inws9

Latest update on this project..... In 2 1/2 hours we installed 2 each 766 working pound load ratchet straps from corner to opposing corner to each of the holding tanks. Under the straps we put some old carpet that was doubled up under the ratchet buckle to avoid any wear on the tanks wall. We put just enough pressure on the tanks to assure that they could not fall off the angle iron factory installed supports. We then reinstalled the insulation and bottom skin. Total cost $16.19 and the time involved included the trip to Home Depot for the straps. My observation here is that the industry as a whole could take this type of step as a precaution add $50 to the cost of the unit and the world could be a happy carefree place.

Thanks for your reply. We are in an area where we have been experiencing strange weather so haven't really dug back into this. Original exposure was in Arizona and we are now back in Idaho. Today we pulled the bottom skin to expose the tanks and a friend is coming tomorrow and we are going to try to find a solution. Northwood Mfg. says this is their system and they apparently see no reason to change. This is our 7th RV in the last 25 years, 5 have been new with 2 slightly used. This is the first that we have used as full timers and to say our disappointment level in what the market offers is not describable in this forum. We will see what we determine tomorrow as a possible fix. From what I have learned this rigging system is apparently common in the industry. Thanks again.

About a month ago the front end of our black tank drain valve developed a small crack and began to drip. We called in a mobile repair crew and when they opened the bottom of the fifth wheel to expose the tanks to access the valve they were somewhat amazed at the lack of support for both the gray and black tanks. Each are 40 gallon tanks spanning the width of the trailer with a protruded type lip on either side that rests on approximately 11/2" angle irons. The tanks are made of some type of resin material that have seemed to expand over time and are now bowed on the bottom. This has caused the outlet pipe to actually be above the bottom of the tanks thereby never allowing them to fully drain. We have never traveled with more than a few gallons of water in either of the tanks but I am concerned that there is a minimum amount of support here. This concern is further amplified by a comment made to us a year ago when another repair tech had to replace the insulation under the tanks after a leak in our water system. He advised that our problem was minimal compared to the times he had to fix dropped black tanks. Our fifth wheel is a 2015 Arctic Fox and we are full timers. Any thoughts or considerations from others?