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1stvee
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Sep 29, 2013

FYI Axel Failure

FYI-Has anyone had this problem? I purchased my 2011 Cruiser RV 24SD ViewFinder new. Used it about 3000 miles each year 2011 & 2012. I pulled & packed the wheel bearings each year. Jan 2013 had my local dealer pull wheels, inspect the brakes/bearings & repack bearings all 4 wheels. Near the end of a 3500 mile trip 9/12/2013 the right front bearing failed. It destroyed everything, even caught fire. After 2 days beside the road I got it patched enough to limp 150 miles to a Camping World. After 5 days of good intentions and some poor follow up. I was told a new Lippert axel could take up to 2 weeks to receive or I could stay in a hotel for another 3 or 4 days while the spindle was locally replaced. Each option was $700 plus. I called a little Trailer fabricator and repair shop about 25 miles away, Accutrak Mfg. Corp. Los Lunas, NM. The owner, Robert said he was very familiar with the Lippert axel problems. The next day for just over $500 Accutrak installed complete new Dexter axel assy. (axel hubs brakes bearings complete).
Here is a RUB. The Leppert axels under my trailer has ID Tags showing they are 2800 LB load cap. The Dexter replacement is 3500LB. Robert said he had stopped using Leppert axels a few years back, but did not elaborate. In all fairness to Lippert. Because I am clearly out of warranty I did not try to get any restitution from them. However as soon as I can recoup from the almost $2000 total cost of this failure I am going to replace the other 2800 LB Lippert axel with a 3500LB Dexter assembly.
1stvee

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