When to change shocks

[OldHiker]

I have almost 40,000 miles and I would like to know what to look for that might indicate shock replacement. I know on a car that the excessive rocking after hitting a bump is a good indicator, but how do I judge on an airbag equipped 22 ton vehicle?

[DriVer]

Quote:

Originally Posted by OldHiker I have almost 40,000 miles and I would like to know what to look for that might indicate shock replacement. I know on a car that the excessive rocking after hitting a bump is a good indicator, but how do I judge on an airbag equipped 22 ton vehicle?

OldHiker, 40K miles on a good set of shocks is not usually a problem. Like any other vehicle, harshness of ride, wheel rebound, joint bump or porpoising would be indicators that your shocks might be suspect for replacement. On such a large rig as the Essex - you're right - it's not going to be easy to put your finger on it and make a clear decision that the shocks are bad.

[ralper]

Look for oil leaking out of the shocks. That is a positive sign that replacement is needed.

[Vectra_Bob]

After a treip to New york from the midwest, we have no doubt that we needed shocks. I was getting what sounded like a sledgehammer hitting under the coach on every big bump in the road. or small pothole. We have just over 42,000 miles on our '04 Winnebago Vectra 40AD. After due research I just ordered my new set to put on our rig. We got the Road King shocks after I had talked to some of our friends that have been fulltiming longer than we have. I pays to check around I found out.
Good Luck