Community Forums

dabrooks · 09-10-2012, 06:56 AM

We hope to pick up our 2001 Georgie Boy this week. I used to own a 24' class C. This 35' with 2 slides.
The first question is whether you should level the motorhome before putting out the slides? Should you retract the slides before retracting the jacks?
I have also read several threads about the handling of class A's on Ford F 53 chassis. Is it wise to add aftermarket anti swag kits? I saw one manufactured by Hellwig that seemed reasonable. Are there aftermarket steering dampers available Ford F 53 chassis that would improve the handling.
Just for info the Georgia Boy is Landau with 32000 miles and new tires.

RickO · 09-10-2012, 07:11 AM

Hi and welcome to the forum.

As for the sequence of leveling and extending slides... it varies by manufacturer so check your manual first. I know Winnie recommends leveling first and then extending... which seems to makes sense to me because it doesn't require the slides to fight gravity if the coach is unlevel side to side.

Before jumping into any aftermarket handling items, I'd suggest getting the coach weighed, then ensure the tires are inflated properly, then get an alignment done. If you're still unhappy with handling after that, begin to look at add on devices.

Best of luck.

Rick

JoePut · 09-10-2012, 07:13 AM

Welcome to IRV2 You should always extend and retract your slides while on the jacks. My 2002 Adventure had a safesteer kit installed and it seems to work good.
My2006 Dolphin 5355 only has the factory sway bar and it handles ok. I guess it is a matter of personal choice.
Joe
2006 Dolphin 5355
KIA Soul

Old Dude 66 · 09-10-2012, 07:22 AM

If you are parked on level surface, such as your driveway, it isn't necessary to put your jacks down first.

I had my front aligned, added a TruCenter on the front, and a Trak bar on the rear of my F53. Made a world of difference.

vincee · 09-10-2012, 09:43 AM

I believe my Georgetown recommends putting the slides out before lowering jacks (automatic) and retracting slides before jacks.

winnie32v · 09-13-2012, 04:12 AM

2001 Winnebago Adventurer 32V
Not sure what came with your Motorhome, but I have a rear anti-sway (aka stabilizer bar) in my unit and I had to replace the rubber bushings. Got two from eBay and installed in 1/2 hr. My unit handles and steers excellent.
Everything is tight. I have no additional steering stabilizers, etc.
I suggest that you or a proper truck mechanic take a good look at the complete suspension to ensure that what you have is OK.
THEN look for some add-ons, as required.
Attached is a photo of my old & new bushings.

dabrooks · 09-13-2012, 06:15 AM

Thamks for the info. One reason we have not picked up the motorhome home is that it was taken to a truck mechanic and there was some worn bushings. I am not sure whick one but when I get it home I will find out. The pictures were great. Your bushing were definitley worn.

Gormie · 09-13-2012, 07:27 AM

Good luck with your Georgie Boy. I just bought a 96 Swinger and so far so good. Check your drain holes under your window seals. Mine were plugged and allowed some water to enter inside wall on passenger side. Used canned air to blow them out. My local RV dealer told me on my 5th wheel to put stabilizers down first before you open slide. Let me know if you find something I should check. thanks

RABBITFISH · 09-13-2012, 07:27 AM

Now Im going to go check mine!
Thanks!

frankdamp · 09-13-2012, 12:40 PM

On a level site, we often don't bother with the jacks if we're only there for one night. We do use the slides every time, and I don't see much movement on the bubble levels.

dabrooks · 09-13-2012, 04:10 PM

Thanks for the comments. The info you all have provided

is why I am so glad I found the Forum.

Rtmunson · 09-14-2012, 07:27 AM

If you have two leveling systems (air and Hydraulic) it would seem to make sense that you don't always need to put down you jacks to extend the slides. You can level with your air system then extend your slides. I overall though I think it would still be up to your manufacturer.