Suspension Enhancement Options For 2021 Entegra Esteem 29V on Ford E-450 Chassis

Question:

I have a 2021 Entegra Esteem 29V. It comes with what they call an upgraded rear sway bay. I am experiencing body roll, not excessive but more than I like. It is really evident upon going over uneven highway such as temporary lane change or exiting say a gas station onto the roadway. I have considered Sumo springs, track bars, etc. But my research seems to show that a sway bar is most effective to help this situation. Thinking perhaps the factory rear sway could be improved with the Roadmaster 1-3/4” bar. I have already installed the Roadmaster front sway bar and the Roadmaster steering stabilizer. I have had the front aligned with maybe 5 degree caster. All of this helped tremendously but always looking for further improvement still think I have excessive roll. What are your thoughts and recommendations for this issue? Would perhaps a track bar help in lieu of or in addition to the Roadmaster sway? The Entegra as you probably know is on the E-450 chassis. Your response will be appreciated. Thanks

asked by: Bob C

Expert Reply:

First, I truly appreciate your thoughtful question and all the information you provided; that is really helpful to try and get you the best solution. So let's get into the sway bars, and your research was on point, they are absolutely the best way, overall, to help with body roll and sway.

But for your 2021 Entegra Esteem 29V on a Ford E-450 chassis, whether or not that is going to be an improvement depends on the diameter of your current rear anti-sway bar. I searched extensively and just could not find the diameter of the upgraded anti-sway bar on your coach. I did check with Roadmaster, and for the E-450, the correct rear anti-sway bar, which will replace your current bar, is 1-1/2 inches in diameter:

- Roadmaster Rear Anti-Sway Bar # RM-1139-147

If your current anti-sway bar is anything less than the 1-1/2" diameter # RM-1139-147, then this replacement will absolutely be an upgrade, because even a slightly larger diameter, as little as 1/8" can make significant improvement to the handling of your rig due to the added stiffness of the bar. So if it is larger, then I highly recommend going this route.

That said, it is possible it may be the same size, and if that's the case then it just wouldn't be worth the added investment as you wouldn't see a noticeable improvement. The SumoSprings would be the next best option and would help with your Entegra's body roll:

- Rear: SumoSprings Maxim Custom Helper Springs - Rear Axle # SSR-106-47-1

- Front: SumoSprings Solo Custom Helper Springs # SSF-106-47

They will compress when the weight of your Entegra shifts and provide the added stabilization for the excessive body roll you have. The only thing to note is you need to ensure you have at least 7 inches of clearance from the inner sidewall of your tire to the frame for them to fit.