Source Engineering MCU's

[dons2346]

Someone here, I think it might have been Smitty that installed the Source Engineering MCU's on the coach.

I have a couple of questions

[Smitty77]

Hey Don - Sorry for the delayed response.

Yes, I changed over from Super Steers to SE's air check valves.

Super Steers restricted air flow in both direction, while SE restricted air flow in only one direction.

It was and afterthought, as I had called to talk with SE about their Wax Valve Fan Control Module replacement. Was going over handling and ride comfort in general. And their thoughts were that I had three things working to impact our ride comfort on the front end:
1) 12R 22.5 Michelin XZE* set at a relatively high 110PSI
2) Road King Shocks - Their previous generation
3) Super Steer Motion Control Unit

All three working together, when hitting say a bump, or rumble strip, small hole, or the ALCAN - all restrict the ability of the suspension to 'cushion/absorb' the impacts.

On MCU's, their check valve restricts air not on the impact, but on the rebound. (My terminology, not theirs.

On the Road Kings, well, I like the handling. I could get the front re-valved, but I'm not going to do so unless the other steps do not make difference.

On the tires, well we lost two Michelin XZE*'s due sever pot hole edge impact. Put two BF Goodrich ST230's, still set at 110PSI for now (About to be lowered to 100 or 105PSI. Reference my post on updated four corner weights.) But, the ST230's have a less stiff tire sidewall (my terminology), and we both noted a difference in the front end ride just by the ST230's vs XZE*'s).

So, decided to have the SE check valves added to the front, to help on the ride comfort. And while doing so, went ahead and did the rears too!

And yes, we both noticed another notch in improvement of road imperfections.

Handling has remained the same, with the tires and the check valves added. I'd estimate about a 15-20% less stiff/harsh front end ride, by these changes so far. Will be dropping the tire PSI before heading out, and expect it will help a bit more.

And another yes, I did impact our ride by my choices of XZE*'s, Road Kings and Super Steer MCU's. But I value handling over comfort, and will do all that I can to retain the improved handling. And of course, this is all with my years chassis IFS.

So Don, knowing you, suspect none of the above were your questions about SE MCU's!
But, I wanted to explain where we were, and what changes we made, and why.

Best,
Smitty

[dons2346]

Thanks for the info. I currently have the Road Kings, I guess their first generation as they are the smaller piston. Someone talked me into the Koni FSD and within 20K miles, they were no better than the Konis I took off. The RKs did make a huge difference and so far, after 80K miles or so, I am still happy.

The tires are the Michelin XZA2 and so far they are running fine. They replaced the Goodyear G670 which in my opinion is the worst tire on the market.

So, from what you are saying, the SE MCU units are giving you a better ride than the Super Steer units that Henderson's sells?

If so, I am probably going to have them installed at the June FMCA rally in Albany.

Thanks for the info.

Interesting thing about the fan controller. I had one replaced and have had no problems since. I took the failed unit apart and if you go on the Yahoo groups CC forum, in the photo section, you will find pictures I took of the failed unit. It all boiled down to a bad solder joint which is visible in the photos

[Mr_D]

KONI just announced new EVO shocks for the 20,000# front axle some of us have. Not adjustable as they use the FSD technology. I need to order a pair I guess.

[dons2346]

Originally Posted by Mr_D

KONI just announced new EVO shocks for the 20,000# front axle some of us have. Not adjustable as they use the FSD technology. I need to order a pair I guess.

I had the Koni FSD shocks, what a piece of junk on a heavy front end coach. I'll stick with my Road Kings