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Class A, Motorhome Handling Upgrades that had the MOST IMPACT
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- Опубліковано 10 кві 2021
- Scary, white knuckle, Class A, Gas Motorhome handling & driving upgrades that WORK.
There's several bolt on chassis upgrades you can do to your Class A, Motorhome to make it handle better, stay it’s own lane, not get shoved around by 18 wheelers or cross winds & just make it easier to drive. Almost everybody that owns a Motorhome & especially a Class A gas motorhome that sits on a F53 chassis, has experienced these kinds of scary driving scenarios. We’re going to cover what upgrades I made that had the most IMPACT & how to determine what’s best for your coach to make driving & handling a whole lot better.
In todays RV, DIY, How-To Video, I’m going to cover the 6 things I did to the front suspension in our Motorhome & the 4 things I did to the back suspension. I will focus on how to fine tune a Class A, gas Motorhome so it handles & drives the best it can. When you start getting shoved all around on the freeway by cross winds, 18 wheelers zipping by, driving in uneven lanes, & narrow construction areas, you want & need your coach to be solid, drive straight, stay steady on the road, & stay it’s own lane.
What I did to the front of our Class A motorhome:
• Had front end aligned
• Cheap Handling Fix (aka the CHF)
INSTALLED:
• Safe-T-Plus
• Sumo Springs
• Koni FSD Shocks
• Centramatic Rings
What I did to the back of our Class A motorhome:
• Cheap Handling Fix (aka the CHF)
INSTALLED:
• SuperSteer Rear Trac Bar
• Koni FSD Shocks
• Centramatic Rings
Installing these bolt on handling upgrades has made a huge difference in the way our motorhome handles on the road. Being traveling RV full timers, we no longer get pushed around by 18 wheelers, the coach doesn’t wander in it’s lane, we no longer deal with RV tail wag, the sumo springs and shocks have eliminated 80%-90% of the "slam-jams" the front end used to take-and overall-it’s a breeze to drive this motorhome now.
I've also done a 4 corner weigh on my motorhome & inflate my tires with the correct air pressure according to my weight & our tire manufacturer tires charts. I’m constantly watching my tire air pressure while under way with my TPMS. I also pay close attention to how I distribute my weight throughout the motorhome. Distributing your weight as even as possible is a really important thing too.
HOW TO PROPERLY INFLATE YOUR MOTORHOME TIRES:
• How to CALCULATE tire ...
How to do a 4 corner weigh on a CAT Scale:
• Class A Motorhome, CAT...
FRONT END ALIGNED AND ADJUSTING THE SAFE-T-PLUS:
• Class A Front End Alig...
CENTRAMATIC RINGS (for more information)
www.centramatic.com/
Check out my PLAYLIST page here:
/ rvstreet
💗 OUR AMAZON STORE 💗
FOR THE PRODUCTS WE USE & RECOMMEND IN ALL OUR VIDEOS
www.amazon.com/shop/rvstreet
💗 BUT THERE’S MORE:
EVEN IF WHAT YOU NEED IS NOT IN OUR AMAZON STORE, YOU CAN STILL CLICK OUR STORE LINK BELOW, THAT WILL TAKE YOU TO OUR STORE, SHOP AND SEARCH ON AMAZON LIKE YOU NORMALLY WOULD, PUT YOUR ITEMS IN THE CART AND CHECK OUT. Using our Amazon Store to buy your RV gear, parts, maintenance items “AND ANYTHING ELSE YOU NEED” is a great way to say "Thank You" Martin for making these videos and helping the RV community.
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DISCLAIMER:
We are not experts or professional mechanics. But being a journeyman millwright & EX Military, has proven to be very helpful in my lifetime learning how to care for & maintain all sorts of machinery & equipment like: helicopters, airplanes, tanks, motorcycles & many types of other vehicles, along with 18 months preparing & upgrading our RV before we went full time. Regardless of what we recommend, consult a professional if you're unsure about working on your RV. Work you perform or products you purchase based on any information we provide is at your own risk.
Martin, do I miss you man. I learned so much watching your videos, and now your legacy. I'm sure you are revolutionizing heaven. Until next time.
No one on UA-cam does as good of job producing informative high quality videos as Martin does. I'm really glad to have found this channel even tho I have a 5th wheel. You Rock, great camera work too Joanie.
Pro trick: you can watch movies on InstaFlixxer. Been using it for watching all kinds of movies lately.
After watching the "Martinized" chassis video, my wife suggested you offer a "Martinized" sticker for people completing your instruction. I had done all of the steps on our chassis. I recently saw the chassis video and wanted to show my wife the upgrades, and reasons, why it was done. Thank you Martin. Good job.
I have been looking for this video for 13 years! I purchased a Damen Outlaw in 2010, and driving it is basically a suicide mission. Awesome video with great information!!
“Suicide mission” 😂😂 I feel your pain… I said the same thing…
Very well done. I really enjoy watching and seeing your upgrades. Thanks for the video!
Another great one my friend...im getting mine ready for this season and wanted to do some of these...perfect timing!!!
What I have learned in the last 5 years I agree with you 100%. I'm still gun shy on purchasing something without a Indepth test drive which seems very hard to do.
Thank you! Great explanation of the suspension & steering.
Great video! You always provide helpful tips. Another suspension part to pay attention to are bushings. The Safety T made a huge difference on my last coach which was gas.
Agree with the suspension changes you’ve added.
Amazing Martin, luv the no non sense down to earth approach and expertise!
Some good stuff there. Thanks Martin for the Tips. 👍👍
Hey Martin I watched your video about 6 months ago and I finally got my first RV so I installed the Sumo springs last week (after getting to Florida!).
OMG!!! No one (even you, sorry) can describe adequately how phenomenal this upgrade is for an F53 chassis. It is a "night and day" difference. The factory should install them! As far as I'm concerned, they are necessity, not an option. Thanks again for all your awesome videos!
Great video! I did all of this to are RV 20 years ago. Now I’ve got a mobile mechanic working on. 27 years old. At least mechanics down in the Carolina’s aren’t afraid to work on your unit.
I did the cheap handling fix without a bracket of course and it helped a lot. Also had a front end alignment but haven’t done anything else. I’m probably going to get an all wheel alignment to see if it helps the “dog tracking” that you observed my coach doing. If anyone else has dealt with dog tracking I’d appreciate hearing how you corrected it. Great video Martin and Joanie! Safe travels as you head out!
Wow ! Probably the best vid I have seen on RV upgrades. Thanks Martin
Thanks for taking the time to comment. I really enjoyed doing this vid. These upgrades made all the difference in the world in our rig.
Great video Martin,
I did the CHF and put sumo springs on class A and your are correct what a difference it made. The rear end stabilizer has my interest for the next installment to help with tail wag.
Wow, very well done! This is a great reference and share video!
Another great content video. BZ on the camera work Joanie. Y'all killing it on views in an hour. Take Care
Love your videos - clear informative & entertaining. Thank you Sir for all your extremely helpful videos
Thanks for sharing this video,
Thank you I watch your videos all the time
I'm glad I found your channel a couple of weeks ago. I'm buying a 20 year old Newmar diesel pusher and I don't have a ton of money, so I'm going to be doing a ton of work myself. Your videos are going to be extremely helpful. I hope we run into each other one day!
Well done. Your videos are amazing !
Great info.. Thanks for sharing and will be picking some gear for my new 2022 FR Georgetown GT7. Fellow Texan here
Thanks, great info as always!
Great ideas. Thank you
Thank you for this amazing video, to many great ideas 💡 👍
Good job Martin!
So I found this video and have watched it several times. I kept thinking to myself one day I’m going to follow Martin’s advice and do Koni shocks, a safe T plus stabilizer, a rear trac bar and sumo springs up front.
Well as of writing this comment, I have been to safe T plus in Tallapoosa, GA and had the stabilizer, shocks, and a rear trac bar installed and I’M BLOWN AWAY at the difference. I drove 900 miles to get there without these things and was being pushed all over the roads and on a 220 mile commute to Charlotte after install I barely had any sway!
Thank you For the videos. I love your channel and brought you up to another rv owner in the waiting room and they knew of you and love you as well! Small world!
I considering adding the rear trac bar to my 2021 tiffin 32 sa. I installed the safety steer already had sumo springs. Did the CHF but still have a little wander in the steering which requires constant correction. After you did your upgrades did it do away with constant steering correction. Just trying to make it more enjoyable to drive.
exactly what i needed to hear ty sir
Awesome info, I go and pick up my new Jayco Precept Class A MH next week so I want to start doing some upgrade to it.
Hey Martin. I can't thank you enough for all your "Martinizing" recommendations. I have been watching your videos on UA-cam for sometime now. I have added the KONI shocks and the Sumo Springs on the front of our F-53. I always look to your store to see if what I want/need is there. If it is, I order it so you can get some credit for your expertise. Thanks again and happy RVing to you and Jonnie. You have helped a lot of RVers (I suspect more than you know) and you feel should good about that! Thank you also for your service to our Country.
Thank you Thomas for taking the time to say that and commenting......AND....using my Amazon Store. Just a quick tip in case you missed me saying it before, whenever you need to buy ANYTHING on Amazon, if you click on my Amazon Store link FIRST to go to Amazon, you can shop on Amazon like you normally would and check out and we'll get a little credit for all those purchases. So many of our fans LIKE YOU humble Joanie & I everyday by how you guys support us that way.
FYI....If you ever have a personal question answered or want my opinion on something, you can always hit me up on FB messenger from the FB logo on my YT home page.
thx again Thomas 🇺🇸 🙏
Martin I followed your lead. I installed Super Steer front radius rods, rear Trac Bar, Koni FED'S all around, Sumu Springs in the front and Firestone Air Bags in the rear. Wow! What a difference in the ride now. Thanks for all your motivation 🙏
There ya go Larry. SWEET 👍
You want best, most straight forward tips, and advice, you clicked on best videos here.
We completed chf, safe t plus, great improvement.
Towing toad believe it or not, improved all sway and tractor padsimg issues.
Excellent points all around Martin.
Taking weight and tire pressure seriously is very important.
Thanks Martin.
Entegra Vision
2019 F 53 31' Class A
Thank you so much Anthony 🔧 😍
Very informative, love the Fbomb
Hey Martin , Im In Australia and could never find any parts for my winnebago explorer class A 3 years back i found super steer , Rob was great he sent me 2 bell cranks a sateTsteer 4 shocks 2 front springs and some track rods and some sumo springs , cost me near $5000 AUD but my rv was horrible to drive Now its great so money well spent ,, i need to get the rear done next when the Aussie dollar is a little kinder ,, Great vid
Rob
Great info sir I’m sold on the sumo springs ....
Great job explaining. Thank you Sir. Very appreciative 🙏🙏🙏
You are most welcome
Dude.. awesome video
Great information
One word Awesome great job I’m now a new subscriber
If you want to challenge your diy up grades drive I70 in Colorado. Good job as always. A lot of good info as always. Thanks
Great video, I did the safe t plus, sumo springs all the way around and Koni quad shock kit, 2 Koni’s on each corner. Rear trac bar is next and last. Thanks.
You'll love that trac bar.
"Thank you Martin for doing these videos". I will be buying the Sumo springs thru you Amazon store page. Only 2 weeks until the next video........can hardly wait!
Your to kind Larry, but thank you so much for supporting our channel. Joanie & I are so appreciative you just don't know. 🔧 👍
I'm also very excited about releasing our next video. It's very short, very different, but it shows a side of me I don't think many think about or imagine.
EDIT: Sorry that short vid is coming out May 9th. Sorry. But on April 25th is another maintenance vid. A 2.0 vid. You'll like it also.
I have learned allotte from your videos
Great video
I have an 18K F53 chassis with 19.5 wheels. The steering stabilizer and CHF were the first things I did. And I also was able to get the TJ blue plates for the front only. Summo's on front and rear. Super steer trac bar in the rear and CHF. Still have original shocks and sway bar. Just came down I-35 from Athens to San Antonio lot of truck traffic-No Problem. Your videos should be a MUST WATCH for new gasser MH owners.
Where did you get your CHF from?
You don't get your CHF-you perform the CHF-by moving the upper link to the back hole on the sway bar.
Yeah, Tail wag is the thing I most want to eliminate. I think the rear trac bar is the most important update I need.
Loved this! I truly don’t know why the manufacturers don’t have these on all motor homes!
Thank you Annette 💗
The reason they don't is mainly two reasons:
1) These extra items will jack up the price of the coach
2) Many folks that buy these rigs don't use them much and they can't justify the added cost. But for those who use them all the time (like us) it's a must to make handling a whole lot better. So the manufacturers just let the buyer decide whether they want to spend the upgrade money or not.
I wanted to leave a comment on one of your How-to-do UA-cam videos.
Thank you for making these videos.
They have definitely made my mind calmer on what to expect and how to maintain my class a gas coach.
A few months ago (April 2023) I purchased a 2021 Winnebago Adventurer 36Z and have put approximately 2500 miles on it (now have a total of 4400 miles).
I never owned a class a motor home before. It has been a challenge learning about and the Ford F53 chasses. I've enjoyed it and had a nice time up to this point. However, I do want to improve the handling characteristics so within the next couple months i will be installing a Saftey Plus soon (I will do myself). I did change the oil last week change, but I did not do the grease fittings. Will do the 9 you showed on your video this week.
Today, I also watched the video on packing your front wheel bearings. I will definitely keep that in mind when the time comes.
Keep up the videos. They are so much appreciated.
I zoned in on your RV Amazon site, in which I will be making some purchases from.
Thanks so much,
Randy Riley.
Thank you for your support and I so glad the videos are helpful.
Great video, you made this simple even for a old retired truck mechanic.
Glad you liked it!
Just found your channel. Love the video. I have been thinking about selling my travel trailer/truck and getting a motor home but can't afford a diesel pusher. With all of my research I've been feeling a bit down because so many people rag on gas class a's. But we are a young family on a budget and we want to travel. Maybe these things could help me feel better about looking at gas coaches.
1. I put Sumo Springs on the rear of my 29' class C because I carry a 300 lb motorcycle on the hitch everywhere we go. I'm satisfied with them.
2. There's a video here somewhere where someone put a video camera on the back of the coach to show how much the differential moves from side to side in turns and during sway. You'd be shocked at how far they travel from side to side. It shows before and after the track bar installation. Frankly, I don't know why the spring shackles don't snap off without the bar.
3. I don't care for shocks that don't have a dust shield over the rod.
Great video.
Great content. I have a 99 National gasser, 36 ft. that is a beast but I get uncertain of stabilization when a big rig passes by.
Martin, I appreciate you using a lapel mic. I'm a veteran spent nearly 25 years in the Navy working around Jets and I'd be lost with out my hearing aids but background noise is killer to hearing the spoken word and your setup is very clear.
Martins hearing was damaged when his tank ran over a landmine so he would completely understand your comment. I'm sad to say that Martin has passed away.
I'm new to the RV world and I've gotta say, ALL of Martin's videos have made ME personally, more confident in my future of safe/comfortable traveling in my 21 year old Damon Challenger coach. God Bless You & Thank God for Martin's love for sharing his knowledge.
Thank you for another great video Martin! It is always nice to watch you as you really take your time to explain everything. Keep up the good work! I would like to also to thank your videographer Jony. Keep up the good work!
Would it be an overkill to put Sumo springs in the back of your rv?
Thank you!
I watch you from 🇨🇦👍
*Would it be an overkill to put Sumo springs in the back of your rv?*
For my RV and the way I have it set up....I don't know if I would say "overkill" but the difference it would make is not worth the time, effort and money IMO.
BTW...Joanie is smiling and says thank you 💕 🇨🇦 🇺🇸
Thanks!
Thank you for your support
great video! i got a 1988 national 34' RV and upgrading the whole thing. these OLD RV's need help definitely to come up to modern standards. thx!
Glad it helped! Safe travels my friend.
It looks like Jayco did exactly what you did for the 2023 class A gas. Loved your video.
😁
An awesome fantastic video so critical to ALL F53 owners! We have had 2 F-53's in the past decade and did the CHF on both of them. For the current 26000 lb chassis our experience in "tuning up the ride" was to immediately do the CHF- front and rear; to install a safe -T -plus; had it aligned; and I changed out the front OEM Michelins for Toyo's that seem to run so much more smoothly. While at it I had Tyron Bands installed on the front wheels to let let me sleep better at night. I am now very satisfied and comfortable with the ride. I am very careful to always run well under GVW.(But I kinda wish Santa would let me have some Sumo's LOL). CHF was a fun DIY project and adjusting the Safe T Plus every few years is easy as pie also! Great video Martin and Joanie!!
Thank you Joe so much. 🔧 💗
Mine is a 2014 Newmar 3610, yes my first add was the blue Safe T Plus, then I installed a Roadmaster sway bar of 1.75 inch diameter, major improvement, then I installed a front Sumo Springs (foam bump stops), I noticed first thing was the steering felt lighter, why I asked myself. I got the proper part, so I think most front weight is in contact with the Sumos. Rear track bar will some day go on. This crap is spendy.
Enjoyed the video, very helpful, I was wondering about the CJ blue plate dimensions and if they could be fabracobled , as you said they were not available. Thank you for these ideas, I’ve had many campers but this my first A Class still learning about it, thanks again!
I don't have the exact dimensions. He made a template to insure every set was exactly the same. But yes they can be "fabracobled". 😜
But the Hellwig Adjustable End links are not only beefier, but will give you the same results and are also adjustable.
All 3 sizes are in my Amazon Store: www.amazon.com/shop/rvstreet?listId=1FUC3YMUOK6RD
Martin taught us so much about improving and maintaining our motorhome; he's a true blessing.
We were so saddened hearing about Martin's passing. He is with our Savior, Jesus. We look forward to that spiritual hug in Heaven, together. ❤
thank you! you are the man - i have a 2021 flair 29m and I'm taking your advice on the KONI's and wish I watched your video sooner, I already bought the timbren's but I hear they are almost as good as the sumo .. I already did the safe-t-plus last year so I'm hoping the koni's and timbren's front and rear will do the trick and less "white knuckles" heheee
Great to hear!
We have this safe t plus on our Diesal pusher, it makes a difference when dealing with high winds and peace of mind in case of a blowout. We should be ok now that we have brand new tires.
Thank you for commenting RVDivaa. 👍
BTW...have you happened to of watched my video on how to properly inflate your tires?
ua-cam.com/video/Q_NuEoBIxe8/v-deo.html
Once again another very good video. By the way still seeing that add some on fb and Instagram.
Ya I know.
I have done the up grades on my truck . Boy did it tooke out the sloppyness . Made my stearing tight not in a bad way , a lot less ajustment in the searing wheel while driving . I beleave it also makes less wear and tear on the steering componnet .
makes less wear and tear on the steering componets.....
Absolutely! 👍
CHF and Timbrens worked better for me. Did both front and rear, very happy with performance.
Man...as always the best most informative videos! We are scheduled to take delivery of our 1st MH (35ft Fortis Gasser). I will make these changes to the suspension and tires. We will be newbies and I need my wife to be confident and comfortable. If she sees me fighting the sway then she will freak out!🥴
WOW Gary, I know you guys are excited. Fleetwood makes a good motorhome. What model are you getting?
Also, I don't know if you've checked out my other PLAYLISTS of video's or not-but if not there are some real good ones here: ua-cam.com/users/RVstreetplaylists
Also especially this PLAYLIST: RV Newbies Basic Training & Boot Camp Series
ua-cam.com/play/PLkQXtMp9xodR-PDUkTg936iZAeMuOqwnj.html
If you ever have any questions don't be afraid to ask.
@@RVstreet Yes, I am a DIY guy too. I have watched 50% of your videos and have created multiple lists: "maintenance", "must do", "to do" and "setup and breakdown" and more to create. My wife thinks I am crazy thanks to you! Hahaha 33hb Fortis - It has a 1 and 1/2 bath which ended up being good. My 89yr old Colombian mother-in-law that loves to travel is more excited than we are. She even gets in the car if I am only backing out of the driveway! Hahaha It has a large shower which was a requirement. Only negative is our bed folds. I "hope" to customize it myself so that it doesn't fold. Our's has been delayed from March, April and now they say it comes off the line on May 14th. Let's see what happens.
@@ournewseason OK so you're getting a new coach. Fanastic. One thing to watch for that I just read recently is the new F53 chassis coaches that have already been released have a TSB issued.
Apparently the differential was shipped out being 3 quarts low of oil. Now on these later released chassis-like maybe what yours is going to be built on-they may have corrected that. So when you go to pick your coach up and do your PDI make sure the dealer checks the differential fluid to see that's it's up to the full mark.
You can see the TSB here:
www.nhtsa.gov/recalls?nhtsaId=21V202
@@RVstreet Wow!!! Will do.
Links mentioned are not available after viewing. I would have looked at the Amazon store but was not available. First impressions were not good but I stuck it out and found the video to be helpful in understanding what I may want to upgrade first. I did subscribe to possibly watch again or other videos.
The link to my Amazon Store is *always available in the description text under every video* including this one and the upgrade parts I mentioned in this video are in the "Tires, Engine and Chassis Care" category. Here's a short cut link to my Amazon Store.
www.amazon.com/shop/rvstreet
If you have trouble finding the description text area, watch this video I did that will show you all the features of using UA-cam: ua-cam.com/video/bprAsHO7-F8/v-deo.html
thx Josh for watching and subscribing 👍
Great vid Martin. I wish someone would do a vid like that for older Chevrolet chassis. Thanks though for the vid, Havagudun bud and stay safe.
Yep I have a 85 P30 with a front sway bar upgrade and Air Lift air bags and does ok.
@@russellpottenger8584 Thanks for the reply. Mine is a 96 and has just 66,000 on it but does not handle very well. I have driven trucks on and off most of my life so being a newbie isn't my problem. I just have not found a source for upgrades.
@@EDLaw-wo5it Another truck driver heard from here. Was looking to upgrade to aftermarket drilled and slotted rotors for my P-30 1992 34 foot Southwind to improve the braking and reduce overheating and warping. I was surprised when checking on Ebay the listings were all "P-30, C3500". Same thing for the calipers, same thing for the pads, same thing for the shocks. So apparently much if not all the P-30 chassis (at least in front) is based on the one-ton truck. I don't know if all the parts are interchangeable, but I'm checking into the 1 5/8" front and rear aftermarket sway bars for the C3500! It might be just the ticket for upgrades on the P-30 at reasonable prices... since anything with "RV" in the name is fours times the cost of anything else..............
@@EDLaw-wo5it I also went with B.F. Goodrich commercial truck tires, all-position in front and traction lug (29/32" tread) in the rear. Cheaper than "RV" tires and can really handle abuse. Huge difference, especially boondocking on rough roads! And, I installed CrossFires on the rear duals like I had on my tractor. At $100 a pair (when I bought them at the Iowa 80 T/A), they are much cheaper than aftermarket electronic tire monitors, and you can tell at a glance in the morning if the tire pressure is right. They also equalize the inner/outer tire pressures, compensate for the crown in the road, and you have a single valve stem for airing both tires. Plus, I have Centramatic balancers rear and front. I got 550,000 miles on a set of B.F. Goodrich drives on my tractor using the CrossFires and Centramatics! But no core trade-in.... they were too old to recap when I replaced them :)
I'd like to comment here on this one if you don't mind E.D. Crossfire has a couple of really good features as you mentioned, but the reason I don't like or use them is you can't mount a TPMS on them. I mean you can check the tires in the AM before you leave alright, but what about when your underway and pick up a nail, a screw, a piece of metal or whatever you get no warning when losing air because you don't have a TPMS there. With a TPMS you get a warning of lost pressure and you can get over to a safe spot before bad things happen. I personally want to know what's going on with my tires while under way.
Such a great informative video Martin. Can I do these upgrades with RV jacks extended to give me extra room to work?
Our coach sits on a F53 chassis, so in my case, for me and my size there's plenty of room. If you're a larger person and need more room-I would NOT-use the leveling jacks to raise the coach up more. If for any reason one of those jacks failed, leaked or anything else where the coach would come down some, that would create a very unsafe situation. If you need more room, I would raise the front axle using (2) 8 ton bottle jacks-one on each side of the axle-raise the coach and then block each side of the axle with wooden blocks. You could also build a couple of solid wooden ramps and drive the coach on top of those. This will work for both the front and the rear of the coach. If you go the wooden ramp route, be sure the ramps are wide enough that both dually tires are firmly supported.
Hi Martin. Love all your videos. They are a blessing to a lot of people. Saw your video about Centramatics. Since you had them installed how satisfied are you? I talked to a dealer that said to not balance the tires before install. I am getting new tires and have already ordered the Centramatics. You balanced your tires before tire install and I want to know your thoughts since then. Thanks again for all you do for the RV community. Howard Wilkins
Yeah you don't have to balance before installing centamatics that's just something I do. I've had mine on now since 2017-2nd set of tires-and wouldn't have it any other way. You'll never have to balance your tires. As long as your alignment is right and running your tires with the right PSI according to your weight, you won't have to rotate tires either.
Just as a side note: Whenever you get an alignment, be sure to get an ALL TIRE ALIGNMENT, not just the front end.
thx Howard 👍
Hi Martin, i've been doing every maintenance you suggest and just about every upgrade. My husband know's he's in for it when he see's me watching your videos. LOL! I love them! You have helped us out so much. I went to your amazon page so I could purchase to give you a little kick back as a thank you for helping to keep my family safer. i need the rear track bar number SS400. Not the same one you used. Just wanted to know if I buy it off amazon will you still get a little help with my purchase? Also where did you get your Centramatic Rings? I don't see them listed in your items. thank you for all that you do for each of us.
Lis
Oh Lisa thank you for your kind words and you two are so awesome to want to support us. Thank you so much 💗
Just click our Amazon Store link and then shop for any items-RV related or not-that you want to order including the rear trac bar you need, put in the cart and check out and we'll receive a small commission.
www.amazon.com/shop/rvstreet
The Centramatic rings info is in the description text under the video. I'm not affiliated with them but they will help you with what you need for you particular RV. There's a lot of different part#'s and hole patterns. Here's a short cut for now. Give them a call. www.centramatic.com/
Joanie says hi 😍
The steer safe that's another brand was invented here where I live in Deming New Mexico back in the 90s I spoke with the inventor and he told me it was a dream he had about his invention.
Oh wow, how interesting. Many people are very happy he had that dream because it made their driving much easier. Thanks for that piece for information.👍
Great Video!! Question: Which upgrade gives more bang for the buck 1) add on Sway Bar or add on Trac Bar? I have a steering stabilizer.
For our coach it was the rear trac bar. I still run factory sway bars with the upgrades I did.
Hey new to this RVing and would like to thank you for all the good tips and if you could would you reply with the measurements on those metal brackets you have on the front sway bar so I can a have a set made. Thanks again GFR
Hi Gary,
Go to my main YT Channel page and click the FB logo to the far right up at the top. Once you land on FB shoot me a quick message and I'll reply back.
ua-cam.com/users/RVstreet
I just had pretty much all of these mods done to our coach but I hate to tell you this, your rear Koni's are mounted upside down. The silver strut part should be on the bottom. In time they will develop an extra inch or so of piston travel that has little to no dampening effect.
Sorry, but you need to your home work. They are installed correctly.
Chrome side up and writing correctly placed. If chrome side is down writing is upside down and therefore Incorrect install.
Another in a long line of great videos. I have a fifth wheel; would you recommend the Centramatic rings on a trailer?
Yes, absolutely.
Check out their website: www.centramatic.com/
Hello Joanie, hope all is well with you. Love and prayers always. Don't even know if you will see this ,but do you know if Marvin did a sumo spring install video I couldn't find it if so . Thanks for continuing posting. ❤
No, we really hadn't been doing maintenance videos when he installed them.
Nice video, thank you. I had Liquid Spring suspension installed in the rear of my 21 F53 chassis and it made a big difference, of course that cost me 14k.
Is that in conjuction with any of the other upgrades? Or just the springs
@@nickl8192 No just the Liquid Spring in the rear, everything else is stock.
@@agm6095 Awesome! Appreciate the reply.
Great video, wanted to know where you found the CHF bracket? The way the angle sits on your video is correct with no stress to the link. Thank you
Hi Hector,
They're no longer available. However, you can accomplish the same thing with the Hellwig Ajustable endlinks that I referred to in the video. They are in my Amazon Store in the "Tires, Engine and Chassis Care" category.
www.amazon.com/shop/rvstreet
Great information here Martin! FYI the plans for the "blue plates" are available if anyone wants to take them to a metal shop and have them fabricated but I believe the easier solution is the adjustable links you referred to. You can then use the front links to replace the factory ones on the rear and get the same effect as the plates.
I also installed the Sumo Springs front and rear and they made a great difference in the ride and especially the handling. I do have to agree with Lonsome Dove Free however, that there is still considerable 'slam-jams' on pavement cracks, bridge seams and rough roads. I wish I could find 'softer' shock absorbers but they all seem to be geared for a stiffer ride. "as tight as you can get them" is good advice!
On the rear I installed the Sumo Springs before a track bar and the results were so good that I didn't feel the need for the track bar. I get very little 'tail wag' and feel it improves the ride and handling of the entire coach.
You are so right about each coach being different and loading/balancing your gear does have a big impact on the ride and handling, especially if there is too much weight on the rear. My recommendation is to do as much research as possible on your particular unit and owner experiences with upgrades to decide what might work best for you.
Keep up the great informational videos and safe travels!
Ya I mean the Sumo Springs or any front suspension upgrade is NOT going to remove 100% of the 'slam-jams' simply because the F53 chassis has leaf springs. But in our case it removed 80%-90% of them.
Hi Martin, great video. I'm curious what length RV and wheelbase do you have. I talked to a Freightliner chassis engineer, and he was telling me how important wheelbase ratio is for handling. Not sure if I was leaving something out of my RV upgrades but I did not get hardly any good results you are talking about. I purchased a new 30' 2017 FR3 and on the way home I realized I made a mistake. Just like you are saying I upgraded a few things, Wheel alignment, upsized front sway bar, upsized rear sway bar, Safe T Plus, rear track bar. I did leave the stock shocks being they were brand new, and I did not install sumo springs. The only reason I did not is because at this point the results were so miner, I did not want to spend any more money. Another thing that did work better than anything I have ever done for a smooth ride is have the tires trimmed. Yes, trimmed very few tire shops have this machine. Once I did that it was like driving on glass. Anyway, the coach still handled so poorly I sold it in two months. I really miss the gas rigs, but I don't trust how they handle and it's hard to find a way to test drive one on an open highway in high winds. It may have been the poor wheelbase ratio that was causing all the problems. Sadly, when you ask a salesperson about wheelbase ratio, they look at you like a deer in the headlights. I do have somewhat of an extensive experience heavy truck driving history. I drove 18 wheelers for a few years in my early twenties then Firetruck apparatus for 30 years. My first RV was after I retired and the first one I test drove I was dumbfounded. I could not believe how bad they handled and how the public accepts this. Why are the manufacturers not installing all these products in the first place? I'm looking forward to the day I finally give it up.
Mine is 35', 228" wheel base, 22.5" tires.
Yes wheel base length does make a big difference. The longer the better. But the longer it is a rear track bar is absolutely necessary to get tail wag under control and even more so if your towing a toad. But more importantly since yours was only 30' long you also had 19" tires. Short motorhomes like yours with small tires are more difficult to tune and are shoved around a lot easier. In essence, there a short tall box and very little weight to keep them steady on the road. But in all cases concerning gas motorhomes they all are built on a truck chassis with leaf springs. You can't ever make a truck chassis motorhome handle or drive like a big rig but I can tell you all the things I did to my motorhome made a huge difference in handling. There are so many things that affect and work in concert that make handling smoother. Like the proper PSI you run according to your weight is very important too. Concerning high winds, I define high winds as 25-30mph. If it's more windier than that I stay put then travel when weather gets better.
WE have a 1989 Holiday Rambler with Tag axels. We are new to the RV stuff. What is the purpose of Tag axels and will add the extra's you suggest apply for the back of the coach? I love the amount of simple instruction that you give. It is precise and easy to follow. Thank you!
Thank You cd
Here's a simple, easy definition:
itstillruns.com/advantage-tag-axle-motor-home-8583486.html
@@RVstreet Wow, That was a fast reply. Thank you!
Good info over all, but Sumos are helper springs just like airbags, they stiffen your suspension which reduces roll just like a sway bar however stiffer suspension means harsher bumps. The air space on the stock bumpers is softer then a Sumo, its there so smaller bumps never hit the poly, if something reduces body roll it has to make the suspension stiffer, it's a trade off, unless computer controlled like Liquid springs. Also the standard CHF without plates or extensions is stiffer than the plates, again a trade off, the new V8 sways bars are even stiffer at 2", but again a tradeoff for rough roads.
Yep everything has a trade off, but I respectfully disagree the Sumos makes harsher bumps. At least on our coach. On our coach they act kinda like a cushion and I can't over state enough how much smoother the handling is and they have reduced the "slam jams" 80%-90% and of course roll. It was like night and day from OEM bumpers. I wish I had done this a couple of years ago.
I do appreciate you taking the time to comment Justin. 🔧 👍
EDIT: As I further thought about your comment, there are some sumos for different model coaches that are one piece. Not two piece like ours are. That could very well contribute to a harsher ride. Our sumos as you know are two piece/cone shaped. They are constantly separating and compressing while underway.
Martin, your info is priceless. I’m a newbie, just wondering if these upgrades can be used on a 24’ (from bumper to bumper) Class C?
I'm sad to say that Martin has passed away and I don't have the answer to your question. Sorry
THANKYOU FOR posting these videos. With the Hellwig end links for the CHF your site references 3 different sets? Which set was for the front and which set fit the rear? I have the 2015 F53 Chassis. Thanks again!
Your welcome Jim,
All three can be used for either front or rear. You just have measure to see which size will work for your coach. All 3 have an adjustable range. 👍
@@RVstreet Ok, thanks again! Keep up the great work! :)
Watched many videos, very informative. One item I wondered was I saw a bottle jack. In your tool video you did not mention them. Do you carry them or floor jacks? In the toad? What size bottle jacks and how many? Intend to order some items through your Amazon links to support you. Would love to buy a RV street logo shirt or bandana or even footless tube socks!! Really sincerely enjoy your videos....
I carry one 8 ton bottle jack in my tool bay.
T-Shirts, bandana's or tube socks....I like it but can't do that until we reach I think it's 50K subs.
thx Thor so much. 🔧 👍
Great video. I have a question. If we break these down into multiple upgrades, what do you suggest in order? We are heading out for a month trip in late Sept. Due to recent medical issues, will need to hire out to do the upgrades. Thus, can't afford to get all done at once. Thinking the SafeT Plus first. Than when we return do the springs and shocks. Do we need a front end alignment with each upgrade? If not, which one. This is our first RV, 2018 Tiffin OpenRoad 34PA.
Thank you Nancy for your questions 🔧 👍
IMO...I would get the front end alignment first. Then...since you're on a shorter chassis you probably experience a lot of tail wag while underway from cross winds, 18 wheelers going by and so forth. So I would also would install the super steer rear trac bar next to greatly reduce that issue.
Then I'd do the Safe-T-Plus then the shocks.
I mean it's really hard to say without driving and experiencing your coach, but from your comment and questions that's what I'd do.
Be sure you also pay close attention to the amount of PSI-air pressure- you're putting in your tires. This alone makes a big difference in handling. I did a whole video on that here: ua-cam.com/video/Q_NuEoBIxe8/v-deo.html
Here's a link to my PLAYLIST page that has all my video's in different categories that may also help you: ua-cam.com/users/RVstreetplaylists
Remember I have all these things in my Amazon Store: www.amazon.com/shop/rvstreet
After you return from your trip, let me know what you did and how it worked out for you. I love that feed back. 💗
Thanks for promoting our Tracbar. We should partner up on another video. :)
I am heartbroken to say Martin passed away last month
@@RVstreet I am so sorry to hear that Martin has passed. The RV Street videos have been a huge help for me and other RV owners. His memory will live on through these videos.
You discuss the Gas Ford chassis what about workhorse chassis? Do they also need all of these suggestions and do they install similar to the Ford chassis? Running a workhorse W21 08 35J Sightseer.
The install would be similar but maybe a different part#. A little research should clear up any questions you have,
Thanks for the info. A word of caution tho, those white zip ties will degrade and break. They aren't designed for outdoor use.
The clear ties may be OK there "in the shade" but agree.....the UV resistant zip ties would be the best way to go. They are rated for outdoor environment and are used on things like fences (Amazon has 'em.) Just my $.02 Martin is a great teacher ..... lots of others should copy his style IMHO.
I'm headed to Montgomery Tx for a month (5-22). WHere did you get the front in alignment done? Really enjoy your vids
Jamail's Auto & Truck Services
19915 Aldine Westfield Rd, Houston, TX 77073
www.jamailsfleetservices.com/
1-281-443-8055
Roy is the owner and my mechanic’s name was Taylor - both great guys.
Tell them you found out about them from Martin with RVstreet
I am going to get the Safet
Curious whether steering gearbox should be 'tightened' as part of an alignment, especially after initial 20 k miles? Would that not also reduce handling issues?
Never have had to tighten my steering box. But as I said, every coach is different and should be accessed by the symptoms they're experiencing.
I have a 2005 National Sea Breeze that I just bought. Bringing it home was tense. I was constantly centering the coach and getting pushed all over the place by big rigs. When I got home I started doing some research and found out about sway bars and steering stabilizers and such. To my surprise this unit doesn’t have sway bars. Can I add them even though they didn’t come with the coach from the factory? I have the Workhorse chassis with 8.1 l engine.
2005 Seabreeze is a nice coach. Several models of this coach too. I have a friend that has a 2005 Sea Breeze with the work horse chassis. They have put over 20,000 miles on since they got it 5 years ago and have had no problems what so ever. They installed Koni shocks and a Safe-T- Plus.
EDIT: In case you don't know about these they are here in my Amazon Store and both are an easy install.
www.amazon.com/shop/rvstreet?listId=1FUC3YMUOK6RD
If I can be of any more help, please let me know. I'll help if I can. 👍
Off topic I need some help - I have a workhorse W22 chasis - what grease do I use on all the zerks - I just put some black grease in - hope its right but wanted to check with my buddy RVstreet and his wife.
You need to use my Red Grease in my Amazon Store in the "Tires, Engine and Chassis Care" category.
www.amazon.com/shop/rvstreet
Take this new red grease and pump in small increments-pausing between each pump-until black grease is eliminated and new red grease starts to ooze out. Wipe off excess black grease. Going forward, grease once a year. Be sure to grease loaded and unloaded 👍