Safe T Plus

[ralph0808]

I am curious as whether anyone has installed the Safe T Plus system on their Alpine? Does it help keep the RV centered? My main reason for the install would be for it to help me have better control if I have a front tire blowout!!! So if someone has one installed on their RV, have you had a front tire blowout and did it help you control the RV to a safe stop? I haven’t purchased a system yet but I am considering it for that reason.

[Old Scout]

....I don't have the Safe-t installed....pretty hard to improve Alpine steering on avg... ...following prescribed handling procedures in the unlikely event of a blow-out is probably good enough....most folks who complain about these devices, don't like the idea that the mechanism puts continuous stress on the steering components......

[Birddog Pilot]

The following is a reprint of my post on this 'Forum' about a year ago regarding my experience with the Safe-T-Plus. I stand by my opinion and observations. WRV designed a great handling coach and I do not believe the addition of this device yielded the results that I wanted. I realize there are those that have reported positive results, but for me I did not find the device appropriate.

April 21, 2017

I made the mistake of installing Safe-T-Plus and definitely do not recommend it. I didn't like what it did in stiffening the steering; and as far as I'm concerned it puts too much of a strain on the power steering system. After driving the twisting and turning 35 miles on CA-20 from Willits, CA to Ft. Bragg the power steering pump was probably overheated from the additional work it was doing fighting that big hydraulic cylinder that of course wants to stay centered. By the time we got to the coast any movement of the steering produced a very pronounced gurgling-fluid sound. When we departed Ft. Bragg and headed north on Hwy 1, of course the steering system was cool and quiet - for a short time. Then as we got to more twisting and turning road conditions the fluid probably became hotter and back came the gurgling and groaning. These same conditions were duplicated for the remainder of the three month trip. When we returned home I removed the Safe-T-Plus. After three years of driving all types of roads the noises never returned. The service folks at Cummins Coberg, OR are of the opinion that WRV probably used a bit smaller power steering pump, which under normal conditions is perfectly adequate, but definitely not built for the additional stress of a powerful self-centering hydraulic cylinder. The service manager mentioned the pump manufacturer and part number and said that as far as he knew only Alpine and one other coach manufacturer used this particular power steering system; I do not recall the pump designation or the other coach in which it is used.


Possibly other types of self-centering systems would not produce the same results as I encountered. I also acknowledge there are many testimonials regarding the positive aspects of these devices; but personally, I can not recommend this particular product; Alpines handle beautifully as designed.

[ralph0808]

Thanks guys for the replies, I know our Alpine is one of the best handling. I try to stay alert and paying attention just very cautious about the blowout potential. I have a tpms system and that has been one of the best safety upgrades that we have done. My tires are 3 years old and in good condition but, it could happen!!

[GraySeal65]

I put a Safe-T-plus on my Country Coach didn't like it at all, made the steering very heavy. I left it on for a year trying to convince myself that it was worth it. After taking it off I am very pleased that my coach handles better.