F-53 chassis

blknomad
Just wondering. You say you "just" pulled the trigger on purchasing the coach? Does that mean you've not driven it very far, if at all? While the F-53 is known for some faults, you might just want to load the coach, the way you'd load it for a trip and, take her out for some evaluation testing. Now, if you've done all that, then it's a moot point.

But, here's something to consider. The F-53 is used by multiple coach builders. Some do a good job in "loading" the chassis appropriately and some, don't care so much and, the result is some not so good rides/handling. The smart thing to do is, get the coach weighed. And that include separate weights of the front and back. Then, knowing what your GAWR is for each axle, you can then determine whether "Loading" heavy on the rear or, front or, none at all, will possibly help your situation, that is IF, you need any help in it at all.

But, to just start throwing aftermarket parts at it when it may not need any, might be futile and, wasteful. It's certainly your coach and, it definitely is your option to add what you choose, at whatever time you'd like. We'd all like them to handle and drive like a Lincoln Continental but, getting a rolling gymnasium to do that is pretty hard.

We had a very nice '99 Fleetwood Bounder 34V and, it too road like a rock in the front end. Well, after owning it for quite a while, I started doing some analyzing. The very first thing I did was weigh it. Long story short, the front axle was rated at 7,000 lbs. Loaded for a trip, it weighed in at, 5,500. Using advanced math, that's 1500 lbs. under weight. No wonder those dump truck springs were not being compressed.

Anyway, good luck in your endeavor.
Scott

The pics were great, I don't think I'll have any problems with changing the links on the swaybars. Now if I can figure a pattern for the diff side of the track bar I'll be good to go. Got 2 welders so I should be able to do something. Thanks to all those that replied.

Here is a post. My two replies have tools needed and a couple pictures. I kept the factory links.

We own the same model, a 2013. I added a Steer Safe that really helped with control and wander.

Some get helwig adjustable links and install them. Some just use the same links. Your choice. I installed the adjustable links. Trak bar connects rear differential to frame. Pricey item but worth it. In addition to mod CHF I added Roadmaster rear anti sway bar and Steer Safe on steering. Works for me.

If you have all these "swaying" issues why would you buy an F53 chassis? Funny I have a 2002 Forest River and don't have swaying issues.