Bounder: F53 Bounder Suspension Issue?

[bevel_drive]

All,

We bought a 99 Bounder on a F53 chassis back in 2004. The unit had severe cupping on both front tires on the outside, so we replaced the stock shocks with some Bilsteins, put on a Steer-Safe, went to a reputable shop who was aware of the "odd" F53 wheel hubs for alignment and balancing, and replaced the tires with some Goodyear G670s. We've only put about 7000 miles per year since then and it looks like those "new" G670s are cupping as well.

Since we've owned this unit, it has has some bouncing issues, the bulk of which were reduced dramatically by the shop mentioned above. Regardless, they've never gone away. By bouncing, I mean the front of the unit seems to be hopping at certain speeds. It doesn't manifest itself as a vibration through the steering wheel, but more as the whole front of the couch bouncing. Somehow it seems to be both up and down as well as side-to-side simultaneously.

Any suggestions as to where to look next? Worn components?

mike

[The General]

Hi Mike,

I would like to welcome you to our humble Bounder iRV2 club and say that 49,000 miles since 2004 with cupping means check all front end parts including ball joints; replace worn then realign.
Front tires should always be balanced IMHO.

Steve

[ga traveler]

As a ser. mgr. This was one of the most common complaints we had. In this period of time, Ford outsorced the rims to a plant in Mexico. They were out of spec. and caused many problems for Ford. The problem was the center hole was too big. The center hole in the rim is supposed to line up the tire. If it is too big, the rim does not center and causes the tire to be out of round. The best cure is to go with an aluminum wheel. They are forged and machined, Thus they are much better. Alum. wheels are hard to find for 19.5, but they are available. If you find one please post.

[Rocky 2]

GA Travelers explained the problem and one solution. I had the same chassis on my 99 Rexhall Vision and the same problems. After multiple times balancing the tires and replacing tires, I went to Equal balancing compound. While the entire problem was not solved, it improved things quite a bit for only $40. Ford refused to acknowledge the problem until the affected chassis were out of warranty. BTW, our coach bounced so badly the overhead TV started to come out. Now that gets your attention.

[The General]

Look this up:
Alcoa Wheels North America: Products: 763802(Rear) - Classic 8 (19.5x6) 8-bolt Dual Rear Wheel

Steve



traveler;833674]As a ser. mgr. This was one of the most common complaints we had. In this period of time, Ford outsorced the rims to a plant in Mexico. They were out of spec. and caused many problems for Ford. The problem was the center hole was too big. The center hole in the rim is supposed to line up the tire. If it is too big, the rim does not center and causes the tire to be out of round. The best cure is to go with an aluminum wheel. They are forged and machined, Thus they are much better. Alum. wheels are hard to find for 19.5, but they are available. If you find one please post.[/QUOTE]

[Elkhartjim]

Quote:

Originally Posted by bevel_drive All, Goodyear G670s. We've only put about 7000 miles per year since then and it looks like those "new" G670s are cupping as well. Any suggestions as to where to look next? mike

Cupping is a known trait (problem) with GY G670 tires. If you do a search on iRV2 and/or Google, you'll find the term "rivering"...aka cupping.

[bevel_drive]

Were some Bounders on the F-53 shipped with 6" wide wheels and some with 6.75" wheels?