Messages in Safarifriends group. Page 14 of 23.

Group: Safarifriends Message: 29408 From: TD Date: 11/23/2015
Subject: Re: Buying advice for a 30ft Sahara
Group: Safarifriends Message: 29409 From: Dick Missett Date: 11/23/2015
Subject: Re: Buying advice for a 30ft Sahara
Group: Safarifriends Message: 29417 From: Gary Adams Date: 11/24/2015
Subject: Re: advice for a 30ft Sahara
Group: Safarifriends Message: 29423 From: TD Date: 11/24/2015
Subject: Re: advice for a 30ft Sahara
Group: Safarifriends Message: 29425 From: Gary Adams Date: 11/24/2015
Subject: Re: advice for a 30ft Sahara
Group: Safarifriends Message: 29426 From: TD Date: 11/24/2015
Subject: Re: advice for a 30ft Sahara
Group: Safarifriends Message: 29427 From: Gary Adams Date: 11/24/2015
Subject: Re: advice for a 30ft Sahara
Group: Safarifriends Message: 29428 From: TD Date: 11/24/2015
Subject: Re: advice for a 30ft Sahara
Group: Safarifriends Message: 29445 From: Jim Exler Date: 11/25/2015
Subject: Re: Buying advice for a 30ft Sahara
Group: Safarifriends Message: 30786 From: garysavage17347 Date: 7/11/2016
Subject: 2001 Zanzibar Brakes
Group: Safarifriends Message: 31188 From: TD Date: 9/16/2016
Subject: Re: Velvet Ride Suspension Repair
Group: Safarifriends Message: 31189 From: nanandpete@q.com Date: 9/16/2016
Subject: Re: Velvet Ride Suspension Repair
Group: Safarifriends Message: 31191 From: TD Date: 9/16/2016
Subject: Re: Velvet Ride Suspension Repair
Group: Safarifriends Message: 31384 From: jim mcmillan Date: 10/19/2016
Subject: Shock absorbers
Group: Safarifriends Message: 31387 From: TD Date: 10/19/2016
Subject: Re: Shock absorbers
Group: Safarifriends Message: 31404 From: Gary Smith Date: 10/20/2016
Subject: Re: Shock absorbers
Group: Safarifriends Message: 31405 From: Gary Smith Date: 10/20/2016
Subject: Re: Shock absorbers
Group: Safarifriends Message: 31413 From: jim mcmillan Date: 10/21/2016
Subject: Re: Shock absorbers
Group: Safarifriends Message: 31416 From: TD Date: 10/21/2016
Subject: Re: Koni Shock absorber Part Numbers
Group: Safarifriends Message: 31417 From: wolfe102001 Date: 10/21/2016
Subject: Re: Shock absorbers
Group: Safarifriends Message: 31418 From: TD Date: 10/21/2016
Subject: Re: Shock absorbers
Group: Safarifriends Message: 31422 From: Jeff Date: 10/21/2016
Subject: Re: Koni Shock absorber Part Numbers
Group: Safarifriends Message: 31425 From: MJ Johnson Date: 10/21/2016
Subject: Re: Koni Shock absorber Part Numbers
Group: Safarifriends Message: 31426 From: Bill Edwards Date: 10/21/2016
Subject: Re: Shock absorbers
Group: Safarifriends Message: 31428 From: Gary Smith Date: 10/22/2016
Subject: Re: Shock absorbers
Group: Safarifriends Message: 31429 From: mel96safari Date: 10/22/2016
Subject: Re: Koni Shock absorber Part Numbers
Group: Safarifriends Message: 31430 From: MJ Johnson Date: 10/22/2016
Subject: Re: Koni Shock absorber Part Numbers
Group: Safarifriends Message: 31431 From: TD Date: 10/22/2016
Subject: Re: Koni Shock absorber Part Numbers
Group: Safarifriends Message: 31432 From: MJ Johnson Date: 10/22/2016
Subject: Re: Koni Shock absorber Part Numbers
Group: Safarifriends Message: 31433 From: TD Date: 10/22/2016
Subject: Re: Koni Shock absorber Part Numbers
Group: Safarifriends Message: 31437 From: Bill Edwards Date: 10/23/2016
Subject: Re: Koni Shock absorber Part Numbers
Group: Safarifriends Message: 31583 From: jim mcmillan Date: 11/14/2016
Subject: Re: replacing tires
Group: Safarifriends Message: 31584 From: John Clevenger Date: 11/14/2016
Subject: Re: replacing tires
Group: Safarifriends Message: 31744 From: Robert Todd Date: 12/5/2016
Subject: VevetRide steering/shocks
Group: Safarifriends Message: 31746 From: TD Date: 12/5/2016
Subject: Re: VevetRide steering/shocks
Group: Safarifriends Message: 31747 From: Robert Todd Date: 12/5/2016
Subject: Re: VevetRide steering/shocks
Group: Safarifriends Message: 31854 From: nanandpete@q.com Date: 12/19/2016
Subject: Re: VevetRide steering/shocks
Group: Safarifriends Message: 31879 From: umikie1952 Date: 12/20/2016
Subject: Re: More on lane wander
Group: Safarifriends Message: 31884 From: Bill Edwards Date: 12/21/2016
Subject: Re: More on lane wander
Group: Safarifriends Message: 31888 From: wolfe102001 Date: 12/22/2016
Subject: Now: Suspension Discussion. Was: Dash heater failure.
Group: Safarifriends Message: 31935 From: bergs67 Date: 1/2/2017
Subject: Air Bags For 97 Safari Sahara Leaf Spring
Group: Safarifriends Message: 31936 From: Duane Buck Date: 1/2/2017
Subject: Re: Air Bags For 97 Safari Sahara Leaf Spring
Group: Safarifriends Message: 31939 From: TD Date: 1/2/2017
Subject: Re: Air Bags For 97 Safari Sahara Leaf Spring
Group: Safarifriends Message: 31940 From: Gerry Date: 1/2/2017
Subject: Re: Air Bags For 97 Safari Sahara Leaf Spring
Group: Safarifriends Message: 31941 From: Bill Edwards Date: 1/2/2017
Subject: Re: Air Bags For 97 Safari Sahara Leaf Spring
Group: Safarifriends Message: 31942 From: Duane Buck Date: 1/2/2017
Subject: Re: Air Bags For 97 Safari Sahara Leaf Spring
Group: Safarifriends Message: 32246 From: Jason Ellis Date: 2/26/2017
Subject: Adding weight to front axle
Group: Safarifriends Message: 32247 From: Charles Goodspeed Date: 2/26/2017
Subject: Re: Adding weight to front axle
Group: Safarifriends Message: 32249 From: James Exler Date: 2/27/2017
Subject: Re: Adding weight to front axle
Group: Safarifriends Message: 32250 From: Gary Smith Date: 2/27/2017
Subject: Re: Adding weight to front axle



Group: Safarifriends Message: 29408 From: TD Date: 11/23/2015
Subject: Re: Buying advice for a 30ft Sahara
Gary,

Please specify which suspension you have.
It will either be a leaf spring suspension, what the call Elipti Ride
or the torsional suspension, what they call Velvet Ride, made by BFGoodrich.

If you get me the right info, I will get you the shock numbers you need and with the updated shocks, you won't need the quad shock set up.

John
'95 Safari Serengeti 38ft, 300 Cummins 8.3CTA, Allison
6spd.

On Mon, Nov 23, 2015 at 8:27 PM, togaryadams@... [Safarifriends] <Safarifriends@yahoogroups.com> wrote:


Came across your old posting ... also have a 1998 30Ft and love it but (had it since new) ... Would like to add the quad shocks and weight to the front ... can you tell me how it was done .... Many thanks
Gary Adams ... The Villages, Florida



Group: Safarifriends Message: 29409 From: Dick Missett Date: 11/23/2015
Subject: Re: Buying advice for a 30ft Sahara
I would also love to see an illustration and explanation of the additional weight added to the front end of a short wheel coach. I've switched to the recommended Koni shocks,installed a Safe-T-Plus steering stabilizer and added the additional radius rod to the Westport Axel. I've always wondered how the additional recommended weight was added to the front. My coach is a 30' front entry single slide. All the above mods made a difference in the handling but I still get a slight push from passing tractor trailers. (I've owned this coach for 10yrs)


Dick Missett
98 Sahara 300 CAT
2015 GMC Terrain Denali AWD 6cyl Toad
Wyoming, PA (soon to be Clermont FL)


From: "togaryadams@... [Safarifriends]" <Safarifriends@yahoogroups.com>
To: Safarifriends@yahoogroups.com
Sent: Monday, November 23, 2015 8:27 PM
Subject: RE: [Safarifriends] Re: Buying advice for a 30ft Sahara

 
Came across your old posting ... also have a 1998 30Ft and love it but (had it since new) ... Would like to add the quad shocks and weight to the front ... can you tell me how it was done .... Many thanks
Gary Adams ... The Villages, Florida
ToGaryAdams@...


Group: Safarifriends Message: 29417 From: Gary Adams Date: 11/24/2015
Subject: Re: advice for a 30ft Sahara

Good Morning John:

Have a 1998 30’ Safari .. Sahara Edition

Magnum Chassis with the Velvet Ride

300 Cat Engine, 161000 miles and one slide

          -Blue-Ox True Center (35270) Installed 2013

          -Koni Shocks (8814585P2 & 8816415P3) Installed 2013

          -Adjusted tire pressure to coach weight

          -Front Weight 6,520Lbs … Back 16,415Lbs

          (Understand I need to add Front End weight?)

          -Shims removed a few years back

Here are my measurements (Center of Tire)

·       Drivers Side …… Front: 25-1/2” …  8 Shims (each)

·       Passenger Side. Front: 25-1/4” … 11 Shims (each)

·       Drivers Side …... Back: 25-1/2” …  0 Shims

·       Passenger Side.  Back: 26-0”    …  1 Shim

 

Thanks … Gary (In The Villages) … 1998 30Ft Sahara

 

 

From: Safarifriends@yahoogroups.com [mailto:Safarifriends@yahoogroups.com]
Sent: Monday, November 23, 2015 9:46 PM
To: Safarifriends@yahoogroups.com
Subject: Re: [Safarifriends] Re: Buying advice for a 30ft Sahara

 

 

Gary,

Please specify which suspension you have.

It will either be a leaf spring suspension, what the call Elipti Ride

or the torsional suspension, what they call Velvet Ride, made by BFGoodrich.

If you get me the right info, I will get you the shock numbers you need and with the updated shocks, you won't need the quad shock set up.

John
'95 Safari Serengeti 38ft, 300 Cummins 8.3CTA, Allison
6spd.

 

On Mon, Nov 23, 2015 at 8:27 PM, togaryadams@... [Safarifriends] <Safarifriends@yahoogroups.com> wrote:

 

Came across your old posting ... also have a 1998 30Ft and love it but (had it since new) ... Would like to add the quad shocks and weight to the front ... can you tell me how it was done .... Many thanks

Gary Adams ... The Villages, Florida

 

 

Group: Safarifriends Message: 29423 From: TD Date: 11/24/2015
Subject: Re: advice for a 30ft Sahara
Gary,

That is good info, but just so you and others know the part numbers for the shocks are a bit off, I highlighted the error. The third to last digit is supposed to be an "S" instead of "5".
(881458SP2 & 881641SP3)

Is your front axle weight with both water and fuel tanks full?

Are you having steering and/or ride issues? If yes, please describe.

Are your adjustable shocks set to maximum dampening, in the front and rear? (they need to be for maximum affect)

As for adding weight some members have added cast iron weights by bracing them to the front axle, if I remember correctly, it was about 300lbs. Some coaches came from the factory with weight braced to the axle or frame, I don't recall which. I'm sure other members will pipe in. If you do add weight to the front, you will probably need to readjust your shims again. As it is the passenger rear of your coach is a bit high compared to the rest. Also, if you can source it, you could add lead weight, it will take up less room.

John
'95 Safari Serengeti 38ft, 300 Cummins 8.3CTA, Allison
6spd.

On Tue, Nov 24, 2015 at 8:54 AM, 'Gary Adams' togaryadams@... [Safarifriends] <Safarifriends@yahoogroups.com> wrote:


Good Morning John:

Have a 1998 30’ Safari .. Sahara Edition

Magnum Chassis with the Velvet Ride

300 Cat Engine, 161000 miles and one slide

          -Blue-Ox True Center (35270) Installed 2013

          -Koni Shocks (8814585P2 & 8816415P3) Installed 2013

          -Adjusted tire pressure to coach weight

          -Front Weight 6,520Lbs … Back 16,415Lbs

          (Understand I need to add Front End weight?)

          -Shims removed a few years back

Here are my measurements (Center of Tire)

·       Drivers Side …… Front: 25-1/2” …  8 Shims (each)

·       Passenger Side. Front: 25-1/4” … 11 Shims (each)

·       Drivers Side …... Back: 25-1/2” …  0 Shims

·       Passenger Side.  Back: 26-0”    …  1 Shim

 

Thanks … Gary (In The Villages) … 1998 30Ft Sahara

 

 

From: Safarifriends@yahoogroups.com [mailto:Safarifriends@yahoogroups.com]
Sent: Monday, November 23, 2015 9:46 PM
To: Safarifriends@yahoogroups.com
Subject: Re: [Safarifriends] Re: Buying advice for a 30ft Sahara

 

 

Gary,

Please specify which suspension you have.

It will either be a leaf spring suspension, what the call Elipti Ride

or the torsional suspension, what they call Velvet Ride, made by BFGoodrich.

If you get me the right info, I will get you the shock numbers you need and with the updated shocks, you won't need the quad shock set up.

John
'95 Safari Serengeti 38ft, 300 Cummins 8.3CTA, Allison
6spd.

 

On Mon, Nov 23, 2015 at 8:27 PM, togaryadams@... [Safarifriends] <Safarifriends@yahoogroups.com> wrote:

 

Came across your old posting ... also have a 1998 30Ft and love it but (had it since new) ... Would like to add the quad shocks and weight to the front ... can you tell me how it was done .... Many thanks

Gary Adams ... The Villages, Florida

 

 




Group: Safarifriends Message: 29425 From: Gary Adams Date: 11/24/2015
Subject: Re: advice for a 30ft Sahara

Thanks John

·       I have corrected my info on the Shocks

o   Koni shocks installed April/2013 about 30,000 miles ago

·       Yes … I had Fuel & Water almost full at the time of weight

·       Problem: Mostly ride … but a little steering (working the wheel)

·       Shocks are set to the Max-Setting

 

Gary (In The Villages) … 1998 30Ft Sahara

 

From: Safarifriends@yahoogroups.com [mailto:Safarifriends@yahoogroups.com]
Sent: Tuesday, November 24, 2015 11:10 AM
To: Safarifriends@yahoogroups.com
Subject: Re: [Safarifriends] Re: advice for a 30ft Sahara

 

 

 

 

 

 

Gary,

That is good info, but just so you and others know the part numbers for the shocks are a bit off, I highlighted the error. The third to last digit is supposed to be an "S" instead of "5".

(881458SP2 & 881641SP3)

Is your front axle weight with both water and fuel tanks full?

Are you having steering and/or ride issues? If yes, please describe.

Are your adjustable shocks set to maximum dampening, in the front and rear? (they need to be for maximum affect)

As for adding weight some members have added cast iron weights by bracing them to the front axle, if I remember correctly, it was about 300lbs. Some coaches came from the factory with weight braced to the axle or frame, I don't recall which. I'm sure other members will pipe in. If you do add weight to the front, you will probably need to readjust your shims again. As it is the passenger rear of your coach is a bit high compared to the rest. Also, if you can source it, you could add lead weight, it will take up less room.

John
'95 Safari Serengeti 38ft, 300 Cummins 8.3CTA, Allison
6spd.

 

On Tue, Nov 24, 2015 at 8:54 AM, 'Gary Adams' togaryadams@... [Safarifriends] <Safarifriends@yahoogroups.com> wrote:

 

Good Morning John:

Have a 1998 30’ Safari .. Sahara Edition

Magnum Chassis with the Velvet Ride

300 Cat Engine, 161000 miles and one slide

          -Blue-Ox True Center (35270) Installed 2013

          -Koni Shocks (8814585P2 & 8816415P3) Installed 2013

          -Adjusted tire pressure to coach weight

          -Front Weight 6,520Lbs … Back 16,415Lbs

          (Understand I need to add Front End weight?)

          -Shims removed a few years back

Here are my measurements (Center of Tire)

·       Drivers Side …… Front: 25-1/2” …  8 Shims (each)

·       Passenger Side. Front: 25-1/4” … 11 Shims (each)

·       Drivers Side …... Back: 25-1/2” …  0 Shims

·       Passenger Side.  Back: 26-0”    …  1 Shim

 

Thanks … Gary (In The Villages) … 1998 30Ft Sahara

 

 

From: Safarifriends@yahoogroups.com [mailto:Safarifriends@yahoogroups.com]
Sent: Monday, November 23, 2015 9:46 PM
To: Safarifriends@yahoogroups.com
Subject: Re: [Safarifriends] Re: Buying advice for a 30ft Sahara

 

 

Gary,

Please specify which suspension you have.

It will either be a leaf spring suspension, what the call Elipti Ride

or the torsional suspension, what they call Velvet Ride, made by BFGoodrich.

If you get me the right info, I will get you the shock numbers you need and with the updated shocks, you won't need the quad shock set up.

John
'95 Safari Serengeti 38ft, 300 Cummins 8.3CTA, Allison
6spd.

 

On Mon, Nov 23, 2015 at 8:27 PM, togaryadams@... [Safarifriends] <Safarifriends@yahoogroups.com> wrote:

 

Came across your old posting ... also have a 1998 30Ft and love it but (had it since new) ... Would like to add the quad shocks and weight to the front ... can you tell me how it was done .... Many thanks

Gary Adams ... The Villages, Florida

 

 

 

 

Group: Safarifriends Message: 29426 From: TD Date: 11/24/2015
Subject: Re: advice for a 30ft Sahara
Gary,

Does the front bounce a lot and/or bottom out, or is it just a harsh ride?

Have you tried shifting heavy items towards the front?

John
'95 Safari Serengeti 38ft, 300 Cummins 8.3CTA, Allison
6spd.

On Tue, Nov 24, 2015 at 12:08 PM, 'Gary Adams' togaryadams@... [Safarifriends] <Safarifriends@yahoogroups.com> wrote:


Thanks John

·       I have corrected my info on the Shocks

o   Koni shocks installed April/2013 about 30,000 miles ago

·       Yes … I had Fuel & Water almost full at the time of weight

·       Problem: Mostly ride … but a little steering (working the wheel)

·       Shocks are set to the Max-Setting

 

Gary (In The Villages) … 1998 30Ft Sahara

 

From: Safarifriends@yahoogroups.com [mailto:Safarifriends@yahoogroups.com]
Sent: Tuesday, November 24, 2015 11:10 AM
To: Safarifriends@yahoogroups.com
Subject: Re: [Safarifriends] Re: advice for a 30ft Sahara

 

 

 

 

 

 

Gary,

That is good info, but just so you and others know the part numbers for the shocks are a bit off, I highlighted the error. The third to last digit is supposed to be an "S" instead of "5".

(881458SP2 & 881641SP3)

Is your front axle weight with both water and fuel tanks full?

Are you having steering and/or ride issues? If yes, please describe.

Are your adjustable shocks set to maximum dampening, in the front and rear? (they need to be for maximum affect)

As for adding weight some members have added cast iron weights by bracing them to the front axle, if I remember correctly, it was about 300lbs. Some coaches came from the factory with weight braced to the axle or frame, I don't recall which. I'm sure other members will pipe in. If you do add weight to the front, you will probably need to readjust your shims again. As it is the passenger rear of your coach is a bit high compared to the rest. Also, if you can source it, you could add lead weight, it will take up less room.

John
'95 Safari Serengeti 38ft, 300 Cummins 8.3CTA, Allison
6spd.

 

On Tue, Nov 24, 2015 at 8:54 AM, 'Gary Adams' togaryadams@... [Safarifriends] <Safarifriends@yahoogroups.com> wrote:

 

Good Morning John:

Have a 1998 30’ Safari .. Sahara Edition

Magnum Chassis with the Velvet Ride

300 Cat Engine, 161000 miles and one slide

          -Blue-Ox True Center (35270) Installed 2013

          -Koni Shocks (8814585P2 & 8816415P3) Installed 2013

          -Adjusted tire pressure to coach weight

          -Front Weight 6,520Lbs … Back 16,415Lbs

          (Understand I need to add Front End weight?)

          -Shims removed a few years back

Here are my measurements (Center of Tire)

·       Drivers Side …… Front: 25-1/2” …  8 Shims (each)

·       Passenger Side. Front: 25-1/4” … 11 Shims (each)

·       Drivers Side …... Back: 25-1/2” …  0 Shims

·       Passenger Side.  Back: 26-0”    …  1 Shim

 

Thanks … Gary (In The Villages) … 1998 30Ft Sahara

 

 

From: Safarifriends@yahoogroups.com [mailto:Safarifriends@yahoogroups.com]
Sent: Monday, November 23, 2015 9:46 PM
To: Safarifriends@yahoogroups.com
Subject: Re: [Safarifriends] Re: Buying advice for a 30ft Sahara

 

 

Gary,

Please specify which suspension you have.

It will either be a leaf spring suspension, what the call Elipti Ride

or the torsional suspension, what they call Velvet Ride, made by BFGoodrich.

If you get me the right info, I will get you the shock numbers you need and with the updated shocks, you won't need the quad shock set up.

John
'95 Safari Serengeti 38ft, 300 Cummins 8.3CTA, Allison
6spd.

 

On Mon, Nov 23, 2015 at 8:27 PM, togaryadams@... [Safarifriends] <Safarifriends@yahoogroups.com> wrote:

 

Came across your old posting ... also have a 1998 30Ft and love it but (had it since new) ... Would like to add the quad shocks and weight to the front ... can you tell me how it was done .... Many thanks

Gary Adams ... The Villages, Florida

 

 

 

 




Group: Safarifriends Message: 29427 From: Gary Adams Date: 11/24/2015
Subject: Re: advice for a 30ft Sahara

·       I would say a harsh ride …

·       Not sure what one might move to the front ? ?

·       Do not carry any items of weight in the bays and inside items are somewhat fixed

Gary (In The Villages) … 1998 30Ft Sahara

 

From: Safarifriends@yahoogroups.com [mailto:Safarifriends@yahoogroups.com]
Sent: Tuesday, November 24, 2015 12:27 PM
To: Safarifriends@yahoogroups.com
Subject: Re: [Safarifriends] Re: advice for a 30ft Sahara

 

 

Gary,

Does the front bounce a lot and/or bottom out, or is it just a harsh ride?

Have you tried shifting heavy items towards the front?

John
'95 Safari Serengeti 38ft, 300 Cummins 8.3CTA, Allison
6spd.

 

On Tue, Nov 24, 2015 at 12:08 PM, 'Gary Adams' togaryadams@... [Safarifriends] <Safarifriends@yahoogroups.com> wrote:

 

Thanks John

·       I have corrected my info on the Shocks

o   Koni shocks installed April/2013 about 30,000 miles ago

·       Yes … I had Fuel & Water almost full at the time of weight

·       Problem: Mostly ride … but a little steering (working the wheel)

·       Shocks are set to the Max-Setting

 

Gary (In The Villages) … 1998 30Ft Sahara

 

From: Safarifriends@yahoogroups.com [mailto:Safarifriends@yahoogroups.com]
Sent: Tuesday, November 24, 2015 11:10 AM
To: Safarifriends@yahoogroups.com
Subject: Re: [Safarifriends] Re: advice for a 30ft Sahara

 

 

 

 

 

 

Gary,

That is good info, but just so you and others know the part numbers for the shocks are a bit off, I highlighted the error. The third to last digit is supposed to be an "S" instead of "5".

(881458SP2 & 881641SP3)

Is your front axle weight with both water and fuel tanks full?

Are you having steering and/or ride issues? If yes, please describe.

Are your adjustable shocks set to maximum dampening, in the front and rear? (they need to be for maximum affect)

As for adding weight some members have added cast iron weights by bracing them to the front axle, if I remember correctly, it was about 300lbs. Some coaches came from the factory with weight braced to the axle or frame, I don't recall which. I'm sure other members will pipe in. If you do add weight to the front, you will probably need to readjust your shims again. As it is the passenger rear of your coach is a bit high compared to the rest. Also, if you can source it, you could add lead weight, it will take up less room.

John
'95 Safari Serengeti 38ft, 300 Cummins 8.3CTA, Allison
6spd.

 

On Tue, Nov 24, 2015 at 8:54 AM, 'Gary Adams' togaryadams@... [Safarifriends] <Safarifriends@yahoogroups.com> wrote:

 

Good Morning John:

Have a 1998 30’ Safari .. Sahara Edition

Magnum Chassis with the Velvet Ride

300 Cat Engine, 161000 miles and one slide

          -Blue-Ox True Center (35270) Installed 2013

          -Koni Shocks (8814585P2 & 8816415P3) Installed 2013

          -Adjusted tire pressure to coach weight

          -Front Weight 6,520Lbs … Back 16,415Lbs

          (Understand I need to add Front End weight?)

          -Shims removed a few years back

Here are my measurements (Center of Tire)

·       Drivers Side …… Front: 25-1/2” …  8 Shims (each)

·       Passenger Side. Front: 25-1/4” … 11 Shims (each)

·       Drivers Side …... Back: 25-1/2” …  0 Shims

·       Passenger Side.  Back: 26-0”    …  1 Shim

 

Thanks … Gary (In The Villages) … 1998 30Ft Sahara

 

 

From: Safarifriends@yahoogroups.com [mailto:Safarifriends@yahoogroups.com]
Sent: Monday, November 23, 2015 9:46 PM
To: Safarifriends@yahoogroups.com
Subject: Re: [Safarifriends] Re: Buying advice for a 30ft Sahara

 

 

Gary,

Please specify which suspension you have.

It will either be a leaf spring suspension, what the call Elipti Ride

or the torsional suspension, what they call Velvet Ride, made by BFGoodrich.

If you get me the right info, I will get you the shock numbers you need and with the updated shocks, you won't need the quad shock set up.

John
'95 Safari Serengeti 38ft, 300 Cummins 8.3CTA, Allison
6spd.

 

On Mon, Nov 23, 2015 at 8:27 PM, togaryadams@... [Safarifriends] <Safarifriends@yahoogroups.com> wrote:

 

Came across your old posting ... also have a 1998 30Ft and love it but (had it since new) ... Would like to add the quad shocks and weight to the front ... can you tell me how it was done .... Many thanks

Gary Adams ... The Villages, Florida

 

 

 

 

 

 

Group: Safarifriends Message: 29428 From: TD Date: 11/24/2015
Subject: Re: advice for a 30ft Sahara
Gary,

Hopefully some one will chime in, that has added weight. I know some owners have placed tools/air compressor and such heavy items up in the front bays, one even placed the spare tire on the front bumper, and some mounted a front hitch and used a cargo carrier up front. All these type of items will add weight.

What size tires you have, and what pressures do you run?

John
'95 Safari Serengeti 38ft, 300 Cummins 8.3CTA, Allison
6spd.

On Tue, Nov 24, 2015 at 12:41 PM, 'Gary Adams' togaryadams@... [Safarifriends] <Safarifriends@yahoogroups.com> wrote:


·       I would say a harsh ride …

·       Not sure what one might move to the front ? ?

·       Do not carry any items of weight in the bays and inside items are somewhat fixed

Gary (In The Villages) … 1998 30Ft Sahara

 

From: Safarifriends@yahoogroups.com [mailto:Safarifriends@yahoogroups.com]
Sent: Tuesday, November 24, 2015 12:27 PM
To: Safarifriends@yahoogroups.com
Subject: Re: [Safarifriends] Re: advice for a 30ft Sahara

 

 

Gary,

Does the front bounce a lot and/or bottom out, or is it just a harsh ride?

Have you tried shifting heavy items towards the front?

John
'95 Safari Serengeti 38ft, 300 Cummins 8.3CTA, Allison
6spd.

 

On Tue, Nov 24, 2015 at 12:08 PM, 'Gary Adams' togaryadams@... [Safarifriends] <Safarifriends@yahoogroups.com> wrote:

 

Thanks John

·       I have corrected my info on the Shocks

o   Koni shocks installed April/2013 about 30,000 miles ago

·       Yes … I had Fuel & Water almost full at the time of weight

·       Problem: Mostly ride … but a little steering (working the wheel)

·       Shocks are set to the Max-Setting

 

Gary (In The Villages) … 1998 30Ft Sahara

 

From: Safarifriends@yahoogroups.com [mailto:Safarifriends@yahoogroups.com]
Sent: Tuesday, November 24, 2015 11:10 AM
To: Safarifriends@yahoogroups.com
Subject: Re: [Safarifriends] Re: advice for a 30ft Sahara

 

 

 

 

 

 

Gary,

That is good info, but just so you and others know the part numbers for the shocks are a bit off, I highlighted the error. The third to last digit is supposed to be an "S" instead of "5".

(881458SP2 & 881641SP3)

Is your front axle weight with both water and fuel tanks full?

Are you having steering and/or ride issues? If yes, please describe.

Are your adjustable shocks set to maximum dampening, in the front and rear? (they need to be for maximum affect)

As for adding weight some members have added cast iron weights by bracing them to the front axle, if I remember correctly, it was about 300lbs. Some coaches came from the factory with weight braced to the axle or frame, I don't recall which. I'm sure other members will pipe in. If you do add weight to the front, you will probably need to readjust your shims again. As it is the passenger rear of your coach is a bit high compared to the rest. Also, if you can source it, you could add lead weight, it will take up less room.

John
'95 Safari Serengeti 38ft, 300 Cummins 8.3CTA, Allison
6spd.

 

On Tue, Nov 24, 2015 at 8:54 AM, 'Gary Adams' togaryadams@... [Safarifriends] <Safarifriends@yahoogroups.com> wrote:

 

Good Morning John:

Have a 1998 30’ Safari .. Sahara Edition

Magnum Chassis with the Velvet Ride

300 Cat Engine, 161000 miles and one slide

          -Blue-Ox True Center (35270) Installed 2013

          -Koni Shocks (8814585P2 & 8816415P3) Installed 2013

          -Adjusted tire pressure to coach weight

          -Front Weight 6,520Lbs … Back 16,415Lbs

          (Understand I need to add Front End weight?)

          -Shims removed a few years back

Here are my measurements (Center of Tire)

·       Drivers Side …… Front: 25-1/2” …  8 Shims (each)

·       Passenger Side. Front: 25-1/4” … 11 Shims (each)

·       Drivers Side …... Back: 25-1/2” …  0 Shims

·       Passenger Side.  Back: 26-0”    …  1 Shim

 

Thanks … Gary (In The Villages) … 1998 30Ft Sahara

 

 

From: Safarifriends@yahoogroups.com [mailto:Safarifriends@yahoogroups.com]
Sent: Monday, November 23, 2015 9:46 PM
To: Safarifriends@yahoogroups.com
Subject: Re: [Safarifriends] Re: Buying advice for a 30ft Sahara

 

 

Gary,

Please specify which suspension you have.

It will either be a leaf spring suspension, what the call Elipti Ride

or the torsional suspension, what they call Velvet Ride, made by BFGoodrich.

If you get me the right info, I will get you the shock numbers you need and with the updated shocks, you won't need the quad shock set up.

John
'95 Safari Serengeti 38ft, 300 Cummins 8.3CTA, Allison
6spd.

 

On Mon, Nov 23, 2015 at 8:27 PM, togaryadams@... [Safarifriends] <Safarifriends@yahoogroups.com> wrote:

 

Came across your old posting ... also have a 1998 30Ft and love it but (had it since new) ... Would like to add the quad shocks and weight to the front ... can you tell me how it was done .... Many thanks

Gary Adams ... The Villages, Florida

 

 

 

 

 

 




Group: Safarifriends Message: 29445 From: Jim Exler Date: 11/25/2015
Subject: Re: Buying advice for a 30ft Sahara
Gary and Dick,
 
Look in the ‘Files’ section under ‘98 Safari Sahara’ and you will find a pdf labeled ‘SafariBumper’. It is my solution to reinforcing the front at the same time adding about 130 pounds as far forward as possible without going outside the coach.
 
Do not add weight to the Axle; all weight should be attached to the chassis. Handling dictates keeping the ‘unsprung weight’ to a minimum.
 
Jim Exler, Nampa, ID
 
Sent: Monday, November 23, 2015 6:27 PM
Subject: RE: [Safarifriends] Re: Buying advice for a 30ft Sahara
 
 

Came across your old posting ... also have a 1998 30Ft and love it but (had it since new) ... Would like to add the quad shocks and weight to the front ... can you tell me how it was done .... Many thanks
Gary Adams ... The Villages, Florida
ToGaryAdams@...
Group: Safarifriends Message: 30786 From: garysavage17347 Date: 7/11/2016
Subject: 2001 Zanzibar Brakes

We had the coach at John's RV in Jacobus PA and amongst other things we got the brakes repaired.  When I got to the garage the brakes weren't hot so we took it out to get them hot.  Just going down a little two lane road and dragging the brakes lightly on the downhill sections they were getting hot in a couple miles.  When we got back to the garage I jacked the front off the ground and they opened a bleeder and the brakes still didn't release.  With some tapping on the back of the caliper we got them to release. Because the brake warning light was on we replaced the master cylinder. We figured possibly all the brake force was going to the front brakes and once they got hot the aluminum pistons in the steel bores heated up and wouldn't release until they cooled off. Don't know for sure that was what was happening but we tried everything we could to heat them up and everything is working great. Thanks to everyone for suggestions to correct our problem.  By the way, the master cylinder came from Mill Supply in Cleveland.  The master cylinder has a 2" bore or 50.80 mm and the reservoir is 4 and 3/4" high if you need one. We changed the oil and filters, coolant and adjusted the ride height at all four corners.  Then we got two new Dunlop SP 160 tires on the front.  I also installed new Bilstein shocks the week before.  The ride is really good and the Dunlop tires are much better than the Goodyear tires they replaced.  Amazing what new parts can do.

Then we tried to leave York PA and shredded another serpentine belt.  A local garage installed my spare belt and he said the belt tensioner didn't seem as tight as it should.  That tensioner was 4 years old so apparently they don't have a long life span.  We went through Morgantown WV and up to Canonsburg PA and Fyda Freightliner installed a new tensioner for us. 

Now we are heading west to maybe spend most of the summer in Wisconsin.

Gary Savage 

2001 Safari Zanzibar

 

Group: Safarifriends Message: 31188 From: TD Date: 9/16/2016
Subject: Re: Velvet Ride Suspension Repair
Pete and Mel,

Here is a copy and paste of this article. I left the page open and was able to copy and paste it. Their website seems like its down.

John
'95 Safari Serengeti 38ft, 300 Cummins 8.3CTA, Allison
6spd.


Velvet Ride RV Suspension Problems And Solutions: Advice From A Dallas RV Repair Shop

Velvet Ride RV Suspension Problems And Solutions: Advice From A Dallas RV Repair Shop

Velvet Ride RV suspension problems and solutions.

Love your RV or motorcoach but are tired of the rough ride, swaying back and fourth and the occasional "porposing" down the highway at 65 miles an hour when it meets an unexpected bump in the road?

If this describes your problem then you have a coach with a torsion bar front suspension often referred to as a ?Velvet Ride” or BF Goodrich’s “Torsilastic Suspension”.

If your coach is great up top but underpinned with this now outdated suspension, or if you need suspension work, what can be done to mitigate this the next time it meets an unexpected hump or a dip in the road?

RV’s Velvet Ride

The Velvet ride a torsion bar suspension, was developed by BF Goodrich for use in emergency vehicles and adopted by RV makers such as Safari, Monaco, and was used in busses to get a ride similar to air ride without having the air system.

Velvet_Ride2

Advantages to Velvet Ride suspensions are that they require almost no maintenance. Since they do not have an air system, or a critical air system, there are no hoses to dry rot and leak and no air bags that can blow out or tear. The ride is acceptable as the system isolates movement on 3 planes.

Disadvantages to the torsion bar system are they can sag over time, although they seem to settle out and stay put.Becuase it is now an outdated system, parts can sometimes prove difficult to find. Working with an oder system can be a bit of a pain, as the large bolts have weathered threads that are next to impossible to work with. They're all grade 8 and expensive. Another disadvantage is since it's a self-contained system, there are no air bags and/or level sensing linkages to compensate for road curves. Good shocks do help though.

Velvet Ride Replacement Costs
If you can find the parts, you can replace the tortialistic units for about $1,000 per wheel position.

Improving Your Tortialistic Suspension System

Older and worn Velvet Ride systems can be renewed and in some cases upgraded to regain some of the ride characteristics they once had. The first thing you need to do is check ride height and get the RV leveled. Shims are removed or added in order to raise ride height.

First check the ride height and if it is off, fix it by removing shims, with each ship removing about 1/4 inch. Correct ride height is measured from the center of the axels to the bottom of the belt line molding. This is approximately 42 inches off of a concrete pad finished flat

Some shops will reverse the upper front shock mounts (taking the right front and turned it upside down and placed it on the left side, same for the other side). There is a bolt that cannot be dropped so put a wrap of safety wire on it to keep it from dropping back into the dark hole of the chassis and the fuel tank. This fine wire can be left in place when installing the mount. Replace the shocks with the new ones.

There are aftermarket fabrication shops that produce a kit with 3 stabilizer bars, ( 2 for the front and one for the rear)

Supplemental air bags will also help the them tortialistic suspensions live a healthy and long life..

Total cost for parts was under $3000. Sounds like a lot of money but it is safer to drive and puts a big smile on Janet's face.

There are also aftermarket companies that make upgrades for the suspension, including double shock mounts for the front.

Monaco owners

Be aware that Monaco started building the Safari line circa 2000 and put the wrong (too short) torsilastic springs in the front of many coaches. Around about 2003 Monaco stopped using the Magnum chassis and went to something else. From then on the Safari coaches used air bags.

Option #2 Complete Airbag suspension upgrade.

Velvet Ride suspensions are outdated and Air ride is much more comfortable and stable than springs. There are two places where the air bags are placed: inside the rails and outside the rails. Air bags placed outside the frame rails gives you a wider stance, hence a more stable and comfy ride. The number of air bags makes a difference also. Some have four, some six. Some even have ten airbags per set up.
air ride suspension

With some fabrication and some aftermarket parts, your RV or Coach can be upgraded to a modern airbag suspension. Price for this service depends on the coach so it is too difficult to pin down an exact price without knowing your particular coach.

So if you have an worn out velvet ride system and want to explore a repair or conversion option, click the button below for a free quote.



On Fri, Sep 16, 2016 at 3:31 PM, stuplich@... [Safarifriends] <Safarifriends@yahoogroups.com> wrote:


Pete
The link no longer works for me either.
Sorry
Mel
'96 Sahara


---In Safarifriends@yahoogroups.com, <nanandpete@...> wrote :

I must be slow on the uptake, can't get the website to display the velvet ride article. Oh, well, the thing still goes OK. Pete






Group: Safarifriends Message: 31189 From: nanandpete@q.com Date: 9/16/2016
Subject: Re: Velvet Ride Suspension Repair
Thanks, John. Interesting article. Scary thought to go to air bags. I still have several shims to go.  PETE


From: "TD sdjhtm@... [Safarifriends]" <Safarifriends@yahoogroups.com>
To: "Dale Maggio dalemaggio@y." <Safarifriends@yahoogroups.com>
Sent: Friday, September 16, 2016 2:20:43 PM
Subject: Re: [Safarifriends] Re: Velvet Ride Suspension Repair



Pete and Mel,

Here is a copy and paste of this article. I left the page open and was able to copy and paste it. Their website seems like its down.

John
'95 Safari Serengeti 38ft, 300 Cummins 8.3CTA, Allison
6spd.


Velvet Ride RV Suspension Problems And Solutions: Advice From A Dallas RV Repair Shop

Velvet Ride RV Suspension Problems And Solutions: Advice From A Dallas RV Repair Shop

Velvet Ride RV suspension problems and solutions.

Love your RV or motorcoach but are tired of the rough ride, swaying back and fourth and the occasional "porposing" down the highway at 65 miles an hour when it meets an unexpected bump in the road?

If this describes your problem then you have a coach with a torsion bar front suspension often referred to as a ?Velvet Ride” or BF Goodrich’s “Torsilastic Suspension”.

If your coach is great up top but underpinned with this now outdated suspension, or if you need suspension work, what can be done to mitigate this the next time it meets an unexpected hump or a dip in the road?

RV’s Velvet Ride

The Velvet ride a torsion bar suspension, was developed by BF Goodrich for use in emergency vehicles and adopted by RV makers such as Safari, Monaco, and was used in busses to get a ride similar to air ride without having the air system.

Velvet_Ride2

Advantages to Velvet Ride suspensions are that they require almost no maintenance. Since they do not have an air system, or a critical air system, there are no hoses to dry rot and leak and no air bags that can blow out or tear. The ride is acceptable as the system isolates movement on 3 planes.

Disadvantages to the torsion bar system are they can sag over time, although they seem to settle out and stay put.Becuase it is now an outdated system, parts can sometimes prove difficult to find. Working with an oder system can be a bit of a pain, as the large bolts have weathered threads that are next to impossible to work with. They're all grade 8 and expensive. Another disadvantage is since it's a self-contained system, there are no air bags and/or level sensing linkages to compensate for road curves. Good shocks do help though.

Velvet Ride Replacement Costs
If you can find the parts, you can replace the tortialistic units for about $1,000 per wheel position.

Improving Your Tortialistic Suspension System

Older and worn Velvet Ride systems can be renewed and in some cases upgraded to regain some of the ride characteristics they once had. The first thing you need to do is check ride height and get the RV leveled. Shims are removed or added in order to raise ride height.

First check the ride height and if it is off, fix it by removing shims, with each ship removing about 1/4 inch. Correct ride height is measured from the center of the axels to the bottom of the belt line molding. This is approximately 42 inches off of a concrete pad finished flat

Some shops will reverse the upper front shock mounts (taking the right front and turned it upside down and placed it on the left side, same for the other side). There is a bolt that cannot be dropped so put a wrap of safety wire on it to keep it from dropping back into the dark hole of the chassis and the fuel tank. This fine wire can be left in place when installing the mount. Replace the shocks with the new ones.

There are aftermarket fabrication shops that produce a kit with 3 stabilizer bars, ( 2 for the front and one for the rear)

Supplemental air bags will also help the them tortialistic suspensions live a healthy and long life..

Total cost for parts was under $3000. Sounds like a lot of money but it is safer to drive and puts a big smile on Janet's face.

There are also aftermarket companies that make upgrades for the suspension, including double shock mounts for the front.

Monaco owners

Be aware that Monaco started building the Safari line circa 2000 and put the wrong (too short) torsilastic springs in the front of many coaches. Around about 2003 Monaco stopped using the Magnum chassis and went to something else. From then on the Safari coaches used air bags.

Option #2 Complete Airbag suspension upgrade.

Velvet Ride suspensions are outdated and Air ride is much more comfortable and stable than springs. There are two places where the air bags are placed: inside the rails and outside the rails. Air bags placed outside the frame rails gives you a wider stance, hence a more stable and comfy ride. The number of air bags makes a difference also. Some have four, some six. Some even have ten airbags per set up.
air ride suspension

With some fabrication and some aftermarket parts, your RV or Coach can be upgraded to a modern airbag suspension. Price for this service depends on the coach so it is too difficult to pin down an exact price without knowing your particular coach.

So if you have an worn out velvet ride system and want to explore a repair or conversion option, click the button below for a free quote.



On Fri, Sep 16, 2016 at 3:31 PM, stuplich@... [Safarifriends] <Safarifriends@yahoogroups.com> wrote:


Pete
The link no longer works for me either.
Sorry
Mel
'96 Sahara


---In Safarifriends@yahoogroups.com, <nanandpete@...> wrote :

I must be slow on the uptake, can't get the website to display the velvet ride article. Oh, well, the thing still goes OK. Pete








Group: Safarifriends Message: 31191 From: TD Date: 9/16/2016
Subject: Re: Velvet Ride Suspension Repair
Pete,

I like the simplicity of my torsional suspension. Its holding up very well and cheap to maintain. The article seems a bit biased, but of course their goal is to try to sell you something...


John
'95 Safari Serengeti 38ft, 300 Cummins 8.3CTA, Allison
6spd.


On Fri, Sep 16, 2016 at 8:01 PM, 'nanandpete@...' nanandpete@... [Safarifriends] <Safarifriends@yahoogroups.com> wrote:


Thanks, John. Interesting article. Scary thought to go to air bags. I still have several shims to go.  PETE


From: "TD sdjhtm@... [Safarifriends]" <Safarifriends@yahoogroups.com >
To: "Dale Maggio dalemaggio@y." <Safarifriends@yahoogroups.com >
Sent: Friday, September 16, 2016 2:20:43 PM
Subject: Re: [Safarifriends] Re: Velvet Ride Suspension Repair



Pete and Mel,

Here is a copy and paste of this article. I left the page open and was able to copy and paste it. Their website seems like its down.

John
'95 Safari Serengeti 38ft, 300 Cummins 8.3CTA, Allison
6spd.


Velvet Ride RV Suspension Problems And Solutions: Advice From A Dallas RV Repair Shop

Velvet Ride RV Suspension Problems And Solutions: Advice From A Dallas RV Repair Shop

Velvet Ride RV suspension problems and solutions.

Love your RV or motorcoach but are tired of the rough ride, swaying back and fourth and the occasional "porposing" down the highway at 65 miles an hour when it meets an unexpected bump in the road?

If this describes your problem then you have a coach with a torsion bar front suspension often referred to as a ?Velvet Ride” or BF Goodrich’s “Torsilastic Suspension”.

If your coach is great up top but underpinned with this now outdated suspension, or if you need suspension work, what can be done to mitigate this the next time it meets an unexpected hump or a dip in the road?

RV’s Velvet Ride

The Velvet ride a torsion bar suspension, was developed by BF Goodrich for use in emergency vehicles and adopted by RV makers such as Safari, Monaco, and was used in busses to get a ride similar to air ride without having the air system.

Velvet_Ride2

Advantages to Velvet Ride suspensions are that they require almost no maintenance. Since they do not have an air system, or a critical air system, there are no hoses to dry rot and leak and no air bags that can blow out or tear. The ride is acceptable as the system isolates movement on 3 planes.

Disadvantages to the torsion bar system are they can sag over time, although they seem to settle out and stay put.Becuase it is now an outdated system, parts can sometimes prove difficult to find. Working with an oder system can be a bit of a pain, as the large bolts have weathered threads that are next to impossible to work with. They're all grade 8 and expensive. Another disadvantage is since it's a self-contained system, there are no air bags and/or level sensing linkages to compensate for road curves. Good shocks do help though.

Velvet Ride Replacement Costs
If you can find the parts, you can replace the tortialistic units for about $1,000 per wheel position.

Improving Your Tortialistic Suspension System

Older and worn Velvet Ride systems can be renewed and in some cases upgraded to regain some of the ride characteristics they once had. The first thing you need to do is check ride height and get the RV leveled. Shims are removed or added in order to raise ride height.

First check the ride height and if it is off, fix it by removing shims, with each ship removing about 1/4 inch. Correct ride height is measured from the center of the axels to the bottom of the belt line molding. This is approximately 42 inches off of a concrete pad finished flat

Some shops will reverse the upper front shock mounts (taking the right front and turned it upside down and placed it on the left side, same for the other side). There is a bolt that cannot be dropped so put a wrap of safety wire on it to keep it from dropping back into the dark hole of the chassis and the fuel tank. This fine wire can be left in place when installing the mount. Replace the shocks with the new ones.

There are aftermarket fabrication shops that produce a kit with 3 stabilizer bars, ( 2 for the front and one for the rear)

Supplemental air bags will also help the them tortialistic suspensions live a healthy and long life..

Total cost for parts was under $3000. Sounds like a lot of money but it is safer to drive and puts a big smile on Janet's face.

There are also aftermarket companies that make upgrades for the suspension, including double shock mounts for the front.

Monaco owners

Be aware that Monaco started building the Safari line circa 2000 and put the wrong (too short) torsilastic springs in the front of many coaches. Around about 2003 Monaco stopped using the Magnum chassis and went to something else. From then on the Safari coaches used air bags.

Option #2 Complete Airbag suspension upgrade.

Velvet Ride suspensions are outdated and Air ride is much more comfortable and stable than springs. There are two places where the air bags are placed: inside the rails and outside the rails. Air bags placed outside the frame rails gives you a wider stance, hence a more stable and comfy ride. The number of air bags makes a difference also. Some have four, some six. Some even have ten airbags per set up.
air ride suspension

With some fabrication and some aftermarket parts, your RV or Coach can be upgraded to a modern airbag suspension. Price for this service depends on the coach so it is too difficult to pin down an exact price without knowing your particular coach.

So if you have an worn out velvet ride system and want to explore a repair or conversion option, click the button below for a free quote.



On Fri, Sep 16, 2016 at 3:31 PM, stuplich@... [Safarifriends] <Safarifriends@yahoogroups.com > wrote:


Pete
The link no longer works for me either.
Sorry
Mel
'96 Sahara


---In Safarifriends@yahoogroups.com, <nanandpete@...> wrote :

I must be slow on the uptake, can't get the website to display the velvet ride article. Oh, well, the thing still goes OK. Pete











Group: Safarifriends Message: 31384 From: jim mcmillan Date: 10/19/2016
Subject: Shock absorbers
Just purchased 1997 safari.
How do you tell if the shocks are shot?
See no sign of replacement on the original owners maintenance invoices.

Jim

jpgmcmillan@...
46 Morrison Pt. Rd
k0k2p0
613 476 8559
Group: Safarifriends Message: 31387 From: TD Date: 10/19/2016
Subject: Re: Shock absorbers
Jim,

If you find that you do need new shocks, and if your coach has the
VelvetRide torsional suspension, let me know and I will send you the
right part numbers for the Koni shocks you will need. When ordering by
make and model for the torsional suspension, they will give you the
much less affective shock and you will not feel much improvment. So,
you will need to order by part number if you have the torsional
suspension.

John
'95 Safari Serengeti 38ft, 300 Cummins 8.3CTA, Allison
6spd.



On 10/19/16, jim mcmillan jpgmcmillan@... [Safarifriends]
<Safarifriends@yahoogroups.com> wrote:
> Just purchased 1997 safari.
> How do you tell if the shocks are shot?
> See no sign of replacement on the original owners maintenance invoices.
>
> Jim
>
> jpgmcmillan@...
> 46 Morrison Pt. Rd
> k0k2p0
> 613 476 8559
>
>
>
> ------------------------------------
> Posted by: jim mcmillan <jpgmcmillan@...>
> ------------------------------------
>
> Community email addresses:
> Post message: Safarifriends@onelist.com
> Subscribe: Safarifriends-subscribe@onelist.com
> Unsubscribe: Safarifriends-unsubscribe@onelist.com
> List owner: Safarifriends-owner@onelist.com
>
> Shortcut URL to this page:
> http://www.onelist.com/community/Safarifriends
> ------------------------------------
>
> Yahoo Groups Links
>
>
>
>
Group: Safarifriends Message: 31404 From: Gary Smith Date: 10/20/2016
Subject: Re: Shock absorbers
John,
For the benefit of all the Velvet Ride coach owners, would you mind sharing those Koni numbers?

Thanks,
Gary
Current 2000 Trek Owner, looking at a Sahara with Velvet Ride

On Wed, Oct 19, 2016 at 11:09 AM, TD sdjhtm@... [Safarifriends] <Safarifriends@yahoogroups.com> wrote:
 

Jim,

If you find that you do need new shocks, and if your coach has the
VelvetRide torsional suspension, let me know and I will send you the
right part numbers for the Koni shocks you will need. When ordering by
make and model for the torsional suspension, they will give you the
much less affective shock and you will not feel much improvment. So,
you will need to order by part number if you have the torsional
suspension.

John
'95 Safari Serengeti 38ft, 300 Cummins 8.3CTA, Allison
6spd.

On 10/19/16, jim mcmillan jpgmcmillan@... [Safarifriends]
<Safarifriends@yahoogroups.com > wrote:
> Just purchased 1997 safari.
> How do you tell if the shocks are shot?
> See no sign of replacement on the original owners maintenance invoices.
>
> Jim
>
> jpgmcmillan@...
> 46 Morrison Pt. Rd
> k0k2p0
> 613 476 8559
>
>
>
> ------------------------------ ------
> Posted by: jim mcmillan <jpgmcmillan@...>
> ------------------------------ ------
>
> Community email addresses:
> Post message: Safarifriends@onelist.com
> Subscribe: Safarifriends-subscribe@ onelist.com
> Unsubscribe: Safarifriends-unsubscribe@ onelist.com
> List owner: Safarifriends-owner@onelist. com
>
> Shortcut URL to this page:
> http://www.onelist.com/ community/Safarifriends
> ------------------------------ ------
>
> Yahoo Groups Links
>
>
>
>




--
Gary Smith
Group: Safarifriends Message: 31405 From: Gary Smith Date: 10/20/2016
Subject: Re: Shock absorbers


On Thu, Oct 20, 2016 at 9:24 PM, Gary Smith <trekker01@...> wrote:
John,
For the benefit of all the Velvet Ride coach owners, would you mind sharing those Koni numbers?

Thanks,
Gary
Current 2000 Trek Owner, looking at a Sahara with Velvet Ride

On Wed, Oct 19, 2016 at 11:09 AM, TD sdjhtm@... [Safarifriends] <Safarifriends@yahoogroups.com > wrote:
 

Jim,

If you find that you do need new shocks, and if your coach has the
VelvetRide torsional suspension, let me know and I will send you the
right part numbers for the Koni shocks you will need. When ordering by
make and model for the torsional suspension, they will give you the
much less affective shock and you will not feel much improvment. So,
you will need to order by part number if you have the torsional
suspension.

John
'95 Safari Serengeti 38ft, 300 Cummins 8.3CTA, Allison
6spd.

On 10/19/16, jim mcmillan jpgmcmillan@... [Safarifriends]
<Safarifriends@yahoogroups.com > wrote:
> Just purchased 1997 safari.
> How do you tell if the shocks are shot?
> See no sign of replacement on the original owners maintenance invoices.
>
> Jim
>
> jpgmcmillan@...
> 46 Morrison Pt. Rd
> k0k2p0
> 613 476 8559
>
>
>
> ------------------------------ ------
> Posted by: jim mcmillan <jpgmcmillan@...>
> ------------------------------ ------
>
> Community email addresses:
> Post message: Safarifriends@onelist.com
> Subscribe: Safarifriends-subscribe@onelis t.com
> Unsubscribe: Safarifriends-unsubscribe@onel ist.com
> List owner: Safarifriends-owner@... m
>
> Shortcut URL to this page:
> http://www.onelist.com/communi ty/Safarifriends
> ------------------------------ ------
>
> Yahoo Groups Links
>
>
>
>




--
Gary Smith



--
Gary Smith
Group: Safarifriends Message: 31413 From: jim mcmillan Date: 10/21/2016
Subject: Re: Shock absorbers
Went under my 97 Safari 35ft and found what looks like a standard leaf spring suspension.
Also what looks like original shock absorbers.
Original owner kept excellent records.
Other than regular oil/filter changes for the Cat ,the Allison and the propane generator few repairs or parts were required for the 142,000Ks
Koni on their website seems to recommend the model below for the leaf spring magnum chassis.
Realize this is not the torsalistic system but do you have any opinion on their recommend.

KONI rv Price: $180.79
88051010
NEW FSD

Jim



jpgmcmillan@...
46 Morrison Pt. Rd
k0k2p0
613 476 8559

On 2016-10-19, at 11:09 AM, TD sdjhtm@... [Safarifriends] wrote:

> Jim,
>
> If you find that you do need new shocks, and if your coach has the
> VelvetRide torsional suspension, let me know and I will send you the
> right part numbers for the Koni shocks you will need. When ordering by
> make and model for the torsional suspension, they will give you the
> much less affective shock and you will not feel much improvment. So,
> you will need to order by part number if you have the torsional
> suspension.
>
> John
> '95 Safari Serengeti 38ft, 300 Cummins 8.3CTA, Allison
> 6spd.
>
> On 10/19/16, jim mcmillan jpgmcmillan@... [Safarifriends]
> <Safarifriends@yahoogroups.com> wrote:
> > Just purchased 1997 safari.
> > How do you tell if the shocks are shot?
> > See no sign of replacement on the original owners maintenance invoices.
> >
> > Jim
> >
> > jpgmcmillan@...
> > 46 Morrison Pt. Rd
> > k0k2p0
> > 613 476 8559
> >
> >
> >
> > ------------------------------------
> > Posted by: jim mcmillan <jpgmcmillan@...>
> > ------------------------------------
> >
> > Community email addresses:
> > Post message: Safarifriends@onelist.com
> > Subscribe: Safarifriends-subscribe@onelist.com
> > Unsubscribe: Safarifriends-unsubscribe@onelist.com
> > List owner: Safarifriends-owner@onelist.com
> >
> > Shortcut URL to this page:
> > http://www.onelist.com/community/Safarifriends
> > ------------------------------------
> >
> > Yahoo Groups Links
> >
> >
> >
> >
>
Group: Safarifriends Message: 31416 From: TD Date: 10/21/2016
Subject: Re: Koni Shock absorber Part Numbers
Gary,

Please put this in the files section or somewhere where it's easy to
find (I have posted this a few times in the past).

Koni shock part #'s for all Magnum chassis VevetRide '94-'01 and for
the rare Magnum 4 airbag suspensions.

Front: 88-1641SP3

Rear:88-1458SP2

Important: the shocks need to be ordered by part number not my chassis
make/model, otherwise you will get the wrong, ineffective shock for
the front.
Put in another way, if you are odering shocks and this shock number
shows up "88-1490SP2" (this is the # you don't want), be sure to order
"88-1641SP3" instead.
Also, if you currently have the 1490 on your coach, I strongly
recommend to update and change it out for the 88-1641SP3 instead. And
if you still have perpoising issues than set it to maximum depenning
on all 4 shocks (they come set from the factory with the least
dampenning).

If you have any questions, ask away.

A huge thank youand kudos to Ralph Andrews (RIP) for doing countles
hours of research and real life testing on finding the better shock
(88-1641SP3) that fits are application and needs. Also a thank you to
Brett Wolfe, as he was involved to some degree with this too.

In my humble opinion, looking at the dampening specs between the two
shocks, the 88-1490SP2 is pretty useless for our application,
especially for the extreme needs on the front axle. It is a shame and
very annoying that Koni never updated the numbers, causing many
unsuspected Safari owners to throw big money way on a useless shock,
also harming their own reputation in the process. Ironically, they did
update the shock number for the Fortravel coaches with the VelvetRide.
Must have been Bretts persistance. ;)

John
'95 Safari Serengeti 38ft, 300 Cummins 8.3CTA, Allison
6spd.



On 10/20/16, Gary Smith trekker01@... [Safarifriends]
<Safarifriends@yahoogroups.com> wrote:
> On Thu, Oct 20, 2016 at 9:24 PM, Gary Smith <trekker01@...> wrote:
>
>> John,
>> For the benefit of all the Velvet Ride coach owners, would you mind
>> sharing those Koni numbers?
>>
>> Thanks,
>> Gary
>> Current 2000 Trek Owner, looking at a Sahara with Velvet Ride
>>
>> On Wed, Oct 19, 2016 at 11:09 AM, TD sdjhtm@... [Safarifriends] <
>> Safarifriends@yahoogroups.com> wrote:
>>
>>>
>>>
>>> Jim,
>>>
>>> If you find that you do need new shocks, and if your coach has the
>>> VelvetRide torsional suspension, let me know and I will send you the
>>> right part numbers for the Koni shocks you will need. When ordering by
>>> make and model for the torsional suspension, they will give you the
>>> much less affective shock and you will not feel much improvment. So,
>>> you will need to order by part number if you have the torsional
>>> suspension.
>>>
>>> John
>>> '95 Safari Serengeti 38ft, 300 Cummins 8.3CTA, Allison
>>> 6spd.
>>>
>>> On 10/19/16, jim mcmillan jpgmcmillan@... [Safarifriends]
>>> <Safarifriends@yahoogroups.com> wrote:
>>> > Just purchased 1997 safari.
>>> > How do you tell if the shocks are shot?
>>> > See no sign of replacement on the original owners maintenance
>>> > invoices.
>>> >
>>> > Jim
>>> >
>>> > jpgmcmillan@...
>>> > 46 Morrison Pt. Rd
>>> > k0k2p0
>>> > 613 476 8559
>>> >
>>> >
>>> >
>>> > ------------------------------------
>>> > Posted by: jim mcmillan <jpgmcmillan@...>
>>> > ------------------------------------
>>> >
>>> > Community email addresses:
>>> > Post message: Safarifriends@onelist.com
>>> > Subscribe: Safarifriends-subscribe@onelist.com
>>> > Unsubscribe: Safarifriends-unsubscribe@onelist.com
>>> > List owner: Safarifriends-owner@onelist.com
>>> >
>>> > Shortcut URL to this page:
>>> > http://www.onelist.com/community/Safarifriends
>>> > ------------------------------------
>>> >
>>> > Yahoo Groups Links
>>> >
>>> >
>>> >
>>> >
>>>
>>>
>>
>>
>>
>> --
>> Gary Smith
>>
>
>
>
> --
> Gary Smith
>
Group: Safarifriends Message: 31417 From: wolfe102001 Date: 10/21/2016
Subject: Re: Shock absorbers
Jim,

Here is what we put on our 1997 Sahara 35' with leaf spring suspension.  This was 3 years ago, so you will need to confirm PN's:

1.      New Koni shocks Front: 88051010 (FSD’s). Rear: 881458SP2. Rear shocks 1.75 turns firm of 2.5 available. 88051010 min 14.09”. max 21.81. 881458SP2 min 15.94”.  max 25.67”.



They worked very well with this suspension.

Brett
Group: Safarifriends Message: 31418 From: TD Date: 10/21/2016
Subject: Re: Shock absorbers
Jim,

The FSD is a different shock Koni makes, and I have no experience with
it. I find it odd that Koni would recommend two different style shocks
front to back (FSD & Koni Reds), but as Brett mentioned, it worked
well for him, so if that is the way you want to go, here is a link to
a company that sells them for less ($157.95ea.) with free shipping.

Link to FSB (88051010)
http://www.ltbautosports.com/koni-rv-/safari/88051010/i-2440565.aspx

If you want to stick with the Koni Reds ( it's their adjustable shock)
and/or you have a lot of perpoising issues, then you will be better
off with the 88-1641SP3 (front) which cost less than the FSB. They are
priced at $138.51ea.
If there is no perpoising issues and you don't mind spending a bit
more, go with the FSD (88051010) for the smoothest ride.

Here is the link to the 88-1641SP3:
http://www.ltbautosports.com/koni-rv-/foretravel/881641sp3/i-2440381.aspx

Link to the rear shocks 88-1458SP2 :
http://www.ltbautosports.com/koni-rv-/safari/881458sp2/i-2440566.aspx
$138.51ea.

John
'95 Safari Serengeti 38ft, 300 Cummins 8.3CTA, Allison
6spd.



On 10/21/16, jim mcmillan jpgmcmillan@... [Safarifriends]
<Safarifriends@yahoogroups.com> wrote:
> Went under my 97 Safari 35ft and found what looks like a standard leaf
> spring suspension.
> Also what looks like original shock absorbers.
> Original owner kept excellent records.
> Other than regular oil/filter changes for the Cat ,the Allison and the
> propane generator few repairs or parts were required for the 142,000Ks
> Koni on their website seems to recommend the model below for the leaf spring
> magnum chassis.
> Realize this is not the torsalistic system but do you have any opinion on
> their recommend.
>
> KONI rv Price: $180.79
> 88051010
> NEW FSD
>
> Jim
>
>
>
> jpgmcmillan@...
> 46 Morrison Pt. Rd
> k0k2p0
> 613 476 8559
>
> On 2016-10-19, at 11:09 AM, TD sdjhtm@... [Safarifriends] wrote:
>
>> Jim,
>>
>> If you find that you do need new shocks, and if your coach has the
>> VelvetRide torsional suspension, let me know and I will send you the
>> right part numbers for the Koni shocks you will need. When ordering by
>> make and model for the torsional suspension, they will give you the
>> much less affective shock and you will not feel much improvment. So,
>> you will need to order by part number if you have the torsional
>> suspension.
>>
>> John
>> '95 Safari Serengeti 38ft, 300 Cummins 8.3CTA, Allison
>> 6spd.
>>
>> On 10/19/16, jim mcmillan jpgmcmillan@... [Safarifriends]
>> <Safarifriends@yahoogroups.com> wrote:
>> > Just purchased 1997 safari.
>> > How do you tell if the shocks are shot?
>> > See no sign of replacement on the original owners maintenance invoices.
>> >
>> > Jim
>> >
>> > jpgmcmillan@...
>> > 46 Morrison Pt. Rd
>> > k0k2p0
>> > 613 476 8559
>> >
>> >
>> >
>> > ------------------------------------
>> > Posted by: jim mcmillan <jpgmcmillan@...>
>> > ------------------------------------
>> >
>> > Community email addresses:
>> > Post message: Safarifriends@onelist.com
>> > Subscribe: Safarifriends-subscribe@onelist.com
>> > Unsubscribe: Safarifriends-unsubscribe@onelist.com
>> > List owner: Safarifriends-owner@onelist.com
>> >
>> > Shortcut URL to this page:
>> > http://www.onelist.com/community/Safarifriends
>> > ------------------------------------
>> >
>> > Yahoo Groups Links
>> >
>> >
>> >
>> >
>>
>
>
>
> ------------------------------------
>
> ------------------------------------
>
> Community email addresses:
> Post message: Safarifriends@onelist.com
> Subscribe: Safarifriends-subscribe@onelist.com
> Unsubscribe: Safarifriends-unsubscribe@onelist.com
> List owner: Safarifriends-owner@onelist.com
>
> Shortcut URL to this page:
> http://www.onelist.com/community/Safarifriends
> ------------------------------------
>
> Yahoo Groups Links
>
>
>
>
Group: Safarifriends Message: 31422 From: Jeff Date: 10/21/2016
Subject: Re: Koni Shock absorber Part Numbers
Wow I just got the answer to a question I have had for a long time.  
My 2002 Sahara had a Magnum Chassis but I could not figure out what was done to it.  I have 4 air bags.  Mmmm 

Interesting.

Sent from my iPad

On Oct 21, 2016, at 11:47 AM, TD sdjhtm@... [Safarifriends] <Safarifriends@yahoogroups.com> wrote:

 

Gary,

Please put this in the files section or somewhere where it's easy to
find (I have posted this a few times in the past).

Koni shock part #'s for all Magnum chassis VevetRide '94-'01 and for
the rare Magnum 4 airbag suspensions.

Front: 88-1641SP3

Rear:88-1458SP2

Important: the shocks need to be ordered by part number not my chassis
make/model, otherwise you will get the wrong, ineffective shock for
the front.
Put in another way, if you are odering shocks and this shock number
shows up "88-1490SP2" (this is the # you don't want), be sure to order
"88-1641SP3" instead.
Also, if you currently have the 1490 on your coach, I strongly
recommend to update and change it out for the 88-1641SP3 instead. And
if you still have perpoising issues than set it to maximum depenning
on all 4 shocks (they come set from the factory with the least
dampenning).

If you have any questions, ask away.

A huge thank youand kudos to Ralph Andrews (RIP) for doing countles
hours of research and real life testing on finding the better shock
(88-1641SP3) that fits are application and needs. Also a thank you to
Brett Wolfe, as he was involved to some degree with this too.

In my humble opinion, looking at the dampening specs between the two
shocks, the 88-1490SP2 is pretty useless for our application,
especially for the extreme needs on the front axle. It is a shame and
very annoying that Koni never updated the numbers, causing many
unsuspected Safari owners to throw big money way on a useless shock,
also harming their own reputation in the process. Ironically, they did
update the shock number for the Fortravel coaches with the VelvetRide.
Must have been Bretts persistance. ;)

John
'95 Safari Serengeti 38ft, 300 Cummins 8.3CTA, Allison
6spd.

On 10/20/16, Gary Smith trekker01@... [Safarifriends]
<Safarifriends@yahoogroups.com> wrote:
> On Thu, Oct 20, 2016 at 9:24 PM, Gary Smith <trekker01@...> wrote:
>
>> John,
>> For the benefit of all the Velvet Ride coach owners, would you mind
>> sharing those Koni numbers?
>>
>> Thanks,
>> Gary
>> Current 2000 Trek Owner, looking at a Sahara with Velvet Ride
>>
>> On Wed, Oct 19, 2016 at 11:09 AM, TD sdjhtm@... [Safarifriends] <
>> Safarifriends@yahoogroups.com> wrote:
>>
>>>
>>>
>>> Jim,
>>>
>>> If you find that you do need new shocks, and if your coach has the
>>> VelvetRide torsional suspension, let me know and I will send you the
>>> right part numbers for the Koni shocks you will need. When ordering by
>>> make and model for the torsional suspension, they will give you the
>>> much less affective shock and you will not feel much improvment. So,
>>> you will need to order by part number if you have the torsional
>>> suspension.
>>>
>>> John
>>> '95 Safari Serengeti 38ft, 300 Cummins 8.3CTA, Allison
>>> 6spd.
>>>
>>> On 10/19/16, jim mcmillan jpgmcmillan@... [Safarifriends]
>>> <Safarifriends@yahoogroups.com> wrote:
>>> > Just purchased 1997 safari.
>>> > How do you tell if the shocks are shot?
>>> > See no sign of replacement on the original owners maintenance
>>> > invoices.
>>> >
>>> > Jim
>>> >
>>> > jpgmcmillan@...
>>> > 46 Morrison Pt. Rd
>>> > k0k2p0
>>> > 613 476 8559
>>> >
>>> >
>>> >
>>> > ------------------------------------
>>> > Posted by: jim mcmillan <jpgmcmillan@...>
>>> > ------------------------------------
>>> >
>>> > Community email addresses:
>>> > Post message: Safarifriends@onelist.com
>>> > Subscribe: Safarifriends-subscribe@onelist.com
>>> > Unsubscribe: Safarifriends-unsubscribe@onelist.com
>>> > List owner: Safarifriends-owner@onelist.com
>>> >
>>> > Shortcut URL to this page:
>>> > http://www.onelist.com/community/Safarifriends
>>> > ------------------------------------
>>> >
>>> > Yahoo Groups Links
>>> >
>>> >
>>> >
>>> >
>>>
>>>
>>
>>
>>
>> --
>> Gary Smith
>>
>
>
>
> --
> Gary Smith
>

Group: Safarifriends Message: 31425 From: MJ Johnson Date: 10/21/2016
Subject: Re: Koni Shock absorber Part Numbers
This conversation got me to thinking, so I went out and checked my shocks. I have Bilstein F4-B46-2092-M1 on front and F4-B46-2093-HO on the rear.  I looked them up and can't find them on the WWW, so I called O'Reilly's and talked to several people there before I got to a guy that  seemed to understand quite a bit about shocks. 
After about a half hour, he was finally able to cross reference mine to the Magnum chassis and then come up with a Monroe shock absorber that would replace the one's I have. The cost for the front is 95.00 and the rear is 104.00. The rear units are the 

Monroe 65478 GAS-MAGNUM 65 Shock Absorber

I then go onto Amazon and they have the rear units for 70.00. 

Now I throughly confused and don't know what to do! Anyone have any insight?
MJ



Group: Safarifriends Message: 31426 From: Bill Edwards Date: 10/21/2016
Subject: Re: Shock absorbers
Gary, I do not believe for a minute that the shocks that John and I are useing on our 40 footer are the same for your Trek! Becarefull here.

Bill Edwards
1999 Panther


On Thursday, October 20, 2016 7:24 PM, "Gary Smith trekker01@... [Safarifriends]" <Safarifriends@yahoogroups.com> wrote:


 
John,
For the benefit of all the Velvet Ride coach owners, would you mind sharing those Koni numbers?

Thanks,
Gary
Current 2000 Trek Owner, looking at a Sahara with Velvet Ride

On Wed, Oct 19, 2016 at 11:09 AM, TD sdjhtm@... [Safarifriends] <Safarifriends@yahoogroups.com> wrote:
 
Jim,

If you find that you do need new shocks, and if your coach has the
VelvetRide torsional suspension, let me know and I will send you the
right part numbers for the Koni shocks you will need. When ordering by
make and model for the torsional suspension, they will give you the
much less affective shock and you will not feel much improvment. So,
you will need to order by part number if you have the torsional
suspension.

John
'95 Safari Serengeti 38ft, 300 Cummins 8.3CTA, Allison
6spd.

On 10/19/16, jim mcmillan jpgmcmillan@... [Safarifriends]
<Safarifriends@yahoogroups.com > wrote:
> Just purchased 1997 safari.
> How do you tell if the shocks are shot?
> See no sign of replacement on the original owners maintenance invoices.
>
> Jim
>
> jpgmcmillan@...
> 46 Morrison Pt. Rd
> k0k2p0
> 613 476 8559
>
>
>
> ------------------------------ ------
> Posted by: jim mcmillan <jpgmcmillan@...>
> ------------------------------ ------
>
> Community email addresses:
> Post message: Safarifriends@onelist.com
> Subscribe: Safarifriends-subscribe@ onelist.com
> Unsubscribe: Safarifriends-unsubscribe@ onelist.com
> List owner: Safarifriends-owner@onelist. com
>
> Shortcut URL to this page:
> http://www.onelist.com/ community/Safarifriends
> ------------------------------ ------
>
> Yahoo Groups Links
>
>
>
>



--
Gary Smith


Group: Safarifriends Message: 31428 From: Gary Smith Date: 10/22/2016
Subject: Re: Shock absorbers
Absolutely correct, Bill, but I asked for the benefit of our members here who do have the Velvet Ride suspension.  I have the appropriate Koni shocks on my Trek, and have for years.

Gary
2000 Trek

On Fri, Oct 21, 2016 at 9:07 PM, Bill Edwards billedwardsrs@... [Safarifriends] <Safarifriends@yahoogroups.com> wrote:
 

Gary, I do not believe for a minute that the shocks that John and I are useing on our 40 footer are the same for your Trek! Becarefull here.

Bill Edwards
1999 Panther


On Thursday, October 20, 2016 7:24 PM, "Gary Smith trekker01@... [Safarifriends]" <Safarifriends@yahoogroups.com > wrote:


 
John,
For the benefit of all the Velvet Ride coach owners, would you mind sharing those Koni numbers?

Thanks,
Gary
Current 2000 Trek Owner, looking at a Sahara with Velvet Ride

On Wed, Oct 19, 2016 at 11:09 AM, TD sdjhtm@... [Safarifriends] <Safarifriends@yahoogroups.com > wrote:
 
Jim,

If you find that you do need new shocks, and if your coach has the
VelvetRide torsional suspension, let me know and I will send you the
right part numbers for the Koni shocks you will need. When ordering by
make and model for the torsional suspension, they will give you the
much less affective shock and you will not feel much improvment. So,
you will need to order by part number if you have the torsional
suspension.

John
'95 Safari Serengeti 38ft, 300 Cummins 8.3CTA, Allison
6spd.

On 10/19/16, jim mcmillan jpgmcmillan@... [Safarifriends]
<Safarifriends@yahoogroups.com > wrote:
> Just purchased 1997 safari.
> How do you tell if the shocks are shot?
> See no sign of replacement on the original owners maintenance invoices.
>
> Jim
>
> jpgmcmillan@...
> 46 Morrison Pt. Rd
> k0k2p0
> 613 476 8559
>
>
>
> ------------------------------ ------
> Posted by: jim mcmillan <jpgmcmillan@...>
> ------------------------------ ------
>
> Community email addresses:
> Post message: Safarifriends@onelist.com
> Subscribe: Safarifriends-subscribe@ onelist.com
> Unsubscribe: Safarifriends-unsubscribe@ onelist.com
> List owner: Safarifriends-owner@onelist. com
>
> Shortcut URL to this page:
> http://www.onelist.com/ community/Safarifriends
> ------------------------------ ------
>
> Yahoo Groups Links
>
>
>
>



--
Gary Smith





--
Gary Smith
Group: Safarifriends Message: 31429 From: mel96safari Date: 10/22/2016
Subject: Re: Koni Shock absorber Part Numbers
MJ
Which year/model Safari do you have?

Before you buy Monroe shocks I suggest you do more shock research...
I have read that for most RV applications Konis are best, Bilsteins are suitable/okay... but Monroes are not so great.

In 2014 the original Bilstein shocks on my coach where replaced for the 1st time...at 134,000 miles... with new Bilstein shocks,
The Bilstein shock part numbers, for my coach, are B46-2092 front...B46-2093 rear.

BTW if you sign every post with your name and coach information it will make it easier for others more accurately answer your questions.

Mel
'96 Sahara, 148,000 miles


---In Safarifriends@yahoogroups.com, <mjmokiej@...> wrote :

This conversation got me to thinking, so I went out and checked my shocks. I have Bilstein F4-B46-2092-M1 on front and F4-B46-2093-HO on the rear.  I looked them up and can't find them on the WWW, so I called O'Reilly's and talked to several people there before I got to a guy that  seemed to understand quite a bit about shocks. 
After about a half hour, he was finally able to cross reference mine to the Magnum chassis and then come up with a Monroe shock absorber that would replace the one's I have. The cost for the front is 95.00 and the rear is 104.00. The rear units are the 

Monroe 65478 GAS-MAGNUM 65 Shock Absorber

I then go onto Amazon and they have the rear units for 70.00. 

Now I throughly confused and don't know what to do! Anyone have any insight?
MJ



Group: Safarifriends Message: 31430 From: MJ Johnson Date: 10/22/2016
Subject: Re: Koni Shock absorber Part Numbers
Thanks for your reply Mel.
My coach is a 1995 Sahara Safari 36', 5.9 Liter 
Are the Bilstein shocks original equipment? The whole reason that I'm looking to replace them is that they don't seem to give a great ride, they feel a bit "spongy". Nothing appears to be outwardly wrong with them as there are no oil leaks, etc.
Thanks again
MJ
1995 Sahara Safari 36', 5.9 Liter 
Group: Safarifriends Message: 31431 From: TD Date: 10/22/2016
Subject: Re: Koni Shock absorber Part Numbers
MJ,

If you want to get rid of the mushy feel and have a good ride, then go
with what I suggested in yesterdays post (Koni shocks), or go with
what Brett suggested. I can tell you that the monro shocks are useless
for these coaches, a couple of years ago I removed fairly new monro
shocks from the rear of my coach and installed the Koni Reds
adjustable shocks. What a difference, with the monro shocks, you could
constantly see through the rear veiw camera, the toad seemingly
bopping up and down, but acutally the coach was the one constantly
bouncing. With the Koni shocks installed, no more bouncing and the
toad looks perfectly sill.
If you want to go the cheap route, I still have those (fairly new)
shocks, you can have them for what ever the shipping costs.

Final note: Koni shocks are expensive, but you get what you pay for...

John
'95 Safari Serengeti 38ft, 300 Cummins 8.3CTA, Allison
6spd.



On 10/22/16, MJ Johnson mjmokiej@... [Safarifriends]
<Safarifriends@yahoogroups.com> wrote:
> This conversation got me to thinking, so I went out and checked my shocks. I
> have Bilstein F4-B46-2092-M1 on front and F4-B46-2093-HO on the rear. I
> looked them up and can't find them on the WWW, so I called O'Reilly's and
> talked to several people there before I got to a guy that seemed to
> understand quite a bit about shocks. After about a half hour, he was finally
> able to cross reference mine to the Magnum chassis and then come up with a
> Monroe shock absorber that would replace the one's I have. The cost for the
> front is 95.00 and the rear is 104.00. The rear units are the
> Monroe 65478 GAS-MAGNUM 65 Shock Absorber
> I then go onto Amazon and they have the rear units for
> 70.00. https://www.amazon.com/Monroe-65478-Gas-Magnum-Shock-Absorber/dp/B000JWM944
>
> Now I throughly confused and don't know what to do! Anyone have any
> insight?MJ
>
>
>
Group: Safarifriends Message: 31432 From: MJ Johnson Date: 10/22/2016
Subject: Re: Koni Shock absorber Part Numbers
Thanks John, I greatly appreciate your input on this. I do want to verify that the Monroe shocks you removed are the same ones that I have included on my prior post tho. I have used Monroe for quite a while on numerous rigs I have had and they tend to perform well imo. I have not used them for heavy equipment tho. 
If the shocks are the same ones, then I can use that data, but if th shocks are a different model with different specs, that's not a valid comparison and not of benefit in my application. 
My concern is not the cost, but rather getting the best value. I'll only be too glad to go with Koni if they are better for the application and not just because they cost more. I have always been a proponent for buying the best because I'd be happier with whatever it is in the long run, but sometimes the best is also less expensive and improved quality. 
I can't tell you how many times I've paid a lot more for something in life and replaced it with something else later due to lack of satisfaction. 
MJ
1995 Sahara Safari 36' 5.9 liter
Group: Safarifriends Message: 31433 From: TD Date: 10/22/2016
Subject: Re: Koni Shock absorber Part Numbers
MJ,

Just so you know, you made me hobble out to the garage in the rain, to
go and dig up those shocks. Lol. They are the same 65478 (rear) and
they feel normal when compressing and extending by hand, but on the
coach, they were not even close to cutting the mustard. I understand
what you are saying about the best not always costing the most, I
operate the same way, and I also was hesitant about the Koni's because
of the price. But after doing a lot of reading on this forum and
taking advice/input of many members, especially the ones who did real
life testing, I figured that they all could not be wrong. So, I bit
the bullet and got the Koni's, and no regrets for making that
decision.
I will say this, if your coach feels mushy, probably your shocks are
tired, especially if they are original, so almost any shock will be an
impovement. If you want to truly get rid of the mushy ride, long term,
then go with the Koni and set them to maximum dampenning. At that
setting, you will not find another shock that will provide more.
As for Bilstien shocks, I used them on my last coach I had, they got
rid of the sway and bouncing, but the ride was way harsher, especially
on the small bumps, and it was the same way with switching to
Bilstiens on my VW Jetta, very harsh ride. I was a big proponent of
monotube shocks like Bilstien and KYB, but after trying the Koni, I'm
sold on them. They provide more control, w/o sacrificing the
smoothness of the ride.

Again, if you decide to go with Koni shocks, refer to yesterdays post,
where I provided the Koni part numbers and the Links to the place that
sells them the cheapest with free shipping. If you have any more
questions or want the crappy monro shocks that I have, private message
me, or email me directly.

John
'95 Safari Serengeti 38ft, 300 Cummins 8.3CTA, Allison
6spd.

On 10/22/16, MJ Johnson mjmokiej@... [Safarifriends]
<Safarifriends@yahoogroups.com> wrote:
> Thanks John, I greatly appreciate your input on this. I do want to verify
> that the Monroe shocks you removed are the same ones that I have included on
> my prior post tho. I have used Monroe for quite a while on numerous rigs I
> have had and they tend to perform well imo. I have not used them for heavy
> equipment tho. If the shocks are the same ones, then I can use that data,
> but if th shocks are a different model with different specs, that's not a
> valid comparison and not of benefit in my application. My concern is not the
> cost, but rather getting the best value. I'll only be too glad to go with
> Koni if they are better for the application and not just because they cost
> more. I have always been a proponent for buying the best because I'd be
> happier with whatever it is in the long run, but sometimes the best is also
> less expensive and improved quality. I can't tell you how many times I've
> paid a lot more for something in life and replaced it with something else
> later due to lack of satisfaction. MJ1995 Sahara Safari 36' 5.9 liter
Group: Safarifriends Message: 31437 From: Bill Edwards Date: 10/23/2016
Subject: Re: Koni Shock absorber Part Numbers
I too will concur with John. Having been in the automotive business for nearly 40 years and now playing with the coaches. Several that have gone before us and were in the earlier years, the aftermarket GURUs and did considerable experimentation with these specific coaches, ultimately determined the Konis in one configuration or another were the better shock.

There is considerable debate as to how the Koni should be installed. Since it is adjustable, one has the option at the get go, to set them as supplied or set them anywhere, all the way to stiff or hard setting. I for one believe the as the shipped is adequate at least for my coaches and for a bit I have two.

First the Zanzibar 2001 bought first with 26K on the odo had Bilsteins on it originally. It took one trip to install the Koni FDS shocks, the Tiger Trax and supplemental airbag system from Ralph Anderson's Pioneer Metal Works located in Quincy, Washington. I have never looked back. The coach has a stellar ride and is unaffected by approaching or passing semi rigs.

Second the 1999 455 Panther has Bs on it and soo will have Koni shocks as well and it only has 13,000 miles on the odometer.

Note the Konis are hydraulic and the Bs are gas.

Bill Edwards
2001 Zanzibar For Sale
1999 455 Panther
Group: Safarifriends Message: 31583 From: jim mcmillan Date: 11/14/2016
Subject: Re: replacing tires
Thanks to Brett, John and Jim

Will get 265/75R22.5. as plate reads 9R22.5.
Softer ride sounds nice.

Thinking of having shocks and alignment checked at Josam's in Orlando as that's near where my sister lives.

Since we are new to this beautiful coach and rving too am wondering if anyone has a favourite service place we could go to if problems develop en route from Syracuse area to Orlando.

Thanks
Jim

97 Sahara 300hp Cat 6sp. Alison

jpgmcmillan@...


On 2016-11-14, at 2:50 PM, bawolfe10@... [Safarifriends] wrote:

> Yes, start by looking at the GVWR plaque in the driver's area for the OE tire size and PSI (PSI based on each axle loaded to GAWR).
>
> If 9R22.5 which I suspect it is, here are alternatives:
>
> 9R22.5
> Michelin 255/80R22.5
> Other brand 265/75R22.5
>
> If OE size is different, please let us know.
>
> Brett
>
>
Group: Safarifriends Message: 31584 From: John Clevenger Date: 11/14/2016
Subject: Re: replacing tires
When you do the work I would recommend added a Safe-T ; if you do not have
one or like, Big improvement on side winds. JohnC

96 Safari Sahara 3540 250 Cat
2005 TJ/Fusion
(O) I I I I I I I (O)


-----Original Message-----
From: Safarifriends@yahoogroups.com [mailto:Safarifriends@yahoogroups.com]
Sent: Monday, November 14, 2016 4:37 PM
To: Safarifriends@yahoogroups.com
Subject: Re: [Safarifriends] replacing tires

Thanks to Brett, John and Jim

Will get 265/75R22.5. as plate reads 9R22.5.
Softer ride sounds nice.

Thinking of having shocks and alignment checked at Josam's in Orlando as
that's near where my sister lives.

Since we are new to this beautiful coach and rving too am wondering if
anyone has a favourite service place we could go to if problems develop en
route from Syracuse area to Orlando.

Thanks
Jim

97 Sahara 300hp Cat 6sp. Alison

jpgmcmillan@...
Group: Safarifriends Message: 31744 From: Robert Todd Date: 12/5/2016
Subject: VevetRide steering/shocks
John,
I'm the owner of a 1998 Safari Serengeti 40' Cat engine with Allison transmission. I have own several motorhome including a 38' diesel pusher, but this is my first experience with the torsion VevetRide suspension. While driving at normal freeway road speed I'm able to control the coach; however, I do have to stay very alert and it same like I'm continually trekking the steering wheel a little bit to keep it between the lines. After purchasing the coach and driving it a couple of thousand miles, I have the alignment checked at what I believe was a reputable shop (although they had never seen the VevetRide system prior to mine). I interested in getting your advise and thoughts about the VevetRide system and how to make it drive and steer more friendly. I've read some of your post where you have recommended replacing the shocks with the correct Koni shocks. Do you know what Koni part number would be best for my coach? Do you have any additional recommendations for helping it trek straight without having to be constantly trekking the steering wheel?
Robert
1998 Safari Serengeti 40'
Cat/Allison/VevetRide

Sent from my iPhone
Group: Safarifriends Message: 31746 From: TD Date: 12/5/2016
Subject: Re: VevetRide steering/shocks
Robert,

Does the coach porpoise or bounce a lot, especially going over bridges or large dips in the road? If not, your shocks might be ok. If the shocks are red and or say Koni and look fairly new, chances are that they are ok. If you do have the Koni shocks on already and they are so so, then make sure they are adjusted to the maximum dampening level (they are adjustable) before you go replacing them.

Here are the Koni part numbers just in case:
Front: 88-1641SP3

Rear:88-1458SP2

LTB Auto Sports usaully has the lowest price and free shipping, but make sure you order by part number above, not by make of coach.

http://www.ltbautosports.com/ koni-rv-/b-14679.aspx

As for the handling issues, if you have not done so already, have your coach weighed when its fully loaded for travel, including full tanks, and then have the tire pressure adjusted according to the tire manufacturers tire inflation chart. This is very important, if the tires are over or under inflated, the coach will feel squirmy and the tail will wag the dog.
What brand and size tires are you running, and what pressures?

The other very important thing is to check ride height. The coach needs to be fully loaded and on level ground. Measure from the bottom of the belt line to the center of the wheel at all four conrners. It should be 25 inches give or take a quarter inch. Do a search on this group for ride height for more detailed information.

If your coach doesn't have these items already, you can install the Tiger Traks bars from PMW (Pioneer Metal Works).
http://pioneermetalworks.com/?page_id=32

 The founder of this company (Ralph Andrews RIP) did tons of research and testing on the Safari Torsional Suspensions. He developed the Tiger Traks and the Radius Rods and also found the best shocks that works for our application. Also a product like Safe-T-Steer will help too, but start with the basics so you don't mask potential problems/issues with these upgrades.

If you can't do the work yourself, and you live in the northwest, Henderson Line Up is a great place to improve your ride.
http://www.hendersonslineup.com/

Again, start with tire pressure and ride height and keep us posted on how you are making out.


John
'95 Safari Serengeti 38ft, 300 Cummins 8.3CTA, Allison
6spd.



On Mon, Dec 5, 2016 at 10:27 PM, Robert Todd rob7272000@... [Safarifriends] <Safarifriends@yahoogroups.com > wrote:


John,
I'm the owner of a 1998 Safari Serengeti 40' Cat engine with Allison transmission. I have own several motorhome including a 38' diesel pusher, but this is my first experience with the torsion VevetRide suspension. While driving at normal freeway road speed I'm able to control the coach; however, I do have to stay very alert and it same like I'm continually trekking the steering wheel a little bit to keep it between the lines. After purchasing the coach and driving it a couple of thousand miles, I have the alignment checked at what I believe was a reputable shop (although they had never seen the VevetRide system prior to mine). I interested in getting your advise and thoughts about the VevetRide system and how to make it drive and steer more friendly. I've read some of your post where you have recommended replacing the shocks with the correct Koni shocks. Do you know what Koni part number would be best for my coach? Do you have any additional recommendations for helping it trek straight without having to be constantly trekking the steering wheel?
Robert
1998 Safari Serengeti 40'
Cat/Allison/VevetRide

Sent from my iPhone



Group: Safarifriends Message: 31747 From: Robert Todd Date: 12/5/2016
Subject: Re: VevetRide steering/shocks
John,
Thank you for your thoughts! I live near the DFW area where it's been raining and it's a little chilly too. So I'll respond at a later time after I've research the items you've suggested. I'm fairly mechanically inclined, but I've been having some issues with my health so it may take a while to reply. Thanks again for your help.
Robert
1998 Safari Serengeti 40'
Cat/Allison/VevetRide

Sent from my iPhone

On Dec 5, 2016, at 10:26 PM, TD sdjhtm@... [Safarifriends] <Safarifriends@yahoogroups.com> wrote:

 

Robert,

Does the coach porpoise or bounce a lot, especially going over bridges or large dips in the road? If not, your shocks might be ok. If the shocks are red and or say Koni and look fairly new, chances are that they are ok. If you do have the Koni shocks on already and they are so so, then make sure they are adjusted to the maximum dampening level (they are adjustable) before you go replacing them.

Here are the Koni part numbers just in case:
Front: 88-1641SP3

Rear:88-1458SP2

LTB Auto Sports usaully has the lowest price and free shipping, but make sure you order by part number above, not by make of coach.

http://www.ltbautosports.com/ koni-rv-/b-14679.aspx

As for the handling issues, if you have not done so already, have your coach weighed when its fully loaded for travel, including full tanks, and then have the tire pressure adjusted according to the tire manufacturers tire inflation chart. This is very important, if the tires are over or under inflated, the coach will feel squirmy and the tail will wag the dog.
What brand and size tires are you running, and what pressures?

The other very important thing is to check ride height. The coach needs to be fully loaded and on level ground. Measure from the bottom of the belt line to the center of the wheel at all four conrners. It should be 25 inches give or take a quarter inch. Do a search on this group for ride height for more detailed information.

If your coach doesn't have these items already, you can install the Tiger Traks bars from PMW (Pioneer Metal Works).
http://pioneermetalworks.com/?page_id=32

 The founder of this company (Ralph Andrews RIP) did tons of research and testing on the Safari Torsional Suspensions. He developed the Tiger Traks and the Radius Rods and also found the best shocks that works for our application. Also a product like Safe-T-Steer will help too, but start with the basics so you don't mask potential problems/issues with these upgrades.

If you can't do the work yourself, and you live in the northwest, Henderson Line Up is a great place to improve your ride.
http://www.hendersonslineup.com/

Again, start with tire pressure and ride height and keep us posted on how you are making out.


John
'95 Safari Serengeti 38ft, 300 Cummins 8.3CTA, Allison
6spd.



On Mon, Dec 5, 2016 at 10:27 PM, Robert Todd rob7272000@... [Safarifriends] <Safarifriends@yahoogroups.com > wrote:


John,
I'm the owner of a 1998 Safari Serengeti 40' Cat engine with Allison transmission. I have own several motorhome including a 38' diesel pusher, but this is my first experience with the torsion VevetRide suspension. While driving at normal freeway road speed I'm able to control the coach; however, I do have to stay very alert and it same like I'm continually trekking the steering wheel a little bit to keep it between the lines. After purchasing the coach and driving it a couple of thousand miles, I have the alignment checked at what I believe was a reputable shop (although they had never seen the VevetRide system prior to mine). I interested in getting your advise and thoughts about the VevetRide system and how to make it drive and steer more friendly. I've read some of your post where you have recommended replacing the shocks with the correct Koni shocks. Do you know what Koni part number would be best for my coach? Do you have any additional recommendations for helping it trek straight without having to be constantly trekking the steering wheel?
Robert
1998 Safari Serengeti 40'
Cat/Allison/VevetRide

Sent from my iPhone



Group: Safarifriends Message: 31854 From: nanandpete@q.com Date: 12/19/2016
Subject: Re: VevetRide steering/shocks
That is interesting about the .75 more. What is the consensus on total caster on each side? I think a little too much caster could contribute to wander. When I here your numbers, I am going to check mine. Pete- '99 sahara 30'


From: "bawolfe10@... [Safarifriends]" <Safarifriends@yahoogroups.com>
To: Safarifriends@yahoogroups.com
Sent: Monday, December 19, 2016 7:40:15 AM
Subject: Re: [Safarifriends] Re: VevetRide steering/shocks

Yes, you have the correct answer.  The caster on right side is set higher (usually about .75 degrees) to account for the crown in the road.  Were it the same, on a crowned road (virtually all roads are crowned) the coach would want to always head for the ditch.

And, for those not familiar with the caster adjustment, they just loosen the chassis to axle bolts (do not remove) and insert wedge-shaped shims that comes in different degrees of angle. No big deal or expensive parts.  Have done it myself and watched many shops to it.

Brett
Group: Safarifriends Message: 31879 From: umikie1952 Date: 12/20/2016
Subject: Re: More on lane wander

Hello All,


     My 1996 Safari Ivory use to wander all over the road. Keeping the front water tank, propane tank and diesel tank full (never below half) helped a lot but I finally made the journey to Henderson's in Grant's Pass, OR.  I had the Tiger Trax unit installed, new Koni shocks installed on the rear and the front Koni shocks re-adjusted. They weighed and leveled the coach then adjusted the tire pressures. We also had the Safe-T steering stabilizer installed. They also checked the alignment, king pins, tire radius and other steering and suspension components.

    What a world of difference. The coach tracks beautifully and the ride is greatly improved. Big trucks don't seem to push me around as much if any at all. The coach all but ignores those anoying ruts in soft asphalt. The steering wheel now returns to neutral after a turn or any steering wheel movement.  The only issue was the cost. Almost $7000 is a lot to spend on an old coach but I have to admit I would do it again. The wife and I are totally satisified (granted our "eating out" budget was blown to hell for a year).

   Side note: I replaced the old TV/backup monitor with a 9" LCD monitor, added a new color rear camera and two side cameras. I still primarily use my side mirrors but those side cameras totally eliminate any blind spots.


Mike Sweeting

1996 38' Safari Ivory

Caterpillar 3126 - Allison 3060 Tranny

Out of Florida but currently sitting outside of Quartzsite, waiting for the big RV Show.



-Plus
---In Safarifriends@yahoogroups.com, <bawolfe10@...> wrote :

It needs to be SPRUNG weight.  So on the body, not axle.

And, yes with the forward location of the propane and potable water tank, full helps.

Brett
Group: Safarifriends Message: 31884 From: Bill Edwards Date: 12/21/2016
Subject: Re: More on lane wander
Mike,

Thanks for adding tour two bits to this discussion. I have been advocating these additions since I added them to my coach and have been poo pooed by many. I would like to add that the project is not a difficult one. I added to my tool collection an 3/4 drive impact wrench that would do the job powerd by 100 psi of air and a 3/8 inch id air hose and a BUD socket. The rest is just time and a little mussel.  With a little help most of you could do this job and save a couple thousand dollars. 

In my case I also added the 6 air bag helper system, again not difficult. Toughest part of the job removing the tires and wheels. The coach will ride even more smoothly and it takes a bunch of load off the dying Velvet Ride.

Bill Edwards
1999 455 Panther  
2001 Zanzibar tricked out


On Tuesday, December 20, 2016 12:25 PM, "umikie1952@... [Safarifriends]" <Safarifriends@yahoogroups.com> wrote:


 
Hello All,

     My 1996 Safari Ivory use to wander all over the road. Keeping the front water tank, propane tank and diesel tank full (never below half) helped a lot but I finally made the journey to Henderson's in Grant's Pass, OR.  I had the Tiger Trax unit installed, new Koni shocks installed on the rear and the front Koni shocks re-adjusted. They weighed and leveled the coach then adjusted the tire pressures. We also had the Safe-T steering stabilizer installed. They also checked the alignment, king pins, tire radius and other steering and suspension components.
    What a world of difference. The coach tracks beautifully and the ride is greatly improved. Big trucks don't seem to push me around as much if any at all. The coach all but ignores those anoying ruts in soft asphalt. The steering wheel now returns to neutral after a turn or any steering wheel movement.  The only issue was the cost. Almost $7000 is a lot to spend on an old coach but I have to admit I would do it again. The wife and I are totally satisified (granted our "eating out" budget was blown to hell for a year).
   Side note: I replaced the old TV/backup monitor with a 9" LCD monitor, added a new color rear camera and two side cameras. I still primarily use my side mirrors but those side cameras totally eliminate any blind spots.

Mike Sweeting
1996 38' Safari Ivory
Caterpillar 3126 - Allison 3060 Tranny
Out of Florida but currently sitting outside of Quartzsite, waiting for the big RV Show.


-Plus
---In Safarifriends@yahoogroups.com, <bawolfe10@...> wrote :

It needs to be SPRUNG weight.  So on the body, not axle.

And, yes with the forward location of the propane and potable water tank, full helps.

Brett


Group: Safarifriends Message: 31888 From: wolfe102001 Date: 12/22/2016
Subject: Now: Suspension Discussion. Was: Dash heater failure.
To carry the discussion a little further, on springs, whether leaf or torsilastic, the weight they carry needs to be proper in relation to their stiffness/weight carrying capacity for them to operate properly.

So, for a given spring, if the weight it carries (sprung weight) is too little, the springs will not deflect-- they will just transmit that bump into the coach and YOU.  I proved this to a Safari owner who though it was the shocks that were causing his harsh ride (front end of shorter leaf spring Sahara).  So, I removed the front shocks completely (without telling him).  We then took it for a test drive, and he pointed out how stiff the shocks were when we hit a bump.  When we got back to the shop, I showed him his shocks on the work bench-- they clearly were NOT the cause of the stiffness.  The cause was insufficient weight on the front springs to allow them to deflect.  He moved a lot of weight forward (generator and then added some scrap iron to the front bumper support.  Problem solved.

If weight on a spring is too much, the coach can easily bottom out which again leads to harsh ride.

Brett
Group: Safarifriends Message: 31935 From: bergs67 Date: 1/2/2017
Subject: Air Bags For 97 Safari Sahara Leaf Spring

Has anyone tried air bags on the Sahara with leaf spring suspension?. I have a 35' Sahara that has a pretty bad lean in corners and cross winds.I have considered shocks but I don't think that will cure my problem, and no luck finding a larger sway bar.


Thanks,Chris

97 Sahara 35'

300HP CAT

Group: Safarifriends Message: 31936 From: Duane Buck Date: 1/2/2017
Subject: Re: Air Bags For 97 Safari Sahara Leaf Spring
Chris,
I'm looking at doing the same thing to my 30' for cross winds and the vortex from passing 18 wheelers.  My brother just picked up a 5,000lb set for his Dodge pickup for use with his 37' trailer, and once the ground isn't covered in white stuff we are going to measure and see if it's possible to mount a set into my rig as well.  Hopefully someone has done it and we'll benefit from their knowledge!

Duane
'96 30' Sahara, 250HP Cat, Allison 6 spd


From: "cjdornberger@... [Safarifriends]" <Safarifriends@yahoogroups.com>
To: Safarifriends@yahoogroups.com
Sent: Monday, January 2, 2017 3:31 PM
Subject: [Safarifriends] Air Bags For 97 Safari Sahara Leaf Spring

 
Has anyone tried air bags on the Sahara with leaf spring suspension?. I have a 35' Sahara that has a pretty bad lean in corners and cross winds.I have considered shocks but I don't think that will cure my problem, and no luck finding a larger sway bar.

Thanks,Chris
97 Sahara 35'
300HP CAT


Group: Safarifriends Message: 31939 From: TD Date: 1/2/2017
Subject: Re: Air Bags For 97 Safari Sahara Leaf Spring
Chris,

I would try giving Pioneer Metal Works a call, they should have info on both, the air bags and the stabilizer bar. Also, Henderson's probably has similar upgrades.

What brand shocks do you have, and how long have they been on there?
If you have Koni Reds on there already, and they are in decent shape, try to set them on the most firm (maximum dampening) setting. Also, if you have not done already, consider having the coach weighed, odds are, your front axle is too light. Being too light in the front, will make the coach become a handful when its windy.

John
'95 Safari Serengeti 38ft, 300 Cummins 8.3CTA, Allison
6spd.

John
'95 Safari Serengeti 38ft, 300 Cummins 8.3CTA, Allison
6spd.

On Mon, Jan 2, 2017 at 6:31 PM, cjdornberger@... [Safarifriends] <Safarifriends@yahoogroups.com> wrote:


Has anyone tried air bags on the Sahara with leaf spring suspension?. I have a 35' Sahara that has a pretty bad lean in corners and cross winds.I have considered shocks but I don't think that will cure my problem, and no luck finding a larger sway bar.


Thanks,Chris

97 Sahara 35'

300HP CAT




Group: Safarifriends Message: 31940 From: Gerry Date: 1/2/2017
Subject: Re: Air Bags For 97 Safari Sahara Leaf Spring
Gentlemen,
I have a 1997 30 foot Sahara with leaf springs which I purchased in 2002. Steering and handling were unacceptable at speeds over 55 miles an hour.  Semi trucks literally blew me off the road.  The unit leaned hard in corners and rocked back and forth when turning in drives.  I have previously posted on this web site the improvements that I made to the motorhome chassis and the results from each one but to assist you I will hit the highlights. 
The biggest improvements came from installing  4 airbags and panhard rod bars (my own fabrication).   I also locked down the sideways motion of the front end by tying the front of the anti sway bar to the front frame.  I can control the airbags individually on the fly adjusting air pressure depending on the road conditions and speed.  Also since the previous post I have installed Road King shocks (very expensive and only a small improvement).  These changes allowed me to lock down the frame and now the unit handles extremely well and it was worth the expense and all the hard work.   Before making the changes I could not let my wife drive the motorhome but now she can relieve me on long trips.
Gerry


Sent from my iPad

On Jan 2, 2017, at 6:46 PM, Duane Buck dewey2501@... [Safarifriends] <Safarifriends@yahoogroups.com> wrote:

 

Chris,
I'm looking at doing the same thing to my 30' for cross winds and the vortex from passing 18 wheelers.  My brother just picked up a 5,000lb set for his Dodge pickup for use with his 37' trailer, and once the ground isn't covered in white stuff we are going to measure and see if it's possible to mount a set into my rig as well.  Hopefully someone has done it and we'll benefit from their knowledge!

Duane
'96 30' Sahara, 250HP Cat, Allison 6 spd


From: "cjdornberger@... [Safarifriends]" <Safarifriends@yahoogroups.com>
To: Safarifriends@yahoogroups.com
Sent: Monday, January 2, 2017 3:31 PM
Subject: [Safarifriends] Air Bags For 97 Safari Sahara Leaf Spring

 
Has anyone tried air bags on the Sahara with leaf spring suspension?. I have a 35' Sahara that has a pretty bad lean in corners and cross winds.I have considered shocks but I don't think that will cure my problem, and no luck finding a larger sway bar.

Thanks,Chris
97 Sahara 35'
300HP CAT


Group: Safarifriends Message: 31941 From: Bill Edwards Date: 1/2/2017
Subject: Re: Air Bags For 97 Safari Sahara Leaf Spring
Guys call Pioneer Metal Works in Quincy Washington. 509 787 4425  They likely have been there. When ralph ,now passed, was alive he pioneered many developments for the Safari coaches. I used their 6 bag systemon a 2001 Zanzibar with stellar results. great directions and templates are supplied.

Goo Luck

Bill Edwards 
1999 Panther


On Monday, January 2, 2017 4:46 PM, "Duane Buck dewey2501@... [Safarifriends]" <Safarifriends@yahoogroups.com> wrote:


 
Chris,
I'm looking at doing the same thing to my 30' for cross winds and the vortex from passing 18 wheelers.  My brother just picked up a 5,000lb set for his Dodge pickup for use with his 37' trailer, and once the ground isn't covered in white stuff we are going to measure and see if it's possible to mount a set into my rig as well.  Hopefully someone has done it and we'll benefit from their knowledge!

Duane
'96 30' Sahara, 250HP Cat, Allison 6 spd


From: "cjdornberger@... [Safarifriends]" <Safarifriends@yahoogroups.com>
To: Safarifriends@yahoogroups.com
Sent: Monday, January 2, 2017 3:31 PM
Subject: [Safarifriends] Air Bags For 97 Safari Sahara Leaf Spring

 
Has anyone tried air bags on the Sahara with leaf spring suspension?. I have a 35' Sahara that has a pretty bad lean in corners and cross winds.I have considered shocks but I don't think that will cure my problem, and no luck finding a larger sway bar.

Thanks,Chris
97 Sahara 35'
300HP CAT




Group: Safarifriends Message: 31942 From: Duane Buck Date: 1/2/2017
Subject: Re: Air Bags For 97 Safari Sahara Leaf Spring
Bill,
Thanks - since they are fairly close to me (I'm in Spokane), it sounds like a road trip may be in the works to go talk to them and explore options.
Duane
'96 Sahara 30', Cat 3126, Allison 6 spd


From: "Bill Edwards billedwardsrs@... [Safarifriends]" <Safarifriends@yahoogroups.com>
To: "Safarifriends@yahoogroups.com" <Safarifriends@yahoogroups.com>
Sent: Monday, January 2, 2017 7:16 PM
Subject: Re: [Safarifriends] Air Bags For 97 Safari Sahara Leaf Spring

 
Guys call Pioneer Metal Works in Quincy Washington. 509 787 4425  They likely have been there. When ralph ,now passed, was alive he pioneered many developments for the Safari coaches. I used their 6 bag systemon a 2001 Zanzibar with stellar results. great directions and templates are supplied.

Goo Luck

Bill Edwards 
1999 Panther


On Monday, January 2, 2017 4:46 PM, "Duane Buck dewey2501@... [Safarifriends]" <Safarifriends@yahoogroups.com> wrote:


 
Chris,
I'm looking at doing the same thing to my 30' for cross winds and the vortex from passing 18 wheelers.  My brother just picked up a 5,000lb set for his Dodge pickup for use with his 37' trailer, and once the ground isn't covered in white stuff we are going to measure and see if it's possible to mount a set into my rig as well.  Hopefully someone has done it and we'll benefit from their knowledge!

Duane
'96 30' Sahara, 250HP Cat, Allison 6 spd


From: "cjdornberger@... [Safarifriends]" <Safarifriends@yahoogroups.com>
To: Safarifriends@yahoogroups.com
Sent: Monday, January 2, 2017 3:31 PM
Subject: [Safarifriends] Air Bags For 97 Safari Sahara Leaf Spring

 
Has anyone tried air bags on the Sahara with leaf spring suspension?. I have a 35' Sahara that has a pretty bad lean in corners and cross winds.I have considered shocks but I don't think that will cure my problem, and no luck finding a larger sway bar.

Thanks,Chris
97 Sahara 35'
300HP CAT






Group: Safarifriends Message: 32246 From: Jason Ellis Date: 2/26/2017
Subject: Adding weight to front axle
I'm hoping some of you safari owners out there can chime in.

I just had my 30ft 97 Sahara 3044 (eliptiride) weighed.  The good news is I have a lot of capacity left, the bad news is my front axle is way too light.  I'm at 5200 on the front with about 400 more on the driver's side. The gawr for the front is 8200.  I'm not going to invest in the time and expense to relocate the generator or house batteries.  Since I have 2800lbs or so before I hit the gvwr I figure bolting 1000lbs to the frame would improve the driveability quite a bit.  I've heard of people doing this to these coaches before, but I'm looking for more detail.  Anybody out there had weight bolted to the frame?  Where, what type of materials were used, what kind of shop can do the work etc.  Pics would be awesome.  

As it is the coach drives OK as long as it's a good road and not too windy.  Getting passed by semis on the interstate can be interesting...  The previous owner installed a steering stabilizer and Koni shocks, I bet this rig was a hand full before that!

I've adjusted the tire pressure to the load according to goodyear they were 5 lbs short of max up front. I haven't driven the coach since then, it may be good to go now, I'll find out this weekend.

Thanks!
Jason

Group: Safarifriends Message: 32247 From: Charles Goodspeed Date: 2/26/2017
Subject: Re: Adding weight to front axle
Jason- did you have a full tank of gas?  That is approx 6 lb per gallon - 110 gallon tank.  660 lbs 
Moving items in cargo area will help as well.  
I would not bolt on weight for no other reason than balancing axle load. 
Charlie
95 ivory 8.3l Cummins 

Sent from my iPhone

On Feb 26, 2017, at 11:05 PM, Jason Ellis jason@... [Safarifriends] <Safarifriends@yahoogroups.com> wrote:

 

I'm hoping some of you safari owners out there can chime in.

I just had my 30ft 97 Sahara 3044 (eliptiride) weighed.  The good news is I have a lot of capacity left, the bad news is my front axle is way too light.  I'm at 5200 on the front with about 400 more on the driver's side. The gawr for the front is 8200.  I'm not going to invest in the time and expense to relocate the generator or house batteries.  Since I have 2800lbs or so before I hit the gvwr I figure bolting 1000lbs to the frame would improve the driveability quite a bit.  I've heard of people doing this to these coaches before, but I'm looking for more detail.  Anybody out there had weight bolted to the frame?  Where, what type of materials were used, what kind of shop can do the work etc.  Pics would be awesome.  

As it is the coach drives OK as long as it's a good road and not too windy.  Getting passed by semis on the interstate can be interesting...  The previous owner installed a steering stabilizer and Koni shocks, I bet this rig was a hand full before that!

I've adjusted the tire pressure to the load according to goodyear they were 5 lbs short of max up front. I haven't driven the coach since then, it may be good to go now, I'll find out this weekend.

Thanks!
Jason

Group: Safarifriends Message: 32249 From: James Exler Date: 2/27/2017
Subject: Re: Adding weight to front axle


Jason,

The 30' coaches are special and handling is an issue. As you have found out, they are light in the front and particularly the right front.

As suggested, move weight to the right front in the compartments first and keep the fuel tank as full as practical.

In 99, the factory added 3 1"x30" steel plates to the front cross member to help with the weight balance. I built a front bumper reinforcement for my 98 instead. Check in 'Files' under my 98 Safari Sahara for "Safari Bumper". This would be a great time to include this and will add about 130# of weight forward.

Another critical item is tire pressure. Under Files I have an article on tire contact patch along with my spreadsheet to calculate tire pressures based on axle weight. On my 98, I ran 55# in the front tires and the handling was much better.

I had a leaf spring suspension; the velvet ride has some additional enhancements available to help with the ride.

I will be glad to discuss any of this with you.

Jim Exler, Nampa, ID



On 2/26/2017 9:05 PM, Jason Ellis jason@... [Safarifriends] wrote:
 
I'm hoping some of you safari owners out there can chime in.

I just had my 30ft 97 Sahara 3044 (eliptiride) weighed.  The good news is I have a lot of capacity left, the bad news is my front axle is way too light.  I'm at 5200 on the front with about 400 more on the driver's side. The gawr for the front is 8200.  I'm not going to invest in the time and expense to relocate the generator or house batteries.  Since I have 2800lbs or so before I hit the gvwr I figure bolting 1000lbs to the frame would improve the driveability quite a bit.  I've heard of people doing this to these coaches before, but I'm looking for more detail.  Anybody out there had weight bolted to the frame?  Where, what type of materials were used, what kind of shop can do the work etc.  Pics would be awesome.  

As it is the coach drives OK as long as it's a good road and not too windy.  Getting passed by semis on the interstate can be interesting...  The previous owner installed a steering stabilizer and Koni shocks, I bet this rig was a hand full before that!

I've adjusted the tire pressure to the load according to goodyear they were 5 lbs short of max up front. I haven't driven the coach since then, it may be good to go now, I'll find out this weekend.

Thanks!
Jason


Group: Safarifriends Message: 32250 From: Gary Smith Date: 2/27/2017
Subject: Re: Adding weight to front axle
Jason,
At the Florida on Safari rally you registered for in a couple weeks there will be two virtually identical 1998 30' Sahara's with the Velvet Ride.  One has added steel in the front.  Mine has not.  At this point I see no reason to do so, but I do have JimX's drawings with photos, just in case I change my mind.  Previous owner of my Sahara ran 100 psi in all tires for 18 years, and never had it weighed to determine proper pressure.  Mine has not yet been weighed, but I have lowered the pressure to 90, based on GAWR of the coach.  I suspect that is still high.  Hope to get 4-corner weights this summer and will adjust pressure accordingly.

See you in a couple weeks.

Gary
'98 Sahara 3006 300 CAT

On Mon, Feb 27, 2017 at 9:38 AM, James Exler jimxexler@... [Safarifriends] <Safarifriends@yahoogroups.com > wrote:
 


Jason,

The 30' coaches are special and handling is an issue. As you have found out, they are light in the front and particularly the right front.

As suggested, move weight to the right front in the compartments first and keep the fuel tank as full as practical.

In 99, the factory added 3 1"x30" steel plates to the front cross member to help with the weight balance. I built a front bumper reinforcement for my 98 instead. Check in 'Files' under my 98 Safari Sahara for "Safari Bumper". This would be a great time to include this and will add about 130# of weight forward.

Another critical item is tire pressure. Under Files I have an article on tire contact patch along with my spreadsheet to calculate tire pressures based on axle weight. On my 98, I ran 55# in the front tires and the handling was much better.

I had a leaf spring suspension; the velvet ride has some additional enhancements available to help with the ride.

I will be glad to discuss any of this with you.

Jim Exler, Nampa, ID



On 2/26/2017 9:05 PM, Jason Ellis jason@... [Safarifriends] wrote:
 
I'm hoping some of you safari owners out there can chime in.

I just had my 30ft 97 Sahara 3044 (eliptiride) weighed.  The good news is I have a lot of capacity left, the bad news is my front axle is way too light.  I'm at 5200 on the front with about 400 more on the driver's side. The gawr for the front is 8200.  I'm not going to invest in the time and expense to relocate the generator or house batteries.  Since I have 2800lbs or so before I hit the gvwr I figure bolting 1000lbs to the frame would improve the driveability quite a bit.  I've heard of people doing this to these coaches before, but I'm looking for more detail.  Anybody out there had weight bolted to the frame?  Where, what type of materials were used, what kind of shop can do the work etc.  Pics would be awesome.  

As it is the coach drives OK as long as it's a good road and not too windy.  Getting passed by semis on the interstate can be interesting...  The previous owner installed a steering stabilizer and Koni shocks, I bet this rig was a hand full before that!

I've adjusted the tire pressure to the load according to goodyear they were 5 lbs short of max up front. I haven't driven the coach since then, it may be good to go now, I'll find out this weekend.

Thanks!
Jason





--
Gary Smith