Added Shocks to the Camper Last Week

Billstar1 wrote:
myredracer -- What was the total cost?

Oh boy, I was afraid someone would ask. We were "forced" to let the dealer do the install because they claimed it would void the warranty. Knowing how the frame manufacturer can treat owners, we didn't want to take a chance. The parts cost to us (purchased in advance) was around $300. The expensive part was getting the 4 lower brackets made up. A couple of months later, we still have not got the bill from the dealer for this so I can't say what their portion is. We had a number of other upgrades done at the same time and are awaiting a final tally (hoping they forgot, lol).

I think the labor cost is going to be over $500. The welding to the frame was pretty straightforward and I know a couple of people that could have done it for minimal cost if I had the TT up on blocks at home. By the time they get the trailer up on a hoist, the wheels off, figure out what to do, then do the install, the total hours times the going shop rate adds up quick. We had to replace the U-bolts though because the new lower brackets are sandwiched between the axle and springs (under-slung axles).

Mobile Outfitters (Lippert) has a shock kit but IIRC, it's considerably more than Monroe except that upper Monroe brackets are NLA. The upper brackets can be done in a number of ways and aren't that difficult to fabricate and weld on. Our upper brackets are just a piece of 2.5" wide flat stock 3/16" thick.

If someone is handy and can get their TT on blocks and can weld, you should be able to do it for around $200 - $300 with Monroe shocks. You could also get a mobile welder to go to your house.