Investigation PE86056: 1979–1986 Coachmen Coachmen

Status

CLOSED

Opened

May 12, 1986

Closed

Nov 13, 1986

Model years

1979–1986

Subject

AXLE FAILURE

Component: Suspension

Summary

Summary of information from manufacturer:in a letter provided by thecomplaintant, coachman acknowledges there is not a retrofit packagethat has been produced by coachman recreational vehicle company concerningthe axle system that was used on this particular trailers.we do knowthat there have been some people that have installed a straight axlesystem underneath these particular trailers replacing the independentaxle systems.analysis:it appears that the independent stub axle used by coachmen onthe travel trailer may be inadequately designed for the intended use.theareas of the stub axle that were identified as failing, the sketches ofthe axle, and coachmen's indication that the axle system may have beenredesigned for current tailers, suggest that the axle system is inadequate.status:preparing ir.proposed action:open pe; send coachman a limited scope ir.

An NHTSA investigation looks into whether a safety defect exists. Opening one is not a finding. Outcomes can include a recall, closure without action, or further inquiry.