Messages in Safarifriends group. Page 11 of 23.

Group: Safarifriends Message: 24394 From: wolfe102001 Date: 2/8/2014
Subject: Re: Front Suspension
Group: Safarifriends Message: 24395 From: Mr. G. Date: 2/8/2014
Subject: Re: Front Suspension
Group: Safarifriends Message: 24519 From: goldfish8614 Date: 3/4/2014
Subject: Re: New Member
Group: Safarifriends Message: 24573 From: buckeyewoody46 Date: 3/15/2014
Subject: Re: road bounce up front
Group: Safarifriends Message: 24684 From: rob shelton Date: 3/28/2014
Subject: shocks/track bar
Group: Safarifriends Message: 24686 From: Rick Rheinlaender Date: 3/28/2014
Subject: Re: shocks/track bar
Group: Safarifriends Message: 24688 From: Dale Maggio Date: 3/28/2014
Subject: Re: shocks/track bar
Group: Safarifriends Message: 24696 From: Richard Missett Date: 3/28/2014
Subject: Re: shocks/track bar
Group: Safarifriends Message: 24699 From: rob shelton Date: 3/28/2014
Subject: Re: shocks/track bar
Group: Safarifriends Message: 24701 From: Richard Missett Date: 3/28/2014
Subject: Re: shocks/track bar
Group: Safarifriends Message: 24702 From: Richard Missett Date: 3/28/2014
Subject: Re: shocks/track bar
Group: Safarifriends Message: 24703 From: rob shelton Date: 3/28/2014
Subject: Re: shocks/track bar
Group: Safarifriends Message: 24705 From: David P. Ross Date: 3/29/2014
Subject: Re: shocks/track bar
Group: Safarifriends Message: 24768 From: Roger Fisher Date: 4/8/2014
Subject: Re: Trade
Group: Safarifriends Message: 25298 From: George Marsh Date: 6/2/2014
Subject: 1995 Safari Senergeti
Group: Safarifriends Message: 25300 From: TD Date: 6/2/2014
Subject: Re: 1995 Safari Senergeti
Group: Safarifriends Message: 25301 From: George Marsh Date: 6/2/2014
Subject: Re: 1995 Safari Senergeti
Group: Safarifriends Message: 25302 From: Rick Rheinlaender Date: 6/2/2014
Subject: Re: 1995 Safari Senergeti
Group: Safarifriends Message: 25303 From: George Marsh Date: 6/2/2014
Subject: Re: 1995 Safari Senergeti
Group: Safarifriends Message: 25314 From: Gerald Larsen Date: 6/3/2014
Subject: Re: Engine will not start
Group: Safarifriends Message: 25315 From: kelly kircher Date: 6/3/2014
Subject: Re: Engine will not start
Group: Safarifriends Message: 25353 From: TD Date: 6/5/2014
Subject: Clearance Issues on Safari Velvet Ride Suspension
Group: Safarifriends Message: 25369 From: George Marsh Date: 6/6/2014
Subject: height
Group: Safarifriends Message: 25372 From: stuplich@ymail.com Date: 6/6/2014
Subject: Re: height
Group: Safarifriends Message: 25539 From: TD Date: 6/21/2014
Subject: Fwd: Clearance Issues on Safari Velvet Ride Suspension
Group: Safarifriends Message: 25540 From: nanandpete@q.com Date: 6/21/2014
Subject: Re: Fwd: Clearance Issues on Safari Velvet Ride Suspension [14 Attac
Group: Safarifriends Message: 25541 From: TD Date: 6/21/2014
Subject: Re: Fwd: Clearance Issues on Safari Velvet Ride Suspension
Group: Safarifriends Message: 25544 From: nanandpete@q.com Date: 6/22/2014
Subject: Re: Fwd: Clearance Issues on Safari Velvet Ride Suspension
Group: Safarifriends Message: 25545 From: TD Date: 6/22/2014
Subject: Re: Fwd: Clearance Issues on Safari Velvet Ride Suspension
Group: Safarifriends Message: 25546 From: Dale Maggio Date: 6/22/2014
Subject: Re: Fwd: Clearance Issues on Safari Velvet Ride Suspension
Group: Safarifriends Message: 25547 From: TD Date: 6/22/2014
Subject: Re: Fwd: Clearance Issues on Safari Velvet Ride Suspension
Group: Safarifriends Message: 25548 From: nanandpete@q.com Date: 6/22/2014
Subject: Re: Fwd: Clearance Issues on Safari Velvet Ride Suspension
Group: Safarifriends Message: 25549 From: nanandpete@q.com Date: 6/22/2014
Subject: Re: Fwd: Clearance Issues on Safari Velvet Ride Suspension
Group: Safarifriends Message: 25550 From: nanandpete@q.com Date: 6/22/2014
Subject: Re: Fwd: Clearance Issues on Safari Velvet Ride Suspension [14 Attac
Group: Safarifriends Message: 25551 From: TD Date: 6/22/2014
Subject: Re: Fwd: Clearance Issues on Safari Velvet Ride Suspension
Group: Safarifriends Message: 25552 From: Jim Exler Date: 6/22/2014
Subject: Re: Fwd: Clearance Issues on Safari Velvet Ride Suspension
Group: Safarifriends Message: 25554 From: nanandpete@q.com Date: 6/23/2014
Subject: Re: Fwd: Clearance Issues on Safari Velvet Ride Suspension
Group: Safarifriends Message: 25555 From: TD Date: 6/23/2014
Subject: Re: Fwd: Clearance Issues on Safari Velvet Ride Suspension
Group: Safarifriends Message: 25576 From: daveg Date: 6/25/2014
Subject: Re: Fwd: Clearance Issues on Safari Velvet Ride Suspension
Group: Safarifriends Message: 25577 From: TD Date: 6/25/2014
Subject: Re: Fwd: Clearance Issues on Safari Velvet Ride Suspension
Group: Safarifriends Message: 25581 From: nanandpete@q.com Date: 6/25/2014
Subject: Re: Handling/Ride (was: Clearance Issues on Safari Velvet Ride Suspe
Group: Safarifriends Message: 25610 From: daveg Date: 6/27/2014
Subject: Re: Fwd: Clearance Issues on Safari Velvet Ride Suspension
Group: Safarifriends Message: 25621 From: 7b65737be34a42ace4c444f809a71aca Date: 6/28/2014
Subject: Re: Signing messages (was: Foaming at the rad cap?)
Group: Safarifriends Message: 25628 From: Dick Missett Date: 6/28/2014
Subject: Re: Signing messages (was: Foaming at the rad cap?)
Group: Safarifriends Message: 25789 From: 7b65737be34a42ace4c444f809a71aca Date: 7/16/2014
Subject: Re: 1995 Serengeti - Ride Height adjustment - Need Help
Group: Safarifriends Message: 25790 From: TD Date: 7/16/2014
Subject: Re: 1995 Serengeti - Ride Height adjustment - Need Help
Group: Safarifriends Message: 25791 From: 7b65737be34a42ace4c444f809a71aca Date: 7/17/2014
Subject: Re: 1995 Serengeti - Ride Height adjustment - Need Help
Group: Safarifriends Message: 25793 From: Dan Bissell Date: 7/18/2014
Subject: Re: 1995 Serengeti - Ride Height adjustment - Need Help
Group: Safarifriends Message: 25794 From: John Quade Date: 7/19/2014
Subject: Re: 1995 Serengeti - Ride Height adjustment - Need Help
Group: Safarifriends Message: 25795 From: Herb Date: 7/19/2014
Subject: Re: 1995 Serengeti - Ride Height adjustment - Need Help



Group: Safarifriends Message: 24394 From: wolfe102001 Date: 2/8/2014
Subject: Re: Front Suspension
Cliff,

Depending on the length of Gary's coach, you could have two very different (but overlapping) issues.

The 30' had/has a real issue with an UNDERloaded from axle.  Said another way, there is not enough weight on the front axle to properly load the springs (be they torsilastic or leaf). Longer coaches, particularly 37 and 40' had a lot more weight on the front axle.

Have you weighed your wheel positions (better) or axles?  If so, please post numbers as well as the GAWR from the sticker near the driver's area.

I now many with the 30' added "ballast" to the very front of the coach.  At least one other owner moved his generator from just in front of the left rear bumper to the front right bay.

Does it handle better with full potable water-- most of its weight is on the front axle.

Clearly, I am not suggesting against the double shock addition, but you may have other forces at work as well as insufficient dampening.  Remember, if there is not suspension deflection on a bump, shocks do ZERO good.  They only work when they move.

Brett
Group: Safarifriends Message: 24395 From: Mr. G. Date: 2/8/2014
Subject: Re: Front Suspension
Regarding what Brett stated.  In addition to the quad shock set up on my 98, 30', Torsilastic suspension, Sahara.   I also hung a mass of weight out front of the coach. I have a couple hundred pounds of steel plate behind the bumper cap, AND I attached a JOB box style container full of tools to a class 3 hitch out in front of the coach. I have NO complaints on my ride comfort.
RG     moderator
 

To: Safarifriends@yahoogroups.com
From: bawolfe10@...
Date: Sat, 8 Feb 2014 07:46:10 -0800
Subject: Re: [Safarifriends] RE: Front Suspension



Cliff,

Depending on the length of Gary's coach, you could have two very different (but overlapping) issues.

The 30' had/has a real issue with an UNDERloaded from axle.  Said another way, there is not enough weight on the front axle to properly load the springs (be they torsilastic or leaf). Longer coaches, particularly 37 and 40' had a lot more weight on the front axle.

Have you weighed your wheel positions (better) or axles?  If so, please post numbers as well as the GAWR from the sticker near the driver's area.

I now many with the 30' added "ballast" to the very front of the coach.  At least one other owner moved his generator from just in front of the left rear bumper to the front right bay.

Does it handle better with full potable water-- most of its weight is on the front axle.

Clearly, I am not suggesting against the double shock addition, but you may have other forces at work as well as insufficient dampening.  Remember, if there is not suspension deflection on a bump, shocks do ZERO good.  They only work when they move.

Brett

Group: Safarifriends Message: 24519 From: goldfish8614 Date: 3/4/2014
Subject: Re: New Member

Hello to Dan, Dale, Nancie, Cliff, Jim, and all of the other folks who have replied but whose name escapes me. Thanks for the warm welcome. My Safari was bought with the knowledge that it needed some help with the suspension. I replaced the shocks with Bilsteins all the way around. There are two sway bars on my coach but the brackets for both were broken . Theses were repaired and I had the front end aligned. These repairs were done for a little less than $1200. Nothing else has been needed other than a couple of headlights and a turn signal /parking light.

    We have just had a few short trips thus far but intend to stretch it out some as I just retired on 2/23/2014 .

  We live in Corpus Christi, Tx.

  Dale

Group: Safarifriends Message: 24573 From: buckeyewoody46 Date: 3/15/2014
Subject: Re: road bounce up front

We have owned a 1995 Serengeti 38' 8.3L Cummins DP since September 2012. We bought new Goodyear RV 670's at a Goodyear tire store in Sedalia, MO right after we learned about the DOT tire code at the 2012  Escaped (Escapees RV Club) that was held there. The cold Goodyear pressure was set to 120 PSI for each tire as recommended on the tires themselves. The Goodyear store is obligated to filling the tires to that pressure to cover warranty and safety issues. However, on the way back home (at 120 PSI) we bounced around the highway like a basketball. We dealt with that until we found this tires recommended PSI base on the total weight on each tire (each corner weight was determined by SmartWeigh scales at the Escapees 2012 Escaped also). We found the adjusted tire PSI on a Goodyear website and rejusted our coach tires accordlingly. We also replaced the orginal Koni shocks with the help of Ralph Andrews and added a Safe-T-Plus stablizer to the mix. We still must slow down when riding on bad roads (uh cough, Indiana I-70 Westbound near the Ohio border and on I-65 through Birmingham, AL) but for the most part we have a comfortable ride, not new but better than when we first drove our Serengeti. I am going to have our suspension looked at for the need of replacement leaf springs and potential cost of such, when we get back home from our Florida winter trip.

 

Good luck, Dave and Judy


 

Group: Safarifriends Message: 24684 From: rob shelton Date: 3/28/2014
Subject: shocks/track bar
Hello Safari Friends! I have two questions. One I have read a lot about shocks. I have a 1998 safari serengeti, 37' with 300 cat and torsilastic suspension with 23600 miles. I feel I may need to change the bilsteins and basically think I would be happy with bilstein replacements. Question is, how to I know what shocks fit my motorhome, bilsteins or otherwise?  
Question two, I have a rattle sometimes when hitting small bumps similiar to sound a loose shock makes. I have looked closely at the sway bar bushings which all appear to be in  good shape, no shifting or swelling, offcenter. Now on the drivers side their is bar about 18 inches long attached to the frame in front of the axle and tied back to the axle. I would like to call it a track bar even though it runs from front to rear. I can twist it slightly by hand or even a little bit fore and aft maybe a sixteenth of an inch but feel it is the source of my rattle. Both ends have eyes with a large bolt through them. Bushings or replacement bar is the question and where to find the parts. This bar is adjustable telling me it would be part of the alignment. appreciate your reading and reply if you can help me. No apparent wear on tires with maybe 2500 miles on them. thanks
Group: Safarifriends Message: 24686 From: Rick Rheinlaender Date: 3/28/2014
Subject: Re: shocks/track bar
I just replaced my front shocks with new Bilstein shocks. I bought them online at the shock warehouse and got the best price they knew exactly what I needed and you can order from them. it has made all the difference in the driving totally.

2000 safari continental

Sent from my LG Smartphone

rob shelton <rrshelton2@...> wrote:

>Hello Safari Friends! I have two questions. One I have read a lot about shocks. I have a 1998 safari serengeti, 37' with 300 cat and torsilastic suspension with 23600 miles. I feel I may need to change the bilsteins and basically think I would be happy with bilstein replacements. Question is, how to I know what shocks fit my motorhome, bilsteins or otherwise?  
>Question two, I have a rattle sometimes when hitting small bumps similiar to sound a loose shock makes. I have looked closely at the sway bar bushings which all appear to be in  good shape, no shifting or swelling, offcenter. Now on the drivers side their is bar about 18 inches long attached to the frame in front of the axle and tied back to the axle. I would like to call it a track bar even though it runs from front to rear. I can twist it slightly by hand or even a little bit fore and aft maybe a sixteenth of an inch but feel it is the source of my rattle. Both ends have eyes with a large bolt through them. Bushings or replacement bar is the question and where to find the parts. This bar is adjustable telling me it would be part of the alignment. appreciate your reading and reply if you can help me. No apparent wear on tires with maybe 2500 miles on them. thanks
Group: Safarifriends Message: 24688 From: Dale Maggio Date: 3/28/2014
Subject: Re: shocks/track bar
Bilsteins are good, but they are a 1 stage shock. The Koni is 2 stage and will work better on rough roads.

-=Dale=-

--------------------------------------------
On Fri, 3/28/14, rob shelton <rrshelton2@...> wrote:

Subject: [Safarifriends] shocks/track bar
To: "Safarifriends@yahoogroups.com" <Safarifriends@yahoogroups.com>
Date: Friday, March 28, 2014, 7:54 AM
















 









Hello Safari Friends! I
have two questions. One I have read a lot about shocks. I
have a 1998 safari serengeti, 37' with 300 cat and
torsilastic suspension with 23600 miles. I feel I may need
to change the bilsteins and basically think I would be happy
with bilstein replacements. Question is, how to I know what
shocks fit my motorhome, bilsteins or otherwise?  
Question two, I have a rattle sometimes when
hitting small bumps similiar to sound a loose shock makes. I
have looked closely at the sway bar bushings which all
appear to be in  good shape, no shifting or swelling,
offcenter. Now on the drivers side their is bar about 18
inches long attached to the frame in front of the axle and
tied back to the axle. I would like to call it a track bar
even though it runs
from front to rear. I can twist it slightly by hand or even
a little bit fore and aft maybe a sixteenth of an inch but
feel it is the source of my rattle. Both ends have eyes with
a large bolt through them. Bushings or replacement bar is
the question and where to find the parts. This bar is
adjustable telling me it would be part of the alignment.
appreciate your reading and reply if you can help me. No
apparent wear on tires with maybe 2500 miles on them.
thanks
Group: Safarifriends Message: 24696 From: Richard Missett Date: 3/28/2014
Subject: Re: shocks/track bar
That track bar you are referring to is a radius rod and available from Pioneer Metal Works.  The guru's recommend that you add one to the passenger side also and that is what I did along with swapping the  Bilsteins out for Koni's

Dick Missett
98 Sahara 300 CAT
Wyoming, PA

Sent from my iPhone

On Mar 28, 2014, at 10:54 AM, rob shelton <rrshelton2@...> wrote:

 

Hello Safari Friends! I have two questions. One I have read a lot about shocks. I have a 1998 safari serengeti, 37' with 300 cat and torsilastic suspension with 23600 miles. I feel I may need to change the bilsteins and basically think I would be happy with bilstein replacements. Question is, how to I know what shocks fit my motorhome, bilsteins or otherwise?  
Question two, I have a rattle sometimes when hitting small bumps similiar to sound a loose shock makes. I have looked closely at the sway bar bushings which all appear to be in  good shape, no shifting or swelling, offcenter. Now on the drivers side their is bar about 18 inches long attached to the frame in front of the axle and tied back to the axle. I would like to call it a track bar even though it runs from front to rear. I can twist it slightly by hand or even a little bit fore and aft maybe a sixteenth of an inch but feel it is the source of my rattle. Both ends have eyes with a large bolt through them. Bushings or replacement bar is the question and where to find the parts. This bar is adjustable telling me it would be part of the alignment. appreciate your reading and reply if you can help me. No apparent wear on tires with maybe 2500 miles on them. thanks

Group: Safarifriends Message: 24699 From: rob shelton Date: 3/28/2014
Subject: Re: shocks/track bar
Thanks Richard,  I received this info earlier and found very interesting. I think their regular radius arms would be fine. I do remember an earlier post about tiger tracks and koni's. The regular ones probably would fit my budget better and I have a low milage coach. Now, why did you pick the koni's over the bilstein's. I found bilstein's for $364 delivered. I don't like the idea of having to physically adjust shocks. My want to is waneing just a bit, not over the hill but nearing the top. Again if you would why the koni's might be better. I like the torsion axles and would like to perserve their integrity. Thanks rob
On Friday, March 28, 2014 8:40 PM, Richard Missett <dngmissett@...> wrote:
 
That track bar you are referring to is a radius rod and available from Pioneer Metal Works.  The guru's recommend that you add one to the passenger side also and that is what I did along with swapping the  Bilsteins out for Koni's

Dick Missett
98 Sahara 300 CAT
Wyoming, PA

Sent from my iPhone

On Mar 28, 2014, at 10:54 AM, rob shelton <rrshelton2@...> wrote:

 
Hello Safari Friends! I have two questions. One I have read a lot about shocks. I have a 1998 safari serengeti, 37' with 300 cat and torsilastic suspension with 23600 miles. I feel I may need to change the bilsteins and basically think I would be happy with bilstein replacements. Question is, how to I know what shocks fit my motorhome, bilsteins or otherwise?  
Question two, I have a rattle sometimes when hitting small bumps similiar to sound a loose shock makes. I have looked closely at the sway bar bushings which all appear to be in  good shape, no shifting or swelling, offcenter. Now on the drivers side their is bar about 18 inches long attached to the frame in front of the axle and tied back to the axle. I would like to call it a track bar even though it runs from front to rear. I can twist it slightly by hand or even a little bit fore and aft maybe a sixteenth of an inch but feel it is the source of my rattle. Both ends have eyes with a large bolt through them. Bushings or replacement bar is the question and where to find the parts. This bar is adjustable telling me it would be part of the alignment. appreciate your reading and reply if you can help me. No apparent wear on tires with maybe 2500 miles on them. thanks


Group: Safarifriends Message: 24701 From: Richard Missett Date: 3/28/2014
Subject: Re: shocks/track bar
Hi Rob
 My decision to go with the Koni's was based solely on research and information I obtained here as well as on another Safari site .  I have a short wheel base 30' coach and was looking to minimize the white knuckle driving I was experiencing in high wind conditions as well as minimizing the pushing effect I was experiencing when being passed by a semi  on the interstate.  I also added a Safe-T-Plus steering stabilizer . Adding the additional radius rod, swapping out to Koni's  and installing the Safe-T-Plus steering stabilizer have made a significant difference  in the handling .  Still not perfect but significantly  improved . Unfortunately the man responsible for the research pertaining to the suspension and Koni  recommendation is no longer with us (Ralph Andrews former owner if Pioneer Metal Works)   I based my decisions on his research and recommendations. JWID 

Dick Missett
98 Sahara 309 CAT
Wyoming, PA

Sent from my iPhone

On Mar 28, 2014, at 9:58 PM, rob shelton <rrshelton2@...> wrote:

 

Thanks Richard,  I received this info earlier and found very interesting. I think their regular radius arms would be fine. I do remember an earlier post about tiger tracks and koni's. The regular ones probably would fit my budget better and I have a low milage coach. Now, why did you pick the koni's over the bilstein's. I found bilstein's for $364 delivered. I don't like the idea of having to physically adjust shocks. My want to is waneing just a bit, not over the hill but nearing the top. Again if you would why the koni's might be better. I like the torsion axles and would like to perserve their integrity. Thanks rob
On Friday, March 28, 2014 8:40 PM, Richard Missett <dngmissett@...> wrote:
 
That track bar you are referring to is a radius rod and available from Pioneer Metal Works.  The guru's recommend that you add one to the passenger side also and that is what I did along with swapping the  Bilsteins out for Koni's

Dick Missett
98 Sahara 300 CAT
Wyoming, PA

Sent from my iPhone

On Mar 28, 2014, at 10:54 AM, rob shelton <rrshelton2@...> wrote:

 
Hello Safari Friends! I have two questions. One I have read a lot about shocks. I have a 1998 safari serengeti, 37' with 300 cat and torsilastic suspension with 23600 miles. I feel I may need to change the bilsteins and basically think I would be happy with bilstein replacements. Question is, how to I know what shocks fit my motorhome, bilsteins or otherwise?  
Question two, I have a rattle sometimes when hitting small bumps similiar to sound a loose shock makes. I have looked closely at the sway bar bushings which all appear to be in  good shape, no shifting or swelling, offcenter. Now on the drivers side their is bar about 18 inches long attached to the frame in front of the axle and tied back to the axle. I would like to call it a track bar even though it runs from front to rear. I can twist it slightly by hand or even a little bit fore and aft maybe a sixteenth of an inch but feel it is the source of my rattle. Both ends have eyes with a large bolt through them. Bushings or replacement bar is the question and where to find the parts. This bar is adjustable telling me it would be part of the alignment. appreciate your reading and reply if you can help me. No apparent wear on tires with maybe 2500 miles on them. thanks


Group: Safarifriends Message: 24702 From: Richard Missett Date: 3/28/2014
Subject: Re: shocks/track bar
Rob
Forgot to mention that I had the same rattling issue on bumps and was told by a truck front end shop that the radius rod that you refer to was loose and needed to be replaced on my coach.  My research on finding a  replacement is what lead me to doing previous post modifications. HTH

Dick Missett
98 Sahara 300 CAT
Wyoming, PA

Sent from my iPhone

On Mar 28, 2014, at 11:20 PM, Richard Missett <dngmissett@...> wrote:

 

Hi Rob
 My decision to go with the Koni's was based solely on research and information I obtained here as well as on another Safari site .  I have a short wheel base 30' coach and was looking to minimize the white knuckle driving I was experiencing in high wind conditions as well as minimizing the pushing effect I was experiencing when being passed by a semi  on the interstate.  I also added a Safe-T-Plus steering stabilizer . Adding the additional radius rod, swapping out to Koni's  and installing the Safe-T-Plus steering stabilizer have made a significant difference  in the handling .  Still not perfect but significantly  improved . Unfortunately the man responsible for the research pertaining to the suspension and Koni  recommendation is no longer with us (Ralph Andrews former owner if Pioneer Metal Works)   I based my decisions on his research and recommendations. JWID 

Dick Missett
98 Sahara 309 CAT
Wyoming, PA

Sent from my iPhone

On Mar 28, 2014, at 9:58 PM, rob shelton <rrshelton2@...> wrote:

 

Thanks Richard,  I received this info earlier and found very interesting. I think their regular radius arms would be fine. I do remember an earlier post about tiger tracks and koni's. The regular ones probably would fit my budget better and I have a low milage coach. Now, why did you pick the koni's over the bilstein's. I found bilstein's for $364 delivered. I don't like the idea of having to physically adjust shocks. My want to is waneing just a bit, not over the hill but nearing the top. Again if you would why the koni's might be better. I like the torsion axles and would like to perserve their integrity. Thanks rob
On Friday, March 28, 2014 8:40 PM, Richard Missett <dngmissett@...> wrote:
 
That track bar you are referring to is a radius rod and available from Pioneer Metal Works.  The guru's recommend that you add one to the passenger side also and that is what I did along with swapping the  Bilsteins out for Koni's

Dick Missett
98 Sahara 300 CAT
Wyoming, PA

Sent from my iPhone

On Mar 28, 2014, at 10:54 AM, rob shelton <rrshelton2@...> wrote:

 
Hello Safari Friends! I have two questions. One I have read a lot about shocks. I have a 1998 safari serengeti, 37' with 300 cat and torsilastic suspension with 23600 miles. I feel I may need to change the bilsteins and basically think I would be happy with bilstein replacements. Question is, how to I know what shocks fit my motorhome, bilsteins or otherwise?  
Question two, I have a rattle sometimes when hitting small bumps similiar to sound a loose shock makes. I have looked closely at the sway bar bushings which all appear to be in  good shape, no shifting or swelling, offcenter. Now on the drivers side their is bar about 18 inches long attached to the frame in front of the axle and tied back to the axle. I would like to call it a track bar even though it runs from front to rear. I can twist it slightly by hand or even a little bit fore and aft maybe a sixteenth of an inch but feel it is the source of my rattle. Both ends have eyes with a large bolt through them. Bushings or replacement bar is the question and where to find the parts. This bar is adjustable telling me it would be part of the alignment. appreciate your reading and reply if you can help me. No apparent wear on tires with maybe 2500 miles on them. thanks


Group: Safarifriends Message: 24703 From: rob shelton Date: 3/28/2014
Subject: Re: shocks/track bar
Thank you again Richard. I will take all this under advisement. Our Serengeti is 39' so we don't have as much porpoiseing or wandering but it is there on dips etc. The radius bars should help that and I think should be there. I did notice on the pioneer website his double shock adapters appeared to have Bilsteins but I don't know what color the koni's are nor the price differential. That is to be considered. I have the bilstein price so will have to get price for the radius arms and koni's . Sometimes if a very rough spot I get a bang but for the most part very smooth. Thanks again for feedback. Next for me to call and talk with Pioneer. rob
On Friday, March 28, 2014 8:58 PM, rob shelton <rrshelton2@...> wrote:
 
Thanks Richard,  I received this info earlier and found very interesting. I think their regular radius arms would be fine. I do remember an earlier post about tiger tracks and koni's. The regular ones probably would fit my budget better and I have a low milage coach. Now, why did you pick the koni's over the bilstein's. I found bilstein's for $364 delivered. I don't like the idea of having to physically adjust shocks. My want to is waneing just a bit, not over the hill but nearing the top. Again if you would why the koni's might be better. I like the torsion axles and would like to perserve their integrity. Thanks rob
On Friday, March 28, 2014 8:40 PM, Richard Missett <dngmissett@...> wrote:
 
That track bar you are referring to is a radius rod and available from Pioneer Metal Works.  The guru's recommend that you add one to the passenger side also and that is what I did along with swapping the  Bilsteins out for Koni's

Dick Missett
98 Sahara 300 CAT
Wyoming, PA

Sent from my iPhone

On Mar 28, 2014, at 10:54 AM, rob shelton <rrshelton2@...> wrote:

 
Hello Safari Friends! I have two questions. One I have read a lot about shocks. I have a 1998 safari serengeti, 37' with 300 cat and torsilastic suspension with 23600 miles. I feel I may need to change the bilsteins and basically think I would be happy with bilstein replacements. Question is, how to I know what shocks fit my motorhome, bilsteins or otherwise?  
Question two, I have a rattle sometimes when hitting small bumps similiar to sound a loose shock makes. I have looked closely at the sway bar bushings which all appear to be in  good shape, no shifting or swelling, offcenter. Now on the drivers side their is bar about 18 inches long attached to the frame in front of the axle and tied back to the axle. I would like to call it a track bar even though it runs from front to rear. I can twist it slightly by hand or even a little bit fore and aft maybe a sixteenth of an inch but feel it is the source of my rattle. Both ends have eyes with a large bolt through them. Bushings or replacement bar is the question and where to find the parts. This bar is adjustable telling me it would be part of the alignment. appreciate your reading and reply if you can help me. No apparent wear on tires with maybe 2500 miles on them. thanks




Group: Safarifriends Message: 24705 From: David P. Ross Date: 3/29/2014
Subject: Re: shocks/track bar
I too followed Ralph Andrews' suggestions: adjusted ride height (twice), added front and rear Panhards, front radius arms, replaced Goodyear tires with Michelins and Bilsteins with Koni adjustable shocks. The Konis and Michelins made the greatest difference. My 2000 32' Sahara was quite a handful and rode like a truck before these mods and was just a handful after. 60 mph max, both hands on the wheel. I just traded it for a 2000 40' Monaco Dynasty. Oh, what a relief it is! It goes where you point it!

Dave Ross
Group: Safarifriends Message: 24768 From: Roger Fisher Date: 4/8/2014
Subject: Re: Trade
My Trek has 81000 miles is original throughout except for New porcelain toilet, Flat screen Tv, rear ladder and roof rack,  hot water heater, futon where the chairs were, shocks, steering arms, airbags, and fuel pump.  It is clean and well cared for. I average 12.5 mpg and use a half quart of oil in 5000 miles with the GMC diesel. We are presently headed home from SF CA to Bend Or. We just spent 3 months in AZ and it is just two small as we plan on traveling 5 months next year.  We'll send pics if you are interested
   rogerontheriver@...
Sent from my iPhone

On Apr 7, 2014, at 6:16 PM, rr4298@... wrote:

 

I have a 35" Sahara pusher with the Cummins Allison, magnum chassis package. Runs great 120k miles , marble floors , yes marble, the bath is hardwood. I am interested as I don't need such a large rig. rr4298@...

Group: Safarifriends Message: 25298 From: George Marsh Date: 6/2/2014
Subject: 1995 Safari Senergeti
Need to find shocks for front been told Blistein is the best need a part # please help thanks
Group: Safarifriends Message: 25300 From: TD Date: 6/2/2014
Subject: Re: 1995 Safari Senergeti
Looking at a reciept from PMW, the previous owner of my '95 Serengeti 38ft orered Koni shocks part# 88-1641 SP3. You might be able to find them of less on the internet. This is the recomended brand for the Velvet Ride (assuming you have the same suspension), they are more expensive, but give a much better ride and control and were designed specifically for these units. Hope this helps, if you need any more info let me know...
Just to a google search for Pioneer Metal Works for their info.
 
John
'95 Safari Serengeti 38ft, 300 Cummins 8.3CTA,  Allison
 6spd.


On Mon, Jun 2, 2014 at 5:03 PM, George Marsh marshgeorge19@... [Safarifriends] <Safarifriends@yahoogroups.com> wrote:


Need to find shocks for front been told Blistein is the best need a part # please help thanks



Group: Safarifriends Message: 25301 From: George Marsh Date: 6/2/2014
Subject: Re: 1995 Safari Senergeti
Thanks a lot that is very helpful George


On Monday, June 2, 2014 2:32 PM, "TD sdjhtm@... [Safarifriends]" <Safarifriends@yahoogroups.com> wrote:


 
Looking at a reciept from PMW, the previous owner of my '95 Serengeti 38ft orered Koni shocks part# 88-1641 SP3. You might be able to find them of less on the internet. This is the recomended brand for the Velvet Ride (assuming you have the same suspension), they are more expensive, but give a much better ride and control and were designed specifically for these units. Hope this helps, if you need any more info let me know...
Just to a google search for Pioneer Metal Works for their info.
 
John
'95 Safari Serengeti 38ft, 300 Cummins 8.3CTA,  Allison
 6spd.


On Mon, Jun 2, 2014 at 5:03 PM, George Marsh marshgeorge19@... [Safarifriends] <Safarifriends@yahoogroups.com> wrote:


Need to find shocks for front been told Blistein is the best need a part # please help thanks





Group: Safarifriends Message: 25302 From: Rick Rheinlaender Date: 6/2/2014
Subject: Re: 1995 Safari Senergeti
I ordered mine from eshocks.com and ordered bilsteins they had the best price!  They made a large difference in the ride

Sent from my iPad
Rick Rheinlaender
40' safari continental, 2000


On Jun 2, 2014, at 4:51 PM, "George Marsh marshgeorge19@... [Safarifriends]" <Safarifriends@yahoogroups.com> wrote:

 

Thanks a lot that is very helpful George


On Monday, June 2, 2014 2:32 PM, "TD sdjhtm@... [Safarifriends]" <Safarifriends@yahoogroups.com> wrote:


 
Looking at a reciept from PMW, the previous owner of my '95 Serengeti 38ft orered Koni shocks part# 88-1641 SP3. You might be able to find them of less on the internet. This is the recomended brand for the Velvet Ride (assuming you have the same suspension), they are more expensive, but give a much better ride and control and were designed specifically for these units. Hope this helps, if you need any more info let me know...
Just to a google search for Pioneer Metal Works for their info.
 
John
'95 Safari Serengeti 38ft, 300 Cummins 8.3CTA,  Allison
 6spd.


On Mon, Jun 2, 2014 at 5:03 PM, George Marsh marshgeorge19@... [Safarifriends] <Safarifriends@yahoogroups.com> wrote:


Need to find shocks for front been told Blistein is the best need a part # please help thanks





Group: Safarifriends Message: 25303 From: George Marsh Date: 6/2/2014
Subject: Re: 1995 Safari Senergeti
Thanks I will check them out George


On Monday, June 2, 2014 3:31 PM, "Rick Rheinlaender texsailor320@... [Safarifriends]" <Safarifriends@yahoogroups.com> wrote:


 
I ordered mine from eshocks.com and ordered bilsteins they had the best price!  They made a large difference in the ride

Sent from my iPad
Rick Rheinlaender
40' safari continental, 2000


On Jun 2, 2014, at 4:51 PM, "George Marsh marshgeorge19@... [Safarifriends]" <Safarifriends@yahoogroups.com> wrote:

 
Thanks a lot that is very helpful George


On Monday, June 2, 2014 2:32 PM, "TD sdjhtm@... [Safarifriends]" <Safarifriends@yahoogroups.com> wrote:


 
Looking at a reciept from PMW, the previous owner of my '95 Serengeti 38ft orered Koni shocks part# 88-1641 SP3. You might be able to find them of less on the internet. This is the recomended brand for the Velvet Ride (assuming you have the same suspension), they are more expensive, but give a much better ride and control and were designed specifically for these units. Hope this helps, if you need any more info let me know...
Just to a google search for Pioneer Metal Works for their info.
 
John
'95 Safari Serengeti 38ft, 300 Cummins 8.3CTA,  Allison
 6spd.


On Mon, Jun 2, 2014 at 5:03 PM, George Marsh marshgeorge19@... [Safarifriends] <Safarifriends@yahoogroups.com> wrote:


Need to find shocks for front been told Blistein is the best need a part # please help thanks







Group: Safarifriends Message: 25314 From: Gerald Larsen Date: 6/3/2014
Subject: Re: Engine will not start
Thanks much Brett

As soon as I read your reply I wanted to kick myself, I know it is a filter/separator, but I was just thinking separator.  That being said, I tried to remove it, but fuel kept running out when loosened. I filled a gallon container twice then gave up. Do you know if there is a shut off valve between the tank and primary?

I tried to prime line several times, I pumped until it stopped, tried to start several times that way. Still would not start, all pressure was gone at the primer each time. 

Is the lift pump electric?  I can not find a fuse or switch any where.  I really don't know where the pump is located. 

I'm going to raise the rear end in hopes that will stop the fuel flow enough so I can get the new filter on, I keep my tank as full as possible to help the ride and it also eases the shock factor on the first day of travel.

Do you know what the ride height should be? I put Koni shocks on the front and will do the same in the rear trying to get a decent ride. Lots to learn about these pets.

Thanks so much for all your help. 

Jerry

Sent from Jerry's iPad

On May 31, 2014, at 12:20 PM, "bawolfe10@... [Safarifriends]" <Safarifriends@yahoogroups.com> wrote:

 

Lift pumps have not historically been a high failure rate item on the Cat 3126.

Air getting into the fuel system between tank and lift pump-- with the primary fuel filter being the "most likely suspect"

After replacing the primary fuel filter and priming, check carefully for any air in the fuel at the secondary filter housing.

I don't have any manuals handy, but recall that fuel pressure at secondary filter is 50 PSI+ with engine running at idle.  You SHOULD confirm that-- it has been awhile since I checked one.  Any Caterpillar tech/dealer should be able to tell you that.

Brett

Group: Safarifriends Message: 25315 From: kelly kircher Date: 6/3/2014
Subject: Re: Engine will not start
silly question while we are on the topic. I have located the secondary 2 micron filter in the maintenance bay of my 97 sahara cat 3126 but where is the primary/separator?
 

To: Safarifriends@yahoogroups.com
From: Safarifriends@yahoogroups.com
Date: Tue, 3 Jun 2014 12:05:39 -0700
Subject: Re: [Safarifriends] Re: Engine will not start

 
Thanks much Brett

As soon as I read your reply I wanted to kick myself, I know it is a filter/separator, but I was just thinking separator.  That being said, I tried to remove it, but fuel kept running out when loosened. I filled a gallon container twice then gave up. Do you know if there is a shut off valve between the tank and primary?

I tried to prime line several times, I pumped until it stopped, tried to start several times that way. Still would not start, all pressure was gone at the primer each time. 

Is the lift pump electric?  I can not find a fuse or switch any where.  I really don't know where the pump is located. 

I'm going to raise the rear end in hopes that will stop the fuel flow enough so I can get the new filter on, I keep my tank as full as possible to help the ride and it also eases the shock factor on the first day of travel.

Do you know what the ride height should be? I put Koni shocks on the front and will do the same in the rear trying to get a decent ride. Lots to learn about these pets.

Thanks so much for all your help. 

Jerry

Sent from Jerry's iPad

On May 31, 2014, at 12:20 PM, "bawolfe10@... [Safarifriends]" <Safarifriends@yahoogroups.com> wrote:

 

Lift pumps have not historically been a high failure rate item on the Cat 3126.

Air getting into the fuel system between tank and lift pump-- with the primary fuel filter being the "most likely suspect"

After replacing the primary fuel filter and priming, check carefully for any air in the fuel at the secondary filter housing.

I don't have any manuals handy, but recall that fuel pressure at secondary filter is 50 PSI+ with engine running at idle.  You SHOULD confirm that-- it has been awhile since I checked one.  Any Caterpillar tech/dealer should be able to tell you that.

Brett


Group: Safarifriends Message: 25353 From: TD Date: 6/5/2014
Subject: Clearance Issues on Safari Velvet Ride Suspension
NOTE TO ALL VELVET RIDE SAFARIS OF THIS VINTAGE!!! Every one that is having issues with ride and perceived bottoming out (with a loud bang at times), should look at these photos and check their own units out!!!

I was having ride issues with my '95 Safari Serengeti 38' 300 Cummins 8.3CTA Allison 6spd. Besides poor ride quality, I was having severe bottoming out issues. Any poor bridge transition or heaves on road would cause it to nose dive a bit and bottom out with a loud harsh and at times painful BANG! Thanks to Brett with his knowledge and wisdom, he convinced me to look very thoroughly for clearance issues, and what you see in the photos is what I, by chance, discovered. Any Safari owners with Magnum Chassis and Velvet Ride Suspension SHOULD check for this as a precaution, but especially if you are having similar issues like I have been experiencing. To remedy this clearance issue, I cut off the excess bolt that was protruding past the nut, an easy fix. I've also attached pictures of the repair.  Please note:make sure that the bolts are very tight before the ends are cut off!


It is worth noting that by records of PO, this "ghost" issue has been chased for a loooong time, and more likely was their right from the start (my opinion), and by the looks of how tight things are in that area this could very well be a hidden common issue. I hope this will help any and all Safari owners with the Velvet Ride Suspension...
 
A few more thoughts...
-My ride height is correct.
-Because of this issue, I only had 2 inches of downward suspension travel! That sure as heck will give you a crappy ride.
-With out knowing what your looking for, this problem is very easy to miss, very unnoticeable, especially considering that when shops look over the suspension, the rigs are lifted, which extends the suspension and tends to hide the problem even more. I myself was convinced that it was bottoming out against the shocks! One would not even expect or think that two small bolts protruding discreetly could cause such a problem.  When a shop gets a complaint of bottoming out, the likely culprit is the shocks, if the problem doesn't get resolved, it is all to easy to blame the Torsilastic suspension.
 
Also, I would like to put a request out to some of our Safari owners, especially with the same or similar vintage, to check out their suspensions to see how much clearance they have and if there is any similar issues, and/or if the bolts are facing the other way on newer units, thus correcting the problem. Please, it will only take a few minutes, humor me and check it out and post the results, take pictures if you can. If you do look, please note which way the bolts are facing, I'm curious if SMC resolved the issue just by installing the bolts the other way around.
 
John
'95 Safari Serengeti 38ft, 300 Cummins 8.3CTA, Allison 6spd
Group: Safarifriends Message: 25369 From: George Marsh Date: 6/6/2014
Subject: height
coach height for shocks and running height
Group: Safarifriends Message: 25372 From: stuplich@ymail.com Date: 6/6/2014
Subject: Re: height
George
What is your question?



---In Safarifriends@yahoogroups.com, <marshgeorge19@...> wrote :

coach height for shocks and running height
Group: Safarifriends Message: 25539 From: TD Date: 6/21/2014
Subject: Fwd: Clearance Issues on Safari Velvet Ride Suspension

Update:

Well, I finally have a moment to update everyone on the suspension clearance issues that I had and resolved. We went on a small trip (220 miles), that involved several very poor bridge transitions and other imperfections in the road, to test the suspension. And....the result is AMAZING!!! The coach is as smooth as can be and truly lives up to the Velvet Ride name. There is now plenty of suspension travel and I think I managed to bottom it out once (had to really work at it), and it was actually smooth and pleasant. I also had the Tiger Trak Suspension upgrade installed, and have to say that even though it is a bit over priced, it is well worth every penny. The coach handles better, especially in the wind and road imperfections. It is in general more stable on the road, not that I had issues with handling before. I just wanted an extra safety upgrade and am very glad that I did. This is a pleasure to drive and is pretty much as smooth as my old '82 Cadillac.

I want to reiterate again to anyone that is having ride quality issues with their Magnum Velvet Ride Suspensions, check out my right up and photos of the issues I had, and check on your own coach, to see if you have a similar problem. It is an easy fix!!!

Safe travels,

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

---------- Forwarded message ----------
From: TD <sdjhtm@...>
Date: Thu, Jun 5, 2014 at 3:29 PM
Subject: Clearance Issues on Safari Velvet Ride Suspension
To: Safarifriends@yahoogroups.com


NOTE TO ALL VELVET RIDE SAFARIS OF THIS VINTAGE!!! Every one that is having issues with ride and perceived bottoming out (with a loud bang at times), should look at these photos and check their own units out!!!

I was having ride issues with my '95 Safari Serengeti 38' 300 Cummins 8.3CTA Allison 6spd. Besides poor ride quality, I was having severe bottoming out issues. Any poor bridge transition or heaves on road would cause it to nose dive a bit and bottom out with a loud harsh and at times painful BANG! Thanks to Brett with his knowledge and wisdom, he convinced me to look very thoroughly for clearance issues, and what you see in the photos is what I, by chance, discovered. Any Safari owners with Magnum Chassis and Velvet Ride Suspension SHOULD check for this as a precaution, but especially if you are having similar issues like I have been experiencing. To remedy this clearance issue, I cut off the excess bolt that was protruding past the nut, an easy fix. I've also attached pictures of the repair.  Please note:make sure that the bolts are very tight before the ends are cut off!


It is worth noting that by records of PO, this "ghost" issue has been chased for a loooong time, and more likely was their right from the start (my opinion), and by the looks of how tight things are in that area this could very well be a hidden common issue. I hope this will help any and all Safari owners with the Velvet Ride Suspension...
 
A few more thoughts...
-My ride height is correct.
-Because of this issue, I only had 2 inches of downward suspension travel! That sure as heck will give you a crappy ride.
-With out knowing what your looking for, this problem is very easy to miss, very unnoticeable, especially considering that when shops look over the suspension, the rigs are lifted, which extends the suspension and tends to hide the problem even more. I myself was convinced that it was bottoming out against the shocks! One would not even expect or think that two small bolts protruding discreetly could cause such a problem.  When a shop gets a complaint of bottoming out, the likely culprit is the shocks, if the problem doesn't get resolved, it is all to easy to blame the Torsilastic suspension.
 
Also, I would like to put a request out to some of our Safari owners, especially with the same or similar vintage, to check out their suspensions to see how much clearance they have and if there is any similar issues, and/or if the bolts are facing the other way on newer units, thus correcting the problem. Please, it will only take a few minutes, humor me and check it out and post the results, take pictures if you can. If you do look, please note which way the bolts are facing, I'm curious if SMC resolved the issue just by installing the bolts the other way around.
 
John
'95 Safari Serengeti 38ft, 300 Cummins 8.3CTA, Allison 6spd

Group: Safarifriends Message: 25540 From: nanandpete@q.com Date: 6/21/2014
Subject: Re: Fwd: Clearance Issues on Safari Velvet Ride Suspension [14 Attac
I am having trouble locating the errant bolts. on my 99 sahara. Are they sticking out toward the edge of the coach from the frame? I found a couple. but there appears to be plenty of clearance on both sides. Next question, what does the Tiger Trak suspension replace?


From: "TD sdjhtm@... [Safarifriends]" <Safarifriends@yahoogroups.com>
To: Safarifriends@yahoogroups.com
Sent: Saturday, June 21, 2014 1:30:44 PM
Subject: [Safarifriends] Fwd: Clearance Issues on Safari Velvet Ride Suspension [14 Attachments]

Update:

Well, I finally have a moment to update everyone on the suspension clearance issues that I had and resolved. We went on a small trip (220 miles), that involved several very poor bridge transitions and other imperfections in the road, to test the suspension. And....the result is AMAZING!!! The coach is as smooth as can be and truly lives up to the Velvet Ride name. There is now plenty of suspension travel and I think I managed to bottom it out once (had to really work at it), and it was actually smooth and pleasant. I also had the Tiger Trak Suspension upgrade installed, and have to say that even though it is a bit over priced, it is well worth every penny. The coach handles better, especially in the wind and road imperfections. It is in general more stable on the road, not that I had issues with handling before. I just wanted an extra safety upgrade and am very glad that I did. This is a pleasure to drive and is pretty much as smooth as my old '82 Cadillac.

I want to reiterate again to anyone that is having ride quality issues with their Magnum Velvet Ride Suspensions, check out my right up and photos of the issues I had, and check on your own coach, to see if you have a similar problem. It is an easy fix!!!

Safe travels,

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

---------- Forwarded message ----------
From: TD <sdjhtm@...>
Date: Thu, Jun 5, 2014 at 3:29 PM
Subject: Clearance Issues on Safari Velvet Ride Suspension
To: Safarifriends@yahoogroups.com


NOTE TO ALL VELVET RIDE SAFARIS OF THIS VINTAGE!!! Every one that is having issues with ride and perceived bottoming out (with a loud bang at times), should look at these photos and check their own units out!!!

I was having ride issues with my '95 Safari Serengeti 38' 300 Cummins 8.3CTA Allison 6spd. Besides poor ride quality, I was having severe bottoming out issues. Any poor bridge transition or heaves on road would cause it to nose dive a bit and bottom out with a loud harsh and at times painful BANG! Thanks to Brett with his knowledge and wisdom, he convinced me to look very thoroughly for clearance issues, and what you see in the photos is what I, by chance, discovered. Any Safari owners with Magnum Chassis and Velvet Ride Suspension SHOULD check for this as a precaution, but especially if you are having similar issues like I have been experiencing. To remedy this clearance issue, I cut off the excess bolt that was protruding past the nut, an easy fix. I've also attached pictures of the repair.  Please note:make sure that the bolts are very tight before the ends are cut off!


It is worth noting that by records of PO, this "ghost" issue has been chased for a loooong time, and more likely was their right from the start (my opinion), and by the looks of how tight things are in that area this could very well be a hidden common issue. I hope this will help any and all Safari owners with the Velvet Ride Suspension...
 
A few more thoughts...
-My ride height is correct.
-Because of this issue, I only had 2 inches of downward suspension travel! That sure as heck will give you a crappy ride.
-With out knowing what your looking for, this problem is very easy to miss, very unnoticeable, especially considering that when shops look over the suspension, the rigs are lifted, which extends the suspension and tends to hide the problem even more. I myself was convinced that it was bottoming out against the shocks! One would not even expect or think that two small bolts protruding discreetly could cause such a problem.  When a shop gets a complaint of bottoming out, the likely culprit is the shocks, if the problem doesn't get resolved, it is all to easy to blame the Torsilastic suspension.
 
Also, I would like to put a request out to some of our Safari owners, especially with the same or similar vintage, to check out their suspensions to see how much clearance they have and if there is any similar issues, and/or if the bolts are facing the other way on newer units, thus correcting the problem. Please, it will only take a few minutes, humor me and check it out and post the results, take pictures if you can. If you do look, please note which way the bolts are facing, I'm curious if SMC resolved the issue just by installing the bolts the other way around.
 
John
'95 Safari Serengeti 38ft, 300 Cummins 8.3CTA, Allison 6spd

Group: Safarifriends Message: 25541 From: TD Date: 6/21/2014
Subject: Re: Fwd: Clearance Issues on Safari Velvet Ride Suspension
I am not familliar with the type of suspension that you coach has, so this may not apply. Does you coach have the Velvet Ride/Torsilastic suspension? As shown in the pictures, the bolts would be sticking out of the frame rail pointing outward towards the sides of the coach.
 
Tiger Traks are a suspension upgrade (not a replacement) for Safari coaches that have Velvet Ride Suspension. You can find more information on this upgrade in the archives of this forum and on the website of the maker of this product. The company is called Pioneer Metal Works (PMW). Do a google search.
 
Safe Travels,
John
'95 Safari Serengeti 38ft, 300 Cummins 8.3CTA, Allison
6spd.


On Sat, Jun 21, 2014 at 5:44 PM, 'nanandpete@...' nanandpete@... [Safarifriends] <Safarifriends@yahoogroups.com> wrote:


I am having trouble locating the errant bolts. on my 99 sahara. Are they sticking out toward the edge of the coach from the frame? I found a couple. but there appears to be plenty of clearance on both sides. Next question, what does the Tiger Trak suspension replace?


From: "TD sdjhtm@... [Safarifriends]" <Safarifriends@yahoogroups.com>
To: Safarifriends@yahoogroups.com
Sent: Saturday, June 21, 2014 1:30:44 PM
Subject: [Safarifriends] Fwd: Clearance Issues on Safari Velvet Ride Suspension [14 Attachments]

Update:

Well, I finally have a moment to update everyone on the suspension clearance issues that I had and resolved. We went on a small trip (220 miles), that involved several very poor bridge transitions and other imperfections in the road, to test the suspension. And....the result is AMAZING!!! The coach is as smooth as can be and truly lives up to the Velvet Ride name. There is now plenty of suspension travel and I think I managed to bottom it out once (had to really work at it), and it was actually smooth and pleasant. I also had the Tiger Trak Suspension upgrade installed, and have to say that even though it is a bit over priced, it is well worth every penny. The coach handles better, especially in the wind and road imperfections. It is in general more stable on the road, not that I had issues with handling before. I just wanted an extra safety upgrade and am very glad that I did. This is a pleasure to drive and is pretty much as smooth as my old '82 Cadillac.

I want to reiterate again to anyone that is having ride quality issues with their Magnum Velvet Ride Suspensions, check out my right up and photos of the issues I had, and check on your own coach, to see if you have a similar problem. It is an easy fix!!!

Safe travels,

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

---------- Forwarded message ----------
From: TD <sdjhtm@...>
Date: Thu, Jun 5, 2014 at 3:29 PM
Subject: Clearance Issues on Safari Velvet Ride Suspension
To: Safarifriends@yahoogroups.com


NOTE TO ALL VELVET RIDE SAFARIS OF THIS VINTAGE!!! Every one that is having issues with ride and perceived bottoming out (with a loud bang at times), should look at these photos and check their own units out!!!

I was having ride issues with my '95 Safari Serengeti 38' 300 Cummins 8.3CTA Allison 6spd. Besides poor ride quality, I was having severe bottoming out issues. Any poor bridge transition or heaves on road would cause it to nose dive a bit and bottom out with a loud harsh and at times painful BANG! Thanks to Brett with his knowledge and wisdom, he convinced me to look very thoroughly for clearance issues, and what you see in the photos is what I, by chance, discovered. Any Safari owners with Magnum Chassis and Velvet Ride Suspension SHOULD check for this as a precaution, but especially if you are having similar issues like I have been experiencing. To remedy this clearance issue, I cut off the excess bolt that was protruding past the nut, an easy fix. I've also attached pictures of the repair.  Please note:make sure that the bolts are very tight before the ends are cut off!


It is worth noting that by records of PO, this "ghost" issue has been chased for a loooong time, and more likely was their right from the start (my opinion), and by the looks of how tight things are in that area this could very well be a hidden common issue. I hope this will help any and all Safari owners with the Velvet Ride Suspension...
 
A few more thoughts...
-My ride height is correct.
-Because of this issue, I only had 2 inches of downward suspension travel! That sure as heck will give you a crappy ride.
-With out knowing what your looking for, this problem is very easy to miss, very unnoticeable, especially considering that when shops look over the suspension, the rigs are lifted, which extends the suspension and tends to hide the problem even more. I myself was convinced that it was bottoming out against the shocks! One would not even expect or think that two small bolts protruding discreetly could cause such a problem.  When a shop gets a complaint of bottoming out, the likely culprit is the shocks, if the problem doesn't get resolved, it is all to easy to blame the Torsilastic suspension.
 
Also, I would like to put a request out to some of our Safari owners, especially with the same or similar vintage, to check out their suspensions to see how much clearance they have and if there is any similar issues, and/or if the bolts are facing the other way on newer units, thus correcting the problem. Please, it will only take a few minutes, humor me and check it out and post the results, take pictures if you can. If you do look, please note which way the bolts are facing, I'm curious if SMC resolved the issue just by installing the bolts the other way around.
 
John
'95 Safari Serengeti 38ft, 300 Cummins 8.3CTA, Allison 6spd




Group: Safarifriends Message: 25544 From: nanandpete@q.com Date: 6/22/2014
Subject: Re: Fwd: Clearance Issues on Safari Velvet Ride Suspension
 I am velvet ride. They may have spread the assembly out on the 99s as there appears to be a good inch clearance on both sides. Thanks for the Pioneer info.


From: "TD sdjhtm@... [Safarifriends]" <Safarifriends@yahoogroups.com>
To: Safarifriends@yahoogroups.com
Sent: Saturday, June 21, 2014 3:51:51 PM
Subject: Re: [Safarifriends] Fwd: Clearance Issues on Safari Velvet Ride Suspension

I am not familliar with the type of suspension that you coach has, so this may not apply. Does you coach have the Velvet Ride/Torsilastic suspension? As shown in the pictures, the bolts would be sticking out of the frame rail pointing outward towards the sides of the coach.
 
Tiger Traks are a suspension upgrade (not a replacement) for Safari coaches that have Velvet Ride Suspension. You can find more information on this upgrade in the archives of this forum and on the website of the maker of this product. The company is called Pioneer Metal Works (PMW). Do a google search.
 
Safe Travels,
John
'95 Safari Serengeti 38ft, 300 Cummins 8.3CTA, Allison
6spd.


On Sat, Jun 21, 2014 at 5:44 PM, 'nanandpete@...' nanandpete@... [Safarifriends] <Safarifriends@yahoogroups.com> wrote:


I am having trouble locating the errant bolts. on my 99 sahara. Are they sticking out toward the edge of the coach from the frame? I found a couple. but there appears to be plenty of clearance on both sides. Next question, what does the Tiger Trak suspension replace?


From: "TD sdjhtm@... [Safarifriends]" <Safarifriends@yahoogroups.com>
To: Safarifriends@yahoogroups.com
Sent: Saturday, June 21, 2014 1:30:44 PM
Subject: [Safarifriends] Fwd: Clearance Issues on Safari Velvet Ride Suspension [14 Attachments]

Update:

Well, I finally have a moment to update everyone on the suspension clearance issues that I had and resolved. We went on a small trip (220 miles), that involved several very poor bridge transitions and other imperfections in the road, to test the suspension. And....the result is AMAZING!!! The coach is as smooth as can be and truly lives up to the Velvet Ride name. There is now plenty of suspension travel and I think I managed to bottom it out once (had to really work at it), and it was actually smooth and pleasant. I also had the Tiger Trak Suspension upgrade installed, and have to say that even though it is a bit over priced, it is well worth every penny. The coach handles better, especially in the wind and road imperfections. It is in general more stable on the road, not that I had issues with handling before. I just wanted an extra safety upgrade and am very glad that I did. This is a pleasure to drive and is pretty much as smooth as my old '82 Cadillac.

I want to reiterate again to anyone that is having ride quality issues with their Magnum Velvet Ride Suspensions, check out my right up and photos of the issues I had, and check on your own coach, to see if you have a similar problem. It is an easy fix!!!

Safe travels,

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

---------- Forwarded message ----------
From: TD <sdjhtm@...>
Date: Thu, Jun 5, 2014 at 3:29 PM
Subject: Clearance Issues on Safari Velvet Ride Suspension
To: Safarifriends@yahoogroups.com


NOTE TO ALL VELVET RIDE SAFARIS OF THIS VINTAGE!!! Every one that is having issues with ride and perceived bottoming out (with a loud bang at times), should look at these photos and check their own units out!!!

I was having ride issues with my '95 Safari Serengeti 38' 300 Cummins 8.3CTA Allison 6spd. Besides poor ride quality, I was having severe bottoming out issues. Any poor bridge transition or heaves on road would cause it to nose dive a bit and bottom out with a loud harsh and at times painful BANG! Thanks to Brett with his knowledge and wisdom, he convinced me to look very thoroughly for clearance issues, and what you see in the photos is what I, by chance, discovered. Any Safari owners with Magnum Chassis and Velvet Ride Suspension SHOULD check for this as a precaution, but especially if you are having similar issues like I have been experiencing. To remedy this clearance issue, I cut off the excess bolt that was protruding past the nut, an easy fix. I've also attached pictures of the repair.  Please note:make sure that the bolts are very tight before the ends are cut off!


It is worth noting that by records of PO, this "ghost" issue has been chased for a loooong time, and more likely was their right from the start (my opinion), and by the looks of how tight things are in that area this could very well be a hidden common issue. I hope this will help any and all Safari owners with the Velvet Ride Suspension...
 
A few more thoughts...
-My ride height is correct.
-Because of this issue, I only had 2 inches of downward suspension travel! That sure as heck will give you a crappy ride.
-With out knowing what your looking for, this problem is very easy to miss, very unnoticeable, especially considering that when shops look over the suspension, the rigs are lifted, which extends the suspension and tends to hide the problem even more. I myself was convinced that it was bottoming out against the shocks! One would not even expect or think that two small bolts protruding discreetly could cause such a problem.  When a shop gets a complaint of bottoming out, the likely culprit is the shocks, if the problem doesn't get resolved, it is all to easy to blame the Torsilastic suspension.
 
Also, I would like to put a request out to some of our Safari owners, especially with the same or similar vintage, to check out their suspensions to see how much clearance they have and if there is any similar issues, and/or if the bolts are facing the other way on newer units, thus correcting the problem. Please, it will only take a few minutes, humor me and check it out and post the results, take pictures if you can. If you do look, please note which way the bolts are facing, I'm curious if SMC resolved the issue just by installing the bolts the other way around.
 
John
'95 Safari Serengeti 38ft, 300 Cummins 8.3CTA, Allison 6spd




Group: Safarifriends Message: 25545 From: TD Date: 6/22/2014
Subject: Re: Fwd: Clearance Issues on Safari Velvet Ride Suspension
Just curious, do the four bolts on each side stick out just as much as on mine, or is the bolt facing the other way (nut on the inside of the frame rail)?
 
FYI, PMW also carries the Koni shocks and the stabilizer link kits for your coach, in case you need those items in the furture.
 
John
'95 Safari Serengeti 38ft, 300 Cummins 8.3CTA, Allison
6spd.


On Sun, Jun 22, 2014 at 10:58 AM, 'nanandpete@...' nanandpete@... [Safarifriends] <Safarifriends@yahoogroups.com> wrote:


 I am velvet ride. They may have spread the assembly out on the 99s as there appears to be a good inch clearance on both sides. Thanks for the Pioneer info.


From: "TD sdjhtm@... [Safarifriends]" <Safarifriends@yahoogroups.com>
To: Safarifriends@yahoogroups.com
Sent: Saturday, June 21, 2014 3:51:51 PM
Subject: Re: [Safarifriends] Fwd: Clearance Issues on Safari Velvet Ride Suspension

I am not familliar with the type of suspension that you coach has, so this may not apply. Does you coach have the Velvet Ride/Torsilastic suspension? As shown in the pictures, the bolts would be sticking out of the frame rail pointing outward towards the sides of the coach.
 
Tiger Traks are a suspension upgrade (not a replacement) for Safari coaches that have Velvet Ride Suspension. You can find more information on this upgrade in the archives of this forum and on the website of the maker of this product. The company is called Pioneer Metal Works (PMW). Do a google search.
 
Safe Travels,
John
'95 Safari Serengeti 38ft, 300 Cummins 8.3CTA, Allison
6spd.


On Sat, Jun 21, 2014 at 5:44 PM, 'nanandpete@...' nanandpete@... [Safarifriends] <Safarifriends@yahoogroups.com> wrote:


I am having trouble locating the errant bolts. on my 99 sahara. Are they sticking out toward the edge of the coach from the frame? I found a couple. but there appears to be plenty of clearance on both sides. Next question, what does the Tiger Trak suspension replace?


From: "TD sdjhtm@... [Safarifriends]" <Safarifriends@yahoogroups.com>
To: Safarifriends@yahoogroups.com
Sent: Saturday, June 21, 2014 1:30:44 PM
Subject: [Safarifriends] Fwd: Clearance Issues on Safari Velvet Ride Suspension [14 Attachments]

Update:

Well, I finally have a moment to update everyone on the suspension clearance issues that I had and resolved. We went on a small trip (220 miles), that involved several very poor bridge transitions and other imperfections in the road, to test the suspension. And....the result is AMAZING!!! The coach is as smooth as can be and truly lives up to the Velvet Ride name. There is now plenty of suspension travel and I think I managed to bottom it out once (had to really work at it), and it was actually smooth and pleasant. I also had the Tiger Trak Suspension upgrade installed, and have to say that even though it is a bit over priced, it is well worth every penny. The coach handles better, especially in the wind and road imperfections. It is in general more stable on the road, not that I had issues with handling before. I just wanted an extra safety upgrade and am very glad that I did. This is a pleasure to drive and is pretty much as smooth as my old '82 Cadillac.

I want to reiterate again to anyone that is having ride quality issues with their Magnum Velvet Ride Suspensions, check out my right up and photos of the issues I had, and check on your own coach, to see if you have a similar problem. It is an easy fix!!!

Safe travels,

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

---------- Forwarded message ----------
From: TD <sdjhtm@...>
Date: Thu, Jun 5, 2014 at 3:29 PM
Subject: Clearance Issues on Safari Velvet Ride Suspension
To: Safarifriends@yahoogroups.com


NOTE TO ALL VELVET RIDE SAFARIS OF THIS VINTAGE!!! Every one that is having issues with ride and perceived bottoming out (with a loud bang at times), should look at these photos and check their own units out!!!

I was having ride issues with my '95 Safari Serengeti 38' 300 Cummins 8.3CTA Allison 6spd. Besides poor ride quality, I was having severe bottoming out issues. Any poor bridge transition or heaves on road would cause it to nose dive a bit and bottom out with a loud harsh and at times painful BANG! Thanks to Brett with his knowledge and wisdom, he convinced me to look very thoroughly for clearance issues, and what you see in the photos is what I, by chance, discovered. Any Safari owners with Magnum Chassis and Velvet Ride Suspension SHOULD check for this as a precaution, but especially if you are having similar issues like I have been experiencing. To remedy this clearance issue, I cut off the excess bolt that was protruding past the nut, an easy fix. I've also attached pictures of the repair.  Please note:make sure that the bolts are very tight before the ends are cut off!


It is worth noting that by records of PO, this "ghost" issue has been chased for a loooong time, and more likely was their right from the start (my opinion), and by the looks of how tight things are in that area this could very well be a hidden common issue. I hope this will help any and all Safari owners with the Velvet Ride Suspension...
 
A few more thoughts...
-My ride height is correct.
-Because of this issue, I only had 2 inches of downward suspension travel! That sure as heck will give you a crappy ride.
-With out knowing what your looking for, this problem is very easy to miss, very unnoticeable, especially considering that when shops look over the suspension, the rigs are lifted, which extends the suspension and tends to hide the problem even more. I myself was convinced that it was bottoming out against the shocks! One would not even expect or think that two small bolts protruding discreetly could cause such a problem.  When a shop gets a complaint of bottoming out, the likely culprit is the shocks, if the problem doesn't get resolved, it is all to easy to blame the Torsilastic suspension.
 
Also, I would like to put a request out to some of our Safari owners, especially with the same or similar vintage, to check out their suspensions to see how much clearance they have and if there is any similar issues, and/or if the bolts are facing the other way on newer units, thus correcting the problem. Please, it will only take a few minutes, humor me and check it out and post the results, take pictures if you can. If you do look, please note which way the bolts are facing, I'm curious if SMC resolved the issue just by installing the bolts the other way around.
 
John
'95 Safari Serengeti 38ft, 300 Cummins 8.3CTA, Allison 6spd







Group: Safarifriends Message: 25546 From: Dale Maggio Date: 6/22/2014
Subject: Re: Fwd: Clearance Issues on Safari Velvet Ride Suspension
I checked my 99 Sahara 3506 and the bolts are short and barely protrude beyond the nut. I am thinking that whatever shift a chassis was made on, occasionally they had the wrong bolt box.

-=Dale=-

--------------------------------------------
On Sun, 6/22/14, TD sdjhtm@... [Safarifriends] <Safarifriends@yahoogroups.com> wrote:

Subject: Re: [Safarifriends] Fwd: Clearance Issues on Safari Velvet Ride Suspension
To: Safarifriends@yahoogroups.com
Date: Sunday, June 22, 2014, 9:42 AM

Just curious, do the
four bolts on each side stick out just as much as on mine,
or is the bolt facing the other way (nut on the inside of
the frame rail)?  FYI, PMW also
carries the Koni shocks and the stabilizer link kits for
your coach, in case you need those items in the
furture.
 John

'95 Safari Serengeti
38ft, 300 Cummins 8.3CTA, Allison

6spd.

On Sun,
Jun 22, 2014 at 10:58 AM, 'nanandpete@...'
nanandpete@...
[Safarifriends] <Safarifriends@yahoogroups.com>
wrote:





















 I am velvet ride.
They may have spread the assembly out on the 99s as there
appears to be a good inch clearance on both sides. Thanks
for the Pioneer info.


From: "TD sdjhtm@...
[Safarifriends]" <Safarifriends@yahoogroups.com>

To: Safarifriends@yahoogroups.com
Sent: Saturday, June 21, 2014 3:51:51
PM
Subject: Re: [Safarifriends] Fwd:
Clearance Issues on Safari Velvet Ride Suspension





















I am not familliar with the type of
suspension that you coach has, so this may not apply. Does
you coach have the Velvet Ride/Torsilastic suspension? As
shown in the pictures, the bolts would be sticking out of
the frame rail pointing outward towards the sides of the
coach.

 Tiger Traks are a suspension upgrade (not
a replacement) for Safari coaches that have Velvet Ride
Suspension. You can find more information on this upgrade in
the archives of this forum and on the website of the maker
of this product. The company is called Pioneer Metal Works
(PMW). Do a google search.

 Safe Travels,John

'95 Safari Serengeti 38ft, 300 Cummins
8.3CTA, Allison

6spd.

On Sat, Jun 21, 2014 at
5:44 PM, 'nanandpete@...'
nanandpete@...
[Safarifriends] <Safarifriends@yahoogroups.com>
wrote:






















I am having trouble
locating the errant bolts. on my 99 sahara. Are they
sticking out toward the edge of the coach from the frame? I
found a couple. but there appears to be plenty of clearance
on both sides. Next question, what does the Tiger Trak
suspension replace?



From: "TD sdjhtm@...
[Safarifriends]" <Safarifriends@yahoogroups.com>


To: Safarifriends@yahoogroups.com
Sent: Saturday, June 21, 2014 1:30:44
PM
Subject: [Safarifriends] Fwd:
Clearance Issues on Safari Velvet Ride Suspension [14
Attachments]






















Update:Well, I finally have a
moment to update everyone on the suspension clearance issues
that I had and resolved. We went on a small trip (220
miles), that involved several very poor bridge transitions
and other imperfections in the road, to test the suspension.
And....the result is AMAZING!!! The coach is as smooth as
can be and truly lives up to the Velvet Ride name. There is
now plenty of suspension travel and I think I managed to
bottom it out once (had to really work at it), and it was
actually smooth and pleasant. I also had the Tiger Trak
Suspension upgrade installed, and have to say that even
though it is a bit over priced, it is well worth every
penny. The coach handles better, especially in the wind and
road imperfections. It is in general more stable on the
road, not that I had issues with handling before. I just
wanted an extra safety upgrade and am very glad that I did.
This is a pleasure to drive and is pretty much as smooth as
my old '82 Cadillac.


I want to reiterate again to anyone that is having ride
quality issues with their Magnum Velvet Ride Suspensions,
check out my right up and photos of the issues I had, and
check on your own coach, to see if you have a similar
problem. It is an easy fix!!!


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

---------- Forwarded
message ----------
From: TD <sdjhtm@...>



Date: Thu, Jun 5, 2014 at 3:29 PM
Subject:
Clearance Issues on Safari Velvet Ride Suspension
To: Safarifriends@yahoogroups.com




NOTE TO ALL VELVET RIDE SAFARIS OF THIS VINTAGE!!!
Every one that is
having issues with ride and perceived bottoming out (with a
loud bang at times), should look at
these photos and check their own units out!!!

I was having ride
issues with my '95 Safari Serengeti 38' 300 Cummins
8.3CTA Allison 6spd.
Besides poor ride quality, I was having severe bottoming
out issues.
Any poor bridge transition or heaves on road would cause it
to nose dive
a bit and bottom out with a loud harsh and at times painful
BANG!
Thanks to Brett with his knowledge and wisdom, he convinced
me to look
very thoroughly for clearance issues, and what you see in
the photos is
what I, by chance, discovered. Any Safari owners with
Magnum Chassis and Velvet Ride
Suspension SHOULD check for this as a precaution, but
especially if you
are having similar issues like I have been
experiencing. To remedy this clearance issue, I cut off the
excess bolt that was protruding past the nut, an easy fix.
I've also attached pictures of the
repair.  Please note:make sure that the bolts are
very tight
before the ends are cut off!

It is worth noting that by
records
of PO, this "ghost" issue has been chased for a
loooong time, and more
likely was their right from the start (my opinion), and by
the looks of
how tight things are in that area this could very well be a
hidden
common issue. I hope this will help any and all Safari
owners with the
Velvet Ride Suspension... A few more
thoughts...-My ride height is
correct.-Because of this issue, I only had 2
inches of downward suspension travel! That sure as heck will
give you a crappy ride.



-With out knowing what your looking for, this problem
is very easy to miss, very unnoticeable, especially
considering that when shops look over the suspension, the
rigs are lifted, which extends the suspension and tends to
hide the problem even more. I myself was convinced that it
was bottoming out against the shocks! One would not even
expect or think that two small bolts protruding discreetly
could cause such a problem.  When a shop gets a complaint
of bottoming out, the likely culprit is the
shocks, if the problem doesn't get resolved, it is all
to easy to blame
the Torsilastic suspension.  Also, I
would like to put a request out to some of our Safari
owners,
especially with the same or similar vintage, to check out
their suspensions to see how much clearance they have
and if there is any similar issues, and/or if the bolts are
facing the
other way on newer units, thus correcting the problem.
Please, it will only
take a few minutes, humor me and check it out and post the
results, take pictures if you can. If you do look, please
note which way the bolts are facing, I'm curious if SMC
resolved the issue just by installing the bolts the other
way around.



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









































































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#yiv7731775482
Group: Safarifriends Message: 25547 From: TD Date: 6/22/2014
Subject: Re: Fwd: Clearance Issues on Safari Velvet Ride Suspension
Yes, very possible, or by '99 they finally figured out that they need shorter ones. Lol.
Does your coach ride pretty smoothly???
 
Thanks for the info...
 
John
'95 Safari Serengeti 38ft, 300 Cummins 8.3CTA, Allison
6spd.


On Sun, Jun 22, 2014 at 1:00 PM, Dale Maggio dalemaggio@... [Safarifriends] <Safarifriends@yahoogroups.com> wrote:
I checked my 99 Sahara 3506 and the bolts are short and barely protrude beyond the nut.  I am thinking that whatever shift a chassis was made on, occasionally they had the wrong bolt box.

-=Dale=-

--------------------------------------------
On Sun, 6/22/14, TD sdjhtm@... [Safarifriends] <Safarifriends@yahoogroups.com> wrote:

 Subject: Re: [Safarifriends] Fwd: Clearance Issues on Safari Velvet Ride Suspension
 To: Safarifriends@yahoogroups.com
 Date: Sunday, June 22, 2014, 9:42 AM

       Just curious, do the
 four bolts on each side stick out just as much as on mine,
 or is the bolt facing the other way (nut on the inside of
 the frame rail)?  FYI, PMW also
 carries the Koni shocks and the stabilizer link kits for
 your coach, in case you need those items in the
 furture.
  John

 '95 Safari Serengeti
 38ft, 300 Cummins 8.3CTA, Allison

 6spd.

 On Sun,
 Jun 22, 2014 at 10:58 AM, 'nanandpete@...'
 nanandpete@...
 [Safarifriends] <Safarifriends@yahoogroups.com>
 wrote:





















  I am velvet ride.
 They may have spread the assembly out on the 99s as there
 appears to be a good inch clearance on both sides. Thanks
 for the Pioneer info.


 From: "TD sdjhtm@...
 [Safarifriends]" <Safarifriends@yahoogroups.com>

 To: Safarifriends@yahoogroups.com
 Sent: Saturday, June 21, 2014 3:51:51
 PM
 Subject: Re: [Safarifriends] Fwd:
 Clearance Issues on Safari Velvet Ride Suspension





















 I am not familliar with the type of
 suspension that you coach has, so this may not apply. Does
 you coach have the Velvet Ride/Torsilastic suspension? As
 shown in the pictures, the bolts would be sticking out of
 the frame rail pointing outward towards the sides of the
 coach.

  Tiger Traks are a suspension upgrade (not
 a replacement) for Safari coaches that have Velvet Ride
 Suspension. You can find more information on this upgrade in
 the archives of this forum and on the website of the maker
 of this product. The company is called Pioneer Metal Works
 (PMW). Do a google search.

  Safe Travels,John

 '95 Safari Serengeti 38ft, 300 Cummins
 8.3CTA, Allison

 6spd.

 On Sat, Jun 21, 2014 at
 5:44 PM, 'nanandpete@...'
 nanandpete@...
 [Safarifriends] <Safarifriends@yahoogroups.com>
 wrote:






















 I am having trouble
 locating the errant bolts. on my 99 sahara. Are they
 sticking out toward the edge of the coach from the frame? I
 found a couple. but there appears to be plenty of clearance
 on both sides. Next question, what does the Tiger Trak
 suspension replace?



 From: "TD sdjhtm@...
 [Safarifriends]" <Safarifriends@yahoogroups.com>


 To: Safarifriends@yahoogroups.com
 Sent: Saturday, June 21, 2014 1:30:44
 PM
 Subject: [Safarifriends] Fwd:
 Clearance Issues on Safari Velvet Ride Suspension [14
 Attachments]






















 Update:Well, I finally have a
 moment to update everyone on the suspension clearance issues
 that I had and resolved. We went on a small trip (220
 miles), that involved several very poor bridge transitions
 and other imperfections in the road, to test the suspension.
 And....the result is AMAZING!!! The coach is as smooth as
 can be and truly lives up to the Velvet Ride name. There is
 now plenty of suspension travel and I think I managed to
 bottom it out once (had to really work at it), and it was
 actually smooth and pleasant. I also had the Tiger Trak
 Suspension upgrade installed, and have to say that even
 though it is a bit over priced, it is well worth every
 penny. The coach handles better, especially in the wind and
 road imperfections. It is in general more stable on the
 road, not that I had issues with handling before. I just
 wanted an extra safety upgrade and am very glad that I did.
 This is a pleasure to drive and is pretty much as smooth as
 my old '82 Cadillac.


 I want to reiterate again to anyone that is having ride
 quality issues with their Magnum Velvet Ride Suspensions,
 check out my right up and photos of the issues I had, and
 check on your own coach, to see if you have a similar
 problem. It is an easy fix!!!


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

 ---------- Forwarded
 message ----------
 From: TD <sdjhtm@...>



 Date: Thu, Jun 5, 2014 at 3:29 PM
 Subject:
 Clearance Issues on Safari Velvet Ride Suspension
 To: Safarifriends@yahoogroups.com




 NOTE TO ALL VELVET RIDE SAFARIS OF THIS VINTAGE!!!
 Every one that is
 having issues with ride and perceived bottoming out (with a
 loud bang at times), should look at
 these photos and check their own units out!!!

 I was having ride
 issues with my '95 Safari Serengeti 38' 300 Cummins
 8.3CTA Allison 6spd.
  Besides poor ride quality, I was having severe bottoming
 out issues.
 Any poor bridge transition or heaves on road would cause it
 to nose dive
  a bit and bottom out with a loud harsh and at times painful
 BANG!
 Thanks to Brett with his knowledge and wisdom, he convinced
 me to look
 very thoroughly for clearance issues, and what you see in
 the photos is
 what I, by chance, discovered. Any Safari owners with
 Magnum Chassis and Velvet Ride
  Suspension SHOULD check for this as a precaution, but
 especially if you
  are having similar issues like I have been
 experiencing. To remedy this clearance issue, I cut off the
 excess bolt that was protruding past the nut, an easy fix.
 I've also attached pictures of the
 repair.  Please note:make sure that the bolts are
 very tight
 before the ends are cut off!

 It is worth noting that by
 records
 of PO, this "ghost" issue has been chased for a
 loooong time, and more
 likely was their right from the start (my opinion), and by
 the looks of
 how tight things are in that area this could very well be a
 hidden
 common issue. I hope this will help any and all Safari
 owners with the
 Velvet Ride Suspension... A few more
 thoughts...-My ride height is
 correct.-Because of this issue, I only had 2
 inches of downward suspension travel! That sure as heck will
 give you a crappy ride.



 -With out knowing what your looking for, this problem
 is very easy to miss, very unnoticeable, especially
 considering that when shops look over the suspension, the
 rigs are lifted, which extends the suspension and tends to
 hide the problem even more. I myself was convinced that it
 was bottoming out against the shocks! One would not even
 expect or think that two small bolts protruding discreetly
 could cause such a problem.  When a shop gets a complaint
 of bottoming out, the likely culprit is the
  shocks, if the problem doesn't get resolved, it is all
 to easy to blame
  the Torsilastic suspension.  Also, I
 would like to put a request out to some of our Safari
 owners,
 especially with the same or similar vintage, to check out
 their suspensions to see how much clearance they have
 and if there is any similar issues, and/or if the bolts are
 facing the
 other way on newer units, thus correcting the problem.
 Please, it will only
 take a few minutes, humor me and check it out and post the
 results, take pictures if you can. If you do look, please
 note which way the bolts are facing, I'm curious if SMC
 resolved the issue just by installing the bolts the other
 way around.



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









































































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------------------------------------
Posted by: Dale Maggio <dalemaggio@...>
------------------------------------

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Group: Safarifriends Message: 25548 From: nanandpete@q.com Date: 6/22/2014
Subject: Re: Fwd: Clearance Issues on Safari Velvet Ride Suspension
Answer is NO. I put on Bilsteins revalved to stiffer, still bottoms out easily. Maybe Konis are the answer. What does anybody think about singles versus doubles?


From: "TD sdjhtm@... [Safarifriends]" <Safarifriends@yahoogroups.com>
To: Safarifriends@yahoogroups.com
Sent: Sunday, June 22, 2014 10:37:48 AM
Subject: Re: [Safarifriends] Fwd: Clearance Issues on Safari Velvet Ride Suspension

Yes, very possible, or by '99 they finally figured out that they need shorter ones. Lol.
Does your coach ride pretty smoothly???
 
Thanks for the info...
 
John
'95 Safari Serengeti 38ft, 300 Cummins 8.3CTA, Allison
6spd.


On Sun, Jun 22, 2014 at 1:00 PM, Dale Maggio dalemaggio@... [Safarifriends] <Safarifriends@yahoogroups.com> wrote:
I checked my 99 Sahara 3506 and the bolts are short and barely protrude beyond the nut.  I am thinking that whatever shift a chassis was made on, occasionally they had the wrong bolt box.

-=Dale=-

--------------------------------------------
On Sun, 6/22/14, TD sdjhtm@... [Safarifriends] <Safarifriends@yahoogroups.com> wrote:

 Subject: Re: [Safarifriends] Fwd: Clearance Issues on Safari Velvet Ride Suspension
 To: Safarifriends@yahoogroups.com
 Date: Sunday, June 22, 2014, 9:42 AM

       Just curious, do the
 four bolts on each side stick out just as much as on mine,
 or is the bolt facing the other way (nut on the inside of
 the frame rail)?  FYI, PMW also
 carries the Koni shocks and the stabilizer link kits for
 your coach, in case you need those items in the
 furture.
  John

 '95 Safari Serengeti
 38ft, 300 Cummins 8.3CTA, Allison

 6spd.

 On Sun,
 Jun 22, 2014 at 10:58 AM, 'nanandpete@...'
 nanandpete@...
 [Safarifriends] <Safarifriends@yahoogroups.com>
 wrote:





















  I am velvet ride.
 They may have spread the assembly out on the 99s as there
 appears to be a good inch clearance on both sides. Thanks
 for the Pioneer info.


 From: "TD sdjhtm@...
 [Safarifriends]" <Safarifriends@yahoogroups.com>

 To: Safarifriends@yahoogroups.com
 Sent: Saturday, June 21, 2014 3:51:51
 PM
 Subject: Re: [Safarifriends] Fwd:
 Clearance Issues on Safari Velvet Ride Suspension





















 I am not familliar with the type of
 suspension that you coach has, so this may not apply. Does
 you coach have the Velvet Ride/Torsilastic suspension? As
 shown in the pictures, the bolts would be sticking out of
 the frame rail pointing outward towards the sides of the
 coach.

  Tiger Traks are a suspension upgrade (not
 a replacement) for Safari coaches that have Velvet Ride
 Suspension. You can find more information on this upgrade in
 the archives of this forum and on the website of the maker
 of this product. The company is called Pioneer Metal Works
 (PMW). Do a google search.

  Safe Travels,John

 '95 Safari Serengeti 38ft, 300 Cummins
 8.3CTA, Allison

 6spd.

 On Sat, Jun 21, 2014 at
 5:44 PM, 'nanandpete@...'
 nanandpete@...
 [Safarifriends] <Safarifriends@yahoogroups.com>
 wrote:






















 I am having trouble
 locating the errant bolts. on my 99 sahara. Are they
 sticking out toward the edge of the coach from the frame? I
 found a couple. but there appears to be plenty of clearance
 on both sides. Next question, what does the Tiger Trak
 suspension replace?



 From: "TD sdjhtm@...
 [Safarifriends]" <Safarifriends@yahoogroups.com>


 To: Safarifriends@yahoogroups.com
 Sent: Saturday, June 21, 2014 1:30:44
 PM
 Subject: [Safarifriends] Fwd:
 Clearance Issues on Safari Velvet Ride Suspension [14
 Attachments]






















 Update:Well, I finally have a
 moment to update everyone on the suspension clearance issues
 that I had and resolved. We went on a small trip (220
 miles), that involved several very poor bridge transitions
 and other imperfections in the road, to test the suspension.
 And....the result is AMAZING!!! The coach is as smooth as
 can be and truly lives up to the Velvet Ride name. There is
 now plenty of suspension travel and I think I managed to
 bottom it out once (had to really work at it), and it was
 actually smooth and pleasant. I also had the Tiger Trak
 Suspension upgrade installed, and have to say that even
 though it is a bit over priced, it is well worth every
 penny. The coach handles better, especially in the wind and
 road imperfections. It is in general more stable on the
 road, not that I had issues with handling before. I just
 wanted an extra safety upgrade and am very glad that I did.
 This is a pleasure to drive and is pretty much as smooth as
 my old '82 Cadillac.


 I want to reiterate again to anyone that is having ride
 quality issues with their Magnum Velvet Ride Suspensions,
 check out my right up and photos of the issues I had, and
 check on your own coach, to see if you have a similar
 problem. It is an easy fix!!!


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

 ---------- Forwarded
 message ----------
 From: TD <sdjhtm@...>



 Date: Thu, Jun 5, 2014 at 3:29 PM
 Subject:
 Clearance Issues on Safari Velvet Ride Suspension
 To: Safarifriends@yahoogroups.com




 NOTE TO ALL VELVET RIDE SAFARIS OF THIS VINTAGE!!!
 Every one that is
 having issues with ride and perceived bottoming out (with a
 loud bang at times), should look at
 these photos and check their own units out!!!

 I was having ride
 issues with my '95 Safari Serengeti 38' 300 Cummins
 8.3CTA Allison 6spd.
  Besides poor ride quality, I was having severe bottoming
 out issues.
 Any poor bridge transition or heaves on road would cause it
 to nose dive
  a bit and bottom out with a loud harsh and at times painful
 BANG!
 Thanks to Brett with his knowledge and wisdom, he convinced
 me to look
 very thoroughly for clearance issues, and what you see in
 the photos is
 what I, by chance, discovered. Any Safari owners with
 Magnum Chassis and Velvet Ride
  Suspension SHOULD check for this as a precaution, but
 especially if you
  are having similar issues like I have been
 experiencing. To remedy this clearance issue, I cut off the
 excess bolt that was protruding past the nut, an easy fix.
 I've also attached pictures of the
 repair.  Please note:make sure that the bolts are
 very tight
 before the ends are cut off!

 It is worth noting that by
 records
 of PO, this "ghost" issue has been chased for a
 loooong time, and more
 likely was their right from the start (my opinion), and by
 the looks of
 how tight things are in that area this could very well be a
 hidden
 common issue. I hope this will help any and all Safari
 owners with the
 Velvet Ride Suspension... A few more
 thoughts...-My ride height is
 correct.-Because of this issue, I only had 2
 inches of downward suspension travel! That sure as heck will
 give you a crappy ride.



 -With out knowing what your looking for, this problem
 is very easy to miss, very unnoticeable, especially
 considering that when shops look over the suspension, the
 rigs are lifted, which extends the suspension and tends to
 hide the problem even more. I myself was convinced that it
 was bottoming out against the shocks! One would not even
 expect or think that two small bolts protruding discreetly
 could cause such a problem.  When a shop gets a complaint
 of bottoming out, the likely culprit is the
  shocks, if the problem doesn't get resolved, it is all
 to easy to blame
  the Torsilastic suspension.  Also, I
 would like to put a request out to some of our Safari
 owners,
 especially with the same or similar vintage, to check out
 their suspensions to see how much clearance they have
 and if there is any similar issues, and/or if the bolts are
 facing the
 other way on newer units, thus correcting the problem.
 Please, it will only
 take a few minutes, humor me and check it out and post the
 results, take pictures if you can. If you do look, please
 note which way the bolts are facing, I'm curious if SMC
 resolved the issue just by installing the bolts the other
 way around.



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









































































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Group: Safarifriends Message: 25549 From: nanandpete@q.com Date: 6/22/2014
Subject: Re: Fwd: Clearance Issues on Safari Velvet Ride Suspension
The nuts are on the outside, but plenty of clearance. I have Steer Safe, stabilizer bar, double front links, and a centering device. Ride height is right on, still wanders. '99 Sahara 30'?


From: "TD sdjhtm@... [Safarifriends]" <Safarifriends@yahoogroups.com>
To: Safarifriends@yahoogroups.com
Sent: Sunday, June 22, 2014 9:42:36 AM
Subject: Re: [Safarifriends] Fwd: Clearance Issues on Safari Velvet Ride Suspension

Just curious, do the four bolts on each side stick out just as much as on mine, or is the bolt facing the other way (nut on the inside of the frame rail)?
 
FYI, PMW also carries the Koni shocks and the stabilizer link kits for your coach, in case you need those items in the furture.
 
John
'95 Safari Serengeti 38ft, 300 Cummins 8.3CTA, Allison
6spd.


On Sun, Jun 22, 2014 at 10:58 AM, 'nanandpete@...' nanandpete@... [Safarifriends] <Safarifriends@yahoogroups.com> wrote:


 I am velvet ride. They may have spread the assembly out on the 99s as there appears to be a good inch clearance on both sides. Thanks for the Pioneer info.


From: "TD sdjhtm@... [Safarifriends]" <Safarifriends@yahoogroups.com>
To: Safarifriends@yahoogroups.com
Sent: Saturday, June 21, 2014 3:51:51 PM
Subject: Re: [Safarifriends] Fwd: Clearance Issues on Safari Velvet Ride Suspension

I am not familliar with the type of suspension that you coach has, so this may not apply. Does you coach have the Velvet Ride/Torsilastic suspension? As shown in the pictures, the bolts would be sticking out of the frame rail pointing outward towards the sides of the coach.
 
Tiger Traks are a suspension upgrade (not a replacement) for Safari coaches that have Velvet Ride Suspension. You can find more information on this upgrade in the archives of this forum and on the website of the maker of this product. The company is called Pioneer Metal Works (PMW). Do a google search.
 
Safe Travels,
John
'95 Safari Serengeti 38ft, 300 Cummins 8.3CTA, Allison
6spd.


On Sat, Jun 21, 2014 at 5:44 PM, 'nanandpete@...' nanandpete@... [Safarifriends] <Safarifriends@yahoogroups.com> wrote:


I am having trouble locating the errant bolts. on my 99 sahara. Are they sticking out toward the edge of the coach from the frame? I found a couple. but there appears to be plenty of clearance on both sides. Next question, what does the Tiger Trak suspension replace?


From: "TD sdjhtm@... [Safarifriends]" <Safarifriends@yahoogroups.com>
To: Safarifriends@yahoogroups.com
Sent: Saturday, June 21, 2014 1:30:44 PM
Subject: [Safarifriends] Fwd: Clearance Issues on Safari Velvet Ride Suspension [14 Attachments]

Update:

Well, I finally have a moment to update everyone on the suspension clearance issues that I had and resolved. We went on a small trip (220 miles), that involved several very poor bridge transitions and other imperfections in the road, to test the suspension. And....the result is AMAZING!!! The coach is as smooth as can be and truly lives up to the Velvet Ride name. There is now plenty of suspension travel and I think I managed to bottom it out once (had to really work at it), and it was actually smooth and pleasant. I also had the Tiger Trak Suspension upgrade installed, and have to say that even though it is a bit over priced, it is well worth every penny. The coach handles better, especially in the wind and road imperfections. It is in general more stable on the road, not that I had issues with handling before. I just wanted an extra safety upgrade and am very glad that I did. This is a pleasure to drive and is pretty much as smooth as my old '82 Cadillac.

I want to reiterate again to anyone that is having ride quality issues with their Magnum Velvet Ride Suspensions, check out my right up and photos of the issues I had, and check on your own coach, to see if you have a similar problem. It is an easy fix!!!

Safe travels,

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

---------- Forwarded message ----------
From: TD <sdjhtm@...>
Date: Thu, Jun 5, 2014 at 3:29 PM
Subject: Clearance Issues on Safari Velvet Ride Suspension
To: Safarifriends@yahoogroups.com


NOTE TO ALL VELVET RIDE SAFARIS OF THIS VINTAGE!!! Every one that is having issues with ride and perceived bottoming out (with a loud bang at times), should look at these photos and check their own units out!!!

I was having ride issues with my '95 Safari Serengeti 38' 300 Cummins 8.3CTA Allison 6spd. Besides poor ride quality, I was having severe bottoming out issues. Any poor bridge transition or heaves on road would cause it to nose dive a bit and bottom out with a loud harsh and at times painful BANG! Thanks to Brett with his knowledge and wisdom, he convinced me to look very thoroughly for clearance issues, and what you see in the photos is what I, by chance, discovered. Any Safari owners with Magnum Chassis and Velvet Ride Suspension SHOULD check for this as a precaution, but especially if you are having similar issues like I have been experiencing. To remedy this clearance issue, I cut off the excess bolt that was protruding past the nut, an easy fix. I've also attached pictures of the repair.  Please note:make sure that the bolts are very tight before the ends are cut off!


It is worth noting that by records of PO, this "ghost" issue has been chased for a loooong time, and more likely was their right from the start (my opinion), and by the looks of how tight things are in that area this could very well be a hidden common issue. I hope this will help any and all Safari owners with the Velvet Ride Suspension...
 
A few more thoughts...
-My ride height is correct.
-Because of this issue, I only had 2 inches of downward suspension travel! That sure as heck will give you a crappy ride.
-With out knowing what your looking for, this problem is very easy to miss, very unnoticeable, especially considering that when shops look over the suspension, the rigs are lifted, which extends the suspension and tends to hide the problem even more. I myself was convinced that it was bottoming out against the shocks! One would not even expect or think that two small bolts protruding discreetly could cause such a problem.  When a shop gets a complaint of bottoming out, the likely culprit is the shocks, if the problem doesn't get resolved, it is all to easy to blame the Torsilastic suspension.
 
Also, I would like to put a request out to some of our Safari owners, especially with the same or similar vintage, to check out their suspensions to see how much clearance they have and if there is any similar issues, and/or if the bolts are facing the other way on newer units, thus correcting the problem. Please, it will only take a few minutes, humor me and check it out and post the results, take pictures if you can. If you do look, please note which way the bolts are facing, I'm curious if SMC resolved the issue just by installing the bolts the other way around.
 
John
'95 Safari Serengeti 38ft, 300 Cummins 8.3CTA, Allison 6spd







Group: Safarifriends Message: 25550 From: nanandpete@q.com Date: 6/22/2014
Subject: Re: Fwd: Clearance Issues on Safari Velvet Ride Suspension [14 Attac
Which Tiger trak suspension upgrade did you use?  


From: "TD sdjhtm@... [Safarifriends]" <Safarifriends@yahoogroups.com>
To: Safarifriends@yahoogroups.com
Sent: Saturday, June 21, 2014 1:30:44 PM
Subject: [Safarifriends] Fwd: Clearance Issues on Safari Velvet Ride Suspension [14 Attachments]

Update:

Well, I finally have a moment to update everyone on the suspension clearance issues that I had and resolved. We went on a small trip (220 miles), that involved several very poor bridge transitions and other imperfections in the road, to test the suspension. And....the result is AMAZING!!! The coach is as smooth as can be and truly lives up to the Velvet Ride name. There is now plenty of suspension travel and I think I managed to bottom it out once (had to really work at it), and it was actually smooth and pleasant. I also had the Tiger Trak Suspension upgrade installed, and have to say that even though it is a bit over priced, it is well worth every penny. The coach handles better, especially in the wind and road imperfections. It is in general more stable on the road, not that I had issues with handling before. I just wanted an extra safety upgrade and am very glad that I did. This is a pleasure to drive and is pretty much as smooth as my old '82 Cadillac.

I want to reiterate again to anyone that is having ride quality issues with their Magnum Velvet Ride Suspensions, check out my right up and photos of the issues I had, and check on your own coach, to see if you have a similar problem. It is an easy fix!!!

Safe travels,

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

---------- Forwarded message ----------
From: TD <sdjhtm@...>
Date: Thu, Jun 5, 2014 at 3:29 PM
Subject: Clearance Issues on Safari Velvet Ride Suspension
To: Safarifriends@yahoogroups.com


NOTE TO ALL VELVET RIDE SAFARIS OF THIS VINTAGE!!! Every one that is having issues with ride and perceived bottoming out (with a loud bang at times), should look at these photos and check their own units out!!!

I was having ride issues with my '95 Safari Serengeti 38' 300 Cummins 8.3CTA Allison 6spd. Besides poor ride quality, I was having severe bottoming out issues. Any poor bridge transition or heaves on road would cause it to nose dive a bit and bottom out with a loud harsh and at times painful BANG! Thanks to Brett with his knowledge and wisdom, he convinced me to look very thoroughly for clearance issues, and what you see in the photos is what I, by chance, discovered. Any Safari owners with Magnum Chassis and Velvet Ride Suspension SHOULD check for this as a precaution, but especially if you are having similar issues like I have been experiencing. To remedy this clearance issue, I cut off the excess bolt that was protruding past the nut, an easy fix. I've also attached pictures of the repair.  Please note:make sure that the bolts are very tight before the ends are cut off!


It is worth noting that by records of PO, this "ghost" issue has been chased for a loooong time, and more likely was their right from the start (my opinion), and by the looks of how tight things are in that area this could very well be a hidden common issue. I hope this will help any and all Safari owners with the Velvet Ride Suspension...
 
A few more thoughts...
-My ride height is correct.
-Because of this issue, I only had 2 inches of downward suspension travel! That sure as heck will give you a crappy ride.
-With out knowing what your looking for, this problem is very easy to miss, very unnoticeable, especially considering that when shops look over the suspension, the rigs are lifted, which extends the suspension and tends to hide the problem even more. I myself was convinced that it was bottoming out against the shocks! One would not even expect or think that two small bolts protruding discreetly could cause such a problem.  When a shop gets a complaint of bottoming out, the likely culprit is the shocks, if the problem doesn't get resolved, it is all to easy to blame the Torsilastic suspension.
 
Also, I would like to put a request out to some of our Safari owners, especially with the same or similar vintage, to check out their suspensions to see how much clearance they have and if there is any similar issues, and/or if the bolts are facing the other way on newer units, thus correcting the problem. Please, it will only take a few minutes, humor me and check it out and post the results, take pictures if you can. If you do look, please note which way the bolts are facing, I'm curious if SMC resolved the issue just by installing the bolts the other way around.
 
John
'95 Safari Serengeti 38ft, 300 Cummins 8.3CTA, Allison 6spd

Group: Safarifriends Message: 25551 From: TD Date: 6/22/2014
Subject: Re: Fwd: Clearance Issues on Safari Velvet Ride Suspension
I used the Tiger Trak wich is basicly a pan hard rod that attaches to the right shackle and goes across to the left side attaching to the crossmember. I have it installed in the front and rear.
What axle wheight are you running front and back, and what tire pressure are you running? Also, what size and brand tires do you have?
How are you king pins? If they are worn, that will make the coach wander.
 
Did you look or feel the square torqe to that is below those bolts, to make sure that nothing is hitting. Those bolts can apear to be and inch or two away from the torque tube, but when the coach take a nose dive the bolts move downward right towards the tube. If there there is knotches or gouge marks on the in side of that tube (see my pictures) that means that its hitting.
Can you by any chance take a couple of pictures of the bolts and the tube below them? Just place the camera over the front tire at about 45 degree downward angle and that should capture it. Take both sides...
 
When you bottom out, do you get a loud banging sound, especially from the right side?
Does it really take a big nose dive before it bottoms out, or does it seem to bottom out from the smallest downward movement?
 
Koni shocks all around will help, but I think you have a different underlying issue which needs to be figured out and corrected. Also, if you go with the Koni shocks, have all of them set to the firmest setting, then if need be, you can always back them off. Mine are set to the firmest and on the bad roads the shocks just keep up.
 
Please humor me and take some photos of the bolts and torque tube. If you can replicate some of the angles/shots like I took on my coach, that would be great.
 
John
'95 Safari Serengeti 38ft, 300 Cummins 8.3CTA, Allison
6spd.
 


On Sun, Jun 22, 2014 at 2:15 PM, 'nanandpete@...' nanandpete@... [Safarifriends] <Safarifriends@yahoogroups.com> wrote:


Which Tiger trak suspension upgrade did you use?  


From: "TD sdjhtm@... [Safarifriends]" <Safarifriends@yahoogroups.com>
To: Safarifriends@yahoogroups.com
Sent: Saturday, June 21, 2014 1:30:44 PM
Subject: [Safarifriends] Fwd: Clearance Issues on Safari Velvet Ride Suspension [14 Attachments]

Update:

Well, I finally have a moment to update everyone on the suspension clearance issues that I had and resolved. We went on a small trip (220 miles), that involved several very poor bridge transitions and other imperfections in the road, to test the suspension. And....the result is AMAZING!!! The coach is as smooth as can be and truly lives up to the Velvet Ride name. There is now plenty of suspension travel and I think I managed to bottom it out once (had to really work at it), and it was actually smooth and pleasant. I also had the Tiger Trak Suspension upgrade installed, and have to say that even though it is a bit over priced, it is well worth every penny. The coach handles better, especially in the wind and road imperfections. It is in general more stable on the road, not that I had issues with handling before. I just wanted an extra safety upgrade and am very glad that I did. This is a pleasure to drive and is pretty much as smooth as my old '82 Cadillac.

I want to reiterate again to anyone that is having ride quality issues with their Magnum Velvet Ride Suspensions, check out my right up and photos of the issues I had, and check on your own coach, to see if you have a similar problem. It is an easy fix!!!

Safe travels,

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

---------- Forwarded message ----------
From: TD <sdjhtm@...>
Date: Thu, Jun 5, 2014 at 3:29 PM
Subject: Clearance Issues on Safari Velvet Ride Suspension
To: Safarifriends@yahoogroups.com


NOTE TO ALL VELVET RIDE SAFARIS OF THIS VINTAGE!!! Every one that is having issues with ride and perceived bottoming out (with a loud bang at times), should look at these photos and check their own units out!!!

I was having ride issues with my '95 Safari Serengeti 38' 300 Cummins 8.3CTA Allison 6spd. Besides poor ride quality, I was having severe bottoming out issues. Any poor bridge transition or heaves on road would cause it to nose dive a bit and bottom out with a loud harsh and at times painful BANG! Thanks to Brett with his knowledge and wisdom, he convinced me to look very thoroughly for clearance issues, and what you see in the photos is what I, by chance, discovered. Any Safari owners with Magnum Chassis and Velvet Ride Suspension SHOULD check for this as a precaution, but especially if you are having similar issues like I have been experiencing. To remedy this clearance issue, I cut off the excess bolt that was protruding past the nut, an easy fix. I've also attached pictures of the repair.  Please note:make sure that the bolts are very tight before the ends are cut off!


It is worth noting that by records of PO, this "ghost" issue has been chased for a loooong time, and more likely was their right from the start (my opinion), and by the looks of how tight things are in that area this could very well be a hidden common issue. I hope this will help any and all Safari owners with the Velvet Ride Suspension...
 
A few more thoughts...
-My ride height is correct.
-Because of this issue, I only had 2 inches of downward suspension travel! That sure as heck will give you a crappy ride.
-With out knowing what your looking for, this problem is very easy to miss, very unnoticeable, especially considering that when shops look over the suspension, the rigs are lifted, which extends the suspension and tends to hide the problem even more. I myself was convinced that it was bottoming out against the shocks! One would not even expect or think that two small bolts protruding discreetly could cause such a problem.  When a shop gets a complaint of bottoming out, the likely culprit is the shocks, if the problem doesn't get resolved, it is all to easy to blame the Torsilastic suspension.
 
Also, I would like to put a request out to some of our Safari owners, especially with the same or similar vintage, to check out their suspensions to see how much clearance they have and if there is any similar issues, and/or if the bolts are facing the other way on newer units, thus correcting the problem. Please, it will only take a few minutes, humor me and check it out and post the results, take pictures if you can. If you do look, please note which way the bolts are facing, I'm curious if SMC resolved the issue just by installing the bolts the other way around.
 
John
'95 Safari Serengeti 38ft, 300 Cummins 8.3CTA, Allison 6spd




Group: Safarifriends Message: 25552 From: Jim Exler Date: 6/22/2014
Subject: Re: Fwd: Clearance Issues on Safari Velvet Ride Suspension
Dear unsigned,
 
It is my experience that shocks do not resist the compression of the springs but resist the rebound.  If you are bottoming out, I would suspect a weak spring rate or a low ride height with less than normal travel for the suspension.
 
Jim Exler
 
Sent: Sunday, June 22, 2014 12:09 PM
Subject: Re: [Safarifriends] Fwd: Clearance Issues on Safari Velvet Ride Suspension
 
 

Answer is NO. I put on Bilsteins revalved to stiffer, still bottoms out easily. Maybe Konis are the answer. What does anybody think about singles versus doubles?


From: "TD sdjhtm@... [Safarifriends]" <Safarifriends@yahoogroups.com>
To: Safarifriends@yahoogroups.com
Sent: Sunday, June 22, 2014 10:37:48 AM
Subject: Re: [Safarifriends] Fwd: Clearance Issues on Safari Velvet Ride Suspension

Yes, very possible, or by '99 they finally figured out that they need shorter ones. Lol.
Does your coach ride pretty smoothly???
 
Thanks for the info...
 
John
'95 Safari Serengeti 38ft, 300 Cummins 8.3CTA, Allison
6spd.


On Sun, Jun 22, 2014 at 1:00 PM, Dale Maggio dalemaggio@... [Safarifriends] <Safarifriends@yahoogroups.com> wrote:
I checked my 99 Sahara 3506 and the bolts are short and barely protrude beyond the nut.  I am thinking that whatever shift a chassis was made on, occasionally they had the wrong bolt box.

-=Dale=-

--------------------------------------------
On Sun, 6/22/14, TD sdjhtm@... [Safarifriends] <Safarifriends@yahoogroups.com> wrote:

Subject: Re: [Safarifriends] Fwd: Clearance Issues on Safari Velvet Ride Suspension
To: Safarifriends@yahoogroups.com
Date: Sunday, June 22, 2014, 9:42 AM

       Just curious, do the
four bolts on each side stick out just as much as on mine,
or is the bolt facing the other way (nut on the inside of
the frame rail)?  FYI, PMW also
carries the Koni shocks and the stabilizer link kits for
your coach, in case you need those items in the
furture.
  John

'95 Safari Serengeti
38ft, 300 Cummins 8.3CTA, Allison

6spd.

On Sun,
Jun 22, 2014 at 10:58 AM, 'nanandpete@...'
 nanandpete@...
[Safarifriends] <Safarifriends@yahoogroups.com>
wrote:





















  I am velvet ride.
They may have spread the assembly out on the 99s as there
appears to be a good inch clearance on both sides. Thanks
for the Pioneer info.


From: "TD sdjhtm@...
[Safarifriends]" <Safarifriends@yahoogroups.com>

To: Safarifriends@yahoogroups.com
Sent: Saturday, June 21, 2014 3:51:51
PM
Subject: Re: [Safarifriends] Fwd:
Clearance Issues on Safari Velvet Ride Suspension





















I am not familliar with the type of
suspension that you coach has, so this may not apply. Does
you coach have the Velvet Ride/Torsilastic suspension? As
shown in the pictures, the bolts would be sticking out of
the frame rail pointing outward towards the sides of the
coach.

  Tiger Traks are a suspension upgrade (not
a replacement) for Safari coaches that have Velvet Ride
Suspension. You can find more information on this upgrade in
the archives of this forum and on the website of the maker
of this product. The company is called Pioneer Metal Works
(PMW). Do a google search.

  Safe Travels,John

'95 Safari Serengeti 38ft, 300 Cummins
8.3CTA, Allison

6spd.

On Sat, Jun 21, 2014 at
5:44 PM, 'nanandpete@...'
 nanandpete@...
[Safarifriends] <Safarifriends@yahoogroups.com>
wrote:






















I am having trouble
locating the errant bolts. on my 99 sahara. Are they
sticking out toward the edge of the coach from the frame? I
found a couple. but there appears to be plenty of clearance
on both sides. Next question, what does the Tiger Trak
suspension replace?



From: "TD sdjhtm@...
[Safarifriends]" <Safarifriends@yahoogroups.com>


To: Safarifriends@yahoogroups.com
Sent: Saturday, June 21, 2014 1:30:44
PM
Subject: [Safarifriends] Fwd:
Clearance Issues on Safari Velvet Ride Suspension [14
Attachments]






















Update:Well, I finally have a
moment to update everyone on the suspension clearance issues
that I had and resolved. We went on a small trip (220
miles), that involved several very poor bridge transitions
and other imperfections in the road, to test the suspension.
And....the result is AMAZING!!! The coach is as smooth as
can be and truly lives up to the Velvet Ride name. There is
now plenty of suspension travel and I think I managed to
bottom it out once (had to really work at it), and it was
actually smooth and pleasant. I also had the Tiger Trak
Suspension upgrade installed, and have to say that even
though it is a bit over priced, it is well worth every
penny. The coach handles better, especially in the wind and
road imperfections. It is in general more stable on the
road, not that I had issues with handling before. I just
wanted an extra safety upgrade and am very glad that I did.
This is a pleasure to drive and is pretty much as smooth as
my old '82 Cadillac.


I want to reiterate again to anyone that is having ride
quality issues with their Magnum Velvet Ride Suspensions,
check out my right up and photos of the issues I had, and
check on your own coach, to see if you have a similar
problem. It is an easy fix!!!


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

---------- Forwarded
message ----------
From: TD <sdjhtm@...>



Date: Thu, Jun 5, 2014 at 3:29 PM
Subject:
Clearance Issues on Safari Velvet Ride Suspension
To: Safarifriends@yahoogroups.com




NOTE TO ALL VELVET RIDE SAFARIS OF THIS VINTAGE!!!
Every one that is
having issues with ride and perceived bottoming out (with a
loud bang at times), should look at
these photos and check their own units out!!!

I was having ride
issues with my '95 Safari Serengeti 38' 300 Cummins
8.3CTA Allison 6spd.
  Besides poor ride quality, I was having severe bottoming
out issues.
Any poor bridge transition or heaves on road would cause it
to nose dive
  a bit and bottom out with a loud harsh and at times painful
BANG!
Thanks to Brett with his knowledge and wisdom, he convinced
me to look
very thoroughly for clearance issues, and what you see in
the photos is
what I, by chance, discovered. Any Safari owners with
Magnum Chassis and Velvet Ride
  Suspension SHOULD check for this as a precaution, but
especially if you
  are having similar issues like I have been
experiencing. To remedy this clearance issue, I cut off the
excess bolt that was protruding past the nut, an easy fix.
I've also attached pictures of the
repair.  Please note:make sure that the bolts are
very tight
before the ends are cut off!

It is worth noting that by
records
of PO, this "ghost" issue has been chased for a
loooong time, and more
likely was their right from the start (my opinion), and by
the looks of
how tight things are in that area this could very well be a
hidden
common issue. I hope this will help any and all Safari
owners with the
Velvet Ride Suspension... A few more
thoughts...-My ride height is
correct.-Because of this issue, I only had 2
inches of downward suspension travel! That sure as heck will
give you a crappy ride.



-With out knowing what your looking for, this problem
is very easy to miss, very unnoticeable, especially
considering that when shops look over the suspension, the
rigs are lifted, which extends the suspension and tends to
hide the problem even more. I myself was convinced that it
was bottoming out against the shocks! One would not even
expect or think that two small bolts protruding discreetly
could cause such a problem.  When a shop gets a complaint
of bottoming out, the likely culprit is the
  shocks, if the problem doesn't get resolved, it is all
to easy to blame
  the Torsilastic suspension.  Also, I
would like to put a request out to some of our Safari
owners,
especially with the same or similar vintage, to check out
their suspensions to see how much clearance they have
and if there is any similar issues, and/or if the bolts are
facing the
other way on newer units, thus correcting the problem.
Please, it will only
take a few minutes, humor me and check it out and post the
results, take pictures if you can. If you do look, please
note which way the bolts are facing, I'm curious if SMC
resolved the issue just by installing the bolts the other
way around.



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









































































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Group: Safarifriends Message: 25554 From: nanandpete@q.com Date: 6/23/2014
Subject: Re: Fwd: Clearance Issues on Safari Velvet Ride Suspension
OK, I will check the bolts again. I will have to look, but I recall the front weight to be 4,300 or so. Michelin tires, new, carry 80 PSI. I have a panhard rod as well as a steering stabilizer. Pretty sure the ride height is OK, but will recheck. I am going to spring for Koni shocks, at least for the front, before the August trip. Which number is correct,, 88-1470SP2 or 88-1641SP3? Koni sez the 1470, but elsewhere on this site I have seen the1641. Oh, '99 Sahara 30'. Thanks for the help. Pete


From: "TD sdjhtm@... [Safarifriends]" <Safarifriends@yahoogroups.com>
To: Safarifriends@yahoogroups.com
Sent: Sunday, June 22, 2014 1:54:42 PM
Subject: Re: [Safarifriends] Fwd: Clearance Issues on Safari Velvet Ride Suspension

I used the Tiger Trak wich is basicly a pan hard rod that attaches to the right shackle and goes across to the left side attaching to the crossmember. I have it installed in the front and rear.
What axle wheight are you running front and back, and what tire pressure are you running? Also, what size and brand tires do you have?
How are you king pins? If they are worn, that will make the coach wander.
 
Did you look or feel the square torqe to that is below those bolts, to make sure that nothing is hitting. Those bolts can apear to be and inch or two away from the torque tube, but when the coach take a nose dive the bolts move downward right towards the tube. If there there is knotches or gouge marks on the in side of that tube (see my pictures) that means that its hitting.
Can you by any chance take a couple of pictures of the bolts and the tube below them? Just place the camera over the front tire at about 45 degree downward angle and that should capture it. Take both sides...
 
When you bottom out, do you get a loud banging sound, especially from the right side?
Does it really take a big nose dive before it bottoms out, or does it seem to bottom out from the smallest downward movement?
 
Koni shocks all around will help, but I think you have a different underlying issue which needs to be figured out and corrected. Also, if you go with the Koni shocks, have all of them set to the firmest setting, then if need be, you can always back them off. Mine are set to the firmest and on the bad roads the shocks just keep up.
 
Please humor me and take some photos of the bolts and torque tube. If you can replicate some of the angles/shots like I took on my coach, that would be great.
 
John
'95 Safari Serengeti 38ft, 300 Cummins 8.3CTA, Allison
6spd.
 


On Sun, Jun 22, 2014 at 2:15 PM, 'nanandpete@...' nanandpete@... [Safarifriends] <Safarifriends@yahoogroups.com> wrote:


Which Tiger trak suspension upgrade did you use?  


From: "TD sdjhtm@... [Safarifriends]" <Safarifriends@yahoogroups.com>
To: Safarifriends@yahoogroups.com
Sent: Saturday, June 21, 2014 1:30:44 PM
Subject: [Safarifriends] Fwd: Clearance Issues on Safari Velvet Ride Suspension [14 Attachments]

Update:

Well, I finally have a moment to update everyone on the suspension clearance issues that I had and resolved. We went on a small trip (220 miles), that involved several very poor bridge transitions and other imperfections in the road, to test the suspension. And....the result is AMAZING!!! The coach is as smooth as can be and truly lives up to the Velvet Ride name. There is now plenty of suspension travel and I think I managed to bottom it out once (had to really work at it), and it was actually smooth and pleasant. I also had the Tiger Trak Suspension upgrade installed, and have to say that even though it is a bit over priced, it is well worth every penny. The coach handles better, especially in the wind and road imperfections. It is in general more stable on the road, not that I had issues with handling before. I just wanted an extra safety upgrade and am very glad that I did. This is a pleasure to drive and is pretty much as smooth as my old '82 Cadillac.

I want to reiterate again to anyone that is having ride quality issues with their Magnum Velvet Ride Suspensions, check out my right up and photos of the issues I had, and check on your own coach, to see if you have a similar problem. It is an easy fix!!!

Safe travels,

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

---------- Forwarded message ----------
From: TD <sdjhtm@...>
Date: Thu, Jun 5, 2014 at 3:29 PM
Subject: Clearance Issues on Safari Velvet Ride Suspension
To: Safarifriends@yahoogroups.com


NOTE TO ALL VELVET RIDE SAFARIS OF THIS VINTAGE!!! Every one that is having issues with ride and perceived bottoming out (with a loud bang at times), should look at these photos and check their own units out!!!

I was having ride issues with my '95 Safari Serengeti 38' 300 Cummins 8.3CTA Allison 6spd. Besides poor ride quality, I was having severe bottoming out issues. Any poor bridge transition or heaves on road would cause it to nose dive a bit and bottom out with a loud harsh and at times painful BANG! Thanks to Brett with his knowledge and wisdom, he convinced me to look very thoroughly for clearance issues, and what you see in the photos is what I, by chance, discovered. Any Safari owners with Magnum Chassis and Velvet Ride Suspension SHOULD check for this as a precaution, but especially if you are having similar issues like I have been experiencing. To remedy this clearance issue, I cut off the excess bolt that was protruding past the nut, an easy fix. I've also attached pictures of the repair.  Please note:make sure that the bolts are very tight before the ends are cut off!


It is worth noting that by records of PO, this "ghost" issue has been chased for a loooong time, and more likely was their right from the start (my opinion), and by the looks of how tight things are in that area this could very well be a hidden common issue. I hope this will help any and all Safari owners with the Velvet Ride Suspension...
 
A few more thoughts...
-My ride height is correct.
-Because of this issue, I only had 2 inches of downward suspension travel! That sure as heck will give you a crappy ride.
-With out knowing what your looking for, this problem is very easy to miss, very unnoticeable, especially considering that when shops look over the suspension, the rigs are lifted, which extends the suspension and tends to hide the problem even more. I myself was convinced that it was bottoming out against the shocks! One would not even expect or think that two small bolts protruding discreetly could cause such a problem.  When a shop gets a complaint of bottoming out, the likely culprit is the shocks, if the problem doesn't get resolved, it is all to easy to blame the Torsilastic suspension.
 
Also, I would like to put a request out to some of our Safari owners, especially with the same or similar vintage, to check out their suspensions to see how much clearance they have and if there is any similar issues, and/or if the bolts are facing the other way on newer units, thus correcting the problem. Please, it will only take a few minutes, humor me and check it out and post the results, take pictures if you can. If you do look, please note which way the bolts are facing, I'm curious if SMC resolved the issue just by installing the bolts the other way around.
 
John
'95 Safari Serengeti 38ft, 300 Cummins 8.3CTA, Allison 6spd




Group: Safarifriends Message: 25555 From: TD Date: 6/23/2014
Subject: Re: Fwd: Clearance Issues on Safari Velvet Ride Suspension
Pete,
 
Your shock number for the front is: 88-1641 SP3   that is the most updated shock for that aplication.
Rear number: 88-1458 SP2
For your situation, have them set to the most firm setting. Koni has instructions on how to do that, its simple.
I ordered my shocks from LTB Autosports, Inc. They had the best price and had free shipping. $143.64 ea. Their number is: 888-211-1538
I just ordered rear shocks from them and they came in fairly quick and well packaged, the only thing was, is the shocks were black instead of the common red. I called Koni directly and they assured me that it was no difference and it was the right shock for the application.
 
Please post you tire size and have you coach weighed. If you already had it weighed, please post the front and rear axle weights, your actual numbers not your max gross weight. Be aware that tires that are way over inflated for the weight they carry can cause road wander. This goes for front and rear.
 
Again, if you can please send me some pictures of your bolts, frame and torsion tube, so I could see whats going on.
 
If you want to call me, send me a direct emial, and I will emial you my phone number.
 
John
'95 Safari Serengeti 38ft, 300 Cummins 8.3CTA, Allison
6spd.


On Mon, Jun 23, 2014 at 1:25 PM, 'nanandpete@...' nanandpete@... [Safarifriends] <Safarifriends@yahoogroups.com> wrote:


OK, I will check the bolts again. I will have to look, but I recall the front weight to be 4,300 or so. Michelin tires, new, carry 80 PSI. I have a panhard rod as well as a steering stabilizer. Pretty sure the ride height is OK, but will recheck. I am going to spring for Koni shocks, at least for the front, before the August trip. Which number is correct,, 88-1470SP2 or 88-1641SP3? Koni sez the 1470, but elsewhere on this site I have seen the1641. Oh, '99 Sahara 30'. Thanks for the help. Pete


From: "TD sdjhtm@... [Safarifriends]" <Safarifriends@yahoogroups.com>
To: Safarifriends@yahoogroups.com
Sent: Sunday, June 22, 2014 1:54:42 PM
Subject: Re: [Safarifriends] Fwd: Clearance Issues on Safari Velvet Ride Suspension

I used the Tiger Trak wich is basicly a pan hard rod that attaches to the right shackle and goes across to the left side attaching to the crossmember. I have it installed in the front and rear.
What axle wheight are you running front and back, and what tire pressure are you running? Also, what size and brand tires do you have?
How are you king pins? If they are worn, that will make the coach wander.
 
Did you look or feel the square torqe to that is below those bolts, to make sure that nothing is hitting. Those bolts can apear to be and inch or two away from the torque tube, but when the coach take a nose dive the bolts move downward right towards the tube. If there there is knotches or gouge marks on the in side of that tube (see my pictures) that means that its hitting.
Can you by any chance take a couple of pictures of the bolts and the tube below them? Just place the camera over the front tire at about 45 degree downward angle and that should capture it. Take both sides...
 
When you bottom out, do you get a loud banging sound, especially from the right side?
Does it really take a big nose dive before it bottoms out, or does it seem to bottom out from the smallest downward movement?
 
Koni shocks all around will help, but I think you have a different underlying issue which needs to be figured out and corrected. Also, if you go with the Koni shocks, have all of them set to the firmest setting, then if need be, you can always back them off. Mine are set to the firmest and on the bad roads the shocks just keep up.
 
Please humor me and take some photos of the bolts and torque tube. If you can replicate some of the angles/shots like I took on my coach, that would be great.
 
John
'95 Safari Serengeti 38ft, 300 Cummins 8.3CTA, Allison
6spd.
 


On Sun, Jun 22, 2014 at 2:15 PM, 'nanandpete@...' nanandpete@... [Safarifriends] <Safarifriends@yahoogroups.com> wrote:


Which Tiger trak suspension upgrade did you use?  


From: "TD sdjhtm@... [Safarifriends]" <Safarifriends@yahoogroups.com>
To: Safarifriends@yahoogroups.com
Sent: Saturday, June 21, 2014 1:30:44 PM
Subject: [Safarifriends] Fwd: Clearance Issues on Safari Velvet Ride Suspension [14 Attachments]

Update:

Well, I finally have a moment to update everyone on the suspension clearance issues that I had and resolved. We went on a small trip (220 miles), that involved several very poor bridge transitions and other imperfections in the road, to test the suspension. And....the result is AMAZING!!! The coach is as smooth as can be and truly lives up to the Velvet Ride name. There is now plenty of suspension travel and I think I managed to bottom it out once (had to really work at it), and it was actually smooth and pleasant. I also had the Tiger Trak Suspension upgrade installed, and have to say that even though it is a bit over priced, it is well worth every penny. The coach handles better, especially in the wind and road imperfections. It is in general more stable on the road, not that I had issues with handling before. I just wanted an extra safety upgrade and am very glad that I did. This is a pleasure to drive and is pretty much as smooth as my old '82 Cadillac.

I want to reiterate again to anyone that is having ride quality issues with their Magnum Velvet Ride Suspensions, check out my right up and photos of the issues I had, and check on your own coach, to see if you have a similar problem. It is an easy fix!!!

Safe travels,

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

---------- Forwarded message ----------
From: TD <sdjhtm@...>
Date: Thu, Jun 5, 2014 at 3:29 PM
Subject: Clearance Issues on Safari Velvet Ride Suspension
To: Safarifriends@yahoogroups.com


NOTE TO ALL VELVET RIDE SAFARIS OF THIS VINTAGE!!! Every one that is having issues with ride and perceived bottoming out (with a loud bang at times), should look at these photos and check their own units out!!!

I was having ride issues with my '95 Safari Serengeti 38' 300 Cummins 8.3CTA Allison 6spd. Besides poor ride quality, I was having severe bottoming out issues. Any poor bridge transition or heaves on road would cause it to nose dive a bit and bottom out with a loud harsh and at times painful BANG! Thanks to Brett with his knowledge and wisdom, he convinced me to look very thoroughly for clearance issues, and what you see in the photos is what I, by chance, discovered. Any Safari owners with Magnum Chassis and Velvet Ride Suspension SHOULD check for this as a precaution, but especially if you are having similar issues like I have been experiencing. To remedy this clearance issue, I cut off the excess bolt that was protruding past the nut, an easy fix. I've also attached pictures of the repair.  Please note:make sure that the bolts are very tight before the ends are cut off!


It is worth noting that by records of PO, this "ghost" issue has been chased for a loooong time, and more likely was their right from the start (my opinion), and by the looks of how tight things are in that area this could very well be a hidden common issue. I hope this will help any and all Safari owners with the Velvet Ride Suspension...
 
A few more thoughts...
-My ride height is correct.
-Because of this issue, I only had 2 inches of downward suspension travel! That sure as heck will give you a crappy ride.
-With out knowing what your looking for, this problem is very easy to miss, very unnoticeable, especially considering that when shops look over the suspension, the rigs are lifted, which extends the suspension and tends to hide the problem even more. I myself was convinced that it was bottoming out against the shocks! One would not even expect or think that two small bolts protruding discreetly could cause such a problem.  When a shop gets a complaint of bottoming out, the likely culprit is the shocks, if the problem doesn't get resolved, it is all to easy to blame the Torsilastic suspension.
 
Also, I would like to put a request out to some of our Safari owners, especially with the same or similar vintage, to check out their suspensions to see how much clearance they have and if there is any similar issues, and/or if the bolts are facing the other way on newer units, thus correcting the problem. Please, it will only take a few minutes, humor me and check it out and post the results, take pictures if you can. If you do look, please note which way the bolts are facing, I'm curious if SMC resolved the issue just by installing the bolts the other way around.
 
John
'95 Safari Serengeti 38ft, 300 Cummins 8.3CTA, Allison 6spd







Group: Safarifriends Message: 25576 From: daveg Date: 6/25/2014
Subject: Re: Fwd: Clearance Issues on Safari Velvet Ride Suspension
Pete, pretty much the same coach, definitely Magnum Chassis and Velvet Ride.  Previous owners installed all the PMW goodies, but it still handled/drove very poorly.  I need to adjust ride height yet, but the most important thing so far is weigh all four corners, move weight around where possible, and set the tire pressure correctly per the tire manufacturers chart.

When I bought it, Les Swab's told me that if I don't know, run maximum rated pressure for the tire until I get it weighed and determine the correct pressure.  They set it at 120PSI all the way around.  It was like riding on a bouncing ball.  It was all over the road and very difficult to control.  I'm running Toyos, so the numbers may differ.  I now run 80 in front and 100 in the rear.

Do you have the front of your coach between the frame rails filled with a huge weight?  I weighed with full fresh, empty black and gray, and a full tank of propane.   My front GAWR was 7000LB, but actual was 7640.  I now fill fresh to about 1/2 full.  I have Hurricane heat, so the only propane use is the stove and fridge.  I fill that 50gal propane tank to between 5 and 10 gal.

I plan to weigh again the way I load it now and adjust ride height, but it handles fine and I no longer get the bottoming out.  I blame my bottoming out on way overinflated tires.

On 6/23/2014 10:25 AM, 'nanandpete@...' nanandpete@... [Safarifriends] wrote:
 
 I will have to look, but I recall the front weight to be 4,300 or so. Michelin tires, new, carry 80 PSI. I have a panhard rod as well as a steering stabilizer. Pretty sure the ride height is OK, but will recheck. I am going to spring for Koni shocks, at least for the front, before the August trip. Which number is correct,, 88-1470SP2 or 88-1641SP3? Koni sez the 1470, but elsewhere on this site I have seen the1641. Oh, '99 Sahara 30'. Thanks for the help. Pete

--
- Dave Guyer 1999 30' Sahara, 300 Cat 3126B, Allison 6
Group: Safarifriends Message: 25577 From: TD Date: 6/25/2014
Subject: Re: Fwd: Clearance Issues on Safari Velvet Ride Suspension
Dave,
 
Pete is away for a month, so you probably will not get a reply for a while.
 
You mention your tires initially set at 120 psi, which would be an H rated tire, assuming the common 255/70R22.5???
What does you rear axle weigh out at (actual)? It sounds like the rear pressure is still on the high side.
Is your generator propane of diesel?
 
I'm glad you were able to resolve your ride issues. Is the coach overall pretty smooth now?
 
Safe Travels,
 
John
'95 Safari Serengeti 38ft, 300 Cummins 8.3CTA, Allison
6spd.


On Wed, Jun 25, 2014 at 11:01 AM, daveg daveg2@... [Safarifriends] <Safarifriends@yahoogroups.com> wrote:


Pete, pretty much the same coach, definitely Magnum Chassis and Velvet Ride.  Previous owners installed all the PMW goodies, but it still handled/drove very poorly.  I need to adjust ride height yet, but the most important thing so far is weigh all four corners, move weight around where possible, and set the tire pressure correctly per the tire manufacturers chart.

When I bought it, Les Swab's told me that if I don't know, run maximum rated pressure for the tire until I get it weighed and determine the correct pressure.  They set it at 120PSI all the way around.  It was like riding on a bouncing ball.  It was all over the road and very difficult to control.  I'm running Toyos, so the numbers may differ.  I now run 80 in front and 100 in the rear.

Do you have the front of your coach between the frame rails filled with a huge weight?  I weighed with full fresh, empty black and gray, and a full tank of propane.   My front GAWR was 7000LB, but actual was 7640.  I now fill fresh to about 1/2 full.  I have Hurricane heat, so the only propane use is the stove and fridge.  I fill that 50gal propane tank to between 5 and 10 gal.

I plan to weigh again the way I load it now and adjust ride height, but it handles fine and I no longer get the bottoming out.  I blame my bottoming out on way overinflated tires.

On 6/23/2014 10:25 AM, 'nanandpete@...' nanandpete@... [Safarifriends] wrote:
 
 I will have to look, but I recall the front weight to be 4,300 or so. Michelin tires, new, carry 80 PSI. I have a panhard rod as well as a steering stabilizer. Pretty sure the ride height is OK, but will recheck. I am going to spring for Koni shocks, at least for the front, before the August trip. Which number is correct,, 88-1470SP2 or 88-1641SP3? Koni sez the 1470, but elsewhere on this site I have seen the1641. Oh, '99 Sahara 30'. Thanks for the help. Pete

--
- Dave Guyer 1999 30' Sahara, 300 Cat 3126B, Allison 6



Group: Safarifriends Message: 25581 From: nanandpete@q.com Date: 6/25/2014
Subject: Re: Handling/Ride (was: Clearance Issues on Safari Velvet Ride Suspe
'99 Sahara 30', rubber band suspension. just ordered Koni shocks for the front. We will see how it goes.  109 here today if anybody wants to test their cooling or fridg. pete


From: "stuplich@... [Safarifriends]" <Safarifriends@yahoogroups.com>
To: Safarifriends@yahoogroups.com
Sent: Wednesday, June 25, 2014 11:16:21 AM
Subject: Re: [Safarifriends] Handling/Ride (was: Clearance Issues on Safari Velvet Ride Suspension

nanandpete
Interesting!
Which do coach do you have?

BTW, if you sign your posts with your name and coach year/model we would all know who to address a reply to and what coach you are talking about.
Mel
'96 Sahara
Group: Safarifriends Message: 25610 From: daveg Date: 6/27/2014
Subject: Re: Fwd: Clearance Issues on Safari Velvet Ride Suspension
Thanks, John.  Yes.  16,920 total.  Diesel, and behind the rear axle.  Yes, I have no complaints about ride and handling now.  It's comfortable to drive.

On 6/25/2014 8:42 AM, TD sdjhtm@... [Safarifriends] wrote:
 
Dave,
 
Pete is away for a month, so you probably will not get a reply for a while.
 
You mention your tires initially set at 120 psi, which would be an H rated tire, assuming the common 255/70R22.5???
What does you rear axle weigh out at (actual)? It sounds like the rear pressure is still on the high side.
Is your generator propane of diesel?
 
I'm glad you were able to resolve your ride issues. Is the coach overall pretty smooth now?
 
Safe Travels,
 
John
'95 Safari Serengeti 38ft, 300 Cummins 8.3CTA, Allison
6spd.


On Wed, Jun 25, 2014 at 11:01 AM, daveg daveg2@... [Safarifriends] <Safarifriends@yahoogroups.com> wrote:


Pete, pretty much the same coach, definitely Magnum Chassis and Velvet Ride.  Previous owners installed all the PMW goodies, but it still handled/drove very poorly.  I need to adjust ride height yet, but the most important thing so far is weigh all four corners, move weight around where possible, and set the tire pressure correctly per the tire manufacturers chart.

When I bought it, Les Swab's told me that if I don't know, run maximum rated pressure for the tire until I get it weighed and determine the correct pressure.  They set it at 120PSI all the way around.  It was like riding on a bouncing ball.  It was all over the road and very difficult to control.  I'm running Toyos, so the numbers may differ.  I now run 80 in front and 100 in the rear.

Do you have the front of your coach between the frame rails filled with a huge weight?  I weighed with full fresh, empty black and gray, and a full tank of propane.   My front GAWR was 7000LB, but actual was 7640.  I now fill fresh to about 1/2 full.  I have Hurricane heat, so the only propane use is the stove and fridge.  I fill that 50gal propane tank to between 5 and 10 gal.

I plan to weigh again the way I load it now and adjust ride height, but it handles fine and I no longer get the bottoming out.  I blame my bottoming out on way overinflated tires.

On 6/23/2014 10:25 AM, 'nanandpete@...' nanandpete@... [Safarifriends] wrote:
 
 I will have to look, but I recall the front weight to be 4,300 or so. Michelin tires, new, carry 80 PSI. I have a panhard rod as well as a steering stabilizer. Pretty sure the ride height is OK, but will recheck. I am going to spring for Koni shocks, at least for the front, before the August trip. Which number is correct,, 88-1470SP2 or 88-1641SP3? Koni sez the 1470, but elsewhere on this site I have seen the1641. Oh, '99 Sahara 30'. Thanks for the help. Pete

--
- Dave Guyer 1999 30' Sahara, 300 Cat 3126B, Allison 6





--
- Dave Guyer 1999 30' Sahara, 300 Cat 3126B, Allison 6
Group: Safarifriends Message: 25621 From: 7b65737be34a42ace4c444f809a71aca Date: 6/28/2014
Subject: Re: Signing messages (was: Foaming at the rad cap?)
Thanks Dick, how long have you had your 98 Sahara? This is our first Motorhome and I am not at all impressed with the wagging dog tail ride ( hope I said that right) so I just purchased new shocks all around and we will see if that helps. Any advice would be greatly appreciated.
 
Danny B.
98 Sahara 300 Cat
Marysville Wash.
 
Sent: Friday, June 27, 2014 6:56 PM
Subject: Re: [Safarifriends] Signing messages (was: Foaming at the rad cap?)
 
 

Hi Danny B and welcome to the forum. The NEW Yahoo format makes me nuts and I  sometimes find it difficult to follow a thread ( but I am old :)  I enjoy giving input when I think I can help but it also makes me nuts when folks do not specify the year and model coach they are talking about and I have never posted so much as a Thank You without including the yr and model of my coach and never assume that folks remember what I have.  (maybe being old has also made me crotchety  LOL )

Dick Missett
98 Sahara 300 CAT
Wyoming, PA


On Friday, June 27, 2014 7:07 PM, "dxb0078@... [Safarifriends]" <Safarifriends@yahoogroups.com> wrote:


 
Thanks Mel I was unaware being new still and I don’t post a lot, I will start stating what type of MH I have.
 
Danny B.
98  (Safari) Sahara
 
Sent: Friday, June 27, 2014 2:41 PM
Subject: [Safarifriends] Signing messages (was: Foaming at the rad cap?)
 
 
Kelly, (and all Safari friends members reading this).  
It is not always easy follow the chain on a Yahoo Group site.
That may be the fault of Yahoo's format, (or it may be my fault). :-)
In either case it does not take much effort for me to sign every post with my name and coach model.
Like this:                                
Mel
'96 Sahara

And sometimes with some information pertaining to the topic, (to help explain precisely what I am talking, or asking, about).
Like this:
Mel
'96 Sahara, 3126 Cat, (or Freedom 20 inverter... or 132k miles.... etc.)

Although it is NOT required on Safarifriends, IMO if everyone tried to
sign every message they compose, all messages on any topic would be be easier to follow, understand and answer.

BTW, IMO too much information is better than too little, (or none at all).

Mel
'96 Sahara


---In Safarifriends@yahoogroups.com, <kkircher55@...> wrote :

My original post when I started the topic had that info. I was under the impression that the chain was visible as people replied?



Group: Safarifriends Message: 25628 From: Dick Missett Date: 6/28/2014
Subject: Re: Signing messages (was: Foaming at the rad cap?)
Danny
We've had our Safari for 7+ yrs. Some of the things I have done over the years to improve handling include switching to Koni Shocks, adding an additional torsion bar to the passenger side of the Westport  front axle (available at PMW) also added a Safe-T-Plus steering stabilizer. My Sahara is a 30' single slide and had been weighed by the previous owner and I continue to maintain the tire pressure that was recommended  based on his weighing at each tire. I have also found it to handle better when my fresh water tank is full. I tow a 2011 Honda CRV and average 8mpg. All of the above have made a difference in the handling.

Dick Missett
98 Sahara 300 CAT
Wyoming, PA 


On Saturday, June 28, 2014 10:30 AM, "dxb0078@... [Safarifriends]" <Safarifriends@yahoogroups.com> wrote:


 
Thanks Dick, how long have you had your 98 Sahara? This is our first Motorhome and I am not at all impressed with the wagging dog tail ride ( hope I said that right) so I just purchased new shocks all around and we will see if that helps. Any advice would be greatly appreciated.
 
Danny B.
98 Sahara 300 Cat
Marysville Wash.
 
Sent: Friday, June 27, 2014 6:56 PM
Subject: Re: [Safarifriends] Signing messages (was: Foaming at the rad cap?)
 
 
Hi Danny B and welcome to the forum. The NEW Yahoo format makes me nuts and I  sometimes find it difficult to follow a thread ( but I am old :)  I enjoy giving input when I think I can help but it also makes me nuts when folks do not specify the year and model coach they are talking about and I have never posted so much as a Thank You without including the yr and model of my coach and never assume that folks remember what I have.  (maybe being old has also made me crotchety  LOL )

Dick Missett
98 Sahara 300 CAT
Wyoming, PA


On Friday, June 27, 2014 7:07 PM, "dxb0078@... [Safarifriends]" <Safarifriends@yahoogroups.com> wrote:


 
Thanks Mel I was unaware being new still and I don’t post a lot, I will start stating what type of MH I have.
 
Danny B.
98  (Safari) Sahara
 
Sent: Friday, June 27, 2014 2:41 PM
Subject: [Safarifriends] Signing messages (was: Foaming at the rad cap?)
 
 
Kelly, (and all Safari friends members reading this).  
It is not always easy follow the chain on a Yahoo Group site.
That may be the fault of Yahoo's format, (or it may be my fault). :-)
In either case it does not take much effort for me to sign every post with my name and coach model.
Like this:                                
Mel
'96 Sahara

And sometimes with some information pertaining to the topic, (to help explain precisely what I am talking, or asking, about).
Like this:
Mel
'96 Sahara, 3126 Cat, (or Freedom 20 inverter... or 132k miles.... etc.)

Although it is NOT required on Safarifriends, IMO if everyone tried to
sign every message they compose, all messages on any topic would be be easier to follow, understand and answer.

BTW, IMO too much information is better than too little, (or none at all).

Mel
'96 Sahara


---In Safarifriends@yahoogroups.com, <kkircher55@...> wrote :

My original post when I started the topic had that info. I was under the impression that the chain was visible as people replied?





Group: Safarifriends Message: 25789 From: 7b65737be34a42ace4c444f809a71aca Date: 7/16/2014
Subject: Re: 1995 Serengeti - Ride Height adjustment - Need Help
Thanks John, Mine is riding hard, as they call it the dog tail. I have replaced the shocks and just installed the front & rear straight TIGER TRAK stabilizer bars, I hope this will improve the ride. I will take a look and do some research as you recommend. Thanks
Danny B.
98 30' Sahara 300 Cat
Marysville Wash.
 
Sent: Tuesday, July 15, 2014 7:46 PM
Subject: Re: [Safarifriends] Re: 1995 Serengeti - Ride Height adjustment - Need Help
 
 

Danny,
 
If you have the Velvet Ride (torsion) suspension, it is important to have the correct ride height because it affects handling and ride quality/comfort. Do a search on this forum on ride height adjustment, Velvet Ride, and/or BF Goodrich Torsilastic suspension. You will find a lot of info that will bring you up to speed including how to measure your ride height and removing/adjusting the shims. On my coach, my ride height was with in spec but I had clearance issues that were very hard to detect and created major problems for ride quality. If your coach rides smooth and handles well, I would not worry to much.
 
Safe Travels,
 
John
'95 Safari Serengeti 38ft, 300 Cummins 8.3CTA, Allison
6spd.


On Tue, Jul 15, 2014 at 9:58 PM, dxb0078@... [Safarifriends] <Safarifriends@yahoogroups.com> wrote:


John I’m still new at this RV thing and I am wondering why I would have to worry about the ride height? and do I what to remove any shim on my RV?
Danny B.
98 30' Sahara 300 Cat
Marysville Wash.
 
Sent: Tuesday, July 15, 2014 9:16 AM
Subject: Re: [Safarifriends] Re: 1995 Serengeti - Ride Height adjustment - Need Help
 
 

Dave and Judy,
 
I don't know what post you read, but please be aware that Safari Friends member pschafersr DID have ALL his torsion springs replaced on his Safari because he was out of shims and was not able to adjust his ride height. I am sure that the shop goes through a lot of volume and have adjusted many Safaris, so its easy to forget and get mixed up on what they did in the past, but again, as you can see in the photos, he had all four torsion springs replaced. It was a very big and labor intensive job. I read that this shop bought all of Ralph Andrews Stock of springs when he passed away, so it would be interesting to know if they have any more left.
Maybe consider emailing Redlands the link of photos that I sent you, of the job they did, to jog their memory.
Also, don't be afraid of removing so many shims, that is what they are made for and nothing more. When the time comes that you are out of shims and are in need of ride height adjustment, then the worries can begin.
 
John
'95 Safari Serengeti 38ft, 300 Cummins 8.3CTA, Allison
6spd.


On Tue, Jul 15, 2014 at 9:37 AM, buckeyewoody46@... [Safarifriends] <Safarifriends@yahoogroups.com> wrote:


I apologize for Yahoo groups this morning.......somehow the above is appearing in some other language???????????

 

Many thanks to Brett and John and good morning to all reading my post.

 

I did read the post concerning Redlands Truck & RV Center in Redlands, CA. I googled them to find their phone number. I found their webpage. I called them yesterday and spoke with a very nice fellow for over 20 minutes. He slightly remembered the Safari they worked on in that post. He said he did remove a couple of shims (he wasn't positive on the exact amount) to adjust that Safari's ride height. On a follow up post concerning that same coach, the original post's writer said in so many words that Redlands Truck & RV did remove a couple and his ride and ride height were much better. We also talked about air bags and adding Sumo Springs (I found a post concerning Sumo's too, the writer said he installed them on the front of his coach only and that vastly improved his coach's ride over bad roads) redlands said that air bags and or Sumo Springs may require fabrication to have either installed on my Magnum chassis. He also said that whomever would add (if required to do so) either of the suspension aftermarket upgrades would be able to figure what was needed to do the job to improve my bumpy ride.

 

I trust all the posts concerning removing the shims (all if nescessary) and shooting for a ride height of 24 3/4" (I reread the Safari "Files" post By Pioneer Metal Works (PMW) and found the ride heigth should be 25" plus or minus 1/4", so the 24 3/4" is within the specification's. I still admit being nervous about removing so many shims (I am not a mechanic by any sort, so big gulp) but I will tell them to remeasure every wheel area ride height AND that they may have add some shims to a different wheel location after removing shims from another wheel position.  I am sending this post to all of my Safari friends now.............I will also look at the photos John, thanks so much.

 

Thanks again, Dave and Judy.

 

We will be traveling around the good ole' USA and we certainly hope to meet some of our Safari friends some where along our journeys!!!!!!



 


 
Group: Safarifriends Message: 25790 From: TD Date: 7/16/2014
Subject: Re: 1995 Serengeti - Ride Height adjustment - Need Help
Danny,
 
Have your coach weighed on all four corners and run you tire pressure according to the weight your carrying. Too much air pressure will give a terrible ride and make it dog tail. Also, make sure your steering components are tight, especially king pins, if they are worn, it will definitely affect the handling.
 
John
'95 Safari Serengeti 38ft, 300 Cummins 8.3CTA, Allison
6spd.


On Wed, Jul 16, 2014 at 6:22 PM, dxb0078@... [Safarifriends] <Safarifriends@yahoogroups.com> wrote:


Thanks John, Mine is riding hard, as they call it the dog tail. I have replaced the shocks and just installed the front & rear straight TIGER TRAK stabilizer bars, I hope this will improve the ride. I will take a look and do some research as you recommend. Thanks
Danny B.
98 30' Sahara 300 Cat
Marysville Wash.
 
Sent: Tuesday, July 15, 2014 7:46 PM
Subject: Re: [Safarifriends] Re: 1995 Serengeti - Ride Height adjustment - Need Help
 
 

Danny,
 
If you have the Velvet Ride (torsion) suspension, it is important to have the correct ride height because it affects handling and ride quality/comfort. Do a search on this forum on ride height adjustment, Velvet Ride, and/or BF Goodrich Torsilastic suspension. You will find a lot of info that will bring you up to speed including how to measure your ride height and removing/adjusting the shims. On my coach, my ride height was with in spec but I had clearance issues that were very hard to detect and created major problems for ride quality. If your coach rides smooth and handles well, I would not worry to much.
 
Safe Travels,
 
John
'95 Safari Serengeti 38ft, 300 Cummins 8.3CTA, Allison
6spd.


On Tue, Jul 15, 2014 at 9:58 PM, dxb0078@... [Safarifriends] <Safarifriends@yahoogroups.com> wrote:


John I’m still new at this RV thing and I am wondering why I would have to worry about the ride height? and do I what to remove any shim on my RV?
Danny B.
98 30' Sahara 300 Cat
Marysville Wash.
 
Sent: Tuesday, July 15, 2014 9:16 AM
Subject: Re: [Safarifriends] Re: 1995 Serengeti - Ride Height adjustment - Need Help
 
 

Dave and Judy,
 
I don't know what post you read, but please be aware that Safari Friends member pschafersr DID have ALL his torsion springs replaced on his Safari because he was out of shims and was not able to adjust his ride height. I am sure that the shop goes through a lot of volume and have adjusted many Safaris, so its easy to forget and get mixed up on what they did in the past, but again, as you can see in the photos, he had all four torsion springs replaced. It was a very big and labor intensive job. I read that this shop bought all of Ralph Andrews Stock of springs when he passed away, so it would be interesting to know if they have any more left.
Maybe consider emailing Redlands the link of photos that I sent you, of the job they did, to jog their memory.
Also, don't be afraid of removing so many shims, that is what they are made for and nothing more. When the time comes that you are out of shims and are in need of ride height adjustment, then the worries can begin.
 
John
'95 Safari Serengeti 38ft, 300 Cummins 8.3CTA, Allison
6spd.


On Tue, Jul 15, 2014 at 9:37 AM, buckeyewoody46@... [Safarifriends] <Safarifriends@yahoogroups.com> wrote:


I apologize for Yahoo groups this morning.......somehow the above is appearing in some other language???????????

 

Many thanks to Brett and John and good morning to all reading my post.

 

I did read the post concerning Redlands Truck & RV Center in Redlands, CA. I googled them to find their phone number. I found their webpage. I called them yesterday and spoke with a very nice fellow for over 20 minutes. He slightly remembered the Safari they worked on in that post. He said he did remove a couple of shims (he wasn't positive on the exact amount) to adjust that Safari's ride height. On a follow up post concerning that same coach, the original post's writer said in so many words that Redlands Truck & RV did remove a couple and his ride and ride height were much better. We also talked about air bags and adding Sumo Springs (I found a post concerning Sumo's too, the writer said he installed them on the front of his coach only and that vastly improved his coach's ride over bad roads) redlands said that air bags and or Sumo Springs may require fabrication to have either installed on my Magnum chassis. He also said that whomever would add (if required to do so) either of the suspension aftermarket upgrades would be able to figure what was needed to do the job to improve my bumpy ride.

 

I trust all the posts concerning removing the shims (all if nescessary) and shooting for a ride height of 24 3/4" (I reread the Safari "Files" post By Pioneer Metal Works (PMW) and found the ride heigth should be 25" plus or minus 1/4", so the 24 3/4" is within the specification's. I still admit being nervous about removing so many shims (I am not a mechanic by any sort, so big gulp) but I will tell them to remeasure every wheel area ride height AND that they may have add some shims to a different wheel location after removing shims from another wheel position.  I am sending this post to all of my Safari friends now.............I will also look at the photos John, thanks so much.

 

Thanks again, Dave and Judy.

 

We will be traveling around the good ole' USA and we certainly hope to meet some of our Safari friends some where along our journeys!!!!!!



 



 




Group: Safarifriends Message: 25791 From: 7b65737be34a42ace4c444f809a71aca Date: 7/17/2014
Subject: Re: 1995 Serengeti - Ride Height adjustment - Need Help
thank again John I’ll check the pins while I’m under there, almost ready for the test drive.
 
Danny B.
98 30' Sahara 300 Cat
Marysville Wash.
 
Sent: Wednesday, July 16, 2014 10:36 PM
Subject: Re: [Safarifriends] Re: 1995 Serengeti - Ride Height adjustment - Need Help
 
 

Danny,
 
Have your coach weighed on all four corners and run you tire pressure according to the weight your carrying. Too much air pressure will give a terrible ride and make it dog tail. Also, make sure your steering components are tight, especially king pins, if they are worn, it will definitely affect the handling.
 
John
'95 Safari Serengeti 38ft, 300 Cummins 8.3CTA, Allison
6spd.


On Wed, Jul 16, 2014 at 6:22 PM, dxb0078@... [Safarifriends] <Safarifriends@yahoogroups.com> wrote:


Thanks John, Mine is riding hard, as they call it the dog tail. I have replaced the shocks and just installed the front & rear straight TIGER TRAK stabilizer bars, I hope this will improve the ride. I will take a look and do some research as you recommend. Thanks
Danny B.
98 30' Sahara 300 Cat
Marysville Wash.
 
Sent: Tuesday, July 15, 2014 7:46 PM
Subject: Re: [Safarifriends] Re: 1995 Serengeti - Ride Height adjustment - Need Help
 
 

Danny,
 
If you have the Velvet Ride (torsion) suspension, it is important to have the correct ride height because it affects handling and ride quality/comfort. Do a search on this forum on ride height adjustment, Velvet Ride, and/or BF Goodrich Torsilastic suspension. You will find a lot of info that will bring you up to speed including how to measure your ride height and removing/adjusting the shims. On my coach, my ride height was with in spec but I had clearance issues that were very hard to detect and created major problems for ride quality. If your coach rides smooth and handles well, I would not worry to much.
 
Safe Travels,
 
John
'95 Safari Serengeti 38ft, 300 Cummins 8.3CTA, Allison
6spd.


On Tue, Jul 15, 2014 at 9:58 PM, dxb0078@... [Safarifriends] <Safarifriends@yahoogroups.com> wrote:


John I’m still new at this RV thing and I am wondering why I would have to worry about the ride height? and do I what to remove any shim on my RV?
Danny B.
98 30' Sahara 300 Cat
Marysville Wash.
 
Sent: Tuesday, July 15, 2014 9:16 AM
Subject: Re: [Safarifriends] Re: 1995 Serengeti - Ride Height adjustment - Need Help
 
 

Dave and Judy,
 
I don't know what post you read, but please be aware that Safari Friends member pschafersr DID have ALL his torsion springs replaced on his Safari because he was out of shims and was not able to adjust his ride height. I am sure that the shop goes through a lot of volume and have adjusted many Safaris, so its easy to forget and get mixed up on what they did in the past, but again, as you can see in the photos, he had all four torsion springs replaced. It was a very big and labor intensive job. I read that this shop bought all of Ralph Andrews Stock of springs when he passed away, so it would be interesting to know if they have any more left.
Maybe consider emailing Redlands the link of photos that I sent you, of the job they did, to jog their memory.
Also, don't be afraid of removing so many shims, that is what they are made for and nothing more. When the time comes that you are out of shims and are in need of ride height adjustment, then the worries can begin.
 
John
'95 Safari Serengeti 38ft, 300 Cummins 8.3CTA, Allison
6spd.


On Tue, Jul 15, 2014 at 9:37 AM, buckeyewoody46@... [Safarifriends] <Safarifriends@yahoogroups.com> wrote:


I apologize for Yahoo groups this morning.......somehow the above is appearing in some other language???????????

 

Many thanks to Brett and John and good morning to all reading my post.

 

I did read the post concerning Redlands Truck & RV Center in Redlands, CA. I googled them to find their phone number. I found their webpage. I called them yesterday and spoke with a very nice fellow for over 20 minutes. He slightly remembered the Safari they worked on in that post. He said he did remove a couple of shims (he wasn't positive on the exact amount) to adjust that Safari's ride height. On a follow up post concerning that same coach, the original post's writer said in so many words that Redlands Truck & RV did remove a couple and his ride and ride height were much better. We also talked about air bags and adding Sumo Springs (I found a post concerning Sumo's too, the writer said he installed them on the front of his coach only and that vastly improved his coach's ride over bad roads) redlands said that air bags and or Sumo Springs may require fabrication to have either installed on my Magnum chassis. He also said that whomever would add (if required to do so) either of the suspension aftermarket upgrades would be able to figure what was needed to do the job to improve my bumpy ride.

 

I trust all the posts concerning removing the shims (all if nescessary) and shooting for a ride height of 24 3/4" (I reread the Safari "Files" post By Pioneer Metal Works (PMW) and found the ride heigth should be 25" plus or minus 1/4", so the 24 3/4" is within the specification's. I still admit being nervous about removing so many shims (I am not a mechanic by any sort, so big gulp) but I will tell them to remeasure every wheel area ride height AND that they may have add some shims to a different wheel location after removing shims from another wheel position.  I am sending this post to all of my Safari friends now.............I will also look at the photos John, thanks so much.

 

Thanks again, Dave and Judy.

 

We will be traveling around the good ole' USA and we certainly hope to meet some of our Safari friends some where along our journeys!!!!!!



 


 


 
Group: Safarifriends Message: 25793 From: Dan Bissell Date: 7/18/2014
Subject: Re: 1995 Serengeti - Ride Height adjustment - Need Help
John I have asked around here {Washington State) on where to have the RV weighed, do you know where I get that done?

Danny B.
98 30' Sahara 300 Cat
Marysville Wash.

-----Original Message-----
From: "TD sdjhtm@... [Safarifriends]"
Sent: Jul 16, 2014 10:36 PM
To: Safarifriends@yahoogroups.com
Subject: Re: [Safarifriends] Re: 1995 Serengeti - Ride Height adjustment - Need Help

 

Danny,
 
Have your coach weighed on all four corners and run you tire pressure according to the weight your carrying. Too much air pressure will give a terrible ride and make it dog tail. Also, make sure your steering components are tight, especially king pins, if they are worn, it will definitely affect the handling.
 
John
'95 Safari Serengeti 38ft, 300 Cummins 8.3CTA, Allison
6spd.


On Wed, Jul 16, 2014 at 6:22 PM, dxb0078@... [Safarifriends] <Safarifriends@yahoogroups.com> wrote:


Thanks John, Mine is riding hard, as they call it the dog tail. I have replaced the shocks and just installed the front & rear straight TIGER TRAK stabilizer bars, I hope this will improve the ride. I will take a look and do some research as you recommend. Thanks
Danny B.
98 30' Sahara 300 Cat
Marysville Wash.
 
Sent: Tuesday, July 15, 2014 7:46 PM
Subject: Re: [Safarifriends] Re: 1995 Serengeti - Ride Height adjustment - Need Help
 
 

Danny,
 
If you have the Velvet Ride (torsion) suspension, it is important to have the correct ride height because it affects handling and ride quality/comfort. Do a search on this forum on ride height adjustment, Velvet Ride, and/or BF Goodrich Torsilastic suspension. You will find a lot of info that will bring you up to speed including how to measure your ride height and removing/adjusting the shims. On my coach, my ride height was with in spec but I had clearance issues that were very hard to detect and created major problems for ride quality. If your coach rides smooth and handles well, I would not worry to much.
 
Safe Travels,
 
John
'95 Safari Serengeti 38ft, 300 Cummins 8.3CTA, Allison
6spd.


On Tue, Jul 15, 2014 at 9:58 PM, dxb0078@... [Safarifriends] <Safarifriends@yahoogroups.com> wrote:


John I’m still new at this RV thing and I am wondering why I would have to worry about the ride height? and do I what to remove any shim on my RV?
Danny B.
98 30' Sahara 300 Cat
Marysville Wash.
 
Sent: Tuesday, July 15, 2014 9:16 AM
Subject: Re: [Safarifriends] Re: 1995 Serengeti - Ride Height adjustment - Need Help
 
 

Dave and Judy,
 
I don't know what post you read, but please be aware that Safari Friends member pschafersr DID have ALL his torsion springs replaced on his Safari because he was out of shims and was not able to adjust his ride height. I am sure that the shop goes through a lot of volume and have adjusted many Safaris, so its easy to forget and get mixed up on what they did in the past, but again, as you can see in the photos, he had all four torsion springs replaced. It was a very big and labor intensive job. I read that this shop bought all of Ralph Andrews Stock of springs when he passed away, so it would be interesting to know if they have any more left.
Maybe consider emailing Redlands the link of photos that I sent you, of the job they did, to jog their memory.
Also, don't be afraid of removing so many shims, that is what they are made for and nothing more. When the time comes that you are out of shims and are in need of ride height adjustment, then the worries can begin.
 
John
'95 Safari Serengeti 38ft, 300 Cummins 8.3CTA, Allison
6spd.


On Tue, Jul 15, 2014 at 9:37 AM, buckeyewoody46@... [Safarifriends] <Safarifriends@yahoogroups.com> wrote:


I apologize for Yahoo groups this morning.......somehow the above is appearing in some other language???????????

 

Many thanks to Brett and John and good morning to all reading my post.

 

I did read the post concerning Redlands Truck & RV Center in Redlands, CA. I googled them to find their phone number. I found their webpage. I called them yesterday and spoke with a very nice fellow for over 20 minutes. He slightly remembered the Safari they worked on in that post. He said he did remove a couple of shims (he wasn't positive on the exact amount) to adjust that Safari's ride height. On a follow up post concerning that same coach, the original post's writer said in so many words that Redlands Truck & RV did remove a couple and his ride and ride height were much better. We also talked about air bags and adding Sumo Springs (I found a post concerning Sumo's too, the writer said he installed them on the front of his coach only and that vastly improved his coach's ride over bad roads) redlands said that air bags and or Sumo Springs may require fabrication to have either installed on my Magnum chassis. He also said that whomever would add (if required to do so) either of the suspension aftermarket upgrades would be able to figure what was needed to do the job to improve my bumpy ride.

 

I trust all the posts concerning removing the shims (all if nescessary) and shooting for a ride height of 24 3/4" (I reread the Safari "Files" post By Pioneer Metal Works (PMW) and found the ride heigth should be 25" plus or minus 1/4", so the 24 3/4" is within the specification's. I still admit being nervous about removing so many shims (I am not a mechanic by any sort, so big gulp) but I will tell them to remeasure every wheel area ride height AND that they may have add some shims to a different wheel location after removing shims from another wheel position.  I am sending this post to all of my Safari friends now.............I will also look at the photos John, thanks so much.

 

Thanks again, Dave and Judy.

 

We will be traveling around the good ole' USA and we certainly hope to meet some of our Safari friends some where along our journeys!!!!!!



 



 




Group: Safarifriends Message: 25794 From: John Quade Date: 7/19/2014
Subject: Re: 1995 Serengeti - Ride Height adjustment - Need Help
I would try the State's Weiht stations for trucks, i.e., on I-5


On Fri, Jul 18, 2014 at 8:21 PM, Dan Bissell dxb0078@... [Safarifriends] <Safarifriends@yahoogroups.com> wrote:
 

John I have asked around here {Washington State) on where to have the RV weighed, do you know where I get that done?

Danny B.
98 30' Sahara 300 Cat
Marysville Wash.

-----Original Message-----
From: "TD sdjhtm@... [Safarifriends]"
Sent: Jul 16, 2014 10:36 PM
To: Safarifriends@yahoogroups.com
Subject: Re: [Safarifriends] Re: 1995 Serengeti - Ride Height adjustment - Need Help

 

Danny,
 
Have your coach weighed on all four corners and run you tire pressure according to the weight your carrying. Too much air pressure will give a terrible ride and make it dog tail. Also, make sure your steering components are tight, especially king pins, if they are worn, it will definitely affect the handling.
 
John
'95 Safari Serengeti 38ft, 300 Cummins 8.3CTA, Allison
6spd.


On Wed, Jul 16, 2014 at 6:22 PM, dxb0078@... [Safarifriends] <Safarifriends@yahoogroups.com> wrote:


Thanks John, Mine is riding hard, as they call it the dog tail. I have replaced the shocks and just installed the front & rear straight TIGER TRAK stabilizer bars, I hope this will improve the ride. I will take a look and do some research as you recommend. Thanks
Danny B.
98 30' Sahara 300 Cat
Marysville Wash.
 
Sent: Tuesday, July 15, 2014 7:46 PM
Subject: Re: [Safarifriends] Re: 1995 Serengeti - Ride Height adjustment - Need Help
 
 

Danny,
 
If you have the Velvet Ride (torsion) suspension, it is important to have the correct ride height because it affects handling and ride quality/comfort. Do a search on this forum on ride height adjustment, Velvet Ride, and/or BF Goodrich Torsilastic suspension. You will find a lot of info that will bring you up to speed including how to measure your ride height and removing/adjusting the shims. On my coach, my ride height was with in spec but I had clearance issues that were very hard to detect and created major problems for ride quality. If your coach rides smooth and handles well, I would not worry to much.
 
Safe Travels,
 
John
'95 Safari Serengeti 38ft, 300 Cummins 8.3CTA, Allison
6spd.


On Tue, Jul 15, 2014 at 9:58 PM, dxb0078@... [Safarifriends] <Safarifriends@yahoogroups.com> wrote:


John I’m still new at this RV thing and I am wondering why I would have to worry about the ride height? and do I what to remove any shim on my RV?
Danny B.
98 30' Sahara 300 Cat
Marysville Wash.
 
Sent: Tuesday, July 15, 2014 9:16 AM
Subject: Re: [Safarifriends] Re: 1995 Serengeti - Ride Height adjustment - Need Help
 
 

Dave and Judy,
 
I don't know what post you read, but please be aware that Safari Friends member pschafersr DID have ALL his torsion springs replaced on his Safari because he was out of shims and was not able to adjust his ride height. I am sure that the shop goes through a lot of volume and have adjusted many Safaris, so its easy to forget and get mixed up on what they did in the past, but again, as you can see in the photos, he had all four torsion springs replaced. It was a very big and labor intensive job. I read that this shop bought all of Ralph Andrews Stock of springs when he passed away, so it would be interesting to know if they have any more left.
Maybe consider emailing Redlands the link of photos that I sent you, of the job they did, to jog their memory.
Also, don't be afraid of removing so many shims, that is what they are made for and nothing more. When the time comes that you are out of shims and are in need of ride height adjustment, then the worries can begin.
 
John
'95 Safari Serengeti 38ft, 300 Cummins 8.3CTA, Allison
6spd.


On Tue, Jul 15, 2014 at 9:37 AM, buckeyewoody46@... [Safarifriends] <Safarifriends@yahoogroups.com> wrote:


I apologize for Yahoo groups this morning.......somehow the above is appearing in some other language???????????

 

Many thanks to Brett and John and good morning to all reading my post.

 

I did read the post concerning Redlands Truck & RV Center in Redlands, CA. I googled them to find their phone number. I found their webpage. I called them yesterday and spoke with a very nice fellow for over 20 minutes. He slightly remembered the Safari they worked on in that post. He said he did remove a couple of shims (he wasn't positive on the exact amount) to adjust that Safari's ride height. On a follow up post concerning that same coach, the original post's writer said in so many words that Redlands Truck & RV did remove a couple and his ride and ride height were much better. We also talked about air bags and adding Sumo Springs (I found a post concerning Sumo's too, the writer said he installed them on the front of his coach only and that vastly improved his coach's ride over bad roads) redlands said that air bags and or Sumo Springs may require fabrication to have either installed on my Magnum chassis. He also said that whomever would add (if required to do so) either of the suspension aftermarket upgrades would be able to figure what was needed to do the job to improve my bumpy ride.

 

I trust all the posts concerning removing the shims (all if nescessary) and shooting for a ride height of 24 3/4" (I reread the Safari "Files" post By Pioneer Metal Works (PMW) and found the ride heigth should be 25" plus or minus 1/4", so the 24 3/4" is within the specification's. I still admit being nervous about removing so many shims (I am not a mechanic by any sort, so big gulp) but I will tell them to remeasure every wheel area ride height AND that they may have add some shims to a different wheel location after removing shims from another wheel position.  I am sending this post to all of my Safari friends now.............I will also look at the photos John, thanks so much.

 

Thanks again, Dave and Judy.

 

We will be traveling around the good ole' USA and we certainly hope to meet some of our Safari friends some where along our journeys!!!!!!



 



 





Group: Safarifriends Message: 25795 From: Herb Date: 7/19/2014
Subject: Re: 1995 Serengeti - Ride Height adjustment - Need Help
DOT won't weight you, just go to any truck stop.  Most have scales.  Down side, they axel weigh.  DOT does same.

Herb

On Jul 19, 2014, at 7:14 AM, "John Quade jquade44@... [Safarifriends]"<Safarifriends@yahoogroups.com> wrote:

 

I would try the State's Weiht stations for trucks, i.e., on I-5


On Fri, Jul 18, 2014 at 8:21 PM, Dan Bissell dxb0078@... [Safarifriends] <Safarifriends@yahoogroups.com> wrote:
 

John I have asked around here {Washington State) on where to have the RV weighed, do you know where I get that done?

Danny B.
98 30' Sahara 300 Cat
Marysville Wash.

-----Original Message-----
From: "TD sdjhtm@... [Safarifriends]"
Sent: Jul 16, 2014 10:36 PM
To: Safarifriends@yahoogroups.com
Subject: Re: [Safarifriends] Re: 1995 Serengeti - Ride Height adjustment - Need Help

 

Danny,
 
Have your coach weighed on all four corners and run you tire pressure according to the weight your carrying. Too much air pressure will give a terrible ride and make it dog tail. Also, make sure your steering components are tight, especially king pins, if they are worn, it will definitely affect the handling.
 
John
'95 Safari Serengeti 38ft, 300 Cummins 8.3CTA, Allison
6spd.


On Wed, Jul 16, 2014 at 6:22 PM, dxb0078@... [Safarifriends] <Safarifriends@yahoogroups.com> wrote:


Thanks John, Mine is riding hard, as they call it the dog tail. I have replaced the shocks and just installed the front & rear straight TIGER TRAK stabilizer bars, I hope this will improve the ride. I will take a look and do some research as you recommend. Thanks
Danny B.
98 30' Sahara 300 Cat
Marysville Wash.
 
Sent: Tuesday, July 15, 2014 7:46 PM
Subject: Re: [Safarifriends] Re: 1995 Serengeti - Ride Height adjustment - Need Help
 
 

Danny,
 
If you have the Velvet Ride (torsion) suspension, it is important to have the correct ride height because it affects handling and ride quality/comfort. Do a search on this forum on ride height adjustment, Velvet Ride, and/or BF Goodrich Torsilastic suspension. You will find a lot of info that will bring you up to speed including how to measure your ride height and removing/adjusting the shims. On my coach, my ride height was with in spec but I had clearance issues that were very hard to detect and created major problems for ride quality. If your coach rides smooth and handles well, I would not worry to much.
 
Safe Travels,
 
John
'95 Safari Serengeti 38ft, 300 Cummins 8.3CTA, Allison
6spd.


On Tue, Jul 15, 2014 at 9:58 PM, dxb0078@... [Safarifriends] <Safarifriends@yahoogroups.com> wrote:


John I’m still new at this RV thing and I am wondering why I would have to worry about the ride height? and do I what to remove any shim on my RV?
Danny B.
98 30' Sahara 300 Cat
Marysville Wash.
 
Sent: Tuesday, July 15, 2014 9:16 AM
Subject: Re: [Safarifriends] Re: 1995 Serengeti - Ride Height adjustment - Need Help
 
 

Dave and Judy,
 
I don't know what post you read, but please be aware that Safari Friends member pschafersr DID have ALL his torsion springs replaced on his Safari because he was out of shims and was not able to adjust his ride height. I am sure that the shop goes through a lot of volume and have adjusted many Safaris, so its easy to forget and get mixed up on what they did in the past, but again, as you can see in the photos, he had all four torsion springs replaced. It was a very big and labor intensive job. I read that this shop bought all of Ralph Andrews Stock of springs when he passed away, so it would be interesting to know if they have any more left.
Maybe consider emailing Redlands the link of photos that I sent you, of the job they did, to jog their memory.
Also, don't be afraid of removing so many shims, that is what they are made for and nothing more. When the time comes that you are out of shims and are in need of ride height adjustment, then the worries can begin.
 
John
'95 Safari Serengeti 38ft, 300 Cummins 8.3CTA, Allison
6spd.


On Tue, Jul 15, 2014 at 9:37 AM, buckeyewoody46@... [Safarifriends] <Safarifriends@yahoogroups.com> wrote:


I apologize for Yahoo groups this morning.......somehow the above is appearing in some other language???????????

 

Many thanks to Brett and John and good morning to all reading my post.

 

I did read the post concerning Redlands Truck & RV Center in Redlands, CA. I googled them to find their phone number. I found their webpage. I called them yesterday and spoke with a very nice fellow for over 20 minutes. He slightly remembered the Safari they worked on in that post. He said he did remove a couple of shims (he wasn't positive on the exact amount) to adjust that Safari's ride height. On a follow up post concerning that same coach, the original post's writer said in so many words that Redlands Truck & RV did remove a couple and his ride and ride height were much better. We also talked about air bags and adding Sumo Springs (I found a post concerning Sumo's too, the writer said he installed them on the front of his coach only and that vastly improved his coach's ride over bad roads) redlands said that air bags and or Sumo Springs may require fabrication to have either installed on my Magnum chassis. He also said that whomever would add (if required to do so) either of the suspension aftermarket upgrades would be able to figure what was needed to do the job to improve my bumpy ride.

 

I trust all the posts concerning removing the shims (all if nescessary) and shooting for a ride height of 24 3/4" (I reread the Safari "Files" post By Pioneer Metal Works (PMW) and found the ride heigth should be 25" plus or minus 1/4", so the 24 3/4" is within the specification's. I still admit being nervous about removing so many shims (I am not a mechanic by any sort, so big gulp) but I will tell them to remeasure every wheel area ride height AND that they may have add some shims to a different wheel location after removing shims from another wheel position.  I am sending this post to all of my Safari friends now.............I will also look at the photos John, thanks so much.

 

Thanks again, Dave and Judy.

 

We will be traveling around the good ole' USA and we certainly hope to meet some of our Safari friends some where along our journeys!!!!!!