265TH Frame flex

[Dirtydoggers]

Hello Jayco community, first time poster…. We have a 2023 JayFlight 265TH and have been loving it. We just added a new toy to the experience - a CFMoto SxS that weighs approx 1375 lbs. Cargo capacity is approx 2000 lbs. On a short trip this week noticed 1) Aluminum siding getting wavy near roof above axles 2) Door frame distorting to the point that it will not stay latched (deadbolt extended 3/4” into strike) when being towed. Figuring that either we have a frame that is cracked/broken or perhaps just frame flex. Either way, not acceptable for a toy hauler loaded below limits. Just dropped it at dealer for inspection with the SxS in it this morning. Has anyone else experienced this? Thanks!

 

[kalcoone]

Not sure as we just bought a 24 and have only used it once. Are you using a wdhitch? I have heard and seen some issues with these on the lighter framed campers. Either way, keep us posted on what they say.

 

[Dirtydoggers]

Hi kalcoone. Using an equalizer wdh with 12k bars, concur with your thoughts and observations as this significantly tensions the frame. Not inclined to change the setup - rv tows really well (‘23 Ram 1500 diesel). The RV spent a week at local dealership- inspection revealed nothing wrong, broken or out of spec. Essentially normal behavior they are saying.

This leads me to the belief that stated cargo capacity of the 265th is overstated. The axles, springs and tires can handle the rating - the frame can’t. Love the rig other than this! No issues when hauling lighter motorcycle and scooter. Next step - a call to Jayco which I expect to yield little. Nature of the beast. Hope you are enjoying yours!

 

[snoringbear]

What did you find DD? What amazes me is they increased the cargo and weight capacity of the 265TH by approx 900 lbs up to 8,500 from 7,600. Cargo from 2,280 to 3,170. The unit weight only changed by 10lbs, so there were no changes other than the early 2024's only had ST205/75R14'D' vs the later models getting the ST225/75R15'E'.

Naturally, when you ask for details on what changed to suggest another 900 lbs is well within the capacity, it's top secret and nobody will answer. Kind of frustrating.

 

[Dirtydoggers]

What did you find DD? What amazes me is they increased the cargo and weight capacity of the 265TH by approx 900 lbs up to 8,500 from 7,600. Cargo from 2,280 to 3,170. The unit weight only changed by 10lbs, so there were no changes other than the early 2024's only had ST205/75R14'D' vs the later models getting the ST225/75R15'E'.

Naturally, when you ask for details on what changed to suggest another 900 lbs is well within the capacity, it's top secret and nobody will answer. Kind of frustrating.

Hey snoringbear,

Dealer and Jayco deem this deformity to be normal… Spring camping with UTV coming soon - going to back the UTV in to move weight further forward in the 265th, we’ll see how it responds to the change. We are not happy but not bailing on the unit yet ( otherwise pleased ). With regards to increased capacity on the new units - find it REALLY hard to believe Jayco made / invested in any changes to chassis…. Can the chassis / tires handle 8.5k? Probably. Can it handle this with reasonable flex? Doubtful.

 

[snoringbear]

Disappointing response for sure. I'm running into similar issues that I'm not exactly happy about. Definitely not the same Jayco anymore.

That said, I agree that moving the weight further forward can only help. I only haul my CVO Limited or Goldwing (not at the same time) and with my Bolt-It-On rack, I try to get the weight as centered over the axles as I can. Seems to do OK, but both weight less than 1,000 lbs.