Koni FSD Shocks in Chevy Class C

[Snowman9000]

At the moment, this is just an installation report. I should have driving results in a few weeks.

I installed four Koni FSD shocks into my Chevy 4500 chassis Class C Sunseeker. I got them from https://www.ultrarvproducts.com/store/index.php?route=common/home . Installation took me two hours, on a flat surface, no jacking up needed. To install the rears, you have to get under the chassis about to your waist. The front are done from above the tire and then just getting under the bumper a couple of feet or so. All in all, it was not difficult.

The Konis are apparently not gas charged, so you don't have to fight them trying to extend themselves. The rears (even the stock ones) somewhat obstruct the access to the top mount bolts. Meaning some times I could not use a socket but had to work a box wrench in a tight space. Just more work, not really a big deal. The lower end of the rear Konis were almost an interference fit against the mounting brackets. I think they will be fine but I'll be watching them for the first couple of days.

Even though I live in the rust belt, I was lucky. The MH is new enough that I did not have to battle any rusty hardware. The top shaft threads on the front shocks were rusty but not bad. On an older unit that has had salt exposure, you should probably soak those threads for a few days before removal. Maybe even run a die over them if you have one.

My reason for this upgrade was to have it ride better, and to better control the side to side rocking which happens when turning out of parking lots and such. I suspect a sway bar is a better answer for the latter. But I thought I'd try these shocks first, since a lot of people love them for the ride and improved handling. I don't really have big complaints, other than the Wal-Mart Wobble. But a nicer ride is always welcome. We shall see.

[Snowman9000]

Another update. We are 3000 miles into a snowbird trip to AZ. The shocks are wonderful. The handling and ride improvements make this a very worthwhile upgrade.

[Snowman9000]

I'm typing on a tablet so keeping things brief.

Not only is the ride improved, but surprisingly the Wal-Mart Wobble is much better too. I did not really expect that. It must be that since it is a big movement, like a big bump, the damping is strong. I could probably still enjoy stouter sway bars just to make the handling more crisp. But I doubt if I would bother.

[pnichols]

I can hardly wait to get the Koni FSD shocks on the front. We've had them on only the rear for a little over 10,000 miles and they have been very, very good. I have delayed on the front ... wondering if they were needed there.

What I like about them is, once you've bitten the bullet and bought/installed them you have "Koni FSD" shocks for life because they have a lifetime warranty.

[Snowman9000]

Ok, these are very good shocks. The ride and handling are much improved. Well worth the money imo.

[j-d]

And Yes, a Chevy-based Class C will benefit from a Hellwig rear sway bar. I helped an OP install one and the results were very pleasing.

[j-d]

Nice work! I'd've thought the upper rears would require more contortion than just sliding under.
You're right about the threads on the top ends. Almost always a problem. When I took our Ford shocks out, both top shafts broke off at the same point. Nut about half off and BANG! One one side the 15mm wrench disappeared with a clatter and I never found it. Down in the crossmember someplace I suppose.