Roadmaster Ride Enhancement Kit (Source Engineering)

Some suspension components, notably shock absorbers, wear out over time and need to be replaced.  Some coaches can have their ride and handling improved significantly by the installation of upgraded or re-engineered suspension components.

 

The Source Engineering Ride Enhancement Kit for  Roadmaster R4R chassis is a component package that is specifically designed for the intended chassis.  It includes new Bilstein shock absorbers,  new airbags and a ping tank for the front airbags.

 

The installation of these components is straightforward,  but attention to detail makes the difference for a long-lasting troublefree installation.

 

 

Proper Equipment makes work safe Proper Equipment makes work safe

The project begins with a review of the kit installation instructions,  putting the rig up on wheel lifts and placing tall jackstands under the frame.  This allows the suspension system to be loaded or unloaded as needed for the removal and replacment of components.   A general inspection under the rig ensures that there are no surprises before work begins in earnest.

Inspection of components Inspection of components

The kit components are inspected and compared with the existing installation on the rig to ensure that variatons in air-system instllation can be accomodated with components on hand, as well as providing familiarity with the new parts to be installed.

Old Component Removal Old Component Removal

The old components are removed after noting installation details.  Variations from rig to rig may affect the precise layout of air lines to airbags, ride-height valves and dump valves.

Attention to details Attention to details

Attention to details such as using teflon tape on the air fittings is important in ensuring the success of an installation. 

Ping Tank Ping Tank

The ping tank is an important part of the ride enhancement kit.   It increases the overall air-volume of the front suspension airbag system which makes it easier for the airbags to compress quickly when absorbing road shock.  The large diameter air-lines allow the air to flow freely between the two airbags and the ping-tank.  The rebound rate is controlled by the shock absorbers.

Proper torqe is critical Proper torqe is critical

The studs holding the airbag on are embedded in aluminum, and carefull attention to the maximum torque ratings for the fastners is critical.  Here, an electronic torque wrench is used to ensure that applied torques are correct.

Plumbed in Plumbed in

Here, the airline is connected to the airbag.  Note the protective black plastic covering we installed on the airline - another point of attention to detail.

Installing the shocks Installing the shocks

After the airbags are done,  the shock installation is straightforward.

Tightening Shocks Tightening Shocks
Careful checking Careful checking

After installation,  carefull checking for leaks is important to ensure no problems down the line.

Trailing Arm Re-Torque Trailing Arm Re-Torque

Since this rig has recently installed replacement trailing arms, this is a perfect opportunity to re-torque the arms.

 

Conclusion...

The owner reports dramatically improved ride on this coach.  The rig had a tendency to bounce wildly over sharp bumps - shocking open drawers and leading to a white-knuckle driving experience.  Now,  the ride is much smoother and much quieter.  The owner is completely satisfied with the improvement in his coach's handling.