Frames and axels

But they have not issued a recall.

However, from the way you are describing the damage I don't believe that the failure was in the axle itself. The damage was quite obviously a frame failure. That could well be related to the design of the frame to axle attachment, but I doubt that the axle itself is to blame, or it would be bent. That typically shows up either as one side of the trailer being lower than the other, or one both wheels being de-cambered (wheel tilted inward at the top). 

I suppose it could be that the torsion axle is weak and bottoming out, which in turn is applying a high stress the frame. But that would still be indicative of a marginal frame design. Since Lippert manufactures both the frame and the axle it doesn't really matter, they hold the warranty responsibility either way. 

I just wish FR was more forthcoming regarding these issues, they have a  history not only of these types of problems but also of responding to them in this way. They obviously have their customer service folks trained to release the  minimum information possible and are treating each incident on a case by case basis, doubtless to avoid  broader recalls and lawsuits.

If you search the history on this forum you'll find many threads on axle, frame, and axle to frame attachment problems and failures. There are no formal engineering standards for design of these systems in travel trailers. Ive analysed the design for my (former) 179 and it would be generous to call it  marginal. I reinforced mine as have several other members here. FRs responses have been quite varied as well, ranging from too bad it's your problem to yessir we'll fix it for you right away, sir. 

BTW I don't think any of the major budget trailer manufacturers are going to be any different, this seems to be general industry practice. For this reason I won't own another budget travel trailer. My next RV, if I get another one, will be a class B or C unit built on a motor vehicle chassis. Those are generally  built to higher design standards than travel trailers. And I'll get one built by a high quality low volume  coachbuilder using a single or 2 piece fiberglass shell, in an attempt to minimize the other two major complaints folks have with their RVs (poor workmanship and water leaks). Those high quality coaches are really spendy so I will buy used, I'd rather have a well cared for high quality used RV than a brand shiny new piece of junk. Of course no matter what  RVs are high maintenance  

Sorry if my this offends anyone but I've now owned 6 RVs, all types, looked at many others, and spoken with many owners. That is my opinion of the the RV industry at this point. Rant over....

Thanks for the well worded and engineering point in which you looked at it. I never thought of the r pod as a cheap way of camping as being cheaply manufactured.