Sumo Maxim vs Kelderman vs MORryde

[Tricolor]

Too bad you did not experience the benefits of the Sumo Springs... were they the Maxim version?

Anyway, thanks for sharing your observations with the Kenderman.

[brucev]

Originally Posted by rini2

Yes, a set of Monroe Magnum shocks came with the kit.
I think there is room for improvement with my setup. There are several variables that can be adjusted that may improve the performance considerably. I believe the Kelderman airbag setup on the front axle is the closest you will get to a true air ride suspension on a F-53 chassis. (there is LiquidSprings, but at $15,000 just for the rear axle, that was out of the question) You will always be limited by the solid front axle and the mass/velocity physical limitation of the axle weight verses a true independent front air suspension. When Kelderman says they replace the front springs with softer ones they aren't kidding. The replacement springs are only serving to hold the axle in place. With the airbags deflated the springs fully collapse and flatten the airbags. So in essence you are riding solely on the airbags for suspension.

1) The initial setup recommended Kelderman is to inflate the airbags to 7 1/2". For me this was about 55 psi. I carry about 6300 lbs on the front axle and 13,200 lbs on the rear. Maybe dropping pressure to a lower inflation height might help?
2) I did reduce my tire pressure to 80 psi as per the Michelin inflation chart for 235/80 22.5 tires with my axle weight.
3) A good portion of the rattling jarring still being experienced by expansion joints and pot holes was from my rear axle. I truly believe that if someone chooses to do this upgrade, do both axles. Time and money didn't allow me this year. I will be installing the rear kit next year.

I will post updates as I go foreword.

Do you have anymore updates for those of us getting really close to pulling the trigger and going with Kelderman Stage 2 on the front? I've tried all of the lessor cost alternatives need to avoid wasting anymore money but I am also tired of the rattles and everything shaking off the dash (I can't reach the cell phone when it is on the floor). Not sure how much longer I will be able to work so a new Motorhome isn't an option for us.

[Harvard]

Originally Posted by Tricolor

I assure you that I am not justifying the extra cost of the Michelin: they are making a HUGE difference in noise and comfort. On the bad side, they induce a feeling of looseness in the streering but I will either live with it or have the steering box thightened a bit.

As for shocks, I am happy with the Monroes and not sure that the more expensive ones are suitable for my short and light chassis (158'').

The feeling of "looseness" and "have the steering box tightened a bit" can be the result of having too little positive runtime caster trail. The runtime caster trail is dependent on the tire profile and tire pressure as well as the caster angle.

[Tricolor]

Originally Posted by Harvard

The feeling of "looseness" and "have the steering box tightened a bit" can be the result of having too little positive runtime caster trail. The runtime caster trail is dependent on the tire profile and tire pressure as well as the caster angle.

Harvard, this was my first impression right after the new Michelin were installed.
600miles later, I either got used to it or the alignment improved on it's own, anyway I am truly satisfied with the combination of all the gradual improvements I made.