2006 Ventana 3936

[Bremer Speck]

Hi, after doing a lot of research, we purchased our Ventana on eBay in January from a dealer in AZ. The dealer's name is Autoboss (Andrew Strachan). All of his listings come with lots of photos (about 75) and we were not dispappointed. The coach was exactly as described and as shown in the photos. We did the "buy-now" thing and that put $1,000 at risk. 3 days later, on a Friday night, we flew out to Phoenix and trecked over to Mesa, where Autoboss is located. What we did not expect, was the hole in the wall operation and expecting to see a large RV dealership, we actually drove right past it the first time. However, the explanation made sense. Keep the overhead low and offer lower prices. Anyway, we got a very good deal and Andrew turned out to be a very helpful guy. So, as far as buying an RV on eBay is concerned, we have no regrets. But, all this is besides the point. The real question is this.
When we collected the coach and drove him (Vinny Ventana) from Mesa to Boston, we encountered some rough roads and Interstate highways. At times, it felt like the coach was tearing itself apart, jumping up and down and sideways. Slightly exaggerated.
As soon as we were back on smooth surfaced roads, the driving and handling was very nice and felt like we were riding on air.
Well, the Ventana is air-ride equipped and, this being my first coach with air-ride, I thought this would provide a smooth ride, at all times, regardless of the road surface. Apparently not.
Everything is stock on the Ventana. I am wondering, whether this is the way it is or, whether there is anything I can do by way of upgrading to get the smooth ride I anticipated.
I have been trying to read-up on the subject on this board and there is lots of material but nothing has dealt with a Newmar Ventana.
So my question goes out to fellow Ventana owners. Have you upgraded or added anything (new tires, new shocks, airbags, steering etc. etc. and so forth) to get a smoother ride?
Your comments and all advice will be very much appreciated!
Cheers,
Ronald

["007"]

Welcome to the forum Ronald & irv2.
Most new unloaded coach's will not be the same once its loaded with all your personal stuff.
Once you have that done get the coach weight on some scale and use the air pressure tables of MFG for tires for correct weight.
The ride may change for you.
Air ride bags need some weight on them to dampen the suspension as you ride down the road.
Here is a Owners Manual in case you do not have one.
Here is a Brochure for your model year.
You can get more info for your Freightliner Chassis on this link.
I'd say all suspension of your coach should be in good shape. Dependant on your mileage or unless previous owner misused the coach.
Congrats on your new coach many safe miles for you, enjoy the forums.

[hawgguy]

I bought my 2011 Ventana 3962 new over the internet from a dealer in California - did the deal in Reno (ca taxes) and drove back to Texas. The unloaded drive was a little harsh (especially going into Kingman AZ).

Once home, noticed all tires inflated to 110 lbs. Loaded coach, weighed and adjusted tire pressures - world of difference.

[GaryKD]

Hi Bremer Speck,
Welcome to the Newmar and iRV2 forum. Weight and proper tire pressure for the weight being carried is really important. In addition, check and see if you have Bilstein shocks. These shocks are have many complaints (including me), for a rough ride. If this is the case, consider changing to Koni shocks.