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Replacing Front Coil Springs With Lesser-Rated Ones On Our 2007 E350

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Ron Dittmer

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Re: Replacing Front Coil Springs With Lesser-Rated Ones On Our 2007 E350
« Reply #45 on: July 18, 2019, 10:25:30 pm »
Don’t forget Ron is running larger diameter front and rear  sway bars, so his starting point is already stiffer with decreased body roll.
Also consider that last year I installed heavy duty Bilstein shock absorbers in all 4 corners.

I hope people reading all this understand that replacing my old shocks with the HD Bilsteins, the change did not inspire me to look into changing front springs.  The new shocks did not negatively affect the roughness of the ride.  I had "softer front springs" in-mind long ago, a number of years back.  I am taking action now only because I will be replacing my tires and I want the front end re-aligned with the change in springs included.
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Re: Replacing Front Coil Springs With Lesser-Rated Ones On Our 2007 E350
« Reply #46 on: July 26, 2019, 05:53:03 am »


This thread is getting deep for sure! Maybe Liquid $prings could  make some adjustable front coilovers for motorhomes, that would be the ultimate setup!

AIR JORDAN SPRINGS.   roflol

Edit to add link... https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=f7usNS8BCzs  Someone did this with a car.

My springs came in!   Look purdy... may get the grandson to help me install them. Be a good experience for him, he is 8.  I will try not to teach him any new words...  :lol  Though spending his early youth at Bragg with the 101st (His Daddy served), he does know WAY too many 'salty words'.  :beg

« Last Edit: July 26, 2019, 06:04:24 am by Volkemon »
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Re: Replacing Front Coil Springs With Lesser-Rated Ones On Our 2007 E350
« Reply #47 on: July 26, 2019, 03:41:15 pm »
The road going thru oil country in Texas was pure hell. If I recall it’s the 285. If I had known of it being oil country I would have avoided like the plague.  The roads in Ohio have been no picnic either. I don’t think any state is exempt .

In my opinion I made a bad choice in the koni shocks. I don’t know what the answer is but it damn sure isn’t  Koni to address a rough ride. My rear end is like riding a rigid frame bike.


This aside back to Ron’s issue. Wouldn’t the sag issue be addressed by rear air bags? I don’t know if they are available or cost prohibitive, just throwing out a thought.

Hi, Did you install the Koni FSD shocks? We are researching them as an option for our similar problem.  We have a new E450 2019 PC 2350, we have the Air Ride in the rear.  The E450 is a terrible ride over any bump  I just created a new post today with more details.
Thanks
Rob



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Re: Replacing Front Coil Springs With Lesser-Rated Ones On Our 2007 E350
« Reply #48 on: July 26, 2019, 05:20:00 pm »
]
Hi, Did you install the Koni FSD shocks? We are researching them as an option for our similar problem.  We have a new E450 2019 PC 2350, we have the Air Ride in the rear.  The E450 is a terrible ride over any bump  I just created a new post today with more details.
Thanks
Rob
[/quote]

Hi Rob, I've got a (used) 2014 PC 2350 on an E-450 and the first improvements I made was 4 Koni FSD's along with Roadmaster front & rear sway bars and a Reflex steering stabilizer.  Handling was night and day improved BUT jarring, jolting, banging, bumping over bad roads continues albeit somewhat more tame.  I think the only cure there may be the Liquid Springs or Kelderman - https://kelderman.com/news/2011-ford-e-350450-2-stage-rear-air-suspension/  but both are too cost prohibitive for me.  Good luck on your quest, time has taught me to pack, cushion and dampen all gear as best I can.

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Re: Replacing Front Coil Springs With Lesser-Rated Ones On Our 2007 E350
« Reply #49 on: September 11, 2019, 11:34:19 am »
UPDATE!

Taking the easy way out, having a buddy do it at his shop. $300 for replacement/alignment is pretty darn reasonable. Add rainy season in Florida, driveway mechanics... Oh hell yes.  (nod)  Goes in tomorrow morning.  (cheer)

FINALLY found the RoadBounce app had installed itself on a tablet I had, not my phone.  (WH)  Used it to get a baseline this morning....what a dud. The free version only tells you percentage of good/bad road. Worthless for a baseline measurement.  Once again, back to the 'Butt Dyno'. Oh well, I tried. I have an Android phone, and dont see any other similar apps.

Little excited to see how the handling changes with the 2" lower ride height and 15% lower spring rate.  It is nice knowing that for $300 I can go back to stock if it does not pan out. I have a feeling that I will be happy.

Will try to get before and after pics in the same spot to show the difference. 
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Volkemon

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Re: Replacing Front Coil Springs With Lesser-Rated Ones On Our 2007 E350
« Reply #50 on: September 12, 2019, 03:43:34 pm »
UPDATE!


Ow. But somewhat expected... the camper had the 'special' bushings in it to make it align with the front end so high up. I was aware of that, but hoping the 2" reduction would still be in the range. Nope.  Not to be done 'right'. They offered to leave it, and advised the camber would be a bit off.

Now that it is stock height, it needs stock bushings.   That take ~1.25 hrs per side. (I checked the flat rate) so NEW bill is $650 + tax.  And not done till tomorrow.

So Ron... maybe have stock bushings ready if you do achieve a bigger drop than 1". OR watch them align it, and be SURE the camber is correct.

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Ron Dittmer

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Re: Replacing Front Coil Springs With Lesser-Rated Ones On Our 2007 E350
« Reply #51 on: September 12, 2019, 11:35:30 pm »
So Ron... maybe have stock bushings ready if you do achieve a bigger drop than 1". OR watch them align it, and be SURE the camber is correct.
Thanks for the warning.  I did wonder about that.  After my spring-rate change, if the front lowers as I hope, I will consider replacing my offset bushings with new "original" centered bushings myself.  If a shop does it, I too should be able to.....new territory for me for sure.
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Re: Replacing Front Coil Springs With Lesser-Rated Ones On Our 2007 E350
« Reply #52 on: September 13, 2019, 09:59:24 am »
WOW.

I am driving a different vehicle now. No more 'floating' feeling over bumps.  SO glad I opted for the 15% rate reduction, the weight transfer lowering it did firm up the front ride a bit over what it was before. Sorta hard to tell if it is firmer, or just feels that way because the 'floatyness' is gone.

Steering is much more precise with the geometry up front back to stock height, not raised.  The owner of the shop (they do trucks/RV's regularly) was impressed by the overall build, and how tight the whole rig felt on test drive. Also commented on the power, and told me he DID goose it to see how it did once he realized it was a V!0.  (exactly)  He personally overlooked the job, as he was VERY embarrassed about the price doubling. Our company does ~15K a year with them on our equipment, and I am sure he wanted to make things right. He told me my camper rides and handles better than his 2018 F250 quad cab 2WD.  (cheer)  (cheer)  (cheer)

Pics when I get home. I am pleased at the result for $1000. 
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Re: Replacing Front Coil Springs With Lesser-Rated Ones On Our 2007 E350
« Reply #53 on: September 17, 2019, 11:36:22 am »
OK, sorry for no pics yet. Had 2 gigs this weekend and sick on top of that.

But I had to update. I honestly feel like I am driving another rig.  ~300 miles this weekend,  (2) 150 mile round trips, on US1,  Practically due south going, due north for return.  20 MPH constant wind from the  East and Northeast from hurricane Humberto offshore. Gusts to ~30.

FULL gas tank, ~20 gal in fresh, gray/black empty, probably 400 (?) pounds of audio and video gear inside.  Guessing.... never weighed my recording gear...  (WH)

BEFORE, this would have a constant need for attention at the wheel, steering against the wind. Very tiring, as the front would be somewhat indecisive in its direction. Definitely 'two hands on wheel' driving.  I used the term 'floaty' before, the wheel would have a spot in the middle that you could move back and forth that wouldn't really affect direction, then it would take effect.  I am pretty sure that was the steering gear geometry being wrong from being up so high.  It had a fresh alignment and tires when I got it, but no spec sheet to see what the actual alignment values were.

I liken the previous steering 'feel' to be very similar to riding in one of the Ford 4X4 trucks with a lift, but without the dropped pitman arm / modified drag link.  When you raise the front suspension, it takes the drag link from horizontal to angled.  This causes 'bump steer', where the truck steers itself as it goes through the dip.  I found the camper had similar, so it was second nature to adapt to it. (I have a bit of time in 4X4 trucks...  (nod)  Most, if not about all with lift kits.  )   

The stock setup was within factory specs, but I think maybe right on the edge. One loaded, and back squatted a bit more, it was probably off.  Most RV drivers probably chalk it up to 'RV Handling'  and threw a bunch of other parts at it to address the symptoms. 

AFTER:
Now that the drag link and tie rod are much closer to parallel, and the front lowered down to the stock ride height, things are MUCH more stable.  Night and Day level of 'more stable'.   Friday was a 22+ hr day for me,  up at 02:30 fri and driving home at 00:30 sat.  Before, with the crosswind and fatigue, I would be drained by the drive home. Now, it is similar to driving my little Nissan Frontier!  One (1) finger at the top of the wheel, goes where I want it, and bumps/dips require no correction. I gave the promoter a ride for the last ~20 miles, and he was VERY impressed by the power and handling of the RV.

I was on the path to get the oversize front bar and rear sway bar and rear track bar... but it is SO much better now  US1 in takes a couple hard turns, and I pushed the cornering as far as I trusted the load inside not to go flying. I was still cornering harder than most would consider reasonable for a RV, and it was VERY comfortable. Tires didnt even start to talk back.  If the opportunity is presented, I may have to try some 'G Force' testing. In a camper.  roflol

Not sure why, but I swear that the rear ride is softer now also. With no data to back it up, I am hesitant to mention it.  Not even sure why it would be, so maybe its just the incredibly nice ride and handling up front has me smiling at everything.   heartshower

Cant wait to try the trailer behind. May have to put the ball down a bit, it needed a 2" rise before ride level.

If anyone is near exit 176 off of I-95 in Florida, I will gladly give you a ride, and/or let you drive.  I sincerely regret I do not have hard 'Before and After' ride quality data to back up the results I feel.  I have absolutely NO regrets that I did this, and would recommend it to anyone with a 2350 on the same Ford chassis.
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Volkemon

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Re: Replacing Front Coil Springs With Lesser-Rated Ones On Our 2007 E350
« Reply #54 on: October 17, 2019, 06:56:09 am »
Well hey... another month gone by!

Towed the trailer to SOSMP,  about 300 miles each way.

Going up, pouring rain and gusty winds. Other traffic limited us to ~70 mph, but handling was a DREAM. Even with the trailer, full fuel, 20 gal in the fresh tank and Mrs V loading up the inside it STILL feels softer in back. And the steering/handling is car like. Pleasure to drive. Mrs V and the Grandson were in the back bed for most of the trip, she said the ride had less bumps/sway - last time they were having trouble coloring.  (nod)  This time it was a breeze. Same road, same load, worse weather than last trip. New front springs the only difference. Guess thats as close as I get to 'scientific data' on this project.  roflol

Used the 2" drop receiver insert -  the ball is 'in line' with the tube. The trailer wasnt level, the rear was a bit low.

There is a 3 1/2 I will try next.   I would like the trailer tongue a bit lower to unload the rear tires on the trailer. Should also tranfer a bit more weight to the camper. The 'arse' end of my camper now stays up when loaded.  I am NOT complaining!  2o2

I have yet to take a pic with the trailer. Sorry.  >( Try to get my act together and post some one of these months. 
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Re: Replacing Front Coil Springs With Lesser-Rated Ones On Our 2007 E350
« Reply #55 on: March 04, 2020, 02:34:44 pm »
Warning: this topic has not been posted in for at least 120 days.
Unless you're sure you want to reply, please consider starting a new topic.

 roflol  OK then!


I found the original paper I put the fender height measurements on before I did the springs.  2o2 Thought it was long lost.

 The coach still does sit 'off level' side-to-side on the drivers side by about 1/2 inch in front and back. It did before replacing the springs also, I attriubute it to the genset, LP tank, fridge and the slide all being on that side. If/when I ever get the ambition, a 1" spacer block may go under the rear leaf on the left side to (hopefully) correct it.

The front fender lip did go down a little over 2" on both sides (2 1/4 maybe........), and the rear is 1 inch higher. Same road, same load as when I measured. I thought the rear had raised up, and indeed it did.

Still very happy with the ride and handling since doing this swap. I make sure I drive it into work twice a month for exercise, and its still easy to transition to from driving the Golf wagon or Frontier pickup.   

We have a couple festivals coming in April and May, the April one will be a 'max load' trip. I have yet to get the 3 1/2 drop hitch, plan to do so before April. Be interesting to see if it lowers the back any more with the bit of extra tongue weight transfer.

Pictures.... someday.  :lol  I never seem to remember to take pics when I have the trailer on. I might be using it to haul a bunch of bamboo plants for the house, will see if I can manage to remember then to get a loaded and unloaded pic.  (WH)

Hope you get yours on after you get out of 'deep freeze' up there Ron!  Still interested to see how it ends up. Get 'before' measurements!
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Re: Replacing Front Coil Springs With Lesser-Rated Ones On Our 2007 E350
« Reply #56 on: June 19, 2020, 08:19:21 pm »
Ron, have you installed the new front Moog springs? How do they perform? I have a 2005 model 2100 and would love to reduce the harsh front end ride. Thanks for all the research and great help you have given this forum.

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Re: Replacing Front Coil Springs With Lesser-Rated Ones On Our 2007 E350
« Reply #57 on: June 20, 2020, 08:29:20 am »
RV Quest,

I have not yet done the spring swap.  My to-do list around the house is so big, it is preventing me from getting it done.  But I still plan to do it this season before our next big trip.

I imagine model 2100 would benefit most from this, assuming there are no hidden issues from doing so.
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Re: Replacing Front Coil Springs With Lesser-Rated Ones On Our 2007 E350
« Reply #58 on: September 18, 2020, 10:22:10 pm »
FIRST loaded road trip with the springs. To Salt springs FL  coming home at the rest stop.  Weight distribution hitch NOT on.  ;)


There is a 900 pound trike in that trailer, and gear. Loading up.


40 foot OAL rig in a 25 foot slot.  Thank YOU CalCruiser for turning me on to those leveling blocks.  2o2

We could AC the outside tent using the RV unit. Awesome.



""Glamour"" shot with her butt in the air on the west lawn.  heartshower   What a fine looking rig.




I feel I got a great value for my front spring replacement.  Drives like a big car.   FLORIDA owned and drivin...  YMMV   (exactly)
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Ron Dittmer

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Re: Replacing Front Coil Springs With Lesser-Rated Ones On Our 2007 E350
« Reply #59 on: September 18, 2020, 10:55:02 pm »
Good for you Volkemon!  We got very similar front spring results though each with our own method in getting there.  I still have to buy new tires and then run over to the alignment shop, but am not in a hurry due to COVID-19 messing with travel plans.  Our tail sits a bit higher though not as high as yours.  The quality of our ride is surely improved.

I had started a fresh thread last month covering my front spring swap project with before and after measurements and pictures.
CLICK HERE TO GET THERE.
Ron (& Irene) Dittmer