Posted 2012-02-11 9:58 AM (#140768) Subject: kieffer built
Member
Posts: 39 Location: Glenford, Oh
Can anyone give me info about Kieffer trailers quality and durability in the early 2000 models? Its an all aluminum type. I am checking out a used trailer and have never much been around a Kieffer. Thanks!
Posted 2012-02-11 10:39 AM (#140770 - in reply to #140768) Subject: RE: kieffer built
Expert
Posts: 5870 Location: western PA
Some KB trailers of that era, had problems with rear door delaminations. Apparently the doors were manufactured by a subcontractor, and there was a problem with who was responsible for the repairs. Apparently some were repaired under warranty, and many weren't, leaving some dissatisified customers with expensive repair bills.
We have some dealers in this forum who have personal knowledge of the particulars. Perhaps they will chime in.
KB has undergone some business changes, leaving older trailer warranties in limbo. I have liked their products and actually bought one at Congress. We have several owners in this forum that speak highly of their purchases.
If I were buying a used one, I would carefully inspect the rear doors for fit, any sagging, and gaps in the construction of the various layers of door skins. I have heard that the replacement doors are no longer made by the original company, and that new doors have to be modified to fit and are expensive as a result.
If there are no problems with the doors, and the bottom rear frame trailer structure has not been damaged, I would think its purchase could be worthwhile. Just be aware that the gossip is, that the older trailers are not being well supported by the new owners, and any sale will be "as is".
Posted 2012-02-11 1:31 PM (#140774 - in reply to #140768) Subject: RE: kieffer built
Veteran
Posts: 155 Location: North Salem, IN
If it's an early 2000's model, warranty wouldn't be an issue as it would have been out of warranty for some time. As Gard said, carefully check out the trailer, especially the rear doors and door frame. I have seen many Keifers that looked great and held up well, and I have seen a few that the rear doors were about to fall off. Part of that problem was owners not addressing the problem when it arose. (although that could have been a warranty issue that was neve resolved as well) Otherwise, the Keifer trailers seem to be fairly well built. Check out the forum for the know issues with Keifer and check out the one you are looking at. If it doesn't have any of those issues, then it should be a fine trailer.
Posted 2012-02-12 8:55 PM (#140841 - in reply to #140768) Subject: RE: kieffer built
Member
Posts: 15
Location: Tionesta PA
I have a 2004 KB and have nothing but good things to say about it. I did have a problem with the rear tack door leaking, I attributed it to having been "sprung." We readjusted it ourselves and are good to go.
kieffer built
