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chunker · 05-04-2019, 07:16 AM

We're talking the Itasca Horizon on a FL Custom Evolution chassis, Independent front suspension. The shocks are Sachs and probably OEM. The do not leak but ride characteristics have developed that I partially attribute to them. Push; When I am passed by a semi or such, I get an initial cab push to the right which of course comes back to the left when I make the correction. Ride quality is OK but needs to be tightened up and I suspect that after this amount of time, new shock absorber are due. I have read past posts about the various offerings, Koni, Gabriel, Monroe but also read of different rebound characteristics due to the valving. Some primarily absorb the stroke and others the rebound. When dealing with a 34,000# coach, which action is best for ride comfort and stability?

I do much of my own work, have 6 ramps to raise the coach 6", have several lengths of 6x6 that I can make appropriate frame support/jack stands. In other words I can safely work under the coach. Smooth concrete pad. I have not researched shocks brands or models or availability.

Steering Suspension; The tie rod ends, 4, are the permanently lubed type that have torn deteriorated boots. I got a needle adaptor for the grease gun, hand pump, and "hand pack" the fittings to get some lubrication into them. Not the best solution but no way to lube them with no Zerks on them. Last servicing at an independent truck facility I asked them to check the tie rod ends and they said they were good. (Last 3 years running) . Figure time to replace them but want ones I can lube regularly. Last year I checked with the local FL service center and they had the ends but I didn't ask if they had the zerks. I also have not researched appropriate model numbers for the parts. Figure I'll need a hefty pickle fork also.

After all that I'll take to the local Michelin dealer for a modified tire rotation, balancing and alignment. Plan to take the steers and put on the inner duals, same side. No sense messing with the others. Tires are 4.5 YO so while off I'll have them inspect the tires.

So the questions, which shocks would be recommended for my application? Any better source of tie-rod ends other than FL?. I'm going to get me a short adaptor for the pressure washer and really clean the suspension of old grease/dirt. Any additional suggestions for refurb while under there? I follow the FL charts for lubing. I figure to also leak test the air suspension front and rear, clean under the engine/transmission, etc. (no known air leaks)

oscarvan · 05-04-2019, 09:00 PM

Quote:

When I am passed by a semi or such, I get an initial cab push to the right which of course comes back to the left when I make the correction.

Yes.... And that semi has the same thing, it's what driving big rigs is about. Long body shorter wheel base single rear axle mohos are more susceptible than a tag axle....

After 20,000+ miles it becomes automatic to correct into on the front of the wave and back out on the backside of the wave.

You can spend a lot of money to make the corrections more immediate and tighter, but it will cost you on the ride.

FatChance · 05-04-2019, 09:04 PM

I installed Koni EVO shocks on our coach with a Freightliner XCR chassis and IFS. The ride and handling improvement was dramatic.

Sue46 · 05-05-2019, 03:33 AM

We had the same problem with semis. Initially put on a rear track bar, that helped substantially and was very tolerable. We didn't like the soft ride we were getting so had planned to add Koni shocks and an additiona Sumo spring. OUr suspension guy talked us out of the spring and we just added the shocks. Now it is a rre occation that we even feel a semi passing us.

Now just need a solution for wind gusts!!!!!

Ludmilla · 05-06-2019, 11:30 AM

We purchased the Freightliner XC Ride Enhancement Kit from Source Engineering in Oregon that includes the rear anti-sway bar kit and shocks. There is information on their web site. After installation, we are much less affected by passing trucks.

Dutch Star Don · 05-06-2019, 11:59 AM

"drwwicks"...….There is a place in Lake Havasu, called 3T's. They're RV specialists, but deal quite a bit with Winnebago products. My sister and BIL owned a 2004 Itasca Meridian 34' and took to 3T's for one of their suspension packages, which included shocks. They were very happy with the results.

You don't need to by from them, but they might give you some good recommendations (parts) that will work well on your coach.

Source Engineering, noted above, is another good source. I believe a sway bar was an integral part of 3T's upgrade.

The Handling of your RV 3-T's RV Products, Inc