Lippert frames
Been towing for 30 years, but never heard of a Lippert frame. Seems like most of the comments are negative. So, what is a Lippert frame?
Forum Discussion
SoundGuy wrote:
My 2014 Coachmen Freedom Express has a pressed together Lippert frame that has cracked near the rear tires on each side. :M
As to the OP's question, my understanding is that newer models now use a different frame that shouldn't exhibit this frame cracking problem that have plagued so many Freedom Express owners.
GrandpaKip wrote:
If you truly believe this, then why in the world do you keep recommending this trailer?
SoundGuy wrote:
Surely this is self explanatory! :S
GrandpaKip wrote:
My apologies. However, your understanding is just that (an opinion). If you had stated when, where and what Coachmen had done, that would be fine for all the trailers that have been constructed since then. But the fact still remains that you have touted this trailer many times without caveat.
As I see it, the main concern would be with new members of this forum looking at used trailers. With your recommendation, they might be led to believe this is a great camper. A problem with cracked frames should eliminate this trailer from any consideration.
I don't believe I've ever "touted this trailer many times without caveat" but if asked, sure I'd suggest others consider it. Why not? - it's a great floor plan for an adult couple, offers pretty well all the amenities one would want in a travel trailer, it's easy to tow and easy to park on pretty well any campsite. Is it perfect? ... surely not, never have claimed it was, no more than any other trailer. It's a mass produced product built for the masses, just as most other trailers are. Yes, my particular 2014 has a cracked frame but it is NOT on any NHSTA recall list and if you had actually read the content of that recall you'd know that only ~ 1000 units of other models built during a specific time period are subject to that recall. Is my 192RBS which is not part of this recall a fluke? ... don't know, but I'm not aware of any other 192RBS models exhibiting this problem. Regardless, it is my "understanding" that newer models from 2016 onward use a different frame which shouldn't exhibit this same issue anyway. FWIW, my wife & I recently discussed the idea of actually trading our 2014 for a new 2018 192RBS as it offers a number of improvements such as a full length queen bed and vent over the main cabin but the hit in depreciation really doesn't make this practical, especially when our 2014 serves the purpose just fine. :B
