Recommendations to Reduce Sway and Bounce on 1999 Bounder 28T Ford F-53 Motorhome

Question:

I have a 1999 Bounder 28T on the Ford F53 V-10 chassis. The suspension takes a terrible pounding and ovals the rear sway bar bushings every 5,000 mi. causing uncontrollable swaying.There is only about 3 inches of clearance between the rear axle and the rubber snubbers. The frame is inside the springs so I dont see a way to add the helper springs. I would like to reduce the pounding and the swaying. Stock sway bars are 13/8 rear and 1.5 front. The front bushings last ok. I put in Bilstein shocks 5 years ago and they are not leaking. Suggestions?

asked by: David

Helpful Expert Reply:

To greatly reduce the bounce and sway you're experiencing with your 1999 Bounder 28T RV I highly recommend a combination of front and rear sway bars along with a steering stabilizer.

For the Ford F-53 chassis on your RV that has an 18,000 pound GVWR the Roadmaster Rear Anti-Sway Bar # RM-1139-143 will work perfectly. This 1-1/2" diameter sway bar will actually work in support of the factory bar (the factory unit will not be removed) to provide much better stability on the road. It will mount to the rear axle and to the frame using the included hardware.

For the front sway bar you will need the Roadmaster # RM-1139-148, which will replace the factory sway bar but features a larger 1-3/4" diameter for better performance.

Lastly I recommend the Roadmaster Reflex Steering Stabilizer # RM-RBK22-RSSA, which will mount between the steering mechanism and chassis to create a tight connection to minimize any wander and quickly correct any oversteering.

These components will all work together to create a much more enjoyable ride in your RV, letting you enjoy both the destination and the journey.