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kerrlakeRoo's avatar
kerrlakeRoo
Explorer
Jun 05, 2018

Wheelbase and length

In Researching motorhomes in general, I ran into something I dont understand.
We have started looking at units both Class A and C with roughly a 30' box, and 32 or so foot total length.
Why are the Class C units in this size 220 - 228 wheelbase and the class A units 190 to 208.
For instance the 29' to 31' Jayco Greyhawks have a total length of 32'3 and a wb of 223
And I commonly see Class A's like the Georgetowns with total lengths about the same but wheel bases of 190 or 208.

Comments about sway problems on the class a 's frequently talk about the tail swing and cases of sway from a long tail so why are they almost always shorter wheelbases?
  • For the current model year the F53 comes in wheelbase lengths from 158" to 252". It's up to the builder to choose which length to build on. Bigger the wheel base the higher the cost so builders will go as small as they can.

    Also Ford E series, cutaway or stripped chassis the choice of wheelbase is 138" 158" or 176". At least for model year 2018. Are you sure about the 220"-228" lengths?

    Dimensional data from Ford is listed here - 1997-2018 Ford Body Builders Layout Book(s)
  • Akrv, I should have specified, gas class A's. There isn't much forward of the axle on those, it appears similar to the E-450 van fronts on the Class C's.
  • The class A have a shorter wheel base because more weight is forward of the front axle than in a class C. You want 2/3 of the weight on the rear axle and 1/3 of the weight on the front axle. Also have most of the weight between the axles for the best ride and handling.