Are you a 93-96 Navigator owner?

[kees boode]

[RUNDLC]

Great work! Did you replace the microwave? If so what model and brand did you use?

[kees boode]

Thanks, and no we didn`t replace the microwave that was done by the previous owner and sorry there is no brand name.

[RUNDLC]

Suspension Work needed??

I have been somewhat worried about the drivability of our 38' Navi, after thinking about it for so long I finally took her into West Coast Frame repair in West Sacramento Ca.

They came highly recommended,

#1;

I was told today that my driver’s side tie rod end is history and the passenger side is just about there, that confirms why I am always fighting to keep her in a straight line!! So new tie rod ends and a front alignment is in order.

#2;

The rear torque bar that mounts to the top of the rear-end and then to the chassis is fine no need to replace the bushings

#3;

These rigs are supposed to have one adjustable & one straight torque tube for alignment of the rear, mine has two non-adjustable?? How the heck did that happen??

They recommend 4 new bushings for the rear, each tube requires two. So it looks like all new bushings and a rear alignment has to be done too.

I am VERY afraid of the phone call I will be getting tomorrow as to what this is going to cost me!! It is something that you can't put a price on I guess! Your safety!! Turning 23 this year so I assume no suspension work has ever been done and well I get to pay for it.

I will report the news good or bad on tomorrow.

ALWAYS SOMETHING

[vtwinwilly]

RUNDLC,

Please report back with the final tally. What work was performed and what it set you back.

Also... "Torque Tube"? Certainly not like on an old Nash Rambler!

What exactly are we talking about here. Maybe I just have the names mixed up.

[jaytho]

We had our rear bushings done in the spring, and it made a world of difference in stability. I guess if you consider, any rear wheel play is amplified considerably by the 38-42 foot chassis. I noticed the largest improvement in gusty cross wind, and when 18 wheelers pass. She used to just buck for the woods, and now not near as terrible. It cost a couple grand I think for the PM and arm bushing replacement- but it looked like it was a heck of nasty job as they had to tear down a bunch to get to the arms.

My wife wouldn't consider getting behind the wheel, under any circumstances, and now she will take a shift or two.

My mechanic spider sense says any 20 year rubber component should be considered a candidate for replacement and examined closely- my next fear is the suspension air bags....or power steering hose...

I look at the cost of a new coach, and figure that the equivalent monthly payment for a new coach of similar fitment versus maintenance on a 20 year old coach - take one or two monthly payments (if you put 1/2 down!) can buy a lot of maintenance on something you own.... I hope I said that right

If they get that tore down maybe you should run over there take a peek at the arm bushings yourself and look for cracking, wear and tear...

I just had the roof pookied so I'm feeling high and dry!

[t55watson]

Mine is in the shop now. Oil leaks around injector pump shaft, may be a minor problem.
Oil leak (crankcase oil) above the power steering pump, may not be so minor.
Hope to get a call with details this week.

[RUNDLC]

Well Just got the call, all new bushings, new adjustable torque arm, new front end links front & rear alignments out the door, $1,725.00




@vtwin,

Yes it's called a torque arm, there is one on each side of the suspension. Do a search on
Reyco 102ar you will find a pdf of what the resend is made up of. I would post but I'm at work.

[vtwinwilly]

RUNDLC,

Let us know when you get your coach out of the shop. In particular I'm interested in the improvements in ride and handle.

I just got back from a 2500 mile trip and noticed what I would describe as tail wagging. First thing I thought of was your post on suspension work and was wondering if I too might have some worn bushings.

[RUNDLC]

I sure will let you know how things go! I talked to them today, a few of the parts were held up in a storm and we "may" get them tomorrow, fingers crossed, if not I may not get her home for another week.

Here is a pic of the rear suspension parts, #4 are adjustable/non-adjustable

[RUNDLC]

Ok guys and gals, I picked up our rig today. She runs straight and I noticed right away the she wasnt wagging her tail. Now I have not taken a trip yet that comes in December but I am confident she will perform very well.

[t55watson]

Originally Posted by RUNDLC

Ok guys and gals, I picked up our rig today. She runs straight and I noticed right away the she wasnt wagging her tail. Now I have not taken a trip yet that comes in December but I am confident she will perform very well.

That price sounds good for all the work & parts involved. It should make your next trip more relaxing. Don't fall asleep at the wheel.

[vtwinwilly]

I think I may be suffering from similar issues. Especially the tail wag.

Anyone know a good chassis shop in the Dallas area?

[RUNDLC]

VT, look for a Spartan chassis shop in your area. I looked up one who then referred me to the shop that did my work.