Sway control problem on my Forester Class C

[Sealeburg]

I'm new to RVing and purchased a 2006 Forester Class C model 2861 DSF. We tow a 2006 Honda CR-V. Used it three times, just took a trip from Charlottesville VA to Philadelphia... 7 hours at 55mph, all kinds of roads (2 lane, 4 lane, turnpike, etc.) My problem is steering control - at almost any speed over 35. Lots of sway and push from wind, semis, road bed shift. I found I was constantly moving the steering wheel to stay in my lane and often times drifted over. Really trying not to oversteer to get back. Funny, it didn't happen with all semis when they passed. This also occurs without the toad. On this trip, the MH was not loaded as it was a short trip but a white-knuckle ride.

Any suggestions on ways to improve the sway problem? Tire pressure and alignment are OK.

Thanks,
Bob

[gate33]

hi bob,
i know what you are talking about, i rented a class c before and had simmilar problems . i talked to the owner of a class c at the campground i was at and he admmitted that class c motorhomes are not the most driver freindly units . he felt that the chasis or frames aren't that great for the weight they must carry, he said that he too gets a lot of roll on turns and in wind.he also informed me that this gets worse as the unit gets older and your shocks and other suspension parts begin to wear. now i dont know how true this is but it made sense to me at the time. i wish i could be more helpfull, maybe someone can give you advice on how to help with your problem. good luck

[casinogoer]

I have an 06 Forester 2941 dsf, and it also occasionally bobs and weaves. got a good steering damper, and I keep the tire pressure right, should be ok, My other class C had no steering damper, What a difference! Happy miles!

[ishoot]

Originally Posted by Sealeburg

I'm new to RVing and purchased a 2006 Forester Class C model 2861 DSF. We tow a 2006 Honda CR-V. Used it three times, just took a trip from Charlottesville VA to Philadelphia... 7 hours at 55mph, all kinds of roads (2 lane, 4 lane, turnpike, etc.) My problem is steering control - at almost any speed over 35. Lots of sway and push from wind, semis, road bed shift. I found I was constantly moving the steering wheel to stay in my lane and often times drifted over. Really trying not to oversteer to get back. Funny, it didn't happen with all semis when they passed. This also occurs without the toad. On this trip, the MH was not loaded as it was a short trip but a white-knuckle ride.

Any suggestions on ways to improve the sway problem? Tire pressure and alignment are OK.

Thanks,
Bob

Hi Bob;

I have a Forester 3161S and do not have that problem. I did have adjustable air bag suspension put in, but that was just to save the existing suspension. They are great, but I doubt they would help a sway problem much.

If your tires are properly inflated, you may want to think about having a steering damper installed.

Dan