Recall 18V495 affects 46 2016-2018 Trail King Dolly Trailer trailers for frame-channel cracking. Repair is free at any franchised Trail King dealer.
Trail King is recalling 46 2016-2018 Dolly Trailer models because the dolly frame channel can crack near the center cross members. If the frame channel cracks completely, the frame rail can separate and increase crash risk; Trail King dealers will complete the recall repair free of charge.
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What's wrong?
The frame channel on a 2016-2018 Trail King Dolly Trailer is a main structural rail in the dolly frame. It helps carry the load path through the trailer and gives the center cross members a fixed place to attach. Those cross members tie the frame together so the dolly stays square under towing and road forces.
On affected Dolly Trailers, the center cross members attach at a high-stress area of the frame channel. The filing says the weld layout, combined with the way these dollies are used, does not fully prevent cracks from forming near those center cross members. Once a crack starts in the channel, the damaged area can spread under repeated load and vibration. Trail King is addressing the weak area by adding channel reinforcement to the frame channels.
Owners or service shops should inspect the top flange of the frame channel near the center cross members. Small cracks in that top flange are the warning sign before the frame damage becomes more serious.
Who's affected?
Spans three model years for the Dolly Trailer, all tied to the same structural frame component.
| 2016 Trail King Dolly Trailer | body or structural component |
|---|---|
| 2017 Trail King Dolly Trailer | body or structural component |
| 2018 Trail King Dolly Trailer | body or structural component |
| Units affected | 46 |
A matching year and model does not confirm inclusion. Check your VIN to confirm whether your specific trailer is included.
What's the safety risk?
If the frame channel cracks completely, the frame rail can separate and increase the risk of a crash. Small cracks in the top flange are the warning sign to watch for during inspection, so have the trailer inspected and schedule the reinforcement soon. Repair is free at any franchised Trail King dealer.
What should I do?
- Check your VIN to confirm your 2016-2018 Trail King Dolly Trailer is included in this recall.
- Contact a franchised Trail King dealer to schedule the free frame-channel reinforcement that helps prevent cracking near the center cross members.
- Bring the recall notice if Trail King mailed one. If not, reference recall number 18V495 when you call.
- Avoid using the trailer if you see frame-channel cracking or frame-rail separation before the repair.
What happens at the repair
At the dealer, a Trail King technician reinforces the frame channel near the center cross members so the dolly frame is protected against cracking. The recall repair is available now, and the frame reinforcement is free under the recall for included 2016-2018 Trail King Dolly Trailer units. Trail King has already notified owners for this campaign. If you schedule service, tell the service desk you are calling about Trail King recall TK201801 so the dealer can match the repair to the correct trailer.
Timeline
| July 27, 2018 | NHTSA published the recall |
|---|---|
| August 13, 2018 | Dealer notification began |
| August 13, 2018 | VIN-searchable in NHTSA's database — Check your VIN to see whether this recall applies to your specific vehicle. |
| August 13, 2018 | Interim owner notification (was planned for this date) |
| August 15, 2018 | Owner notification mailed |
| September 14, 2018 | Dealer notification ended |
Frequently asked questions
What is recall 18V495?
Recall 18V495 covers 46 2016-2018 Trail King Dolly Trailer units with a dolly frame channel that can crack near the center cross members. If the channel cracks completely, the frame rail can separate and increase crash risk. Trail King dealers reinforce the frame channel for free.
What should I do if my 2016-2018 Trail King Dolly Trailer is on this recall?
Check your VIN to confirm your specific trailer is included in recall 18V495. If it is, contact a Trail King dealer to schedule the free frame channel reinforcement. Reference recall 18V495 or Trail King recall number TK201801 when you call.
Is the recall repair free?
Yes. Federal recall law requires the manufacturer to repair the defect at no cost. Trail King dealers reinforce the frame channel free of charge, and Trail King customer service is available at 1-800-843-3324 for recall scheduling questions.
What is the safety risk?
The safety risk is frame rail separation. The dolly frame channel can crack near the center cross members, and a complete crack can let the frame rail separate, increasing crash risk. If your VIN is included, schedule the free reinforcement.
When did recall 18V495 begin?
Recall 18V495 began August 15, 2018. Trail King notified owners and opened the dealer repair at that time. If you bought the trailer used or never received a notice, check your VIN and call a Trail King dealer with the recall number.
More information
| NHTSA campaign page | nhtsa.gov/vehicle-recalls/18V495000 |
|---|---|
| Trail King customer service | 1-800-843-3324 |
| NHTSA recall # | 18V495 |
| NHTSA recall # (full) | 18V495000 |
Source documents
-
Download Recall Investigation Document (PDF) (PDF) - Download Recall Report (PDF)
- Download Quarterly Report (PDF)
- Download Recall Acknowledgement (PDF)
This article is generated from NHTSA's primary recall filings and reviewed against the source on May 25, 2026. RecallNotify does not paraphrase NHTSA's consequence language; that text is reproduced as written above. Editorial standards →