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)
The worst 2021 Vanleigh Beacon problems
Ranked by number of owner complaints. Mileage and cost come from what owners wrote.
- Body3
- Suspension1
Problems by type
Tap a problem to see which part fails, at what mileage and in which other years.
- Body3
- Suspension1
Recalls 2
Structure: emergency: escape/egress/exit
- What is wrong
- VanLeigh RV (VanLeigh) is recalling certain 2021-2022 Vanleigh Beacon recreational vehicles. Interference from the rear ladder can prevent the rear egress window from fully opening.
- Risk
- In an emergency, the rear egress window cannot be used as an exit, increasing the risk of injury.
- Remedy
- Dealers will replace the egress window, free of charge. Owner letters were mailed on August 12, 2021. Owners may contact VanLeigh customer service at 1‑662‑612‑4040.
Recall number 21V490000 · Recall details
Equipment: recreational vehicle/trailer: lpg systems: water heater
- What is wrong
- VanLeigh RV (VanLeigh) is recalling certain 2019-2021 Beacon and 2019-2022 Vilano coaches. The water heater housing may not have been properly sealed, allowing gas to enter the coach.
- Risk
- Gas inside the coach increases the risk of a fire.
- Remedy
- Dealers will install a grommet ensuring the sleeve is facing out and use zip-ties to secure the sleeves to the gas line, free of charge. Owner letters were mailed July 9, 2021. Owners may contact VanLeigh customer service at 1‑662‑612‑4040.
Recall number 21V355000 · Recall details
Technical service bulletins for the 2021 Vanleigh Beacon 3
Bulletins tell dealers how to fix known problems. A warranty extension means the manufacturer pays for that repair for longer.
- It has come to our attention that some 2021 and 2022 Vilano, Pinecrest and Beacon 5th wheel RV's have...
- Some 2021 Vilano and Beacon 5th wheel RV's were manufactured with the gate valves arranged in such a way...
- It has come to our attention that some 2021 Vilano and Beacon 5th wheel RV's were manufactured with the...
What 2021 Vanleigh Beacon owners say
Most recent owner complaints, unedited.
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.
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Questions about the 2021 Vanleigh Beacon
Is the 2021 Vanleigh Beacon reliable?
Owners have filed 3 complaints about the 2021 Vanleigh Beacon, 1.5 times a typical Beacon model year.
What is the most common problem with the 2021 Vanleigh Beacon?
Body and structure, with 3 complaints. Next is suspension (1).
How many recalls does the 2021 Vanleigh Beacon have?
2 recalls, covering structure and equipment.
Was there a recall on the 2021 Vanleigh Beacon body?
Yes, 1 recall: 21V490000. Check your VIN to see if your car still needs the free repair.
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