Light steering
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Freshman User
Joined: Aug 2008
Posts: 37
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From: Duns, Scottish Borders
Light steering
My 1991 econoline e 350 RV has very light steering which is great when manoeuvring at low speed but it takes a lot of concentration to drive on the open road, is there anything which can be done?
Junior User
Joined: Oct 2008
Posts: 92
Likes: 1
From: Now; L.A., Soon; CR
Where's the weight?
Sounds like your rig has too much weight in the back. My first step would be to get it up on some weight scales, and see what numbers you come up with. The results will likely indicate a distinct weight bias towards the rear.
I doubt the RV was manufactured in such a manner that would cause this. More likely it means you need to re-situate the gear you carry. Also, another issue might be aerodynamic lift. That is, too much air is making its way underneath your rig as you drive (the faster you go, the "lighter" it feels?).
In this case, an air dam (spoiler) would probably be beneficial. Even the overhang (bed) above the cab can create lift. Honestly, RV's have the co-efficiency of a - very large - brick.
Even if you have sorted this all out, you may find you need some assistance (support) for your rear suspension. The RV may just have a bit much to carry on the rear, no matter what you remove. "Helper" springs and/or air bags can lift the rear enough to counter that "light" feeling.
I would start with finding out what it weighs - and where. Then I would have a good idea where my next step will lead.
Good luck...
note; If the RV is the one pictured, then I suspect it has a rear bathroom, right? Which would likely indicate the fluid tanks are probably right underneath. Dumping any/all waste water (gray/black) - before heading out on the highway - could be enough to make a huge difference in the feeling at the steering wheel.
I doubt the RV was manufactured in such a manner that would cause this. More likely it means you need to re-situate the gear you carry. Also, another issue might be aerodynamic lift. That is, too much air is making its way underneath your rig as you drive (the faster you go, the "lighter" it feels?).
In this case, an air dam (spoiler) would probably be beneficial. Even the overhang (bed) above the cab can create lift. Honestly, RV's have the co-efficiency of a - very large - brick.
Even if you have sorted this all out, you may find you need some assistance (support) for your rear suspension. The RV may just have a bit much to carry on the rear, no matter what you remove. "Helper" springs and/or air bags can lift the rear enough to counter that "light" feeling.
I would start with finding out what it weighs - and where. Then I would have a good idea where my next step will lead.
Good luck...
note; If the RV is the one pictured, then I suspect it has a rear bathroom, right? Which would likely indicate the fluid tanks are probably right underneath. Dumping any/all waste water (gray/black) - before heading out on the highway - could be enough to make a huge difference in the feeling at the steering wheel.
Thread Starter
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Freshman User
Joined: Aug 2008
Posts: 37
Likes: 0
From: Duns, Scottish Borders
Light Steering
Some good pointers thanks, the rear lockers are empty at the mo but I have just added a platform to carry a 300lb mobility scooter, is the spoiler in the picture sufficient do you think?
The RV has air suspension at the rear and can be pumped up as high as 90psi, how do you know how much to put in?
The bathroom is at the rear as are the waste tanks so I'll bear that in mind.
The RV has air suspension at the rear and can be pumped up as high as 90psi, how do you know how much to put in?
The bathroom is at the rear as are the waste tanks so I'll bear that in mind.
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