Deisel handling

[Bill22]

Do deisels generally require upgraded suspensions in order to handle good on the road? I have a 30ft gas and had to put $4500 into upgraded suspension in order for it to be safe to drive.

[valhalla360]

A diesel doesn't handle any better or worse.

The difference is diesels typically come in pusher chassis (think commercial tour busses) and gas engines typically come in lighter duty front engine chassis.

It just happens that expensive models come with both diesel and better chassis.

[way2roll]

Most Gas MH's are built on the F53 chassis which is used on everything from motorhomes to bread trucks. It's a utilitarian chassis and thus not a lot of engineering around comfort and quiet. Diesel MH's are fairly specific to the task and engineered with driving controls and comfort with things like airbags. On a gas MH you are sitting on top of the engine and endure all the noise and heat that it brings. Diesels are rear engine and so much more quiet and balanced. There are reasons DP's cost more and most of those reasons are the chassis, engine and engine placement. They are also typically built a little better with higher end components and insulation. All of which add to the experience. But everything in RV'ing is a compromise. You have to decide if the extra cost is worth it. Most folks who end up with a DP, never look back.

[Bruce_Brown]

Our last gasser was a 2000. In 2003 we bought our first diesel. In 2008 we bought our current diesel and currently have no intention to trade.

Yeah, they're normally that good.

[grldst]

In general a diesel will ride and handle better then a gas. Usually a 38ft or larger should require no add ons. Heavier RVs with tag axles will be the best. I’ve owned and driven a lot of them over the Yrs. Mind you I haven’t driven them all but my favorite is the road master 10 bag chassis. Spartan is also very good but is a little mushier then the road master.

[JRscooby]

Took me decades of handling diesel before a pretty, 20 something driver showed me that a little baby powder on cloths will let it brush off so don't spread it all over and smell it for days. Keep a bottle near fueling gloves.



Doubt this is what OP is asking, but given his info, best answer and might help others.