Is lifting body from frame feasible?

[jlktrailmanor]

I have a 2000 3124KB. Last year I noticed a crack in the frame on the right side just behind the wheel mount. The crack started at the top and went down an inch or so on both sides of the beam and across the top. As a result the right rear corner sagged around 2 in or so, and I had to jack it up to level the unit and get the shells and door to work properly. See attached pics.

I took it to a trailer repair shop and they welded a plate across the crack on the inside of the beam. but they were unable to straighten the frame, so it still sags. I'm wondering if it's feasible to jack up the body off the frame and take the frame to a shop for a proper repair. How is the body fastened to the frame?

My alternative is to find another TM and dump this one.

Thanks for any help you can offer.

 

[Dan3023]

I've seen people put a lift on their TrailManor. Taking the body off shouldn't be too difficult to do. Just search lift kit and you'll see.

 

[kjfatl]

The lift kit goes between the axle and the bottom of the frame.

 

[Dan3023]

Yes, that shows what holds the body to the frame. It should be an easy process.

 

[Wavery]

The quick answer to your question is, "It can't (feasibly) be done".

Before you do anything else, carefully check the frame forward of the axle. My hunch is that you have another crack somewhere. The small crack in your picture shouldn't account for a 2" drop. However, a small crack forward of the axle could.

The wood floor frame is attached to the steel frame from inside. Then plywood and 3" thick aluminum (laminated) floor is fastened to the wood frame and the cabinetry is installed before the walls are put in place. All of that would have to come out in order to remove the body.

First, both roofs and interior would have to be removed................. Stop me.............I'm starting to panic........

Note the trailer in the rear of the trailer with the walls in place.

It would be a LOT easier to grind off the plates that the welder put on. If he welded the crack 1st, that weld will have to be ground out as well. Then jack the trailer up from the rear corner until the frame is straight and weld it all back up again.

 

[Wavery]

Yes, that shows what holds the body to the frame. It should be an easy process.

Dan3023,

The lift kit goes under the frame. The body goes on top of the frame. The lift kit has nothing to do with the body assembly.

 

[Dan3023]

I really have to not comment when I'm on pain meds. I should have known that.