I often entertain the question: What can I do to improve the handling of my F53 chassis?
My answer is always the same. Before spending any money on aftermarket suspension components, take a look at this list. I suspect after completing this list, you may find that further improvement may not be worth the money.
Although some items on this list could apply to almost any chassis, these are my recommendations for a Ford F53, 1999 and newer.
1) Tire pressure, Weight the front and rear axles, use the tire pressure table to verify the tire pressure is at least minimum for the weight.
2) Front end alignment, set toe-in to max or even a little past max is OK. Caster is at max and preferably 1-2 degrees past max. 6-7 degrees for Ford F53.
3) If the shocks are over 10 years old, they are probably worn out. Although higher quality shocks that will improve the ride (at a high cost), a standard ole Monroe shock will significantly improve the ride over a worn out shock, at a lower price.
4) CHF (Cheap Handling Fix) This one item will have the most significant impact on sway, and its FREE. On 1999 F53 and newer, move the links to the rear hole on the front and rear torsion bars. The front “Z” plate will be removed as they will hit the link. The rear “Z” plates need to be flipped over and re-used as they also secure the mount bolt.
VERY IMPORTANT – On 2005/2006 and newer, Ford changed the rear torsion bar mount on the axle. These have a habit of bolts falling out and breaking the mount saddle. Re-torque the saddle bolts to 65 ft lbs and use blue Locktite to secure the bolt.
5) Make and install a rear track bar. On older motorhomes that have a long overhang, the springs and bushings are worn. A track bar will hold the rear axle in place so it cannot mode sideways.
I have a 1999 Class A Holiday Rambler Vacationer, I had discovered a soft floor just a outside of the cabinet below the sink area. There was no plumbing leaks, I had found that the drain tube from the refrigerator was never installed into the drip pan from day one when built, The tube was against the back wall of refer dripping during use. I had installed it and secured it not to come out.
does this apply to a 1998 Fleetwood Southwind 36Z….I just bought one from an estate and it came with no manuals or anything…..
If its a Ford F53 chassis with a V10 engine, then yes, it applies.
I just did a little more research. its a 1998 Fleetwood Southwind 36Z. with a Ford 460 engine..I think the chassis is called a F-Super Duty Class A Motorhome Chassis …..
Sounds like you have an early model F53. You don’t have the sway bar with the multiple adjustments, but everything else applies, Tire pressure, shocks, front end alignment, rear track bar.