2021 Vanleigh Beacon

The frame of my 2021 Vanleigh Beacon 39FFB fifth wheel trailer has experienced a catastrophic structural failure in the primary load-bearing area near the king pin. The frame has fractured on both sides between the king pin structure and upper deck riser in a non-welded section of the frame. This failure has allowed the king pin to displace upward more than 2 inches into the front structure of the RV. Additional structural damage includes: -Shearing of a structural fastener/bolt -Visible separation and movement of frame members under hitch load -Bent and misaligned I-beam near the suspension/equalizer area The failure directly affects the towing connection and structural integrity of the vehicle and creates a serious roadway safety hazard, including potential towing instability or possible hitch/detachment risk. The RV has not been involved in an accident and has not been knowingly overloaded. The failure appears related to a structural/load path defect involving the frame design, material integrity, and/or structural fatigue in a critical towing area. The unit is currently unsafe to tow. Manufacturers involved: -Vanleigh RV -Lippert Components Photos and supporting documentation are available showing frame fracture, structural displacement, sheared fasteners, and frame movement under load. The RV is currently located at The Resort At Canopy Oaks, [XXX] INFORMATION REDACTED PURSUANT TO THE FREEDOM OF INFORMATION ACT (FOIA), 5 U.S.C. 552(B)(6)

This is a 2021 Vanleigh/Tiffin Beacon 41FLB 5th wheel. Upper deck frame welds broken causing wall structure frame to break and front slide outs to come loose. Unit was still within 3 year frame and structural warranty, but Vanleigh refused warranty. $16,000 repair…but if not repaired, the frame and 5th wheel plate could have separated and caused a serious accident. This is a serious problem and Vanleigh Tiffin should pay for warranty repair.

The front frame of the RV has failed, welds are cracked. The unit can be inspected. The frame welds hold the walls on to the RV. The frame is the major structural component that could lead to wall collapse. Symptoms of the cracks are evident only when towing, meaning failure on the highway. Problem has been confirmed by and independent repair facility. Manufacturer is aware, but has not inspected. They don't want to inspect because this is an industry wide problem. Frame failure becomes evident when hitching up and towing the RV. Side wall flexing will occur along the front overhang, fiberglass will crack, seals around front slides will pop open.