
loads normally measured.
Weston also argued that to allow for adequate load carrying
capacity, manufacturers should be required to add a minimum safety
factor of 20 to 25 percent when sizing axles on RV trailers. (snip
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Then on page 68494 NHTSA comments;
NHTSA recognizes that there are numerous aspects to the problem of
potential RV overloading. Current requirements, as well as the
requirements in this final rule do not specifically regulate suspension
components. We believe, however, that the labeling requirements that
appear in this final rule will improve consumer awareness, purchase
decisions and RV loading practices. It is anticipated that the motor
home OCCC label or RV trailer CCC label that will be provided on each
RV will encourage consumers to purchase RVs with a load carrying
capacity adequate for their needs.
NHTSA's Office of Defects Investigations (ODI) continually compiles
data and responds to complaints from consumers regarding various RV
issues. Many of these complaints and issues are related to the failure
of RV suspension components, individual axles, rims and tires. Many
complaints are investigated for defects in materials and design, and
all complaints become part of a permanent database that is used to
trigger further investigations and recalls. NHTSA's Office of Vehicle
Safety Compliance (OVSC) enforces current NHTSA regulations and will
enforce the requirements in this final rule when it becomes effective.
We note that actual RV crash data specific to crashes where an
overloaded RV is a contributing factor are rare. Statistical databases
and investigation techniques usually do not capture overloading related
attributes. NHTSA continuously monitors all of its databases for issues
relative to vehicle safety and takes appropriate action when necessary." (end of quote)
Sorry for the long paste and copy but the NPRM is very long and some folks simply won't read through the blah blah parts.
