Shocks and Fifth Wheels

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Jul 1, 2014 | 10:31 PM

jdq1986

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From: Dalhart, TX

Shocks and Fifth Wheels

I'm getting a fifth wheel RV and conveniently enough I've been wanting to replace my shocks. I've never owned a fifth wheel before so I am looking for input on what shocks would be best, especially for the rear. The truck is a 1993 F350 7.3 Diesel, RWD, SRW. The RV is a 2006 Weekend Warrior 3505LE, 35' toy hauler. Axle weight is 7,683 lbs (three axles), hitch weight is 1,775 lbs, GVWR is 16,000 lbs, payload is 6,000 lbs. Water capacities are 150 gallons fresh, and 50 gallons each for gray and black, if it matters. The only "toy" I may haul is my bike, a 1997 Harley Davidson FLSTC Heritage Softail, GVWR approx. 700 lbs.

Jul 1, 2014 | 11:24 PM

krooser

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Joined: Aug 2002

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From: Central Wisconsin

I never had any of my customers complain about how there new Fords handled so i would think a good replacement style shock would work.

I've had good luck with KYB and Bilstiens in several applications...

Jul 1, 2014 | 11:26 PM

SoCalAngler

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I, too, will be pulling a TT or a 5er (haven't decided which one to purchase yet).

I went with the Bilstein 4600 Heavy Duty shocks front and rear. They ride firm and are excellent shocks. I also have Firestone air bags. Between these two I can handle either camper. I would suggest air bags regardless with what shock you go with. It allows you to bring truck to level after that nearly 2K in pin weight is added as well as provide a more stable ride during towing.

Jul 2, 2014 | 08:42 PM

jdq1986

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From: Dalhart, TX

I can't find where the shocks are rated, to be sure I'm getting a set that can handle the load. What spec am I looking for?

Jul 3, 2014 | 09:03 AM

snowdog79

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Joined: Mar 2006

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From: Tri-Cities, TN

Look at the adjustable Rancho shocks. They firm up nicely when needed, and aren't too harsh when unloaded. The Bilsteins I've had were great loaded, but were pretty harsh in unloaded driving IME. And I second the airbag comment.

Jul 3, 2014 | 12:35 PM

Diesel_Brad

Fleet Owner

Joined: May 2009

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From: Gilbert, PA

Shocks are shocks and they are NOT designed to carry weight, just Absorb rebounds

Jul 3, 2014 | 12:58 PM

Rancho Suspension

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Rancho RS9000's the adjustable really work well if you tow.

Jul 3, 2014 | 10:01 PM

jdq1986

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From: Dalhart, TX

Quote:

Originally Posted by Diesel_Brad

Shocks are shocks and they are NOT designed to carry weight, just Absorb rebounds

Agreed, however if the shocks aren't up to job of handling the weight that will be put on them, they won't be very good at absorbing shocks now will they?

Jul 3, 2014 | 10:06 PM

#10

eakermeld

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From: South Central,MO

Only air shocks "handle" weight and it's not even the shock portion that's handling it.

Jul 3, 2014 | 10:25 PM

#11

jdq1986

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From: Dalhart, TX

Quote:

Originally Posted by eakermeld

Only air shocks "handle" weight and it's not even the shock portion that's handling it.

"Endure" or "tolerate" then. I think everyone knows what I mean. I want a smooth, level ride while pulling a fifth wheel RV. I'm aware that shocks aren't for carrying weight, however if they're too weak or worn out to sustain a load, and fully or mostly compress, they won't be able to do their job, therefore weight is a factor. Otherwise all shocks would be the same.

That said, thanks everyone who gave input, I now have several valid choices based on real world experience to consider, which is exactly what I wanted.

Jul 3, 2014 | 10:43 PM

#12

eakermeld

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From: South Central,MO

The shock will perform the same anywhere in the stroke range, so empty or loaded should make no difference. Take a (good or new) shock and push it down against the floor and then let go. It will compress fast and with reduced effort but it will rebound slowly. That is what they are designed to do. If they don't rebound or rebound quickly throw them away.