Messages in Safarifriends group. Page 3 of 23.

Group: Safarifriends Message: 5379 From: Slim Chestnut Date: 2/10/2009
Subject: Moving genset
Group: Safarifriends Message: 5380 From: Ken Wildman Date: 2/11/2009
Subject: Re: Moving genset
Group: Safarifriends Message: 5618 From: Slim Chestnut Date: 3/27/2009
Subject: 2. Suspension - not rubber?
Group: Safarifriends Message: 5746 From: Terry Date: 4/10/2009
Subject: New member here.
Group: Safarifriends Message: 5747 From: Jim Date: 4/10/2009
Subject: Re: New member here.
Group: Safarifriends Message: 5749 From: KarenInTheWoods * Date: 4/10/2009
Subject: Re: New member here.
Group: Safarifriends Message: 5752 From: Terry Date: 4/10/2009
Subject: Re: New member here.
Group: Safarifriends Message: 5754 From: Terry Date: 4/10/2009
Subject: Re: New member here.
Group: Safarifriends Message: 5759 From: Ken Wildman Date: 4/10/2009
Subject: Re: New member here.
Group: Safarifriends Message: 5819 From: Slim Chestnut Date: 4/23/2009
Subject: Safari Ivory manuals
Group: Safarifriends Message: 5913 From: Bernard Wooley Date: 5/5/2009
Subject: Re: Isuzu TREK steering damper
Group: Safarifriends Message: 5914 From: Ken Wildman Date: 5/5/2009
Subject: Re: Isuzu TREK steering damper
Group: Safarifriends Message: 6187 From: Slim Chestnut Date: 6/30/2009
Subject: Countdown
Group: Safarifriends Message: 6189 From: Doug Date: 6/30/2009
Subject: Re: Countdown
Group: Safarifriends Message: 6283 From: Steve & Carolyn Date: 7/17/2009
Subject: Shocks and Tires
Group: Safarifriends Message: 6284 From: James Exler Date: 7/17/2009
Subject: Re: Shocks and Tires
Group: Safarifriends Message: 6285 From: chuck.lewis72 Date: 7/17/2009
Subject: Re: Shocks and Tires
Group: Safarifriends Message: 6288 From: Jim Date: 7/17/2009
Subject: Re: Shocks and Tires
Group: Safarifriends Message: 6326 From: togocotton@gmail.com Date: 7/19/2009
Subject: bilsteins
Group: Safarifriends Message: 6344 From: Sherry Date: 7/20/2009
Subject: Re: bilsteins
Group: Safarifriends Message: 6345 From: Dave Guyer Date: 7/20/2009
Subject: Re: bilsteins
Group: Safarifriends Message: 6349 From: Sherry Date: 7/21/2009
Subject: Re: bilsteins
Group: Safarifriends Message: 6363 From: Dave Guyer Date: 7/21/2009
Subject: Re: bilsteins
Group: Safarifriends Message: 6539 From: bigbubbasafari Date: 8/14/2009
Subject: Re: Still Safari Motorhomeless, But
Group: Safarifriends Message: 6540 From: chuck.lewis72 Date: 8/15/2009
Subject: Re: Still Safari Motorhomeless, But
Group: Safarifriends Message: 6541 From: Ken Wildman Date: 8/15/2009
Subject: Re: Still Safari Motorhomeless, But
Group: Safarifriends Message: 6549 From: Lynn Holland Date: 8/15/2009
Subject: Re: Still Safari Motorhomeless, But
Group: Safarifriends Message: 6550 From: chuck.lewis72 Date: 8/15/2009
Subject: Re: Still Safari Motorhomeless, But
Group: Safarifriends Message: 6555 From: Lynn Holland Date: 8/15/2009
Subject: Re: Still Safari Motorhomeless, But
Group: Safarifriends Message: 6556 From: chuck.lewis72 Date: 8/15/2009
Subject: Re: Still Safari Motorhomeless, But
Group: Safarifriends Message: 6558 From: Lynn Holland Date: 8/15/2009
Subject: Re: Still Safari Motorhomeless, But
Group: Safarifriends Message: 6572 From: KarenInTheWoods * Date: 8/17/2009
Subject: Re: Still Safari Motorhomeless, But
Group: Safarifriends Message: 6576 From: slim_chestnut Date: 8/17/2009
Subject: Manuals for the Oshkosh V-Line chassis
Group: Safarifriends Message: 6905 From: Tim Keppler Date: 9/29/2009
Subject: FOR SALE - 1998 Safari Trek 2830 - $27500 (SW Ohio)
Group: Safarifriends Message: 7241 From: Slim Chestnut Date: 11/22/2009
Subject: Torsilastic Front end shop, Denver
Group: Safarifriends Message: 7251 From: lotosrggp1 Date: 11/24/2009
Subject: Re: Torsilastic Front end shop, Denver
Group: Safarifriends Message: 7363 From: slim_chestnut Date: 12/18/2009
Subject: Re: Torsilastic Front end shop, Denver
Group: Safarifriends Message: 7608 From: Tim Ahlstrom Date: 2/1/2010
Subject: Re: spare tire
Group: Safarifriends Message: 7609 From: KarenInTheWoods * Date: 2/1/2010
Subject: Re: spare tire
Group: Safarifriends Message: 7680 From: Tim Ahlstrom Date: 2/16/2010
Subject: Re: spare tire
Group: Safarifriends Message: 7922 From: buffalobilly2 Date: 4/3/2010
Subject: Re: Brakes the chanlange
Group: Safarifriends Message: 8042 From: Big Bubba Safari Date: 4/16/2010
Subject: Re: Process of buying -what should I buy?
Group: Safarifriends Message: 8051 From: randy.kenagy Date: 4/17/2010
Subject: Re: Process of buying -what should I buy?
Group: Safarifriends Message: 8385 From: slim_chestnut Date: 6/7/2010
Subject: Koni or other shock modification Pictures and docs?
Group: Safarifriends Message: 8386 From: KarenInTheWoods * Date: 6/7/2010
Subject: Re: Koni or other shock modification Pictures and docs?
Group: Safarifriends Message: 8390 From: Big Bubba Safari Date: 6/7/2010
Subject: Re: Koni or other shock modification Pictures and docs?
Group: Safarifriends Message: 8400 From: Slim Chestnut Date: 6/8/2010
Subject: Koni or other shock modification Pictures and docs?
Group: Safarifriends Message: 8405 From: J. Belisle Date: 6/8/2010
Subject: Re: Koni or other shock modification Pictures and docs?
Group: Safarifriends Message: 8460 From: jamendt3 Date: 6/12/2010
Subject: cci controls and gas shocks
Group: Safarifriends Message: 8597 From: acoolcouple2 Date: 6/26/2010
Subject: Suspension suggestions for bouncy front end 99 Sahara



Group: Safarifriends Message: 5379 From: Slim Chestnut Date: 2/10/2009
Subject: Moving genset
If  you move the genset to the front of the vehicle using a 2" reciever welded to the under chassis and a aluminumtoolbox or similar then that 300 Lbs would make a huge difference in weight distribution and without having it out of balance side to side or losing the storage. The rear compartment could then be converted to storage using an aluminum lock box or tool box from Northern Tool:

http://www.northerntool.com/webapp/wcs/stores/servlet/category_6970_771593+768692+770655

We are doing this to our rig when time allows. i think t will permananetly solve the porpoising issus assosiated with a too light front end. It is not shocks or suspension [theyy are new] but just front to back imbalance.

Slim
Group: Safarifriends Message: 5380 From: Ken Wildman Date: 2/11/2009
Subject: Re: Moving genset
You also need to look at left/right weight balance.

Ken
96 Safari Sahara- 3530, 35', CAT 300


--- In Safarifriends@yahoogroups.com, Slim Chestnut <togocotton@...>
wrote:
>
> If you move the genset to the front of the vehicle using a 2"
reciever
> welded to the under chassis and a aluminumtoolbox or similar then
that 300
> Lbs would make a huge difference in weight distribution and without
having
> it out of balance side to side or losing the storage. The rear
compartment
> could then be converted to storage using an aluminum lock box or
tool box
> from Northern Tool:
>
>
http://www.northerntool.com/webapp/wcs/stores/servlet/category_6970_77
1593+768692+770655
>
> We are doing this to our rig when time allows. i think t will
permananetly
> solve the porpoising issus assosiated with a too light front end.
It is not
> shocks or suspension [theyy are new] but just front to back
imbalance.
>
> Slim
>
Group: Safarifriends Message: 5618 From: Slim Chestnut Date: 3/27/2009
Subject: 2. Suspension - not rubber?
Hello Bill,

some of the Safaris came with spring suspension. You should have the shocks checked or remove a couple and check for yourself.

You may need to have the suspension rebalanced, [tuning the springs and shocks]. Take it to the largest RV and truck suspension shop in the region.

You can add air bags to the suspension if it is a full spring setup and it will ride Much, much better and stop the leaning.

Slim
Group: Safarifriends Message: 5746 From: Terry Date: 4/10/2009
Subject: New member here.
Hello,
I am a new member and searching for information. Any information would be appreciated. I currently own a small travel trailer and have enjoyed it very much, but my wife and I have agreed that we would like a small motorhome. We have been looking at new and used, and have decided that used is the way we need to go because of finances. We have looked at many, but the one that has caught our eye the most is the following:

1998 Safari Trek Pathfinder 2430, 6.5 Turbo Diesel, with 72,500 miles.
The owner claims it is in great shape. $27000 or best offer. $3,500 in new suspension upgrades, new Bilstien shocks front and rear. Two new Michelin front tires. Brand new Penguin 15000 BTU a/c unit. 3,500 KW Onan gen with fresh service. 1000 watt inverter. Solar panel. Majic bed works perfect.

The owner has send me many photos and the unit looks great. Doesn't seem to have a blemish. Please give me some thoughts and feedback on this motorhome, the price, and your experience. My wife and I really like the idea of the Majic Bed, but most of all we like the length of the Trek. Just not looking for anthing really big. And from the pictures it appears the Trek 2430 is made really well, the cabinets look top quality, and we love the hardwood floors, and the big bathroom with lots of storage cabinets.

What do you think folks? Also, what should I be looking for when I do my inspection along with the test drive? Never owned a motorhome before, and just got our first TT last May 2008.

Thanks so much.

Terry
Group: Safarifriends Message: 5747 From: Jim Date: 4/10/2009
Subject: Re: New member here.
Terry,

First, welcome to the Safari Forum. Most of us here have Diesel Pushers, but a few of us have had Treks and moved to pushers.

My advise to you is to NEVER-EVER CONSIDER anything with the GM 6.5 diesel. The Trek is a great rig with a gas engine in it, but the 6.5 diesel is a problem waiting to happen.

There is a Trek Owners forum here and they can give you more info.
http://www.nwtfc.com/forum/portal_content.asp

Jim
'96 Sahara 3540


--- In Safarifriends@yahoogroups.com, "Terry" <stellarebelman@...> wrote:
>
> Hello,
> I am a new member and searching for information. Any information would be appreciated. I currently own a small travel trailer and have enjoyed it very much, but my wife and I have agreed that we would like a small motorhome. We have been looking at new and used, and have decided that used is the way we need to go because of finances. We have looked at many, but the one that has caught our eye the most is the following:
>
> 1998 Safari Trek Pathfinder 2430, 6.5 Turbo Diesel, with 72,500 miles.
> The owner claims it is in great shape. $27000 or best offer. $3,500 in new suspension upgrades, new Bilstien shocks front and rear. Two new Michelin front tires. Brand new Penguin 15000 BTU a/c unit. 3,500 KW Onan gen with fresh service. 1000 watt inverter. Solar panel. Majic bed works perfect.
>
> The owner has send me many photos and the unit looks great. Doesn't seem to have a blemish. Please give me some thoughts and feedback on this motorhome, the price, and your experience. My wife and I really like the idea of the Majic Bed, but most of all we like the length of the Trek. Just not looking for anthing really big. And from the pictures it appears the Trek 2430 is made really well, the cabinets look top quality, and we love the hardwood floors, and the big bathroom with lots of storage cabinets.
>
> What do you think folks? Also, what should I be looking for when I do my inspection along with the test drive? Never owned a motorhome before, and just got our first TT last May 2008.
>
> Thanks so much.
>
> Terry
>
Group: Safarifriends Message: 5749 From: KarenInTheWoods * Date: 4/10/2009
Subject: Re: New member here.
Welcome Terry!~

I don't have a Trek, but lots of the componants used inside are the same....   lots of quality in the Safari years on the mid 90's before they got bought out by Monaco and cheapened up the whole line..sigh.

I guess the biggest thing is to check all over for water damage, rust, and signs of abuse.  Do all new hoses, belts, fluid changes and get the date code on the tires (anything over 6 years should be replaced)  If you are not too mechanical, have an independant truck place go over the engine and tranny.. they can do a code reading to look for previous problems and test fluids for any trouble like burned tranny etc.

Regular maintenace records are nice to be included.. things like brakes and lube are important to be serviced and monitored....

Hope that helps...   dont' get emotional about one rig, buy with your head and not your heart..... and if it's the right one for you, great, if not, keep on looking ---there are a LOT of rigs out there for sale right now.


--
KarenInTheWoods
~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~
(Camping/Family Photos)  http://picasaweb.google.com/pfundt/
(Weaving Photos)             http://picasaweb.google.com/KarenInTheWoods1
(All About Me)                   http://kareninthewoods.com
(Handwoven E-Stores)     http://kareninthewoods.etsy.com/
and   http://www.designstyleguide.net/sellerPortfolio.php?mi=170
~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~


On Fri, Apr 10, 2009 at 8:50 AM, Terry <stellarebelman@...> wrote:
Hello,
I am a new member and searching for information.  Any information would be appreciated.  I currently own a small travel trailer and have enjoyed it very much, but my wife and I have agreed that we would like a small motorhome.  We have been looking at new and used, and have decided that used is the way we need to go because of finances.  We have looked at many, but the one that has caught our eye the most is the following:

1998 Safari Trek Pathfinder 2430, 6.5 Turbo Diesel, with 72,500 miles.
The owner claims it is in great shape.  $27000 or best offer.  $3,500 in new suspension upgrades, new Bilstien shocks front and rear.  Two new Michelin front tires.  Brand new Penguin 15000 BTU a/c unit.  3,500 KW Onan gen with fresh service.  1000 watt inverter.  Solar panel.  Majic bed works perfect.

The owner has send me many photos and the unit looks great.  Doesn't seem to have a blemish.  Please give me some thoughts and feedback on this motorhome, the price, and your experience.  My wife and I really like the idea of the Majic Bed, but most of all we like the length of the Trek.  Just not looking for anthing really big.  And from the pictures it appears the Trek 2430 is made really well, the cabinets look top quality, and we love the hardwood floors, and the big bathroom with lots of storage cabinets.

What do you think folks?  Also, what should I be looking for when I do my inspection along with the test drive?  Never owned a motorhome before, and just got our first TT last May 2008.

Thanks so much.

Terry



Group: Safarifriends Message: 5752 From: Terry Date: 4/10/2009
Subject: Re: New member here.
---
Jim,
I'm thinking with 72000 miles on the 6.5 diesel wouldn't the problems have already raised their ugly head?
Thanks,
Terry

Safarifriends@yahoogroups.com, "Jim" <jandlbrooks@...> wrote:
>
> Terry,
>
> First, welcome to the Safari Forum. Most of us here have Diesel Pushers, but a few of us have had Treks and moved to pushers.
>
> My advise to you is to NEVER-EVER CONSIDER anything with the GM 6.5 diesel. The Trek is a great rig with a gas engine in it, but the 6.5 diesel is a problem waiting to happen.
>
> There is a Trek Owners forum here and they can give you more info.
> http://www.nwtfc.com/forum/portal_content.asp
>
> Jim
> '96 Sahara 3540
>
>
> --- In Safarifriends@yahoogroups.com, "Terry" <stellarebelman@> wrote:
> >
> > Hello,
> > I am a new member and searching for information. Any information would be appreciated. I currently own a small travel trailer and have enjoyed it very much, but my wife and I have agreed that we would like a small motorhome. We have been looking at new and used, and have decided that used is the way we need to go because of finances. We have looked at many, but the one that has caught our eye the most is the following:
> >
> > 1998 Safari Trek Pathfinder 2430, 6.5 Turbo Diesel, with 72,500 miles.
> > The owner claims it is in great shape. $27000 or best offer. $3,500 in new suspension upgrades, new Bilstien shocks front and rear. Two new Michelin front tires. Brand new Penguin 15000 BTU a/c unit. 3,500 KW Onan gen with fresh service. 1000 watt inverter. Solar panel. Majic bed works perfect.
> >
> > The owner has send me many photos and the unit looks great. Doesn't seem to have a blemish. Please give me some thoughts and feedback on this motorhome, the price, and your experience. My wife and I really like the idea of the Majic Bed, but most of all we like the length of the Trek. Just not looking for anthing really big. And from the pictures it appears the Trek 2430 is made really well, the cabinets look top quality, and we love the hardwood floors, and the big bathroom with lots of storage cabinets.
> >
> > What do you think folks? Also, what should I be looking for when I do my inspection along with the test drive? Never owned a motorhome before, and just got our first TT last May 2008.
> >
> > Thanks so much.
> >
> > Terry
> >
>
Group: Safarifriends Message: 5754 From: Terry Date: 4/10/2009
Subject: Re: New member here.
Good advice, thanks a lot. I have my eyes on two others at this point, but my wife and I really do like the appearance of the Safari Trek 2430. Very nice. However, I do have some concerns. Anytime you ask questions, you always hope that all answers are positive. When you want a "toy so to speak" real bad, you don't want your bubble burst. Of course better to burst now than later, it could get really expensive.

Thanks
Terry


<pfundt@...> wrote:
>
> Welcome Terry!~
>
> I don't have a Trek, but lots of the componants used inside are the
> same.... lots of quality in the Safari years on the mid 90's before they
> got bought out by Monaco and cheapened up the whole line..sigh.
>
> I guess the biggest thing is to check all over for water damage, rust, and
> signs of abuse. Do all new hoses, belts, fluid changes and get the date
> code on the tires (anything over 6 years should be replaced) If you are not
> too mechanical, have an independant truck place go over the engine and
> tranny.. they can do a code reading to look for previous problems and test
> fluids for any trouble like burned tranny etc.
>
> Regular maintenace records are nice to be included.. things like brakes and
> lube are important to be serviced and monitored....
>
> Hope that helps... dont' get emotional about one rig, buy with your head
> and not your heart..... and if it's the right one for you, great, if not,
> keep on looking ---there are a LOT of rigs out there for sale right now.
>
>
> --
> KarenInTheWoods
> ~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~
> (Camping/Family Photos) http://picasaweb.google.com/pfundt/
> (Weaving Photos) http://picasaweb.google.com/KarenInTheWoods1
> (All About Me) http://kareninthewoods.com
> (Handwoven E-Stores) http://kareninthewoods.etsy.com/
> and http://www.designstyleguide.net/sellerPortfolio.php?mi=170
> ~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~
>
>
> On Fri, Apr 10, 2009 at 8:50 AM, Terry <stellarebelman@...> wrote:
>
> > Hello,
> > I am a new member and searching for information. Any information would be
> > appreciated. I currently own a small travel trailer and have enjoyed it
> > very much, but my wife and I have agreed that we would like a small
> > motorhome. We have been looking at new and used, and have decided that used
> > is the way we need to go because of finances. We have looked at many, but
> > the one that has caught our eye the most is the following:
> >
> > 1998 Safari Trek Pathfinder 2430, 6.5 Turbo Diesel, with 72,500 miles.
> > The owner claims it is in great shape. $27000 or best offer. $3,500 in
> > new suspension upgrades, new Bilstien shocks front and rear. Two new
> > Michelin front tires. Brand new Penguin 15000 BTU a/c unit. 3,500 KW Onan
> > gen with fresh service. 1000 watt inverter. Solar panel. Majic bed works
> > perfect.
> >
> > The owner has send me many photos and the unit looks great. Doesn't seem
> > to have a blemish. Please give me some thoughts and feedback on this
> > motorhome, the price, and your experience. My wife and I really like the
> > idea of the Majic Bed, but most of all we like the length of the Trek. Just
> > not looking for anthing really big. And from the pictures it appears the
> > Trek 2430 is made really well, the cabinets look top quality, and we love
> > the hardwood floors, and the big bathroom with lots of storage cabinets.
> >
> > What do you think folks? Also, what should I be looking for when I do my
> > inspection along with the test drive? Never owned a motorhome before, and
> > just got our first TT last May 2008.
> >
> > Thanks so much.
> >
> > Terry
> >
> >
> >
>
Group: Safarifriends Message: 5759 From: Ken Wildman Date: 4/10/2009
Subject: Re: New member here.
Terry:

I can't speak to the engine question that has been discussed but I can offer some suggestions about buying a used coach.

Jim Brooks has placed a Used Motorhome Checklist in the files section of this group. Just go to:

http://autos.groups.yahoo.com/group/Safarifriends/files/

and scroll to the bottom of the page. You will need Adobe Acrobat Reader to open the PDF file.

When I bought my 1996 Safari in October, 2007 I printed out the checklist and went through the coach with the list in hand. After driving it I was comfortable with the engine, transmission, handling, suspension, etc so I didn't take it to a diesel mechanic, but it really is a good idea to do so.

Finally, you can get a reasonable estimate of used value at

http://www.nadaguides.com/default.aspx?LI=1-25-38-5697-0-0-0&l=1&w=25&p=38&f=5698&m=0203&d=2200027454&y=1996&ml=S&z=78861&gc=RV>c=MH

You might have to hunt a bit to find the Trek models. Don't include any of the accessories just get the basic coach value. A good estimate for the dealer's wholesale cost is about 20% less than the average retail value given.

You price goal should be somewhere between the dealer wholesale and the average retail.

BTW, I agree with the comments about Safari quality. I don't know if quality suffered after the acquisition by Monaco but the coaches built during the mid 90s are really top-notch.

Good luck, and if you want some sites to find used coaches just ask and I'll post a list of about half a dozen.

Ken
96 Safari Sahara- 3530, 35', CAT 300


--- In Safarifriends@yahoogroups.com, "Terry" <stellarebelman@...> wrote:
>
> Hello,
> I am a new member and searching for information. Any information would be appreciated. I currently own a small travel trailer and have enjoyed it very much, but my wife and I have agreed that we would like a small motorhome. We have been looking at new and used, and have decided that used is the way we need to go because of finances. We have looked at many, but the one that has caught our eye the most is the following:
>
> 1998 Safari Trek Pathfinder 2430, 6.5 Turbo Diesel, with 72,500 miles.
> The owner claims it is in great shape. $27000 or best offer. $3,500 in new suspension upgrades, new Bilstien shocks front and rear. Two new Michelin front tires. Brand new Penguin 15000 BTU a/c unit. 3,500 KW Onan gen with fresh service. 1000 watt inverter. Solar panel. Majic bed works perfect.
>
> The owner has send me many photos and the unit looks great. Doesn't seem to have a blemish. Please give me some thoughts and feedback on this motorhome, the price, and your experience. My wife and I really like the idea of the Majic Bed, but most of all we like the length of the Trek. Just not looking for anthing really big. And from the pictures it appears the Trek 2430 is made really well, the cabinets look top quality, and we love the hardwood floors, and the big bathroom with lots of storage cabinets.
>
> What do you think folks? Also, what should I be looking for when I do my inspection along with the test drive? Never owned a motorhome before, and just got our first TT last May 2008.
>
> Thanks so much.
>
> Terry
>
Group: Safarifriends Message: 5819 From: Slim Chestnut Date: 4/23/2009
Subject: Safari Ivory manuals
Hi Kelly,

That Cummins is about the finest power plant Safari used and i beleive it is pre-computer, 8.3 like my 93. It is as trouble free as they come. Just keep the antifreeze/coolant chemistry checked using a kit you can buy from NAPA or a truck parts hous like a Kenworth or Freightliner dealer.

Check the Tranny for leaks occasionally and kep the fluid maintained.

Change the oil at least once a year or every 7,000 if you are using standard oil. change the filters including oil, fuel and air and coolant.

Keep the tires well inflated. You might want to check the shocks if your unit has Velvet Ride.

You will find someone that has a complete set of manuals alaong the way and you can go to a printer or good copy shop and have a copy made and bound.

Many happy miles ahead to you.

Slim
Group: Safarifriends Message: 5913 From: Bernard Wooley Date: 5/5/2009
Subject: Re: Isuzu TREK steering damper
Hi Tad,

Thanks for the advice.  My motor home is now in a shop in Leander, Texas getting the roof completely rebuilt.  I had a water leak several years ago and I guess things just didn't get dry inside.

My coach has been in storage for the past 5 years while I was working as an expatriate in Egypt.  I have just installed lifeline batteries and new tires.  I retired one month ago and was really trying to make my coach as near maintenance free as possible.  I got one of those PressurePro tire pressure gauges that pretty much automatically check your tire pressure.  And I took a chance and bought some Balance Masters dynamic balancers.  I am having a difficult time not believing that the dynamic balancing thing is just so much snake oil - but I had some once on a 1953 Oldsmobile convertable and got more than 100,000 miles out of a set of tires.  So, we will see.

While our TREK is in the shop, I just thought I would have new shocks and a steering damper installed.  I thought I had researched the internet completely - but I completely forgot about Blue Ox.  Actually, I guess that I didn't realize they made steering stabilizers.

I had read about Bilstein, but I could not find one for the Isuzu chassis.  And as I said, the Safe-T-Plus is either out of production or on back order everywhere I looked.

I have briefly searched the internet and found the Blue Ox TruCenter.  I feel certain that this is the one you are recommending.  Do you have a stock number...or does one size fit all?

The price seems a little steep at about double what other systems cost - but I will take your word for its performance.  I will seriously consider buying one.  I notice that they are "electric" - that is, with a button on the dash.  Does the system stay "on" all of the time?  Or must you manually switch it on when needed?

I had a tachometer installed on the TREK several years ago, and I installed a Perma Kool transmission filter with a temperature gauge.  I have also purchased (although not yet installed) a Power Shot propane injection system.  With all of this and the PressurePro system installed, my dash is quite full.  And now I have to find a place to install a button for the TruCenter.  Pretty soon, my dashboard area will be looking like the cockpit of a Boeing 747.

Thanks again for the advice.  I would be pleased to receive any other advice you may have.

Bernie

--- On Tue, 5/5/09, fqo65 <fqo63ta@...> wrote:

From: fqo65 <fqo63ta@...>
Subject: [Safarifriends] Re: Isuzu TREK steering damper
To: Safarifriends@yahoogroups.com
Date: Tuesday, May 5, 2009, 5:50 PM

Bernie

When I owned a '94 Trek, I had a Blue Ox steering stabilizer installed. It was WONDERFUL!!! ..made a tremendous difference in the handling. It would be worth finding a dealer. They are very easy to install.

Tad

--- In Safarifriends@ yahoogroups. com, Bernard Wooley <docwooley@. ..> wrote:
>
> Hi,
>
> I am trying to locate a steering damper for my 1994 Safari TREK.  I have an old parts catalog that lists the White Safe-T-Plus stabilizer, Part No. 15-2200 as the damper and STP Bracket Kit Part No. 15-2305 as the required mounting kit.  However, I am unable to find these items in stock anywhere.
>
> Does anyone know a source for these items - or an acceptable substitute?
>
> Thanks.
>
> Bernie Wooley
>


Group: Safarifriends Message: 5914 From: Ken Wildman Date: 5/5/2009
Subject: Re: Isuzu TREK steering damper
The Blue Ox True-Center changes the "center" point of the steering. It allows you to compensate for wind, or road crown, and acts as a steering damper as well. I don't know that it would be a replacement for your damper, but rather a supplement to it.

In operation you steer to go straight. If the coach pulls to one side or the other you steer straight and momentarily push the button and the steering center adjusts to hold that steering wheel position.

It doesn't affect steering, just steering geometry. What I like is that once it's adjusted to track straight on a given road, it is much less affected by wind or by trucks passing in either direction.

--- In Safarifriends@yahoogroups.com, Bernard Wooley <docwooley@...> wrote:

Ken
96 Safari Sahara- 3530, 35', CAT 300


>


> Hi Tad,
>
> Thanks for the advice.  My motor home is now in a shop in Leander, Texas getting the roof completely rebuilt.  I had a water leak several years ago and I guess things just didn't get dry inside.
>
> My coach has been in storage for the past 5 years while I was working as an expatriate in Egypt.  I have just installed lifeline batteries and new tires.  I retired one month ago and was really trying to make my coach as near maintenance free as possible.  I got one of those PressurePro tire pressure gauges that pretty much automatically check your tire pressure.  And I took a chance and bought some Balance Masters dynamic balancers.  I am having a difficult time not believing that the dynamic balancing thing is just so much snake oil - but I had some once on a 1953 Oldsmobile convertable and got more than 100,000 miles out of a set of tires.  So, we will see.
>
> While our TREK is in the shop, I just thought I would have new shocks and a steering damper installed.  I thought I had researched the internet completely - but I completely forgot about Blue Ox.  Actually, I guess that I didn't realize they made steering stabilizers.
>
> I had read about Bilstein, but I could not find one for the Isuzu chassis.  And as I said, the Safe-T-Plus is either out of production or on back order everywhere I looked.
>
> I have briefly searched the internet and found the Blue Ox TruCenter.  I feel certain that this is the one you are recommending.  Do you have a stock number...or does one size fit all?
>
> The price seems a little steep at about double what other systems cost - but I will take your word for its performance.  I will seriously consider buying one.  I notice that they are "electric" - that is, with a button on the dash.  Does the system stay "on" all of the time?  Or must you manually switch it on when needed?
>
> I had a tachometer installed on the TREK several years ago, and I installed a Perma Kool transmission filter with a temperature gauge.  I have also purchased (although not yet installed) a Power Shot propane injection system.  With all of this and the PressurePro system installed, my dash is quite full.  And now I have to find a place to install a button for the TruCenter.  Pretty soon, my dashboard area will be looking like the cockpit of a Boeing 747.
>
> Thanks again for the advice.  I would be pleased to receive any other advice you may have.
>
> Bernie
>
> --- On Tue, 5/5/09, fqo65 <fqo63ta@...> wrote:
>
> From: fqo65 <fqo63ta@...>
> Subject: [Safarifriends] Re: Isuzu TREK steering damper
> To: Safarifriends@yahoogroups.com
> Date: Tuesday, May 5, 2009, 5:50 PM
>
>
>
>
>
>
>
>
>
>
>
>
>
>
>
>
>
> Bernie
>
>
>
> When I owned a '94 Trek, I had a Blue Ox steering stabilizer installed. It was WONDERFUL!!! ..made a tremendous difference in the handling. It would be worth finding a dealer. They are very easy to install.
>
>
>
> Tad
>
>
>
> --- In Safarifriends@ yahoogroups. com, Bernard Wooley <docwooley@ ..> wrote:
>
> >
>
> > Hi,
>
> >
>
> > I am trying to locate a steering damper for my 1994 Safari TREK.  I have an old parts catalog that lists the White Safe-T-Plus stabilizer, Part No. 15-2200 as the damper and STP Bracket Kit Part No. 15-2305 as the required mounting kit.  However, I am unable to find these items in stock anywhere.
>
> >
>
> > Does anyone know a source for these items - or an acceptable substitute?
>
> >
>
> > Thanks.
>
> >
>
> > Bernie Wooley
>
> >
>
Group: Safarifriends Message: 6187 From: Slim Chestnut Date: 6/30/2009
Subject: Countdown
Hello Doug,

First congrats on the end of that separation. That is the most important thing you are doing!

I have a 1993 Safari continental 37 foot with the island floor plan and the Cummins 8.3 turbo. But it on the Sshkosh V-line Velvet Ride chassis and has less storage underneath than your 96. We love it. It is a real fine item. Have had few issues with it. none serious. Take care of the Cummins and the Allison and they will take good care of you for a million miles.

Since you are going to have so much load I would encourage you to be careful not to overweight any particular luggage bay as they can give problem with too much weight. Also the rigs really need more weight toward the front for an improved ride and better steering. I would try to get at least a thousand pounds of the weight balance shifted toward the front. I recommend you weigh all 4 axel ends before loading and then afterward to get that percentage of weight up front higher.

I think an additional 2" reciver mounted under to the frame in the front for a watertight luggage tray in front is a good idea.This is currently shown on the home page for Safarifriends.  A couple of hundred pounds on the front end will make a huge dirfference.

I also recommend you keep your fuel tanks and water tanks pretty full as that improves ride.

Does your rig have Velvet Ride? If it does then you should probably replace or beef up the shocks to reduce porpoising which can be a problem at some speeds and road conditions. 4 new bilsteins are OK but the dual KONI shock mod pays big dividends.

Vaya Con Dios,

Slim
Group: Safarifriends Message: 6189 From: Doug Date: 6/30/2009
Subject: Re: Countdown
Hey Slim Thank You!!! For the move to Oklahoma we plan for my wife to come out to drive the Cherokee - I will tow a U-Haul trailer with the Safari. I would have to look up something (the RV is in it's storage shed about 8 miles away right this minute) to find out what the suspension is called cause I don't remember. It's great long leaf springs and it rides about 500% better than any front engine class A RV I've driven - that's all I know right now!!! It's taking some getting used to the idea of loading heavy to the front. I have sailed MANY more thousands of miles than I've driven an RV and it's very bad to load a sailboat bow-heavy!!!

Vaya Con Dios to You and Yours!!!

--- In Safarifriends@yahoogroups.com, Slim Chestnut <togocotton@...> wrote:
>
> Hello Doug,
>
> First congrats on the end of that separation. That is the most important
> thing you are doing!
>
> I have a 1993 Safari continental 37 foot with the island floor plan and the
> Cummins 8.3 turbo. But it on the Sshkosh V-line Velvet Ride chassis and has
> less storage underneath than your 96. We love it. It is a real fine item.
> Have had few issues with it. none serious. Take care of the Cummins and the
> Allison and they will take good care of you for a million miles.
>
> Since you are going to have so much load I would encourage you to be careful
> not to overweight any particular luggage bay as they can give problem with
> too much weight. Also the rigs really need more weight toward the front for
> an improved ride and better steering. I would try to get at least a thousand
> pounds of the weight balance shifted toward the front. I recommend you weigh
> all 4 axel ends before loading and then afterward to get that percentage of
> weight up front higher.
>
> I think an additional 2" reciver mounted under to the frame in the front for
> a watertight luggage tray in front is a good idea.This is currently shown on
> the home page for Safarifriends. A couple of hundred pounds on the front
> end will make a huge dirfference.
>
> I also recommend you keep your fuel tanks and water tanks pretty full as
> that improves ride.
>
> Does your rig have Velvet Ride? If it does then you should probably replace
> or beef up the shocks to reduce porpoising which can be a problem at some
> speeds and road conditions. 4 new bilsteins are OK but the dual KONI shock
> mod pays big dividends.
>
> Vaya Con Dios,
>
> Slim
>
Group: Safarifriends Message: 6283 From: Steve & Carolyn Date: 7/17/2009
Subject: Shocks and Tires
Time for me to replace my shocks and tires.
I've been trying to find a bilstien # for my chassis, however everyplace I go comes up blank.
Mine is the Magnum Chassis ('96) with eliptiride suspension. Anyone have a number?

Also, the tires I have on now are 9R 22.5 Load Range G. I'm having trouble finding that tire. I can find F's, but no G's.
Been looking at Goodyear and Michelin. Any thoughts?
I don't remember what came with the rig. I've had a fleet manager take care of maintenance for me over the years, but I've sold my business and now suddenly realize that information went with it.

Also, I've got to do an oil change. Seems in the back of my mind there was a discrepency over the quantity of oil needed. I think the original manual said 35qts, but Cat later changed it to 32. (CAT 3126)
Anyone know for sure? Guess I could just keep pumping in oil until the dipstick says full, but thought I'd ask.
Thanks.


Steve
96 Sahara 3540
Group: Safarifriends Message: 6284 From: James Exler Date: 7/17/2009
Subject: Re: Shocks and Tires
Steve,

1. Bilstein shocks: https://www.rvchassisparts.com/Rally.asp

Magnum Chassis 92-04 "Blue Max, Blue Streak" Front B46-2092
Magnum Chassis 92-04 "Blue Max, Blue Streak" Rear B46-2093

2. Tires:

If you have 9R22.5, my literature shows they turn 541 revs per mile and this is what you should match. You also need to find out your dual rim spacing and insure the tire width is less than the rim spacing so the tires do not touch. Check the manufacturers sites for their engineering data books for more info. The dealers may also know.

I find:

Bridgestone R250F 265/75R22.5 G (541) spacing 11.6"

Michelin XRV 255/80R22.5 G (541) spacing 11.2"

3. Oil: If you look under FILES on the site, you will find a "CatRVserviceRec.pdf" that I uploaded on 7/22/07. It contains the info on the oil. Note that the deep pan was reduced from 32 to 29 quarts with the use of the side breather to lessen the amount of oil blowing out the draft tube.

Hope this answers your questions.

Jim X
Camarillo, CA


--- In Safarifriends@yahoogroups.com, "Steve & Carolyn" <emulsified2000@...> wrote:
>
> Time for me to replace my shocks and tires.
> I've been trying to find a bilstien # for my chassis, however everyplace I go comes up blank.
> Mine is the Magnum Chassis ('96) with eliptiride suspension. Anyone have a number?
>
> Also, the tires I have on now are 9R 22.5 Load Range G. I'm having trouble finding that tire. I can find F's, but no G's.
> Been looking at Goodyear and Michelin. Any thoughts?
> I don't remember what came with the rig. I've had a fleet manager take care of maintenance for me over the years, but I've sold my business and now suddenly realize that information went with it.
>
> Also, I've got to do an oil change. Seems in the back of my mind there was a discrepency over the quantity of oil needed. I think the original manual said 35qts, but Cat later changed it to 32. (CAT 3126)
> Anyone know for sure? Guess I could just keep pumping in oil until the dipstick says full, but thought I'd ask.
> Thanks.
>
>
> Steve
> 96 Sahara 3540
>
Group: Safarifriends Message: 6285 From: chuck.lewis72 Date: 7/17/2009
Subject: Re: Shocks and Tires
I put on quad Koni's on the front. I've got the Bilsteins I just took off, still pretty new if you want them.
--- In Safarifriends@yahoogroups.com, "Steve & Carolyn" <emulsified2000@...> wrote:
>
> Time for me to replace my shocks and tires.
> I've been trying to find a bilstien # for my chassis, however everyplace I go comes up blank.
> Mine is the Magnum Chassis ('96) with eliptiride suspension. Anyone have a number?
>
> Also, the tires I have on now are 9R 22.5 Load Range G. I'm having trouble finding that tire. I can find F's, but no G's.
> Been looking at Goodyear and Michelin. Any thoughts?
> I don't remember what came with the rig. I've had a fleet manager take care of maintenance for me over the years, but I've sold my business and now suddenly realize that information went with it.
>
> Also, I've got to do an oil change. Seems in the back of my mind there was a discrepency over the quantity of oil needed. I think the original manual said 35qts, but Cat later changed it to 32. (CAT 3126)
> Anyone know for sure? Guess I could just keep pumping in oil until the dipstick says full, but thought I'd ask.
> Thanks.
>
>
> Steve
> 96 Sahara 3540
>
Group: Safarifriends Message: 6288 From: Jim Date: 7/17/2009
Subject: Re: Shocks and Tires
Steve,

The OEM tires were Toyo M120Z 9R22.5 Load Range F. This tire is still available from Toyo. Your front axle is rated @ 8,200 lbs. You probably weigh about 7,500 lbs loaded. The load range F 9R22.5 is rated @4,540lbs single. That would give you a carrying capacity of 9,080 lbs. Dual it is rated @ 4,300 lbs or 17,200 lbs. Your back axle is rated @ 15,800 lbs. Loaded for fulltimming I weigh 16,400 on the rear axle.

So, load range F is plenty.

You might also look at Toyo M154 265/75/22.5, load range G. They are 38.4" dia while the 9R22.5 is 38.1". 38.4" computes to 539 rev per mile, close enough to work.

Your wheels probably are Accuride #27403 7.5" wide, 6.44" offset. rated 6,610 lbs @ 120psi. (the part # will be stamped @ the valve stem area) If so, you have enough offset to run the Toyo 265/75/22.5. To figure spacing take the offset twice or 12.88" A Toyo 265/75/22.5 is 10" wide. Thus you would have 2.88" between the tires. The OEM 9R22.5 tires are 8.9" wide giving you 3.98" between tires.

The two tires Jim X mentioned require 11.6" & 11.2" so they also would work, however I would be concerned about 11.6" That would only leave you 1.28" spacing. Too close for me, you need the spacing for cooling air between the tires. Just put the OEM's back on. Should cost you about $1,700 for 6 with fronts balanced.

What ever you do, make them check the date codes and do not buy anything older than 6 months. A friend of mine put "new" tires on his rig. I looked after he got them installed, they were DOT-2004. 20th week of 2004 tires. 5 years old already. He went back and made them give him fresh tires.

Jim
'96 Sahara 3540, 300 CAT, 520W solar

--- In Safarifriends@yahoogroups.com, "Steve & Carolyn" <emulsified2000@...> wrote:
>
> Time for me to replace my shocks and tires.
> I've been trying to find a bilstien # for my chassis, however everyplace I go comes up blank.
> Mine is the Magnum Chassis ('96) with eliptiride suspension. Anyone have a number?
>
> Also, the tires I have on now are 9R 22.5 Load Range G. I'm having trouble finding that tire. I can find F's, but no G's.
> Been looking at Goodyear and Michelin. Any thoughts?
> I don't remember what came with the rig. I've had a fleet manager take care of maintenance for me over the years, but I've sold my business and now suddenly realize that information went with it.
>
> Also, I've got to do an oil change. Seems in the back of my mind there was a discrepency over the quantity of oil needed. I think the original manual said 35qts, but Cat later changed it to 32. (CAT 3126)
> Anyone know for sure? Guess I could just keep pumping in oil until the dipstick says full, but thought I'd ask.
> Thanks.
>
>
> Steve
> 96 Sahara 3540
>
Group: Safarifriends Message: 6326 From: togocotton@gmail.com Date: 7/19/2009
Subject: bilsteins
Hi Sheeri

convoluted answer!

There is a caveat to the Bilstein warranty. You must have the shocks
installed by a BS dealer. They have to do the paperwork!

Prev owner had replaced
mine and I have paperwork!

All shocks wear out and the warranty is prorated just like on tires so
you can have some interesting conversations wjth the dealer about the
def of "lifetime"

Since the dealer in your case was the factory yor warranty would be
NG. There is no factory anymore!

Slim

2COR5:17
Group: Safarifriends Message: 6344 From: Sherry Date: 7/20/2009
Subject: Re: bilsteins
Well shoot! I *knew* that warranty sounded too good to be true:-)

Oh well, the good news is my shocks are still fine after 11 years and 106,000+ miles! Just had them checked a couple of months ago...

Thanks Slim! I appreciate the info even if it's not what 'd hoped to hear:-)

Sherry
FT on Safari

--- In Safarifriends@yahoogroups.com, togocotton@... wrote:
>
> Hi Sheeri
>
> convoluted answer!
>
> There is a caveat to the Bilstein warranty. You must have the shocks
> installed by a BS dealer. They have to do the paperwork!
>
> Prev owner had replaced
> mine and I have paperwork!
>
> All shocks wear out and the warranty is prorated just like on tires so
> you can have some interesting conversations wjth the dealer about the
> def of "lifetime"
>
> Since the dealer in your case was the factory yor warranty would be
> NG. There is no factory anymore!
>
> Slim
>
> 2COR5:17
>
Group: Safarifriends Message: 6345 From: Dave Guyer Date: 7/20/2009
Subject: Re: bilsteins
Sherry, mine already has Bilsteins on it. How did you get yours checked?

Sherry wrote:
>
>
> Well shoot! I *knew* that warranty sounded too good to be true:-)
>
> Oh well, the good news is my shocks are still fine after 11 years and
> 106,000+ miles! Just had them checked a couple of months ago...
>
> Thanks Slim! I appreciate the info even if it's not what 'd hoped to
> hear:-)
>
> Sherry
> FT on Safari
>
> --- In Safarifriends@yahoogroups.com
> <mailto:Safarifriends%40yahoogroups.com>, togocotton@... wrote:
> >
> > Hi Sheeri
> >
> > convoluted answer!
> >
> > There is a caveat to the Bilstein warranty. You must have the shocks
> > installed by a BS dealer. They have to do the paperwork!
> >
> > Prev owner had replaced
> > mine and I have paperwork!
> >
> > All shocks wear out and the warranty is prorated just like on tires so
> > you can have some interesting conversations wjth the dealer about the
> > def of "lifetime"
> >
> > Since the dealer in your case was the factory yor warranty would be
> > NG. There is no factory anymore!
> >
> > Slim
> >
> > 2COR5:17
> >
>
>
> ------------------------------------------------------------------------
>
>
> No virus found in this incoming message.
> Checked by AVG - www.avg.com
> Version: 8.5.375 / Virus Database: 270.13.20/2250 - Release Date: 07/20/09 06:16:00
>
>
Group: Safarifriends Message: 6349 From: Sherry Date: 7/21/2009
Subject: Re: bilsteins
Hi Dave,

At an FMCA rally there was an outfit that sells and installs Bilsteins, Konis etc. plus lots of other similar gear (anti-sway bars etc.). I asked them if they would check mine and give me prices for replacement with Bilsteins and Konis. We made an appt., he came out and we drove around a brief bit then he went under the coach. When he resurfaced he said my shocks were fine but I had a broken right front strut. He came out a couple days later with the replacement strut and installed it. Very reasonable and the peace of mind - priceless:-)

Since my ride was basically fine, I had thought the shocks were probably ok but these were the things my late hubby always handled so as part of my learning to cover all the bases, I take advantage of as many of these kinds of qualified installers who offer inspections as I can at major rallies both to check and to learn:-)

Sherry
FT on Safari

--- In Safarifriends@yahoogroups.com, Dave Guyer <daveg2@...> wrote:
>
> Sherry, mine already has Bilsteins on it. How did you get yours checked?
Group: Safarifriends Message: 6363 From: Dave Guyer Date: 7/21/2009
Subject: Re: bilsteins
Thank you. Sounds like it boils down to finding some outfit you trust
to decide. Given that my goal is better control, that's my plan.

The best thing I've found so far is that I bought it with 90lb tire
pressure all the way around. I figured the dealer knows best, so didn't
change anything. Les Schwab recently recommended higher rather than
lower, so bumped them all up to max, 120lbs. That made a big
difference, but I still plan to weigh it and set them per the book.

Sherry wrote:
>
>
> Hi Dave,
>
> At an FMCA rally there was an outfit that sells and installs
> Bilsteins, Konis etc. plus lots of other similar gear (anti-sway bars
> etc.). I asked them if they would check mine and give me prices for
> replacement with Bilsteins and Konis. We made an appt., he came out
> and we drove around a brief bit then he went under the coach. When he
> resurfaced he said my shocks were fine but I had a broken right front
> strut. He came out a couple days later with the replacement strut and
> installed it. Very reasonable and the peace of mind - priceless:-)
>
> Sherry
> FT on Safari
>
> --- In Safarifriends@yahoogroups.com
> <mailto:Safarifriends%40yahoogroups.com>, Dave Guyer <daveg2@...> wrote:
> >
> > Sherry, mine already has Bilsteins on it. How did you get yours checked?
>
>
>
Group: Safarifriends Message: 6539 From: bigbubbasafari Date: 8/14/2009
Subject: Re: Still Safari Motorhomeless, But
This is my first post, after discovering Safarifriends courtesy of KarenInTheWoods. We've owned our 98 Sahara 3506, (300 hp with a slide)for almost 2 years. It was pretty beat when I bought it. Gel coat flaking, dirty interior, etc, starting batteries used as house batteries, etc, but the price was right. Lots of effort and $ it is now where we really enjoy it! As far as I can tell, Big Bubba has the same quality cabinets as the more expensive models, and I LOVE the garden bath! There are handling issues with the stock Velvet Ride. I would recommend finding a Safari-knowledgeable tech and have it checked out well, including a very thorough road test. Adjust the price based on what you find. Mine already had TigerTrac installed, but we added supplemental front shocks and rear rubber "donuts" to minimize the porpoising. I also added Super Steer, and am considering oversize sway bars. It also needs several steering/suspension bushings replaced. Then maybe I'll be satisfied. Henderson's Line Up in Grants Pass OR, is a great resource for handling issues. Ask for the owner, Robert Henderson.

Dual pane windows need to have the seals replaced, which I plan on tackling this winter. Other projects include tiling the backsplashes, replacing blinds and valances with day/night shades, new kitchen faucet, etc.

We do not have washer/dryer combo. I found a used one, but wife Kathy vetoed it because of lost pantry space. I also took out the icemaker, which we didn't use, much, and put in sliding wire baskets for pots and pans storage. She likes that a lot.

If you want to email me directly or talk, I would be happy to share more with you. Good luck! Lynn Holland, aka bigbubbasafari@....

ps: I would look at values on nada.com as a starting place. I think they are at least 20-30% higher than what you could expect to pay.


--- In Safarifriends@yahoogroups.com, "Steve & Carolyn" <emulsified2000@...> wrote:
>
> As I recall, the major differences between the Sahara and all the others were the options and suspension.
> I have a Sahara with about every option that was available. Most of these were standard on the Serengetti, however the suspension is different.
> I guess you could look at it as the Sahara being the basic coach, the Serengetti as the deluxe. Then the Ivory as the basic of the two upscale coaches and the Continental as the deluxe.
> If I remember right, the Ivory and Continental also had a couple larger coaches that were not available in the two lower lines.
> Read thru the brocheres in the files section to get an idea of the options.
>
> Steve
> '96 Sahara 3540
>
Group: Safarifriends Message: 6540 From: chuck.lewis72 Date: 8/15/2009
Subject: Re: Still Safari Motorhomeless, But

I have the Tiger Trak upgrade & think it's great. Do you have the Koni FSD's on the front? 

What donut's on the back?????

What is your ride height?

--- In Safarifriends@yahoogroups.com, "bigbubbasafari" <bigbubbasafari@...> wrote:
>
> This is my first post, after discovering Safarifriends courtesy of KarenInTheWoods. We've owned our 98 Sahara 3506, (300 hp with a slide)for almost 2 years. It was pretty beat when I bought it. Gel coat flaking, dirty interior, etc, starting batteries used as house batteries, etc, but the price was right. Lots of effort and $ it is now where we really enjoy it! As far as I can tell, Big Bubba has the same quality cabinets as the more expensive models, and I LOVE the garden bath! There are handling issues with the stock Velvet Ride. I would recommend finding a Safari-knowledgeable tech and have it checked out well, including a very thorough road test. Adjust the price based on what you find. Mine already had TigerTrac installed, but we added supplemental front shocks and rear rubber "donuts" to minimize the porpoising. I also added Super Steer, and am considering oversize sway bars. It also needs several steering/suspension bushings replaced. Then maybe I'll be satisfied. Henderson's Line Up in Grants Pass OR, is a great resource for handling issues. Ask for the owner, Robert Henderson.
>
> Dual pane windows need to have the seals replaced, which I plan on tackling this winter. Other projects include tiling the backsplashes, replacing blinds and valances with day/night shades, new kitchen faucet, etc.
>
> We do not have washer/dryer combo. I found a used one, but wife Kathy vetoed it because of lost pantry space. I also took out the icemaker, which we didn't use, much, and put in sliding wire baskets for pots and pans storage. She likes that a lot.
>
> If you want to email me directly or talk, I would be happy to share more with you. Good luck! Lynn Holland, aka bigbubbasafari@...
>
> ps: I would look at values on nada.com as a starting place. I think they are at least 20-30% higher than what you could expect to pay.
>
>
> --- In Safarifriends@yahoogroups.com, "Steve & Carolyn" emulsified2000@ wrote:
> >
> > As I recall, the major differences between the Sahara and all the others were the options and suspension.
> > I have a Sahara with about every option that was available. Most of these were standard on the Serengetti, however the suspension is different.
> > I guess you could look at it as the Sahara being the basic coach, the Serengetti as the deluxe. Then the Ivory as the basic of the two upscale coaches and the Continental as the deluxe.
> > If I remember right, the Ivory and Continental also had a couple larger coaches that were not available in the two lower lines.
> > Read thru the brocheres in the files section to get an idea of the options.
> >
> > Steve
> > '96 Sahara 3540
> >
>

Group: Safarifriends Message: 6541 From: Ken Wildman Date: 8/15/2009
Subject: Re: Still Safari Motorhomeless, But
The previous owner of my coach did some serious work on handling with the spring suspension that was standard on that model.

First he weighed all four corners, and found that the right front was much lighter than the left front, and the front/back distribution was extremely different. And the left rear was heaviest.

Looking for ways to get better balance he soon determined that the only heavy piece at the reat, way beyond the rear axle was the generator. So he moved the generator to the first bay on the right front. He also added about 300lbs of steel to the right front frame.

The final result was almost perfect balance left to right, and a much better distribution front to rear.

Next he added Koni shocks and a Blue-Ox Tru-Center.

The result of his work is a well-behaved coach that tracks well, is not strongly affected by passing truck traffic or wind and a very satisfying ride.

My only anticipated modification is to have the Koni's adjusted a bit softer.

Ken
96 Safari Sahara- 3530, 35', CAT 300




--- In Safarifriends@yahoogroups.com, "bigbubbasafari" <bigbubbasafari@...> wrote:
>
> This is my first post, after discovering Safarifriends courtesy of KarenInTheWoods. We've owned our 98 Sahara 3506, (300 hp with a slide)for almost 2 years. It was pretty beat when I bought it. Gel coat flaking, dirty interior, etc, starting batteries used as house batteries, etc, but the price was right. Lots of effort and $ it is now where we really enjoy it! As far as I can tell, Big Bubba has the same quality cabinets as the more expensive models, and I LOVE the garden bath! There are handling issues with the stock Velvet Ride. I would recommend finding a Safari-knowledgeable tech and have it checked out well, including a very thorough road test. Adjust the price based on what you find. Mine already had TigerTrac installed, but we added supplemental front shocks and rear rubber "donuts" to minimize the porpoising. I also added Super Steer, and am considering oversize sway bars. It also needs several steering/suspension bushings replaced. Then maybe I'll be satisfied. Henderson's Line Up in Grants Pass OR, is a great resource for handling issues. Ask for the owner, Robert Henderson.
>
> Dual pane windows need to have the seals replaced, which I plan on tackling this winter. Other projects include tiling the backsplashes, replacing blinds and valances with day/night shades, new kitchen faucet, etc.
>
> We do not have washer/dryer combo. I found a used one, but wife Kathy vetoed it because of lost pantry space. I also took out the icemaker, which we didn't use, much, and put in sliding wire baskets for pots and pans storage. She likes that a lot.
>
> If you want to email me directly or talk, I would be happy to share more with you. Good luck! Lynn Holland, aka bigbubbasafari@...
>
> ps: I would look at values on nada.com as a starting place. I think they are at least 20-30% higher than what you could expect to pay.
>
>
> --- In Safarifriends@yahoogroups.com, "Steve & Carolyn" <emulsified2000@> wrote:
> >
> > As I recall, the major differences between the Sahara and all the others were the options and suspension.
> > I have a Sahara with about every option that was available. Most of these were standard on the Serengetti, however the suspension is different.
> > I guess you could look at it as the Sahara being the basic coach, the Serengetti as the deluxe. Then the Ivory as the basic of the two upscale coaches and the Continental as the deluxe.
> > If I remember right, the Ivory and Continental also had a couple larger coaches that were not available in the two lower lines.
> > Read thru the brocheres in the files section to get an idea of the options.
> >
> > Steve
> > '96 Sahara 3540
> >
>
Group: Safarifriends Message: 6549 From: Lynn Holland Date: 8/15/2009
Subject: Re: Still Safari Motorhomeless, But
I do not have the Koni FSD's, but am thinking of going that way.  The owner of Henderson's Line Up swears they are the best for Saharas.  I am trying to justify the cost.  Do you know anyone that wants to buy some almost new, under 5000 miles, Bilsteins?  The exisitng ones were ok, so I just  put on one pair.  I will probably go to all 4 up front if I do the Koni's.    

The donuts are hard rubber spacers, donut shaped, about 5 inches in diameter.  They are mounted above the shackles that bolt the rear axle to the frame.  My tech made some mounting brackets out of steel plate to  hold them in place.  The purpose is to absorb a lot of the first bounce to limit porpoising.  I think they helped, but the addtional front shocks made a much bigger improvement.  

My ride height, measured from just in front of the front wheel and just in back of the rear wheel, is:  left front and rear, 15".  Right front, 15 3/4", rt rear 15 1/2".  That's loaded for a trip, 3/4 fuel, empty holding tanks, and normal tools, extra food, etc in the cargo bays.  From this it looks as though I am light on the right front and right rear.  What is your experience?  And is that the best place to measure?  

My tech weighed my rig when I first bought it, and says I was about 6,000# on the front wheels,  17,000 on the rears.  I don't remember my load at the time, but think it was about 1/2 fuel, empty holding tanks and cargo bays.  I plan on weighing each corner in the near future, to have exact numbers.  I am interested in the generator relocation I saw here.  I have a good friend who is an electrician, and would certainly enlist his help.  I am a bit concerned about the exhaust.  I have a diesel genset, and it looks as though the one in the pictures was the lp model.  I guess I could run the exhaust along the bottom, coming out in front of the rear wheels on the driver's side.  

Lynn
Big Bubba the 98 Sahara
3506 with 300 hp cat
04 Element toad



From: chuck.lewis72 <cdl45309@...>
To: Safarifriends@yahoogroups.com
Sent: Saturday, August 15, 2009 4:24:54 AM
Subject: [Safarifriends] Re: Still Safari Motorhomeless, But

 

I have the Tiger Trak upgrade & think it's great. Do you have the Koni FSD's on the front? 

What donut's on the back?????

What is your ride height?

--- In Safarifriends@ yahoogroups. com, "bigbubbasafari" <bigbubbasafari@ ...> wrote:
>
> This is my first post, after discovering Safarifriends courtesy of KarenInTheWoods. We've owned our 98 Sahara 3506, (300 hp with a slide)for almost 2 years. It was pretty beat when I bought it. Gel coat flaking, dirty interior, etc, starting batteries used as house batteries, etc, but the price was right. Lots of effort and $ it is now where we really enjoy it! As far as I can tell, Big Bubba has the same quality cabinets as the more expensive models, and I LOVE the garden bath! There are handling issues with the stock Velvet Ride. I would recommend finding a Safari-knowledgeabl e tech and have it checked out well, including a very thorough road test. Adjust the price based on what you find. Mine already had TigerTrac installed, but we added supplemental front shocks and rear rubber "donuts" to minimize the porpoising. I also added Super Steer, and am considering oversize sway bars. It also needs several steering/suspension bushings replaced. Then maybe I'll be satisfied. Henderson's Line Up in Grants Pass OR, is a great resource for handling issues. Ask for the owner, Robert Henderson.
>
> Dual pane windows need to have the seals replaced, which I plan on tackling this winter. Other projects include tiling the backsplashes, replacing blinds and valances with day/night shades, new kitchen faucet, etc.
>
> We do not have washer/dryer combo. I found a used one, but wife Kathy vetoed it because of lost pantry space. I also took out the icemaker, which we didn't use, much, and put in sliding wire baskets for pots and pans storage. She likes that a lot.
>
> If you want to email me directly or talk, I would be happy to share more with you. Good luck! Lynn Holland, aka bigbubbasafari@ ...
>
> ps: I would look at values on nada.com as a starting place. I think they are at least 20-30% higher than what you could expect to pay.
>
>
> --- In Safarifriends@ yahoogroups. com, "Steve & Carolyn" emulsified2000@ wrote:
> >
> > As I recall, the major differences between the Sahara and all the others were the options and suspension.
> > I have a Sahara with about every option that was available. Most of these were standard on the Serengetti, however the suspension is different.
> > I guess you could look at it as the Sahara being the basic coach, the Serengetti as the deluxe. Then the Ivory as the basic of the two upscale coaches and the Continental as the deluxe.
> > If I remember right, the Ivory and Continental also had a couple larger coaches that were not available in the two lower lines.
> > Read thru the brocheres in the files section to get an idea of the options.
> >
> > Steve
> > '96 Sahara 3540
> >
>


Group: Safarifriends Message: 6550 From: chuck.lewis72 Date: 8/15/2009
Subject: Re: Still Safari Motorhomeless, But

I have quad Koni's in the front, much better for small bumps.

I've got a 1997 Serengeti, ride height to the top of the band just above the basement doors is 42 inches, all the way around. I had to remove a few shims to get it level.

Does your coach have torsilatsic suspention?

--- In Safarifriends@yahoogroups.com, Lynn Holland <bigbubbasafari@...> wrote:
>
> I do not have the Koni FSD's, but am thinking of going that way. The owner of Henderson's Line Up swears they are the best for Saharas. I am trying to justify the cost. Do you know anyone that wants to buy some almost new, under 5000 miles, Bilsteins? The exisitng ones were ok, so I just put on one pair. I will probably go to all 4 up front if I do the Koni's.
>
> The donuts are hard rubber spacers, donut shaped, about 5 inches in diameter. They are mounted above the shackles that bolt the rear axle to the frame. My tech made some mounting brackets out of steel plate to hold them in place. The purpose is to absorb a lot of the first bounce to limit porpoising. I think they helped, but the addtional front shocks made a much bigger improvement.
>
> My ride height, measured from just in front of the front wheel and just in back of the rear wheel, is: left front and rear, 15". Right front, 15 3/4", rt rear 15 1/2". That's loaded for a trip, 3/4 fuel, empty holding tanks, and normal tools, extra food, etc in the cargo bays. From this it looks as though I am light on the right front and right rear. What is your experience? And is that the best place to measure?
>
> My tech weighed my rig when I first bought it, and says I was about 6,000# on the front wheels, 17,000 on the rears. I don't remember my load at the time, but think it was about 1/2 fuel, empty holding tanks and cargo bays. I plan on weighing each corner in the near future, to have exact numbers. I am interested in the generator relocation I saw here. I have a good friend who is an electrician, and would certainly enlist his help. I am a bit concerned about the exhaust. I have a diesel genset, and it looks as though the one in the pictures was the lp model. I guess I could run the exhaust along the bottom, coming out in front of the rear wheels on the driver's side.
>
> Lynn
> Big Bubba the 98 Sahara
> 3506 with 300 hp cat
> 04 Element toad
>
>
>
> ________________________________
> From: chuck.lewis72 cdl45309@...
> To: Safarifriends@yahoogroups.com
> Sent: Saturday, August 15, 2009 4:24:54 AM
> Subject: [Safarifriends] Re: Still Safari Motorhomeless, But
>
>
> I have the Tiger Trak upgrade & think it's great. Do you have the Koni FSD's on the front?
> What donut's on the back?????
> What is your ride height?
> --- In Safarifriends@ yahoogroups. com, "bigbubbasafari" <bigbubbasafari@ ...> wrote:
> >
> > This is my first post, after discovering Safarifriends courtesy of KarenInTheWoods. We've owned our 98 Sahara 3506, (300 hp with a slide)for almost 2 years. It was pretty beat when I bought it. Gel coat flaking, dirty interior, etc, starting batteries used as house batteries, etc, but the price was right. Lots of effort and $ it is now where we really enjoy it! As far as I can tell, Big Bubba has the same quality cabinets as the more expensive models, and I LOVE the garden bath! There are handling issues with the stock Velvet Ride. I would recommend finding a Safari-knowledgeabl e tech and have it checked out well, including a very thorough road test. Adjust the price based on what you find. Mine already had TigerTrac installed, but we added supplemental front shocks and rear rubber "donuts" to minimize the porpoising. I also added Super Steer, and am considering oversize sway bars. It also needs several steering/suspension bushings replaced. Then
> maybe I'll be satisfied. Henderson's Line Up in Grants Pass OR, is a great resource for handling issues. Ask for the owner, Robert Henderson.
> >
> > Dual pane windows need to have the seals replaced, which I plan on tackling this winter. Other projects include tiling the backsplashes, replacing blinds and valances with day/night shades, new kitchen faucet, etc.
> >
> > We do not have washer/dryer combo. I found a used one, but wife Kathy vetoed it because of lost pantry space. I also took out the icemaker, which we didn't use, much, and put in sliding wire baskets for pots and pans storage. She likes that a lot.
> >
> > If you want to email me directly or talk, I would be happy to share more with you. Good luck! Lynn Holland, aka bigbubbasafari@ ...
> >
> > ps: I would look at values on nada.com as a starting place. I think they are at least 20-30% higher than what you could expect to pay.
> >
> >
> > --- In Safarifriends@ yahoogroups. com, "Steve & Carolyn" emulsified2000@ wrote:
> > >
> > > As I recall, the major differences between the Sahara and all the others were the options and suspension.
> > > I have a Sahara with about every option that was available. Most of these were standard on the Serengetti, however the suspension is different.
> > > I guess you could look at it as the Sahara being the basic coach, the Serengetti as the deluxe. Then the Ivory as the basic of the two upscale coaches and the Continental as the deluxe.
> > > If I remember right, the Ivory and Continental also had a couple larger coaches that were not available in the two lower lines.
> > > Read thru the brocheres in the files section to get an idea of the options.
> > >
> > > Steve
> > > '96 Sahara 3540
> > >
> >
>

Group: Safarifriends Message: 6555 From: Lynn Holland Date: 8/15/2009
Subject: Re: Still Safari Motorhomeless, But
Yes, it has the torsilastic "Velvet Ride" (hah!).  

Measuring from bottom of  that band, I have:  LF, 41", RF, 42", LR, 41 1/2", and RR, 42.

From: chuck.lewis72 <cdl45309@...>
To: Safarifriends@yahoogroups.com
Sent: Saturday, August 15, 2009 11:03:21 AM
Subject: [Safarifriends] Re: Still Safari Motorhomeless, But

 

I have quad Koni's in the front, much better for small bumps.

I've got a 1997 Serengeti, ride height to the top of the band just above the basement doors is 42 inches, all the way around. I had to remove a few shims to get it level.

Does your coach have torsilatsic suspention?

--- In Safarifriends@ yahoogroups. com, Lynn Holland <bigbubbasafari@ ...> wrote:
>
> I do not have the Koni FSD's, but am thinking of going that way. The owner of Henderson's Line Up swears they are the best for Saharas. I am trying to justify the cost. Do you know anyone that wants to buy some almost new, under 5000 miles, Bilsteins? The exisitng ones were ok, so I just put on one pair. I will probably go to all 4 up front if I do the Koni's.
>
> The donuts are hard rubber spacers, donut shaped, about 5 inches in diameter. They are mounted above the shackles that bolt the rear axle to the frame. My tech made some mounting brackets out of steel plate to hold them in place. The purpose is to absorb a lot of the first bounce to limit porpoising. I think they helped, but the addtional front shocks made a much bigger improvement.
>
> My ride height, measured from just in front of the front wheel and just in back of the rear wheel, is: left front and rear, 15". Right front, 15 3/4", rt rear 15 1/2". That's loaded for a trip, 3/4 fuel, empty holding tanks, and normal tools, extra food, etc in the cargo bays. From this it looks as though I am light on the right front and right rear. What is your experience? And is that the best place to measure?
>
> My tech weighed my rig when I first bought it, and says I was about 6,000# on the front wheels, 17,000 on the rears. I don't remember my load at the time, but think it was about 1/2 fuel, empty holding tanks and cargo bays. I plan on weighing each corner in the near future, to have exact numbers. I am interested in the generator relocation I saw here. I have a good friend who is an electrician, and would certainly enlist his help. I am a bit concerned about the exhaust. I have a diesel genset, and it looks as though the one in the pictures was the lp model. I guess I could run the exhaust along the bottom, coming out in front of the rear wheels on the driver's side.
>
> Lynn
> Big Bubba the 98 Sahara
> 3506 with 300 hp cat
> 04 Element toad
>
>
>
> ____________ _________ _________ __
> From: chuck.lewis72 cdl45309@...
> To: Safarifriends@ yahoogroups. com
> Sent: Saturday, August 15, 2009 4:24:54 AM
> Subject: [Safarifriends] Re: Still Safari Motorhomeless, But
>
>
> I have the Tiger Trak upgrade & think it's great. Do you have the Koni FSD's on the front?
> What donut's on the back?????
> What is your ride height?
> --- In Safarifriends@ yahoogroups. com, "bigbubbasafari" <bigbubbasafari@ ...> wrote:
> >
> > This is my first post, after discovering Safarifriends courtesy of KarenInTheWoods. We've owned our 98 Sahara 3506, (300 hp with a slide)for almost 2 years. It was pretty beat when I bought it. Gel coat flaking, dirty interior, etc, starting batteries used as house batteries, etc, but the price was right. Lots of effort and $ it is now where we really enjoy it! As far as I can tell, Big Bubba has the same quality cabinets as the more expensive models, and I LOVE the garden bath! There are handling issues with the stock Velvet Ride. I would recommend finding a Safari-knowledgeabl e tech and have it checked out well, including a very thorough road test. Adjust the price based on what you find. Mine already had TigerTrac installed, but we added supplemental front shocks and rear rubber "donuts" to minimize the porpoising. I also added Super Steer, and am considering oversize sway bars. It also needs several steering/suspension bushings replaced. Then
> maybe I'll be satisfied. Henderson's Line Up in Grants Pass OR, is a great resource for handling issues. Ask for the owner, Robert Henderson.
> >
> > Dual pane windows need to have the seals replaced, which I plan on tackling this winter. Other projects include tiling the backsplashes, replacing blinds and valances with day/night shades, new kitchen faucet, etc.
> >
> > We do not have washer/dryer combo. I found a used one, but wife Kathy vetoed it because of lost pantry space. I also took out the icemaker, which we didn't use, much, and put in sliding wire baskets for pots and pans storage. She likes that a lot.
> >
> > If you want to email me directly or talk, I would be happy to share more with you. Good luck! Lynn Holland, aka bigbubbasafari@ ...
> >
> > ps: I would look at values on nada.com as a starting place. I think they are at least 20-30% higher than what you could expect to pay.
> >
> >
> > --- In Safarifriends@ yahoogroups. com, "Steve & Carolyn" emulsified2000@ wrote:
> > >
> > > As I recall, the major differences between the Sahara and all the others were the options and suspension.
> > > I have a Sahara with about every option that was available. Most of these were standard on the Serengetti, however the suspension is different.
> > > I guess you could look at it as the Sahara being the basic coach, the Serengetti as the deluxe. Then the Ivory as the basic of the two upscale coaches and the Continental as the deluxe.
> > > If I remember right, the Ivory and Continental also had a couple larger coaches that were not available in the two lower lines.
> > > Read thru the brocheres in the files section to get an idea of the options.
> > >
> > > Steve
> > > '96 Sahara 3540
> > >
> >
>


Group: Safarifriends Message: 6556 From: chuck.lewis72 Date: 8/15/2009
Subject: Re: Still Safari Motorhomeless, But

Check & see how many shims you have left. I think they started with eight.  Check in front of each axle & the rear of each axle, left & right side.

If you remove a shim it raise's the coach.  On your left front you would need to remove 4 shim's  at the front & rear of the front axle on the left  side.

Proper ride height allow's your shocks to do their job, plus helps handling.

If you do the work youself let me know, it's not hard to do.

--- In Safarifriends@yahoogroups.com, Lynn Holland <bigbubbasafari@...> wrote:
>
> Yes, it has the torsilastic "Velvet Ride" (hah!).
>
> Measuring from bottom of that band, I have: LF, 41", RF, 42", LR, 41 1/2", and RR, 42.
>
> ________________________________
> From: chuck.lewis72 cdl45309@...
> To: Safarifriends@yahoogroups.com
> Sent: Saturday, August 15, 2009 11:03:21 AM
> Subject: [Safarifriends] Re: Still Safari Motorhomeless, But
>
>
> I have quad Koni's in the front, much better for small bumps.
> I've got a 1997 Serengeti, ride height to the top of the band just above the basement doors is 42 inches, all the way around. I had to remove a few shims to get it level.
> Does your coach have torsilatsic suspention?
> --- In Safarifriends@ yahoogroups. com, Lynn Holland <bigbubbasafari@ ...> wrote:
> >
> > I do not have the Koni FSD's, but am thinking of going that way. The owner of Henderson's Line Up swears they are the best for Saharas. I am trying to justify the cost. Do you know anyone that wants to buy some almost new, under 5000 miles, Bilsteins? The exisitng ones were ok, so I just put on one pair. I will probably go to all 4 up front if I do the Koni's.
> >
> > The donuts are hard rubber spacers, donut shaped, about 5 inches in diameter. They are mounted above the shackles that bolt the rear axle to the frame. My tech made some mounting brackets out of steel plate to hold them in place. The purpose is to absorb a lot of the first bounce to limit porpoising. I think they helped, but the addtional front shocks made a much bigger improvement.
> >
> > My ride height, measured from just in front of the front wheel and just in back of the rear wheel, is: left front and rear, 15". Right front, 15 3/4", rt rear 15 1/2". That's loaded for a trip, 3/4 fuel, empty holding tanks, and normal tools, extra food, etc in the cargo bays. From this it looks as though I am light on the right front and right rear. What is your experience? And is that the best place to measure?
> >
> > My tech weighed my rig when I first bought it, and says I was about 6,000# on the front wheels, 17,000 on the rears. I don't remember my load at the time, but think it was about 1/2 fuel, empty holding tanks and cargo bays. I plan on weighing each corner in the near future, to have exact numbers. I am interested in the generator relocation I saw here. I have a good friend who is an electrician, and would certainly enlist his help. I am a bit concerned about the exhaust. I have a diesel genset, and it looks as though the one in the pictures was the lp model. I guess I could run the exhaust along the bottom, coming out in front of the rear wheels on the driver's side.
> >
> > Lynn
> > Big Bubba the 98 Sahara
> > 3506 with 300 hp cat
> > 04 Element toad
> >
> >
> >
> > ____________ _________ _________ __
> > From: chuck.lewis72 cdl45309@
> > To: Safarifriends@ yahoogroups. com
> > Sent: Saturday, August 15, 2009 4:24:54 AM
> > Subject: [Safarifriends] Re: Still Safari Motorhomeless, But
> >
> >
> > I have the Tiger Trak upgrade & think it's great. Do you have the Koni FSD's on the front?
> > What donut's on the back?????
> > What is your ride height?
> > --- In Safarifriends@ yahoogroups. com, "bigbubbasafari" <bigbubbasafari@ ...> wrote:
> > >
> > > This is my first post, after discovering Safarifriends courtesy of KarenInTheWoods. We've owned our 98 Sahara 3506, (300 hp with a slide)for almost 2 years. It was pretty beat when I bought it. Gel coat flaking, dirty interior, etc, starting batteries used as house batteries, etc, but the price was right. Lots of effort and $ it is now where we really enjoy it! As far as I can tell, Big Bubba has the same quality cabinets as the more expensive models, and I LOVE the garden bath! There are handling issues with the stock Velvet Ride. I would recommend finding a Safari-knowledgeabl e tech and have it checked out well, including a very thorough road test. Adjust the price based on what you find. Mine already had TigerTrac installed, but we added supplemental front shocks and rear rubber "donuts" to minimize the porpoising. I also added Super Steer, and am considering oversize sway bars. It also needs several steering/suspension bushings replaced. Then
> > maybe I'll be satisfied. Henderson's Line Up in Grants Pass OR, is a great resource for handling issues. Ask for the owner, Robert Henderson.
> > >
> > > Dual pane windows need to have the seals replaced, which I plan on tackling this winter. Other projects include tiling the backsplashes, replacing blinds and valances with day/night shades, new kitchen faucet, etc.
> > >
> > > We do not have washer/dryer combo. I found a used one, but wife Kathy vetoed it because of lost pantry space. I also took out the icemaker, which we didn't use, much, and put in sliding wire baskets for pots and pans storage. She likes that a lot.
> > >
> > > If you want to email me directly or talk, I would be happy to share more with you. Good luck! Lynn Holland, aka bigbubbasafari@ ...
> > >
> > > ps: I would look at values on nada.com as a starting place. I think they are at least 20-30% higher than what you could expect to pay.
> > >
> > >
> > > --- In Safarifriends@ yahoogroups. com, "Steve & Carolyn" emulsified2000@ wrote:
> > > >
> > > > As I recall, the major differences between the Sahara and all the others were the options and suspension.
> > > > I have a Sahara with about every option that was available. Most of these were standard on the Serengetti, however the suspension is different.
> > > > I guess you could look at it as the Sahara being the basic coach, the Serengetti as the deluxe. Then the Ivory as the basic of the two upscale coaches and the Continental as the deluxe.
> > > > If I remember right, the Ivory and Continental also had a couple larger coaches that were not available in the two lower lines.
> > > > Read thru the brocheres in the files section to get an idea of the options.
> > > >
> > > > Steve
> > > > '96 Sahara 3540
> > > >
> > >
> >
>

Group: Safarifriends Message: 6558 From: Lynn Holland Date: 8/15/2009
Subject: Re: Still Safari Motorhomeless, But
Thanks, I'll let you know when I get ready to do it.   


From: chuck.lewis72 <cdl45309@...>
To: Safarifriends@yahoogroups.com
Sent: Saturday, August 15, 2009 12:46:11 PM
Subject: [Safarifriends] Re: Still Safari Motorhomeless, But

 

Check & see how many shims you have left. I think they started with eight.  Check in front of each axle & the rear of each axle, left & right side.

If you remove a shim it raise's the coach.  On your left front you would need to remove 4 shim's  at the front & rear of the front axle on the left  side.

Proper ride height allow's your shocks to do their job, plus helps handling.

If you do the work youself let me know, it's not hard to do.

--- In Safarifriends@ yahoogroups. com, Lynn Holland <bigbubbasafari@ ...> wrote:
>
> Yes, it has the torsilastic "Velvet Ride" (hah!).
>
> Measuring from bottom of that band, I have: LF, 41", RF, 42", LR, 41 1/2", and RR, 42.
>
> ____________ _________ _________ __
> From: chuck.lewis72 cdl45309@...
> To: Safarifriends@ yahoogroups. com
> Sent: Saturday, August 15, 2009 11:03:21 AM
> Subject: [Safarifriends] Re: Still Safari Motorhomeless, But
>
>
> I have quad Koni's in the front, much better for small bumps.
> I've got a 1997 Serengeti, ride height to the top of the band just above the basement doors is 42 inches, all the way around. I had to remove a few shims to get it level.
> Does your coach have torsilatsic suspention?
> --- In Safarifriends@ yahoogroups. com, Lynn Holland <bigbubbasafari@ ...> wrote:
> >
> > I do not have the Koni FSD's, but am thinking of going that way. The owner of Henderson's Line Up swears they are the best for Saharas. I am trying to justify the cost. Do you know anyone that wants to buy some almost new, under 5000 miles, Bilsteins? The exisitng ones were ok, so I just put on one pair. I will probably go to all 4 up front if I do the Koni's.
> >
> > The donuts are hard rubber spacers, donut shaped, about 5 inches in diameter. They are mounted above the shackles that bolt the rear axle to the frame. My tech made some mounting brackets out of steel plate to hold them in place. The purpose is to absorb a lot of the first bounce to limit porpoising. I think they helped, but the addtional front shocks made a much bigger improvement.
> >
> > My ride height, measured from just in front of the front wheel and just in back of the rear wheel, is: left front and rear, 15". Right front, 15 3/4", rt rear 15 1/2". That's loaded for a trip, 3/4 fuel, empty holding tanks, and normal tools, extra food, etc in the cargo bays. From this it looks as though I am light on the right front and right rear. What is your experience? And is that the best place to measure?
> >
> > My tech weighed my rig when I first bought it, and says I was about 6,000# on the front wheels, 17,000 on the rears. I don't remember my load at the time, but think it was about 1/2 fuel, empty holding tanks and cargo bays. I plan on weighing each corner in the near future, to have exact numbers. I am interested in the generator relocation I saw here. I have a good friend who is an electrician, and would certainly enlist his help. I am a bit concerned about the exhaust. I have a diesel genset, and it looks as though the one in the pictures was the lp model. I guess I could run the exhaust along the bottom, coming out in front of the rear wheels on the driver's side.
> >
> > Lynn
> > Big Bubba the 98 Sahara
> > 3506 with 300 hp cat
> > 04 Element toad
> >
> >
> >
> > ____________ _________ _________ __
> > From: chuck.lewis72 cdl45309@
> > To: Safarifriends@ yahoogroups. com
> > Sent: Saturday, August 15, 2009 4:24:54 AM
> > Subject: [Safarifriends] Re: Still Safari Motorhomeless, But
> >
> >
> > I have the Tiger Trak upgrade & think it's great. Do you have the Koni FSD's on the front?
> > What donut's on the back?????
> > What is your ride height?
> > --- In Safarifriends@ yahoogroups. com, "bigbubbasafari" <bigbubbasafari@ ...> wrote:
> > >
> > > This is my first post, after discovering Safarifriends courtesy of KarenInTheWoods. We've owned our 98 Sahara 3506, (300 hp with a slide)for almost 2 years. It was pretty beat when I bought it. Gel coat flaking, dirty interior, etc, starting batteries used as house batteries, etc, but the price was right. Lots of effort and $ it is now where we really enjoy it! As far as I can tell, Big Bubba has the same quality cabinets as the more expensive models, and I LOVE the garden bath! There are handling issues with the stock Velvet Ride. I would recommend finding a Safari-knowledgeabl e tech and have it checked out well, including a very thorough road test. Adjust the price based on what you find. Mine already had TigerTrac installed, but we added supplemental front shocks and rear rubber "donuts" to minimize the porpoising. I also added Super Steer, and am considering oversize sway bars. It also needs several steering/suspension bushings replaced. Then
> > maybe I'll be satisfied. Henderson's Line Up in Grants Pass OR, is a great resource for handling issues. Ask for the owner, Robert Henderson.
> > >
> > > Dual pane windows need to have the seals replaced, which I plan on tackling this winter. Other projects include tiling the backsplashes, replacing blinds and valances with day/night shades, new kitchen faucet, etc.
> > >
> > > We do not have washer/dryer combo. I found a used one, but wife Kathy vetoed it because of lost pantry space. I also took out the icemaker, which we didn't use, much, and put in sliding wire baskets for pots and pans storage. She likes that a lot.
> > >
> > > If you want to email me directly or talk, I would be happy to share more with you. Good luck! Lynn Holland, aka bigbubbasafari@ ...
> > >
> > > ps: I would look at values on nada.com as a starting place. I think they are at least 20-30% higher than what you could expect to pay.
> > >
> > >
> > > --- In Safarifriends@ yahoogroups. com, "Steve & Carolyn" emulsified2000@ wrote:
> > > >
> > > > As I recall, the major differences between the Sahara and all the others were the options and suspension.
> > > > I have a Sahara with about every option that was available. Most of these were standard on the Serengetti, however the suspension is different.
> > > > I guess you could look at it as the Sahara being the basic coach, the Serengetti as the deluxe. Then the Ivory as the basic of the two upscale coaches and the Continental as the deluxe.
> > > > If I remember right, the Ivory and Continental also had a couple larger coaches that were not available in the two lower lines.
> > > > Read thru the brocheres in the files section to get an idea of the options.
> > > >
> > > > Steve
> > > > '96 Sahara 3540
> > > >
> > >
> >
>


Group: Safarifriends Message: 6572 From: KarenInTheWoods * Date: 8/17/2009
Subject: Re: Still Safari Motorhomeless, But
Glad you found us now, Lynn!

When I joined, I went back to the FIRST message in the group on the main yahoo page, and started reading.. and reading... and reading... i learned a LOT!

And anything I thought I would need in the future, I would copy and paste into a word doc labelled Motorhome Stuff and keep it in my own files on the computer, in case sometime, somewhere, I need something and I might not have air card internet connection if I were to just rely on searching the group pages....

Karen and Steve
1996 Safari Serengeti 38ft DP
Honda Helix up on back rack
Just got back from camping at Lake Ottawa in the U.P. of Michigan this weekend......
--
KarenInTheWoods
~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~
(Camping/Family Photos)  http://picasaweb.google.com/pfundt/
(Weaving Photos)             http://picasaweb.google.com/KarenInTheWoods1
(All About Me)                   http://kareninthewoods.com
(Handwoven E-Stores)     http://kareninthewoods.etsy.com/
and   http://www.designstyleguide.net/sellerPortfolio.php?mi=170
~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~


On Fri, Aug 14, 2009 at 5:35 PM, bigbubbasafari <bigbubbasafari@...> wrote:
This is my first post, after discovering Safarifriends courtesy of KarenInTheWoods.  We've owned our 98 Sahara 3506, (300 hp with a slide)for almost 2 years.  It was pretty beat when I bought it.  Gel coat flaking, dirty interior, etc, starting batteries used as house batteries, etc, but the price was right.  Lots of effort and $ it is now where we really enjoy it!  As far as I can tell, Big Bubba has the same quality cabinets as the more expensive models, and I LOVE the garden bath! There are handling issues with the stock Velvet Ride.  I would recommend finding a Safari-knowledgeable tech and have it checked out well, including a very thorough road test. Adjust the price based on what you find.  Mine already had TigerTrac installed, but we added supplemental front shocks and rear rubber "donuts" to minimize the porpoising.  I also added Super Steer, and am considering oversize sway bars. It also needs several steering/suspension bushings replaced. Then maybe I'll be satisfied.  Henderson's Line Up in Grants Pass OR, is a great resource for handling issues.  Ask for the owner, Robert Henderson.

Dual pane windows need to have the seals replaced, which I plan on tackling this winter.  Other projects include tiling the backsplashes,   replacing blinds and valances with day/night shades, new kitchen faucet, etc.

We do not have washer/dryer combo. I found a used one, but wife Kathy vetoed it because of lost pantry space.  I also took out the icemaker, which we didn't use, much, and put in sliding wire baskets for pots and pans storage. She likes that a lot.

If you want to email me directly or talk, I would be happy to share more with you. Good luck!  Lynn Holland, aka bigbubbasafari@....

ps:  I would look at values on nada.com as a starting place.  I think they are at least 20-30% higher than what you could expect to pay.

Group: Safarifriends Message: 6576 From: slim_chestnut Date: 8/17/2009
Subject: Manuals for the Oshkosh V-Line chassis
Hello everyone,

I have the 1993 Contenintal 37 manufactured on the Osh-Kosh V-line chassis with Velvet Ride Torsilastic. I have a few chassis wiring diagrams for a similar coach but no owner's manual and detailed info. I have all the manual that came with the coach but they do not contain details on the OshKosh.

I would like a complete owners manual for the OSH-KOSH V-line chassis and will pay for a copy.[wouldn't everyone :-))]

Does anyone have one?

The only manual I have found for the Velvet Ride just says to check nut and fastener torques and visually check the hardware condition. That essentially means ride height is about all you can do on the suspension itself but Koni Shocks and/or other things might be nice. I do have the aftermarket stabiliser hardware.

As everyone knows OshKosh truck division was bought by Freightliner corp. I have talked to the engineers at Freightliner but they have almost nothing on Velvet Ride.

Velvet Ride/Torsilastic was sold to the Lord corporation and they do not sale into the truck and coach market anymore. They use it to make office chairs:-))

Slim
Group: Safarifriends Message: 6905 From: Tim Keppler Date: 9/29/2009
Subject: FOR SALE - 1998 Safari Trek 2830 - $27500 (SW Ohio)
I understand that this is okay to list for sale:

On Sep 29, 2009, at 5:16 PM, Mr. G. wrote:

 

Moderator here...  if it is Safari related go ahead and post it. I don't want to see advertisements for non motorhome items, or things that are off base from Safari interests. RG
 









1998 Safari Trek 2830 (Luxury Living / extra large galley) Pathmaker, 7.4L Vortec engine, 85,767 miles, one-owner, always garaged, newer batteries, Bilstein shocks, sway bar and poly bushings front and rear. Lots of interior upgrades. Clean, non-smoker, no pets. 

Pictures can be seen at the craigslist ad posting:

http://cincinnati.craigslist.org/rvs/1395322403.html

Electro-majic bed is hidden in the ceiling over the couch and chairs and lowers as a very comfortable queen size bed. All Aluminum sidewalls, fiberglass roof, 1000 watt inverter, 4000 watt Onan generator, microwave/convection oven, genovese counters, living space has couch and 2 barrel chairs, dining table has removable leaf and 4 chairs, oversized luxury bath with plenty of closet space. Wood floor in kitchen and bath, double pane windows, Dennis Dame mural of 2 wolves on back. 

This motor coach still looks as good as new !! 

For original product brochure, go to http://www.nwtfc.com/treks/1998/1998_trek.htm 

Interested? Call Glen Stewart at 513-899-4001 
Group: Safarifriends Message: 7241 From: Slim Chestnut Date: 11/22/2009
Subject: Torsilastic Front end shop, Denver
Has anyone with a OshKosh "V-Line" torsilastic rig had work done in the Denver area. Or anyone with Torsilastic RV suspension at all? I want my camber, caster and toe-in checked. Local, Colorado springs, truck and bus shops just scratch their heads. I know about the importance of ride height, shocks tires etc.

Thanks in Advance for any referals!

Slim
Group: Safarifriends Message: 7251 From: lotosrggp1 Date: 11/24/2009
Subject: Re: Torsilastic Front end shop, Denver
Slim,

Before shopping around Denver try Newbill's in CS. I always heard they were good for heavy rigs. Call first but I bet they can help you.

Newbill's Alignment Svc Inc
124 S El Paso St
Colorado Springs, CO 80903
(719) 473-9490

Tom

--- In Safarifriends@yahoogroups.com, Slim Chestnut <togocotton@...> wrote:
>
> Has anyone with a OshKosh "V-Line" torsilastic rig had work done in the
> Denver area. Or anyone with Torsilastic RV suspension at all? I want my
> camber, caster and toe-in checked. Local, Colorado springs, truck and bus
> shops just scratch their heads. I know about the importance of ride height,
> shocks tires etc.
>
> Thanks in Advance for any referals!
>
> Slim
>
Group: Safarifriends Message: 7363 From: slim_chestnut Date: 12/18/2009
Subject: Re: Torsilastic Front end shop, Denver
Hi Tom and All,

The folks at Newbills said on the phone they could align a Torsilastic rig but when I go there none of their techs had experience on it. I took them all the information I could and some ball park settings. They checked the ride height and then left the front end slightly out of alignment because they said they did not want to take a chance bending an older axel because of replacement issues! All my suspension parts look very new and are in good shape. No wrecks etc.

The guys in the shop, Brad and Lucas were very nice, and eager to help but essentially they could not do much.

I would still like to cultivate a good alignment shop that can service these Torsilatic rigs. basically i wasted 3.5 days with the coach at their premises. It still pulls slightly to the left with everything "Within tolerance" and a new set of steering tires and all other tires VGC. Kingpins etc are perfect as are bearings. One thing they "WOULD NOT" do was remove or rotate wheels. so hoe do they service an wheel bearing which can effect alignment??

Wtill hoping to find an old timer who really knows these rigs. Torsilastic rides too good for it to be wasted.

Slim
--- In Safarifriends@yahoogroups.com, "lotosrggp1" <lotos@...> wrote:
>
> Slim,
>
> Before shopping around Denver try Newbill's in CS. I always heard they were good for heavy rigs. Call first but I bet they can help you.
>
> Newbill's Alignment Svc Inc
> 124 S El Paso St
> Colorado Springs, CO 80903
> (719) 473-9490
>
> Tom
>
> --- In Safarifriends@yahoogroups.com, Slim Chestnut <togocotton@> wrote:
> >
> > Has anyone with a OshKosh "V-Line" torsilastic rig had work done in the
> > Denver area. Or anyone with Torsilastic RV suspension at all? I want my
> > camber, caster and toe-in checked. Local, Colorado springs, truck and bus
> > shops just scratch their heads. I know about the importance of ride height,
> > shocks tires etc.
> >
> > Thanks in Advance for any referals!
> >
> > Slim
> >
>
Group: Safarifriends Message: 7608 From: Tim Ahlstrom Date: 2/1/2010
Subject: Re: spare tire
Thanks for your thoughts Sherry - I do not plan on changing the tire myself
but am concerned that I might damage a rim if I have a flat and with the odd
size these are (7.5 inches wide) I may be awhile getting a replacement.
Also I would imagine there are more options on who can respond to a roadside
assistance when they don't have to mount the tire on a rim on the side of
the road. As to the weight issue - I actually want some more weight up
front. The previous owner had weight added to improve the steering which
was advised by Monaco - and actually paid by them as well - but he didn't
like the ride or how it handled so he took much of the extra weight off. I
have since replaced the shocks and the steering box and the handling is much
improved although it still feels light in the front. I'm hoping the weight
of the mounted tire plus the rack it is on will help improve the handling.
The 32' coaches like mine have such a short wheel base with so much weight
behind the rear axel that the weight up front seems like a good idea. Tim

-----Original Message-----
From: Safarifriends@yahoogroups.com [mailto:Safarifriends@yahoogroups.com]
On Behalf Of Sherry
Sent: Monday, February 01, 2010 10:03 AM
To: Safarifriends@yahoogroups.com
Subject: [Safarifriends] Re: spare tire

FWIW, I strongly recommend NOT mounting your spare. The extra weight just
increases the overall load on your rig and it's unlikely you can change the
tire yourself (the necessary torque etc. exceeds the equipment most of us
carry)... typically the big problem confronting RVers who have a flat is
local unavailability of the correct size tire. Since you already have
wheels, the repair facility can simply change out the bad tire for your
spare. Just my two cents:-)

Sherry
FT on Safari

--- In Safarifriends@yahoogroups.com, "Timothy" <tim@...> wrote:
>
> I have just finished making a rack for a spare tire for the front of my
'98 Sahara 30'( with the help of my brother-in-law's welding expertise!!)
and now am trying to locate a wheel to mount the tire I already have. The
wheel/rim is an Accuride 22.5 x 7.50 - part number 27403. Unfortunately
this is an unusal size and no one here in north Florida has one. The
closest I've found is in Kansas! Does anyone out there know of a source
closer?? I have tried several RV salvage yards and truck salvage places but
no luck so far. Any suggestions will be appreciated. Thanks. Tim
>




------------------------------------

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Group: Safarifriends Message: 7609 From: KarenInTheWoods * Date: 2/1/2010
Subject: Re: spare tire
Yup.. Steve has the same thoughts as you do Tim..  more weight on the front for us too.....  Plus we are wayyy up in the boonies and so are the places we frequent.    Having our own tire along is a sure bet compared to waiting days and days for some ERS company to try to locate the right one.   And damaging the rim is a distinct possibility that could cause even more delays in locating another one.   

We do not have that kind of time to wait if we are going somewhere, being on a work a day world schedule, 2 or 3 days wait uses up the precious alloted vacation days off work.  And using up MORE than the alloted days hurts the pocket book and wreaks havoc with the employer!  They only let Steve take so many days in a row and that is that.  Hard to argue with the State policies. 

Steve found a rim by pestering guys at all the tire places that deal with truck tires and finally found the right one.  I think it cost him about $80?   He made a removable winch device on the top of the rack he just fabricated for the front of our rig ....  now we just are gonna pick up a tire and have it mounted sometime before spring camping.. then a tire cover too.   

I have pics posted in the photo albums on the safari group page... 

album is named Spare Tire Rack on Front of Serengeti



--
KarenInTheWoods
~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~
(Blog) http://kareninthewoods-kareninthewoods.blogspot.com/
(Camping/Family Photos)  http://picasaweb.google.com/pfundt/
(Weaving Photos)             http://picasaweb.google.com/KarenInTheWoods1
(All About Me)                   http://kareninthewoods.com
(Handwoven E-Stores)     http://kareninthewoods.etsy.com/
and   http://www.designstyleguide.net/sellerPortfolio.php?mi=170
~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~


On Mon, Feb 1, 2010 at 10:45 AM, Tim Ahlstrom <tim@...> wrote:
Thanks for your thoughts Sherry - I do not plan on changing the tire myself
but am concerned that I might damage a rim if I have a flat and with the odd
size these are (7.5 inches wide) I may be awhile getting a replacement.
Also I would imagine there are more options on who can respond to a roadside
assistance when they don't have to mount the tire on a rim on the side of
the road.  As to the weight issue - I actually want some more weight up
front.  The previous owner had weight added to improve the steering which
was advised by Monaco - and actually paid by them as well - but he didn't
like the ride or how it handled so he took much of the extra weight off.  I
have since replaced the shocks and the steering box and the handling is much
improved although it still feels light in the front.  I'm hoping the weight
of the mounted tire plus the rack it is on will help improve the handling.
The 32' coaches like mine have such a short wheel base with so much weight
behind the rear axel that the weight up front seems like a good idea.   Tim

-----Original Message-----
From: Safarifriends@yahoogroups.com [mailto:Safarifriends@yahoogroups.com]
On Behalf Of Sherry
Sent: Monday, February 01, 2010 10:03 AM
To: Safarifriends@yahoogroups.com
Subject: [Safarifriends] Re: spare tire

FWIW, I strongly recommend NOT mounting your spare. The extra weight just
increases the overall load on your rig and it's unlikely you can change the
tire yourself (the necessary torque etc. exceeds the equipment most of us
carry)... typically the big problem confronting RVers who have a flat is
local unavailability of the correct size tire. Since you already have
wheels, the repair facility can simply change out the bad tire for your
spare. Just my two cents:-)

Sherry
FT on Safari

--- In Safarifriends@yahoogroups.com, "Timothy" <tim@...> wrote:
>
> I have just finished making a rack for a spare tire for the front of my
'98 Sahara 30'( with the help of my brother-in-law's welding expertise!!)
and now am trying to locate a wheel to mount the tire I already have.  The
wheel/rim is an Accuride 22.5 x 7.50 - part number 27403.  Unfortunately
this is an unusal size and no one here in north Florida has one.  The
closest I've found is in Kansas!  Does anyone out there know of a source
closer??  I have tried several RV salvage yards and truck salvage places but
no luck so far.  Any suggestions will be appreciated.  Thanks.  Tim
>




------------------------------------

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 Subscribe:    Safarifriends-subscribe@onelist.com
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Group: Safarifriends Message: 7680 From: Tim Ahlstrom Date: 2/16/2010
Subject: Re: spare tire
Attachments :

Yup.. Steve has the same thoughts as you do Tim..  more weight on the front for us too.....  Plus we are wayyy up in the boonies and so are the places we frequent.    Having our own tire along is a sure bet compared to waiting days and days for some ERS company to try to locate the right one..   And damaging the rim is a distinct possibility that could cause even more delays in locating another one.   

 

We do not have that kind of time to wait if we are going somewhere, being on a work a day world schedule, 2 or 3 days wait uses up the precious alloted vacation days off work.  And using up MORE than the alloted days hurts the pocket book and wreaks havoc with the employer!  They only let Steve take so many days in a row and that is that.  Hard to argue with the State policies. 

 

Steve found a rim by pestering guys at all the tire places that deal with truck tires and finally found the right one.  I think it cost him about $80?   He made a removable winch device on the top of the rack he just fabricated for the front of our rig ....  now we just are gonna pick up a tire and have it mounted sometime before spring camping.. then a tire cover too.   

 

I have pics posted in the photo albums on the safari group page... 

 

album is named Spare Tire Rack on Front of Serengeti

 

 


--
KarenInTheWoods
~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~
(Blog) http://kareninthewoods-kareninthewoods.blogspot.com/
(Camping/Family Photos)  http://picasaweb.google.com/pfundt/
(Weaving Photos)             http://picasaweb.google.com/KarenInTheWoods1
(All About Me)                   http://kareninthewoods.com
(Handwoven E-Stores)     http://kareninthewoods.etsy.com/
and   http://www.designstyleguide.net/sellerPortfolio.php?mi=170
~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~

On Mon, Feb 1, 2010 at 10:45 AM, Tim Ahlstrom <tim@...> wrote:

Thanks for your thoughts Sherry - I do not plan on changing the tire myself
but am concerned that I might damage a rim if I have a flat and with the odd
size these are (7.5 inches wide) I may be awhile getting a replacement.
Also I would imagine there are more options on who can respond to a roadside
assistance when they don't have to mount the tire on a rim on the side of
the road.  As to the weight issue - I actually want some more weight up
front.  The previous owner had weight added to improve the steering which
was advised by Monaco - and actually paid by them as well - but he didn't
like the ride or how it handled so he took much of the extra weight off.  I
have since replaced the shocks and the steering box and the handling is much
improved although it still feels light in the front.  I'm hoping the weight
of the mounted tire plus the rack it is on will help improve the handling.
The 32' coaches like mine have such a short wheel base with so much weight
behind the rear axel that the weight up front seems like a good idea.   Tim


-----Original Message-----
From: Safarifriends@yahoogroups.com [mailto:Safarifriends@yahoogroups.com]
On Behalf Of Sherry
Sent: Monday, February 01, 2010 10:03 AM
To: Safarifriends@yahoogroups.com
Subject: [Safarifriends] Re: spare tire

FWIW, I strongly recommend NOT mounting your spare. The extra weight just
increases the overall load on your rig and it's unlikely you can change the
tire yourself (the necessary torque etc. exceeds the equipment most of us
carry)... typically the big problem confronting RVers who have a flat is
local unavailability of the correct size tire. Since you already have
wheels, the repair facility can simply change out the bad tire for your
spare. Just my two cents:-)

Sherry
FT on Safari

--- In Safarifriends@yahoogroups.com, "Timothy" <tim@...> wrote:

>
> I have just finished making a rack for a spare tire for the front of my
'98 Sahara 30'( with the help of my brother-in-law's welding expertise!!)
and now am trying to locate a wheel to mount the tire I already have.  The
wheel/rim is an Accuride 22.5 x 7.50 - part number 27403.  Unfortunately
this is an unusal size and no one here in north Florida has one.  The
closest I've found is in Kansas!  Does anyone out there know of a source
closer??  I have tried several RV salvage yards and truck salvage places but
no luck so far.  Any suggestions will be appreciated.  Thanks.  Tim
>




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Group: Safarifriends Message: 7922 From: buffalobilly2 Date: 4/3/2010
Subject: Re: Brakes the chanlange
I have the Magnum 35 ft with springs and shocks. I doubt if you have the same running gear as I do.

Bill

--- In Safarifriends@yahoogroups.com, "chuck.lewis72" <cdl45309@...> wrote:
>
> That's good info.
> What chassis do you have?
> Wonder if my 1997 Serengeti on the Magnum chassis would be the same parts?
>

>
Group: Safarifriends Message: 8042 From: Big Bubba Safari Date: 4/16/2010
Subject: Re: Process of buying -what should I buy?
Randy: Congratulations and WELCOME TO THE GROUP! I have almost 3 years of ownership of the same Safari model you are buying. I've learned a lot, and would be happy to share my experiences with you. For example, the porpoising on undulating roads (which we seem to have a lot of in CA) bothered me, and was easily fixed by adding two additional shocks to the front axle. This is a great forum as you have already discovered and will help you, and save you aggravation and money. Feel free to contact me privately at bigbubbasafari@... or by phone at 925 639 9464. I love Big Bubba, and I am sure you'll enjoy your new purchase too!

Lynn Holland, traveling as Big Bubba, the 98 Safari Sahara 3506 with Little E, the 04 Element toad happily following.

ps: I have 107,000 miles on the odo. The CAT dealer told me to expect at least 250-300K with good maintenance.

--- In Safarifriends@yahoogroups.com, "randy.kenagy" <randy.kenagy@...> wrote:
>
>
> Update to the adventure:
>
> Our family spent about two hours pouring over it last night and confirmed this camper is the one for us. Love the Alder, love the use of space, love the length, love the rear diesel pusher. It's all good.
>
> Just as a refresh, its a 1998 35 foot Sahara http://www.rvsearch.com/findrv/index.cfm/a-d/tc-36261/vid-502227/#2 I put down a deposit on it and here we go.
>
> Now begins the journey to ownership with an inspection and spending time getting to know the coach. The current owner and his wife are super nice people, and they were very honest on what was mechanically working and not. They are selling due to health and he's very willing to show me the way he runs the coach. They are second owner and have put half of the 100,000 miles on it. It's been from Florida to Alaska and everywhere in between.
>
> Fairly good tires, very smooth and straight exterior. Interior woodwork is flawless and even the carpet (original) is in good enough shape to get started with the kids and family pet Coconut.
>
> It is still winterized so we didn't check too many of the systems but the electrics all worked well and the generator too. When I go over to pick up the Safari and drive it to an inspection location, I plan to complete the entire checklist in the FILES section of Safarifriends. We did only about 30 percent last night.
>
> To answer a few of your generously recommended questions>
>
> -The rear suspension is leaf springs. I didn't look at the front suspension.
> -Love the aluminum sides with rivets. Fiberglass end caps are also in good shape.
>
> We are already planning the first camp out in a couple weeks, going to pick something very close by home and near a wal-mart (but not in the parking lot this time) <grin>
>
> I guess it's official, list me as an owner in Safarifriends. Thanks again for your help. I'll be back soon with a LOT of questions for sure.
>
> RK
> --- In Safarifriends@yahoogroups.com, "randy.kenagy" <randy.kenagy@> wrote:
> >
> > Yes, I plan to tonight.
> >
> > I confirmed it has aluminum sides and insulated windows. Owner said the window seals are lifting like I've seen on other campers of that era.
> >
> > Looking at the 1998 safari flyer in the files section of this group, it appears as though this coach has the Nomad package (icemaker, 2000 wat inverter, solar panel), and Sultan's package (Awnings, air horns, leather cab seats/recliner). I'll be looking to see if it has the rajah package. Also can see it has mural and washer/dryer as well as the 300hp engine upgrade.
> >
> > Anything else to look for on this one that may not be so obvious?
> >
> > RK
> >
> > --- In Safarifriends@yahoogroups.com, "chuck.lewis72" <cdl45309@> wrote:
> > >
> > > I'd be checkin on that 1998 Sahara.
> > >
> > > --- In Safarifriends@yahoogroups.com, "randy.kenagy" <randy.kenagy@> wrote:
> > > >
> > > > Hi Slim,
> > > >
> > > > I have not bought a Safari yet, but I'd really like to soon! If it's ok, I'd like to use this thread as my feedback from you and the group as I find that perfect camper. I've been trolling the web a lot lately, and I have been scouring the corners of the USA looking for that perfect rig. Here are a few I've been looking at and I've love your opinion as well as anyone else who cares to spend their time doing so. My priorities in a camper:
> > > >
> > > > Affordable for my budget
> > > > Road worthy and safe
> > > > Sleeps minimum of 4, optimum of 6 ( a dinette is actually OK for us with a family).
> > > > No slide out
> > > > Wide-body
> > > > Rear queen
> > > > Separate water closet for potty
> > > > Aluminum sides if possible
> > > > Awnings all around
> > > > Engine in good condition
> > > > Engine size flexible (MPG higher priority than HP)
> > > > Agile/maneuverable for east-coast camping but suitable for mountain west
> > > > Small Toad ready (mini cooper)
> > > > Winter ready w/heated basement/power & heated mirrors
> > > > Inverter of 2,000W
> > > > No washer/dryer necessary.
> > > > Ice maker
> > > >
> > > > The one thing I've found is that all Safari's have the generator under the bedroom. It raises a question I've had, is that a lot of noise, if for example using it to power the AC while trying to sleep?
> > > >
> > > > I also note that adding a couch or third bed appears somewhat challenging and that may force me away from Safari <sigh>, although at least one listed below has a second couch.
> > > >
> > > > I won't be surprised if a seller or fellow shopper is in this group, with more than 580 members. That is fantastic. So, here is my short list after a lot of looking. Thoughts anyone?
> > > >
> > > > 1995 37 foot Serengetti http://cgi.ebay.com/ebaymotors/ws/eBayISAPI.dll?ViewItem&item=260583770386&ssPageName=STRK:MEWAX:IT#ht_500wt_1182
> > > >
> > > > 1996 37 foot Serengetti http://portland.craigslist.org/clk/rvs/1683300373.html
> > > >
> > > > 1998 35 foot Sahara http://www.rvsearch.com/findrv/index.cfm/a-d/tc-36261/vid-502227/#2
> > > >
> > > > 1993 36 foot Continental http://cgi.ebay.com/ebaymotors/ws/eBayISAPI.dll?ViewItem&item=280492512200&_trksid=p2759.l1259#ht_500wt_1182
> > > >
> > > > You can see my budget is at the very low end, but this way, I can budget extra cash for maintenance and upkeep, because I do plan to keep it maintained and fully operational. I hope to find inside storage but...that will be tough.
> > > >
> > > > From what I've learned already, I'm looking at models with various chasis/suspension and engines but I'm lost as to the suspension pros/cons.
> > > >
> > > > Except for the 1993 above, I believe all will have the 6 speed Alison.
> > > >
> > > >
> > > > Thanks for everyone's help so far. Now, off to scan through the Safarari Friends messages to keep learning.
> > > >
> > > > Cheers
> > > >
> > > > Randy Kenagy
> > > > (Maryland)
> > > >
> > > >
> > > > --- In Safarifriends@yahoogroups.com, Slim Chestnut <togocotton@> wrote:
> > > > >
> > > > > Welcome to the group Randy. That was a smart year to purchase. Best of the
> > > > > old and the new. But is it an aluminum sheeted rig or fiberglass?
> > > > >
> > > > > Slim
> > > > >
> > > >
> > >
> >
>
Group: Safarifriends Message: 8051 From: randy.kenagy Date: 4/17/2010
Subject: Re: Process of buying -what should I buy?
Lynn,

Glad to hear it's working out so well for you. After a bit of driving, I'm sure I will have a question or two, so I'll take you up on the email offer!

I love the name you chose too. We will find a name soon but probably consistent with the Africa theme. My daughters already named the giraffe on the shower glass and the monkey on the top of the lamp behind the front passenger seat. LOL!

Rk

--- In Safarifriends@yahoogroups.com, "Big Bubba Safari" <bigbubbasafari@...> wrote:
>
>
>
>
>
>
>
>
>
>
> Randy: Congratulations and WELCOME TO THE GROUP! I have almost 3 years of ownership of the same Safari model you are buying. I've learned a lot, and would be happy to share my experiences with you. For example, the porpoising on undulating roads (which we seem to have a lot of in CA) bothered me, and was easily fixed by adding two additional shocks to the front axle. This is a great forum as you have already discovered and will help you, and save you aggravation and money. Feel free to contact me privately at bigbubbasafari@... or by phone at 925 639 9464. I love Big Bubba, and I am sure you'll enjoy your new purchase too!
>
> Lynn Holland, traveling as Big Bubba, the 98 Safari Sahara 3506 with Little E, the 04 Element toad happily following.
>
> ps: I have 107,000 miles on the odo. The CAT dealer told me to expect at least 250-300K with good maintenance.
>
> --- In Safarifriends@yahoogroups.com, "randy.kenagy" <randy.kenagy@> wrote:
> >
> >
> > Update to the adventure:
> >
> > Our family spent about two hours pouring over it last night and confirmed this camper is the one for us. Love the Alder, love the use of space, love the length, love the rear diesel pusher. It's all good.
> >
> > Just as a refresh, its a 1998 35 foot Sahara http://www.rvsearch.com/findrv/index.cfm/a-d/tc-36261/vid-502227/#2 I put down a deposit on it and here we go.
> >
> > Now begins the journey to ownership with an inspection and spending time getting to know the coach. The current owner and his wife are super nice people, and they were very honest on what was mechanically working and not. They are selling due to health and he's very willing to show me the way he runs the coach. They are second owner and have put half of the 100,000 miles on it. It's been from Florida to Alaska and everywhere in between.
> >
> > Fairly good tires, very smooth and straight exterior. Interior woodwork is flawless and even the carpet (original) is in good enough shape to get started with the kids and family pet Coconut.
> >
> > It is still winterized so we didn't check too many of the systems but the electrics all worked well and the generator too. When I go over to pick up the Safari and drive it to an inspection location, I plan to complete the entire checklist in the FILES section of Safarifriends. We did only about 30 percent last night.
> >
> > To answer a few of your generously recommended questions>
> >
> > -The rear suspension is leaf springs. I didn't look at the front suspension.
> > -Love the aluminum sides with rivets. Fiberglass end caps are also in good shape.
> >
> > We are already planning the first camp out in a couple weeks, going to pick something very close by home and near a wal-mart (but not in the parking lot this time) <grin>
> >
> > I guess it's official, list me as an owner in Safarifriends. Thanks again for your help. I'll be back soon with a LOT of questions for sure.
> >
> > RK
> > --- In Safarifriends@yahoogroups.com, "randy.kenagy" <randy.kenagy@> wrote:
> > >
> > > Yes, I plan to tonight.
> > >
> > > I confirmed it has aluminum sides and insulated windows. Owner said the window seals are lifting like I've seen on other campers of that era.
> > >
> > > Looking at the 1998 safari flyer in the files section of this group, it appears as though this coach has the Nomad package (icemaker, 2000 wat inverter, solar panel), and Sultan's package (Awnings, air horns, leather cab seats/recliner). I'll be looking to see if it has the rajah package. Also can see it has mural and washer/dryer as well as the 300hp engine upgrade.
> > >
> > > Anything else to look for on this one that may not be so obvious?
> > >
> > > RK
> > >
> > > --- In Safarifriends@yahoogroups.com, "chuck.lewis72" <cdl45309@> wrote:
> > > >
> > > > I'd be checkin on that 1998 Sahara.
> > > >
> > > > --- In Safarifriends@yahoogroups.com, "randy.kenagy" <randy.kenagy@> wrote:
> > > > >
> > > > > Hi Slim,
> > > > >
> > > > > I have not bought a Safari yet, but I'd really like to soon! If it's ok, I'd like to use this thread as my feedback from you and the group as I find that perfect camper. I've been trolling the web a lot lately, and I have been scouring the corners of the USA looking for that perfect rig. Here are a few I've been looking at and I've love your opinion as well as anyone else who cares to spend their time doing so. My priorities in a camper:
> > > > >
> > > > > Affordable for my budget
> > > > > Road worthy and safe
> > > > > Sleeps minimum of 4, optimum of 6 ( a dinette is actually OK for us with a family).
> > > > > No slide out
> > > > > Wide-body
> > > > > Rear queen
> > > > > Separate water closet for potty
> > > > > Aluminum sides if possible
> > > > > Awnings all around
> > > > > Engine in good condition
> > > > > Engine size flexible (MPG higher priority than HP)
> > > > > Agile/maneuverable for east-coast camping but suitable for mountain west
> > > > > Small Toad ready (mini cooper)
> > > > > Winter ready w/heated basement/power & heated mirrors
> > > > > Inverter of 2,000W
> > > > > No washer/dryer necessary.
> > > > > Ice maker
> > > > >
> > > > > The one thing I've found is that all Safari's have the generator under the bedroom. It raises a question I've had, is that a lot of noise, if for example using it to power the AC while trying to sleep?
> > > > >
> > > > > I also note that adding a couch or third bed appears somewhat challenging and that may force me away from Safari <sigh>, although at least one listed below has a second couch.
> > > > >
> > > > > I won't be surprised if a seller or fellow shopper is in this group, with more than 580 members. That is fantastic. So, here is my short list after a lot of looking. Thoughts anyone?
> > > > >
> > > > > 1995 37 foot Serengetti http://cgi.ebay.com/ebaymotors/ws/eBayISAPI.dll?ViewItem&item=260583770386&ssPageName=STRK:MEWAX:IT#ht_500wt_1182
> > > > >
> > > > > 1996 37 foot Serengetti http://portland.craigslist.org/clk/rvs/1683300373.html
> > > > >
> > > > > 1998 35 foot Sahara http://www.rvsearch.com/findrv/index.cfm/a-d/tc-36261/vid-502227/#2
> > > > >
> > > > > 1993 36 foot Continental http://cgi.ebay.com/ebaymotors/ws/eBayISAPI.dll?ViewItem&item=280492512200&_trksid=p2759.l1259#ht_500wt_1182
> > > > >
> > > > > You can see my budget is at the very low end, but this way, I can budget extra cash for maintenance and upkeep, because I do plan to keep it maintained and fully operational. I hope to find inside storage but...that will be tough.
> > > > >
> > > > > From what I've learned already, I'm looking at models with various chasis/suspension and engines but I'm lost as to the suspension pros/cons.
> > > > >
> > > > > Except for the 1993 above, I believe all will have the 6 speed Alison.
> > > > >
> > > > >
> > > > > Thanks for everyone's help so far. Now, off to scan through the Safarari Friends messages to keep learning.
> > > > >
> > > > > Cheers
> > > > >
> > > > > Randy Kenagy
> > > > > (Maryland)
> > > > >
> > > > >
> > > > > --- In Safarifriends@yahoogroups.com, Slim Chestnut <togocotton@> wrote:
> > > > > >
> > > > > > Welcome to the group Randy. That was a smart year to purchase. Best of the
> > > > > > old and the new. But is it an aluminum sheeted rig or fiberglass?
> > > > > >
> > > > > > Slim
> > > > > >
> > > > >
> > > >
> > >
> >
>
Group: Safarifriends Message: 8385 From: slim_chestnut Date: 6/7/2010
Subject: Koni or other shock modification Pictures and docs?
1993 Safari continental 37 with Torsilastics and Cummins/Allison

I am interested in adding some higher quality shocks to our torsilastic rig. Anyone have the details and maybe some photos of how they added the dual Koni setup? We are thinking about both front and rear shocks.

The torsilastic does fine on many roads but can tend to porpoise and or be rough at times. I think eliminating the porpoising is usually handled in two ways: One being distributing more weight to the front end and the other enhancing the suspension.

Different subject: Has anyone tried adding a couple of air bags in conjunction with the torsilastics? Where did you put them?

Slim
Group: Safarifriends Message: 8386 From: KarenInTheWoods * Date: 6/7/2010
Subject: Re: Koni or other shock modification Pictures and docs?
Though our ride was fine with the torsilastic, we just put new single
Bilsteins on the front ..  we had one original Koni that was no longer
adjustable and making a rattling noise over some rough bumps.

Then although the back rides fine, we noticed some leaking fluid on
one of the Koni's back there,  so we just ordered the ones now for the
back....

From
https://www.rvchassisparts.com/Rally.asp

Magnum Chassis 92-04 "Blue Max, Blue Streak" Front B46-2092 $116.11
Magnum Chassis 92-04 "Blue Max, Blue Streak" Rear B46-2093 $116.11

--
KarenInTheWoods
~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~
(Our Blog) RVing: Small House... BIG Backyard
http://kareninthewoods-kareninthewoods.blogspot.com/
(Camping/Family Photos)  http://picasaweb.google.com/pfundt/
(Weaving Photos)             http://picasaweb.google.com/KarenInTheWoods1
(All About Me)                   http://kareninthewoods.com
(Handwoven E-Stores)     http://kareninthewoods.etsy.com/
~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~


On Mon, Jun 7, 2010 at 11:33 AM, slim_chestnut <togocotton@...> wrote:
>
> 1993 Safari continental 37 with Torsilastics and Cummins/Allison
>
> I am interested in adding some higher quality shocks to our torsilastic rig. Anyone have the details and maybe some photos of how they added the dual Koni setup? We are thinking about both front and rear shocks.
>
> The torsilastic does fine on many roads but can tend to porpoise and or be rough at times. I think eliminating the porpoising is usually handled in two ways: One being distributing more weight to the front end and the other enhancing the suspension.
>
> Different  subject: Has anyone tried adding a couple of air bags in conjunction with the torsilastics? Where did you put them?
>
> Slim
>
>
Group: Safarifriends Message: 8390 From: Big Bubba Safari Date: 6/7/2010
Subject: Re: Koni or other shock modification Pictures and docs?
Hi,Slim, I know the problem of which you speak. Big Bubba was quite a handful on some of our "wavy" CA roads. I worked with my tech for several months to improve it. BB already had the Tiger Trac mod. He had almost 100k at the time, and we replaced the steering and rear suspension bushings. Improvement on steering, not much on porpoising. Next was Steer Safe, improved wander a bit. Then, we added some rubber "donuts" at the rear axle. This helped quite a bit, but the best fix was additional shocks on the front axle. I had Bilsteins all around that were still in good condition, so we went with them on the front too. I would try the additional front shocks first, if I were you. Might give you all the improvement you want. Cost on that was about $500, parts, fabrication of the brackets, and installation labor.

Re. the air bags: that might be an option rather than the "donuts"

I am getting ready for a trip, and will try to get some pictures in the next few hours and post them to the photo section for you. I can also give you my tech's phone # if you wish to talk with him.

Good luck!

Lynn Holland, traveling in Big Bubba, the 98 Safari Sahara 3506 300 CAT, withnd Little E the 04 Element happily following behind


--- In Safarifriends@yahoogroups.com, "slim_chestnut" <togocotton@...>

wrote:
>
> 1993 Safari continental 37 with Torsilastics and Cummins/Allison
>
> I am interested in adding some higher quality shocks to our torsilastic rig. Anyone have the details and maybe some photos of how they added the dual Koni setup? We are thinking about both front and rear shocks.
>
> The torsilastic does fine on many roads but can tend to porpoise and or be rough at times. I think eliminating the porpoising is usually handled in two ways: One being distributing more weight to the front end and the other enhancing the suspension.
>
> Different subject: Has anyone tried adding a couple of air bags in conjunction with the torsilastics? Where did you put them?
>
> Slim
>
Group: Safarifriends Message: 8400 From: Slim Chestnut Date: 6/8/2010
Subject: Koni or other shock modification Pictures and docs?
Just got off the phone with Koni and with Ralph Andrews, VP of Safari International and owner of Pioneer Metal works. He is the guy who bought all the old Torsilastic/Velvet ride suspension parts up. A very nice contact. Thanks Gary!

The dual shock mod is no longer needed or desired. After extensive testing in cooperation with Koni the recommended adjustable shock  PNs for the torsilastic rigs for years between 1993 and 2003 are:

Front  88-1641SP3       price around $147.00 from KONI, $294/pair
Rear   88-1458SP1                          $147.00 from KONI, $294/pair

These shocks should give even better results than the dual shock mod from Pioneer Metal Works. Ralph  says these shocks also work far better than anything from Bilstein. I hope so!
KONI is closed for inventory but will be back open for business around Thursday.

My rig already has nice steering stability mods that look like they are factory or shortly thereafter but this should help that too. I just want a softer attack and a slower release which is what this provides. The recommended settings for torsilastic rigs are:

Front: run shock all the way and then back 1/2-3/4 turn
Rear: run all the way and then back 1/2 turn.

These should bolt right on to any 93-2003 Torsilastic Safari. I emphasize tht your ride height must be correct and even all round, fully loaded before installing.

FYI, I found the best price of $144 ea. at LTB MotorSports in FL with free shipping.

Slim
Group: Safarifriends Message: 8405 From: J. Belisle Date: 6/8/2010
Subject: Re: Koni or other shock modification Pictures and docs?
I'm glad I saw this because I was planning on ordering shocks from the Koni website ($149 each) where they recommend for the Magnum velvet ride suspension: Front: 88-1490SP2 and Rear: 88-1458SP2. Now I'm confused as to which ones to order?
 
I'm also trying to improve the harsh ride. I changed the Toyo tires (date code 2001) with Michelin and this has softened and improved handling considerably. I've adjusted the ride height (removed 2 shims per stack, front only) to 43" all around and now I was replacing the tired Bilsteins with new Konis.
 
Are those part numbers from Koni or Ralph Andrews?
 
Thanks,
Jake


 



To: Safarifriends@yahoogroups.com
CC: brilcristiel@...
From: togocotton@...
Date: Tue, 8 Jun 2010 10:45:29 -0600
Subject: [Safarifriends] Koni or other shock modification Pictures and docs?

 
Just got off the phone with Koni and with Ralph Andrews, VP of Safari International and owner of Pioneer Metal works. He is the guy who bought all the old Torsilastic/ Velvet ride suspension parts up. A very nice contact. Thanks Gary!

The dual shock mod is no longer needed or desired. After extensive testing in cooperation with Koni the recommended adjustable shock  PNs for the torsilastic rigs for years between 1993 and 2003 are:

Front  88-1641SP3       price around $147.00 from KONI, $294/pair
Rear   88-1458SP1                          $147.00 from KONI, $294/pair

These shocks should give even better results than the dual shock mod from Pioneer Metal Works. Ralph  says these shocks also work far better than anything from Bilstein. I hope so!
KONI is closed for inventory but will be back open for business around Thursday.

My rig already has nice steering stability mods that look like they are factory or shortly thereafter but this should help that too. I just want a softer attack and a slower release which is what this provides. The recommended settings for torsilastic rigs are:

Front: run shock all the way and then back 1/2-3/4 turn
Rear: run all the way and then back 1/2 turn.

These should bolt right on to any 93-2003 Torsilastic Safari. I emphasize tht your ride height must be correct and even all round, fully loaded before installing.

FYI, I found the best price of $144 ea. at LTB MotorSports in FL with free shipping.

Slim

Group: Safarifriends Message: 8460 From: jamendt3 Date: 6/12/2010
Subject: cci controls and gas shocks
hello all,
new to the group.
I have a 95 Sahara and am interested in changing my carbon dioxide detector -Leco CCI controls model # 3350 -cant seem to find they still exist.
also lots of my gas shocks in the basement are shot the number shows SPD-5300-60A any ideas where the best place to find/buy these items would be very helpful.
Thanks in advance.
Joe
Group: Safarifriends Message: 8597 From: acoolcouple2 Date: 6/26/2010
Subject: Suspension suggestions for bouncy front end 99 Sahara
Hi all,

It seems to me my coach is very bouncy when going down the road. There are Bilstein shocks installed and I am told they are fine. I was also told that the ride height is fine and no adjustment needed. Each wheel has 5 or 6 shims left.

This baby can really get going and it's no fun to "hang on" until she settles down. I cannot drive any faster that 55 MPH.

Also seems to have alot of side to side motion. I have only driven 500 miles so maybe I need to get used to it.

Any suggestions or thoughts would be appreciated.

Bill