Forum Discussion

Shane549's avatar
Shane549
Explorer
Mar 09, 2015

Vibration in steering wheel

Hello all. After researching class c moho,s for quite a while, I

found a 2011 Sunseeker 2860DS (30FT) with 29000 miles that I made

a deal on. It is on an E450 with a 202 inch wheelbase. I have read

much on the handling issues so I was apprehensive before the test

drive. Drove it on I 75 in construction, rain, and heavy traffic

and was it seemed to drive well. Passing trucks gave a gentle push

and the coach almost seemed to return on its own after trucks passed.

There was no wander or white knuckle issues. Actually I could

drive it one handed if I wanted. I kept speeds from 60 to 65.

Now here IS what I noticed and am not sure about. It had a

slight vibration in the steering wheel that to me felt like a

tire balance issue. (salesman noticed to). They said they would

look at it. The tires are like new Michelins (replaced on the

recall perhaps?) So bottom line, is a slight vibration normal

in an E450 or is it something that can / should be corrected?

I will add I have logged well over 20000 miles in fivers but

have no class c experience. Thanks
  • Thanks for the replies. JD, I would not call it a shimmy. Steering
    is centered well. Noticed no tendency to hunt or wander. Just
    seemed like a constant high frequency vibration that I would relate
    to wheel balance or maybe driveline. Please note it was not severe
    but it was there. As I mentioned the salesman did notice it also.
    They said they would check it out so I should give them a chance.
    Just wanted to hear from "C" owners to see if it common. All my
    experience is with TT and fivers.
  • j-d's avatar
    j-d
    Explorer II
    Ever fool with a gyroscope?

    Your wheels are gyros at speed. If you hit a sharp bump wheels want to go up. But gyro effect wants then to turn in or out, maybe tilt.

    If there's looseness in suspension or steering you'll get shimmy.
  • Make sure they are properly balanced. I prefer spin balance. But there are different methods also.
    Front end alignment. Would be a good idea also.
  • With vibration, FIRST check run-out. Balancing an egg-shaped tire will still vibrate. THEN balance-- on the rig is best.