Forum Discussion

Viewfinder's avatar
Viewfinder
Explorer
Sep 17, 2013

long wheelbase

Used to driving 208-228 wheelbase units. How much more room do I need with 252-300? Wondering if I can get it in the driveway, turn around, around the corner, around the campground? East coast roads were built a long time ago, and don't have the room enjoyed out west. thanks

jim
  • Viewfinder wrote:
    Used to driving 208-228 wheelbase units. How much more room do I need with 252-300? Wondering if I can get it in the driveway, turn around, around the corner, around the campground? East coast roads were built a long time ago, and don't have the room enjoyed out west. thanks

    jim


    If you are a confident driver all you need to know is that people do it all the time. :) Enjoy!
  • Thanks all. Looks like I may be over thinking things. Good info and will be helpful to me. Thanks......
    jim
  • Its all about the degree of wheel cut of the steering on the coach. The manufacturer can tell you the degree of wheel cut. Most coaches have a degree of wheel cut of either 45 degree, or 50 degree and above. With a 45 degree wheel cut, you use your front bumper as a reference point for turning. You make sure your front bumper is past what you don't want to hit, like the stop sign. With a 50 degree or higher wheel cut, you use your own hips for a reference point for turning. With the 50 degree wheel cut you make sure your hips are past what you don't want to hit before making the turn. So a 50 degree, or higher, wheel cut offers a tighter turning radius.
  • Jim,
    We're at 252" with a front/rear overhang of 6'/10'. We do primarily Forest Service campgrounds and (real) boondocking, additionally we live on a 2.5 mile long 1.5 lane dirt road with a fairly narrow dirt driveway. On top of that it is an older coach with only a 45º wheel cut. No issues at all in any situation I've had to handle yet.

    Once you get used to it I'm sure you'll like the longer wheelbase's stability and ride, especially in crosswinds.
  • Well...I guess it's safe to say you'll need more room for negotiating turns- but you already know that, I guess.

    If you're looking for specifics, here's a link to a "transportation design" document that will tell you everything you need to know- and more- about the turning radii of various lengths of vehicles.
  • You may find that it is even easier to drive. The steering may be sharper and more precise. There will be less Rear Overhang and swing. Steer with Your Hips and pay attention to the Mirrors.
    After a few Miles it will feel quite comfortable.