Frame Damage & Crack due to WDH bracket

[Camplifier]

Hello fellow campers, I have a 2619 that I was tuning up and noticed that when the weight distribution hitch brackets were installed to the front frame, the bolts were over tightened and caused some damage and also a crack. How serious of an issue is this? The crack seems serious. How would one go about fixing this? Thanks and happy camping!

[Bill]

That is very serious, but fixable. You will need to take your TM to a welder, and have him close the gap and weld the crack closed, probably using a reinforcing plate across the crack. Or better yet, find a mobile welder who will come to your house and do it.

I doubt that installation of the WDH brackets caused the cracking, but at this point the cause doesn't matter. Several years ago we had a rash of frame cracks in this same area. What year is your TM?

One important thing for you to do before you go to the welder is get a good stiff wire brush and clean off every bit of rust and gunk on the entire tongue area. As I recall, multiple cracks were common, and some of them hid under the grunge.

Some discussion here

https://www.trailmanorowners.com/for...ighlight=crack

Bill

[Bill]

A reminder for one and all. When the swing hitch is open, you CANNOT put any weight on the tongue jack.

Bill