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elkhorn98's avatar
elkhorn98
Explorer
May 18, 2013

Installed Mobile Outfitters Shock Kit

Installed yesterday on my 5th wheel and it all worked out. I had to drill 1 new hole in each bracket to work with my subframe. Kit came with everything and shocks.

http://www.themobileoutfitters.com/index.php/suspension-a-alignment-products/151-shock-mount-kits

Hardest part was getting leverage to drill into the frame while sitting on my butt under the trailer. Mount them at 55 degrees. Kit was about $95 per axle.



Lippert install video
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=bdg-DkcU1B8&feature=youtube_gdata_player

18 Replies

  • Thanks for the thread. Shock absorbers should be OEM on every leaf-sprung RV.

    I see you also have "improved" spring equalizers . . I'd imagine that the combined retrofits should offer performance changes that are noticeable.

    Was the crossbeam between the equalizer mounts an OEM piece, or owner-added?

    I need to add new shocks to mine (originals are likely what is in place) and, if I change to an improved equalizer may need a longer shock absorber, so looking at your kit install was welcomed.



    .
  • rhagfo's avatar
    rhagfo
    Explorer III
    rhagfo wrote:
    Thats_Ok wrote:
    Looks good!
    Know what ya mean about drilling with no leverage.

    Anxious to hear how the coach rides with the shocks installed.


    X2
    Have some plumbing issues to deal with 1st for mine. Nice looking install


    tvman44 wrote:
    Thanks elkhorn,
    I was curious because I too have a I Beam frame. Will have to look into this as I have been interested in adding shocks. :)


    Well got mine installed today, I beam frame, brackets are designed for the I beam frame.

    Took a bit of time as I did need to deal with plumbing issues both the galley drain and the gas line down the inside of the frame. Slide-out hardware prevented placing on the outside of the frame.

    Needed to move galley drain line out a bit near the drain, still need to get a straighter line on, that will come later, didn't start this project until about 1:30 today.



    Replace the 2" nipple at the front of the gas line with a 8" to get clearance at the edge of the frame rail. Gas rated yellow Teflon tape makes for good seals.



    I will know Wednesday how they work, traveling to Bend, OR for daughters Horse show.
  • Updated the photo. This kit should work with a i beam frame since lippert makes most of the frames. Check out the video link i posted. If you can weld then i would recommend welding the upper bracket. It should save some time. I don't have a welder...I guess I should get one. It wasn't a very comfortable position to drill 12 holes with no leverage.
  • Thanks elkhorn,
    I was curious because I too have a I Beam frame. Will have to look into this as I have been interested in adding shocks. :)
  • rhagfo's avatar
    rhagfo
    Explorer III
    Thats_Ok wrote:
    Looks good!
    Know what ya mean about drilling with no leverage.

    Anxious to hear how the coach rides with the shocks installed.


    X2
    Have some plumbing issues to deal with 1st for mine. Nice looking install
  • The frame is I beam but it mounted it to my 3/16" box tubing subframe. The bolts cut threads in the brackets and your hole in the frame.
  • What type of frame do you have? Is it "I" Beam or rectangular tubing?
  • Looks good!
    Know what ya mean about drilling with no leverage.

    Anxious to hear how the coach rides with the shocks installed.