ball coupler recall

[heymana]

We are getting ready to purchase a 2019 or maybe a 2020 Globetrotter. We just heard about the recall. We are wondering if we should wait until the problem is fixed at the factory or go ahead and get one with the modification that will ensure the proper clamping force.

[Mollysdad]

Read this thread:
http://www.airforums.com/forums/f464...ml#post2307795
Demco was professional to weigh in on the issue and procedure.

[KK4YZ]

I believe the dealers have the kit to test the couplers. Insist that yours be tested prior to purchase.

[TG Twinkie]

If I were to have the coupler replaced. I would insist on a Bulldog coupler.

[Julie-Bob]

Originally Posted by heymana

We are getting ready to purchase a 2019 or maybe a 2020 Globetrotter. We just heard about the recall. We are wondering if we should wait until the problem is fixed at the factory or go ahead and get one with the modification that will ensure the proper clamping force.

Airstream will notify owners, and will send a temporary use adaptor that can be slipped over the ball portion of the coupler to allow owners to tow their trailers. For the final remedy, dealers will add a shim plate to the backside of the ball coupler clamp to put it in position to apply the required clamping force on the tow ball, free of charge. The recall, #19V753000, is expected to begin December 20, 2019. Owners may contact Airstream customer service at 1-877-596-6505 or 1-937-596-6111 extension 7401 or 7411.

[cicho69]

Originally Posted by julie-bob

airstream will notify owners, and will send a temporary use adaptor that can be slipped over the ball portion of the coupler to allow owners to tow their trailers. For the final remedy, dealers will add a shim plate to the backside of the ball coupler clamp to put it in position to apply the required clamping force on the tow ball, free of charge. The recall, #19v753000, is expected to begin december 20, 2019. Owners may contact airstream customer service at 1-877-596-6505 or 1-937-596-6111 extension 7401 or 7411.

This coupler is welded soundly to the A frame , so there is no easy replacement/ alternative brand. AS is providing a shim? That sounds a bit flimsy?

[mikeinca]

Originally Posted by cicho69

Attachment 356566

This coupler is welded soundly to the A frame , so there is no easy replacement/ alternative brand. AS is providing a shim? That sounds a bit flimsy?

Read through the thread referenced in post #2 above. The problem and solution are thoroughly discussed there but the bottom line is that, given what the actual concern is, shimming is a perfectly reasonable solution.

[eagletoo]

Well said, Mike

[Demco]

Originally Posted by cicho69

Attachment 356566

This coupler is welded soundly to the A frame , so there is no easy replacement/ alternative brand. AS is providing a shim? That sounds a bit flimsy?

Cicho - if you have concerns about the shim please let me know i can run you through all the details !

[cicho69]

Originally Posted by mikeinca

Read through the thread referenced in post #2 above. The problem and solution are thoroughly discussed there but the bottom line is that, given what the actual concern is, shimming is a perfectly reasonable solution.

My point is shims are utilized in assembly for variances. A coupler is a 5-6 piece assembly. Why wouldn't the tolerances been tightened in the original design? The coupler should have been thoroughly tested by the mfgr prior to its release!!!
I know AS did not design this coupler, it came on their new chassis. Did that chassis mfgr use this as a better design or a cost savings?

[Demco]

Originally Posted by cicho69

My point is shims are utilized in assembly for variances. A coupler is a 5-6 piece assembly. Why wouldn't the tolerances been tightened in the original design? The coupler should have been thoroughly tested by the mfgr prior to its release!!!
I know AS did not design this coupler, it came on their new chassis. Did that chassis mfgr use this as a better design or a cost savings?

Cicho - The design of the coupler is not to blame, every part within the coupler has tolerances plus and minus that are accounted for. It was a welding fixture problem that let a part be welded in the wrong spot.

[cicho69]

Originally Posted by Demco

Cicho - The design of the coupler is not to blame, every part within the coupler has tolerances plus and minus that are accounted for. It was a welding fixture problem that let a part be welded in the wrong spot.

So it's the positioning of 'internally welded backing plate' that the under jaw slides against, right?
If so, what thickness shim will be utilized? Is it to be welded on the face of the backing plate? or the back of the jaw?
I do see a bit of wear in the back of ball section of the body on my unit with only about 2000 miles.