New Shocks DIY

[Richard and Rhonda]

I thought the front end of the coach was "not right" when driving on really uneven surface. Casual inspection of the shocks showed them to be the originals since they were sprayed with the black undercoating, and the insulating foam covered the top shock bolt. Well, 12 yr old shocks might explain the side to side excessive movement. I had the good folks at Koni RV (talk to Justin) send me some Model #90-1868 Adjustables. It's the same shock that Koni uses on Prevosts.

After jacking up the front axle with a couple of bottle jacks, putting jack stands under the suspension, and UNLOCKING the steering wheel lock I was ready to go. Access was easy with the front wheels turned out of the way. Total time to change both shocks about one hour. As soon as I started removing the right front I knew it was bad. Shocks shouldn't have free play. The shocks were Gabriels

Costs Shocks 165.00 each
Set of 1/2 sockets at the Northern Hydraulic 89.00

I set the shocks on the middle of the road firmness. I'll drive them awhile and go from there. There was an immediate difference in the handling of the coach on a uneven surface.

Interestingly enough, the drive axle was already equipped with the Koni Adjustables. I did break them loose and check to see that they were OK. They were.