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Red Shocks

Yahoo Message Number: 61982
I have bottomed out a couple of times so I have been interested in the front shock adjustment topic. I crawled under my 05 Allure this morning, but I am not finding any way to adjust them. Maybe I don't get how to do it or they are just not adjustable. There are no indents or cogs like I would have expected either top or bottom. All I know for sure is that they are red?
And if they are not adjustable, what are the best shocks to order to help reduce this bottoming problem? I would have lost my dentures on the last one if I had them.

Re: Red Shocks

Reply #2 –
Yahoo Message Number: 61990

1. Go the files section and download the document that explains how to adjust the Koni shock absorbers (which are usually red). They can be done by disconnecting the bottom eye of the shock, compress and turn. You will feel a clicking - this is the shock changing valving. That's how it is done but I strongly suggest reading directions. The directions describe doing it on a workbench which is easier than lying on your back under the coach but it can be done that way.

2. Bottoming out is more likely a front end ride height adjustment problem. If the firmest shock setting does not stop the problem (it does not for most who have had this) raise the front ride height 1/4-1/2 inch at a time until you like the control. Many owners have been talked into expensive replacement shocks by parts sales people which don't solve the problem of air bags with too low an air pressure. I believe the standard ride height is about 17 1/2" (there is a document for this as well), we, and several other owners here, find 1/2 - 1 inch solved the problem. A front end alignment should not be necessary but watch tire wear which you should do anyway.

If you search the messages area all this can be found having been discussed at great length. Raising the ride height works and costs nothing if you DIY. The front ride height valve is usually located in the center of the front antisway bar - one valve controls both sides. Loosening the "U" bolt (CAREFULLY AND SLOWLY) allows rotation and ride height change.
If your valve isn't there look in your user manual and around the front suspension - it isn't hidden. Any truck or DP service shop can also handle this.

Bob (rthandren@...)
'05 Inspire 51178

Re: Red Shocks

Reply #3 –
Yahoo Message Number: 61992
Bob, that is an answer and a half. Thank you for taking the time to provide such a clear response. I'm on it.

Stuart

Re: Red Shocks

Reply #4 –
Yahoo Message Number: 61993

OK Stuart - I forgot to state the 17 1/2 inches is measured shock eye center to shock eye center. Yours may differ - the bottom line is raise it in small steps from where it is until it stops bottoming out - won't take a lot.

Good luck.

Bob (rthandren@...)
'05 Inspire 51178

Re: Red Shocks

Reply #5 –
Yahoo Message Number: 61994
I just checked the OM and my spec is 7.5" from the center of the wheel spindle to the bottom of the main frame tube. I can't picture that tube right now, but hopefully it will be obvious when I get under there tomorrow morning.

Stuart, 05 Allure, 31217

Re: Red Shocks

Reply #6 –
Yahoo Message Number: 61998

Holland-Neway measured as you state, CC used shock length. Go figger.

Bob (rthandren@...)
'05 Inspire 51178

Re: Red Shocks

Reply #7 –
Yahoo Message Number: 62000
Hopefully they will be one in the same. Shock length is easier to measure. Stuart

Re: Red Shocks - Update

Reply #8 –
Yahoo Message Number: 62006
I just finished the Koni shock and ride height adjustments. The shocks were a breeze. Unbolted the bottoms only with a 1 1/8" wrench and socket and found them both set to ½ turn above minimum. Set them an additional 1 full turn, leaving ½ turn for the future.
Note: These shocks are valved to only resist upward movement, not downward. That is significant contributor to the bottoming out problem as they only assist the upward recovery from a nose dive. Dual action shocks would probably be a lot more effective in preventing face plants.
The ride height was 1" low from the 7 ½" spec between the wheel spindle center and the bottom of the frame tubes. One the other hand, the shock bolt centers were 17 ¾", ¼" more than Robert mentioned above, so there must be some differences between the models. I went ahead and raised the front 1 ¼" , making it 5/8" higher than the rear, which I did not bother to correct.
I have to say, in case some are intimidated by making this adjustment, that it was easier than checking the oil. A 9/16" socket and a small mallet to gently adjust the control arm, and a tape measure to measure the frame height change off the ground is all that is needed. We leave for our Colorado trip a week from Thursday so I will have 2000 miles to see what difference these adjustments made.

Re: Red Shocks - Update

Reply #10 –
Yahoo Message Number: 62010
Sounds like your ready to go now!! Look forward to your update after the trip.
We have our front Koni's at setting 4 now, and road height set at upper end of the range. Much better then our first few hundred miles of driving. Only one time did we very lightly 'bump' (my thoughts was this was on me, as I did not see the dip in time to slow down as much as I should have). The '4' setting did help the 'feel' of the control, but still not where I want it. Working a few changes now, and when on and checked out, I'll post my perceptions.

Have fun, be safe,
Smitty

04 40' Allure 31017
04 Allure Sold to a nice new owner! Now enjoying a 07 Magna Rembrandt 45' ISX600 #6775
"We're ONDROAD for THEJRNY!" (Toad and Coach license plates, say Hi if you see us!)