replacement Wildernest spring

[bgordon45]

Last night the front spring (closest to cab) snapped. I unfolded the 'nest and was sitting on the sleeping bunk to lock in the poles. I assume it was just repeated stress as I don't believe it got hung up on anything.

Does anyone know where I could get a new one of these? I suppose I'll have to get one fabricated. Any ideas on specs? Is this part structural and absorb weight when in the 'nest or is it just to ease the opening process? Thanks.
-Blake


http://www.blakegordon.com/proofs/spring1.jpg

http://www.blakegordon.com/proofs/spring2.jpg

[DaveInDenver]

Saw your PM, BTW. This is not an uncommon problem! You are right that it's usually just repetitive cycles but the straight length that slides in the tube on the top does get hung up and that seems to bind them up a bit. I find that dry lube, like a little graphite, helps them operate smooth but eventually they all break. BTW, dry lube and sparingly otherwise the lube gets all over the tent fabric. DAMHIK. It's a visual issue more than anything, just makes the inside of the tent look sloppy.

Open the yellow pages and search, most big cities still have custom spring shops. It has been a few years since I've had any made, but there was one here in Denver. It won't necessarily be cheap, on the order of a Ben Franklin or two for a couple of them. Also showing them the old one will help since not all 'Nest springs are the same length on the long side (the bent part that runs down along the rib that is held in place with the washer and cotter pin).

[bgordon45]

Wow. I didn't think it would be that expensive. There are quite a few bends going on in there though. Is this a structural part? Does it help support the bed or is merely to ease stress on the springs when opening/closing. Thanks.
-Blake