Faulty front axle

[gklott]

Back in February 2020, we noticed excessive tire wear. The issue was on both front axle tires, wearing on the inside.

Driver Front

Passenger Front


The rear tire wear was even and normal for the mileage.

When we noticed, we immediately replaced all 4 tires with Goodyear Endurance. We were in California, and we returned to Texas without any tire incidents.

We contacted Dustin Dionne at Escape, who said "This is not something that we regularly come across and are not quite sure what causes this." Dustin recommended we contact Dexter directly.

We contacted Sabrina King, Warranty Claims Processor, at Dexter corporate headquarters. She was most helpful, and Dexter agreed to pay for the axle replacement "at no charge one time and authorize 1.25hr labor + 2 tires."

We've since taken two trips totaling about 6000 miles, and we are beginning to notice a similar wear on both inside front axle tires.

We've arranged for the replacement at Camper Clinic II in Buda Tx, who has done good work for us on our Airstream. Made the appointment today, Wednesday July 1, and the next available service appointment is Friday August 28th.

Will be glad to get the axle replaced.

73/gus

[Rossue]

This happens from time to time; fortunately Dexter is among the best to honor warranty claims without hesitation. They had referred me to a shop in Redding, CA: All Wheel Auto, Truck & RV who told me from time to time the axles are bent when new and they have to straighten them.

Too bad Dometic isn't half as good.

[cpaharley2008]

I'm confused, the newly replaced axle is also wearing the tires? Both are on the inside front axles?

[Brian B-P]

Originally Posted by cpaharley2008

I'm confused, the newly replaced axle is also wearing the tires? Both are on the inside front axles?

If I understand the posted information correctly, the original tires were replaced (in February), but the axle has not yet been replaced (it is scheduled for next month( so the replacement tires are wearing just like the originals (over two trips and 6000 miles).

[Vermilye]

While it is likely an axle problem, check that you are towing level. Too low a ball height can result in excessive front tire wear, and if the front axle is overweight, it will likely be on the inside.

[cpaharley2008]

Originally Posted by Brian B-P

If I understand the posted information correctly, the original tires were replaced (in February), but the axle has not yet been replaced (it is scheduled for next month( so the replacement tires are wearing just like the originals (over two trips and 6000 miles).

Got it, thanks....

[gklott]

Originally Posted by Vermilye

While it is likely an axle problem, check that you are towing level. Too low a ball height can result in excessive front tire wear, and if the front axle is overweight, it will likely be on the inside.

Thanks for the advice.

We did an Escapees SmartWeigh after replacing the tires, and everything is well balanced. We also did a CAT Scale weight, and it was similar. Ball height is about 1/2" high. After discussing with Dexter, and sending them photos and measurements, they too suspect it to be an axle problem.

Will see.

73/gus

[NEWYORKHILLBILLY]

Its nice to hear Dexter took good care of you! a warranty is only as good as the company. sounds like they stepped up to get you repaired.

[TTMartin]

Originally Posted by gklott

Back in February 2020, we noticed excessive tire wear. The issue was on both front axle tires, wearing on the inside.

We've since taken two trips totaling about 6000 miles, and we are beginning to notice a similar wear on both inside front axle tires.

73/gus

Is your trailer level when you are towing it, or is hitch slightly lower than the rear of the trailer?

[gklott]

Originally Posted by TTMartin

Is your trailer level when you are towing it, or is hitch slightly lower than the rear of the trailer?

Tows about 1/2" high in the front. Passenger side bubble level on trailer is just slightly right of center but still well within the lines.

73/gus

[cpaharley2008]

Those bubble levels are not accurate as they are vhb attached, lots of times when leveling, if you push down or up the level will show level, even when not. You need to put a carpenter level on the floor or other horizontal surface to show front to rear level.

[gklott]

ETI did a good job putting on our trailer side and rear levels. They are right on compared to a carpenter’s level on the floor, counter top, and frame.

73/gus