Community Forums

Jerry · 06-26-2012, 06:45 PM

My '05 36' Inspire with IFS has a slight steering wander that requires constant attention when driving. A couple of mechanics have not been able to find any slack in the steering mechanism. It is worse in a stiff side wind or "groovy" blacktop. Anyone else experience this problem? Has anyone tried any of the aftermarket steering stabilizers and if so, did it resolve the problem? I have experimented with different tire pressures, but no improvement.
Jerry

EngineerMike · 06-26-2012, 07:19 PM

Common problem on shorter Country Coach rigs. Your front end is light in comparison to overall coach weight, so any impetus from pavement, wind, etc. will tend to push you around. If you can, move heavy storage items as far forward as possible. If you anticipate a windy day traveling, dump your tanks before departing (they are rearward). Can't say about fuel tank, but I think its forward of the halfway point between wheels; if so traveling w/full fuel will help.

When Western RV started making their 34' coach (actual length 35'), they didn't like the handling. Before releasing the first rigs, they added weight near the front axle and low down on the frame, consisting of a stack of rectangular steel bars. That allowed the 34 to drive like WRV's original 36, which was specifically designed with a 60/40 rear/front weight split. You can probably additionally quiet the front end down w/a similar process of bolting weight into the front end.

dons2346 · 06-26-2012, 10:18 PM

First of all a 36' CC is not a "short" coach. There are a number of things that need to be looked at. The below should be considered:

1. Make sure that the ride height for the coach is correct.
2. Insure the front end alignment is correct.
3. Weigh the coach and adjust the tire pressure accordingly. CC routinely says 120 front and 110 for the rear. These pressures will most likely be to high for your coach.
4. The brand of tire will affect the "grove following" somewhat. I had the Goodyear G670's on the front and it would follow any grove in the pavement. Changing tire brand worked wonders.
5. In a stiff side wind, play around with coach speeds. You will find that a difference of 5MPH will make a huge difference in handling. You might not like the speed but at least you can feel safe driving the coach.
6. Keeping a full tank of fuel and water helps. Both lower the center of gravity which aids the handling.

If high winds are expected, I fill the fuel and water tanks and go for it. Speed is a major factor. I love my DynoMax chassis.

Jerry · 06-27-2012, 07:35 PM

Thanks to both of you for the input. The weight ratio is good, could be slightly better. Good idea about keeping the water and fuel tank full. On my last leg recently to the The Good Sam National Rally in Louisville, it was the first time in a while to have a completely full water tank and fuel tank. It noticeably drove better, not perfect, but better. I think my next move will be to get a front end alignment and see what that does. Thanks guys! Keep the ideas coming!
Jerry

bluefox · 06-27-2012, 07:43 PM

What brand of tires is on your?

colo.kids · 06-27-2012, 10:33 PM

Mine wandered a bit until the ride height, previously suggested, was set correctly. That helped a great deal--in fact I do not feel mine wanders enough to be a concern, except of course in high winds.