Handling

[Explorer230XLW]

We have an Xplorer 230 XLW with rear bed. It has a tendency to wander on the road. I have attributed that to the 6' overhang past the rear axle, which moves the center of gravity too far back. Is this a natural trait of a vehicle with a large rear over hang, or is there something that can be done to lessen it? Thanks.

[steveh27]

I have had a 1997 Xplorer 230XL since 2000, and experienced the same problem. I slowly solved it by replacing the shocks with Bilstein, adding rear wheel spacers, and then replacing the ball joints. Each made a significant improvement. Also had tie rods, and other steering parts checked and replaced as needed. Of course tire replacement as needed, alignment as well. I plan on keeping my Xplorer forever.

[jjson775]

I had a Ford based van on a chassis similar to yours that was difficult to handle. I installed wheel spacers, had the alignment checked and upgraded the tires to Michelin LT's from the OEM Hankooks. The tires were the biggest help.

It is never going to drive like a car. I now have a B+ with dual rear wheels. It is more stable than our old van but still doesn't handle like a car. My suggestion is just to slow down. Good luck wth your RV.

Jim

[My_Roadtrek]

Some Dodge vans were notorious for handling problems. If it has single tires in the back check and see if has had wheel spacers put on the back. The older Dodges were a few inches narrow in the back than the front, and the spacers helped them track better. Some just couldn't be fixed.
I suggest you read the faq's at the top of the Class B home page.
Lots of info in the archives. This will get you started about wheel spacers.
http://www.rv.net/forum/index.cfm/fuseaction/search/parms/sw%7Bwheel%20spacers%7D%7Ckm%7Bexact%7D%7C...

[mkguitar]

yes, tires, shocks and worn suspension bushings/alignment.

how fast?

I know my van feels pretty solid at 65...and above 75 is just...doesn;t.
at the lower speed i am more relaxed at the wheel and the mpg is better.

Mike

[Tyler0215]

Well since this is posted in the Class B I doubt if the tongue weight is a problem. Check that the tires are at the proper inflation first. How old is the unit? You may need the alignment checked, or new shocks. You need to give a little more info to get a better answer.

[cmeade]

Sounds like you need more tongue weight. If water tank is in front of axles the put a couple hundred lbs of water in it and try towing it. JMHO.