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Thread: Frame Quality
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12-28-2016, 10:41 PM #1
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Frame Quality
Can anyone tell me what their perceived view is on the frame quality on the Solitude. Are there stiffeners welded in above the spring perches? I need to have a first hand look to inspect the workmanship, and with 30 years experience as a welder, I am critical of structural quality. Hopefully I like what I see.
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12-30-2016, 04:40 AM #2
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Like you said, you need to see it in person to determine if you like what you see.
No one else here will know....Steve- Inventory Manager at Tom Schaeffer's RV, Shoemakersville, PA www.tomschaeffers.com
[email protected]
2011 RAM 3500 SRW Outdoorsman Edition 4X4, 6.7 Cummins--TWEAKED!
2021 Reflection 310RLS
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12-30-2016, 05:50 AM #3
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It is my plan to visit a Grand Design Dealer today and take my first in person look. There are no dealers close to me, but this one is only 170 miles away.
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12-30-2016, 06:43 AM #4
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Although I am not an expert on welding, I believe that Lippert does take shortcuts on many components to maximize profits. The brake issue is a prime example. I have done some frame work, mainly reinforcing a class three hitch to the frame to handle a small motorcycle. In my observations, it appears that some of the welds are not as good as they should be. I would be interested in reading what your, Nuffsaid, impression of the quality is. Due to the fact that I already own a unit, I will make the best of what I have, while keeping a close eye on the numerous stress points.
Gordo Fuchs
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12-30-2016, 07:32 AM #5
I've been a member of this forum (and the Facebook owner's page) since early 2014. In that time, I've seen very few issues pop up related to the frame. Probably the number one problem I've seen is rust on the frame for folks who drove their rigs on salty roads.
Jim
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12-30-2016, 08:03 AM #6
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As Jim said frame issues are few and far between.
As a guy who has a reputation for building brick outhouses (over engineered and overbuilt) I've been impressed with the size of the frame. Yes some welds may be a little sloppy, but not worrisome.Colan and Marilyn Arnold
Des Moines, IA - kind of, on the road full time.
Currently in Durango, Colorado
Momentum 350M originally, now a 397TH
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12-30-2016, 10:06 AM #7
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The entire belly is covered so you not going to see much at the dealers. I took a factory tour and saw the frames come in the door and thought all stages of build. I wish GD would allow cameras so you get pictures to share. I asked to take a picture of a 321RL frame with tanks, wiring and plumbing for my own reference and was told no.
Dennis & Ellie
Current 2017 Newmar Ventana Class A & 1994 Airstream Excella Classic Limited Project
Sold - 310-GK-R Delivered 28 Oct 2016
2016 GMC Denali 1 Ton Diesel SRW Payload 3727LBS B&W Hitch
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12-30-2016, 10:24 AM #8
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Reinforcement should come in the form of a piece of angle iron welded vertically on the web if the I beam above each spring hanger as well as the equalizer. It should be visible from the outside of the frame. That's the way I've seen it done on 99% of the frames I look at.
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12-31-2016, 03:15 PM #9
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We have a Reflection with a lighter frame than the Solitudes but it was plenty strong enough to get us from Calif. to Worland, WY and back with no problems. BTW, I have to say that some of the nicest folks we met on our 5K mile trip we met in Worland.
Jim & Georgianne
N. California
2016 Reflection 29RS
2008 Ford F-250 Super Duty PSD
B&W Companion hitch
Rubber turtle with no name
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12-31-2016, 03:22 PM #10
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