Improving Rear Suspension Ride Quality On A 2005 Coachmen Freelander Class C Motorhome

Published 01/27/2022

Products Featured in This Question

SumoSprings Solo Custom Helper Springs - Rear Axle

(2503)

$300.99

Timbren Rear Suspension Enhancement System

(7146)

$398.07

Question:

I have a 2005 Chevy express 3500 cutaway class C coachman free lander 2330 RK. The ride in the back can be pretty rough at times. At highway speed’s it can be pretty uncomfortable for folks riding in the back. When going over an uneven highway grid it will rattle back and makes a lot of racket especially my back door. I’m looking at timbren or sumo shocks. Any other thoughts as to what might make my ride more comfortable?

asked by: Brad C

Expert Reply:

If your Coachmen Freelander 2330 RK Class C Motorhome with a Chevy Express 3500 cab and chassis has 4WD then I recommend the Timbren Rear Suspension Enhancement System # TGMRG35. Timbrens are known for causing a stiffer ride when the vehicle is unloaded but you can mitigate the stiffness by decreasing the spacers used during installation to allow for a larger gap between the Timbren and the axle.

Another thing to consider is the weight capacity of the Timbren's; this option is 3,600lbs while the other compatible option is 14,000lbs. The higher the capacity the stiffer the Timbren is going to be so going with a weight capacity that's comparable to the weight being placed on the rear axle is going to give you the smoothest ride.

If your motorhome has 2WD then I recommend the SumoSprings Solo Custom Helper Springs # SSR-206-54. These springs have a softer starting engagement that will increase to match the weight of the load and provide a smoother ride. They have a 2,800lb capacity and are much less stiff when compared to the Timbren alternative.

I've installed both of these products before and and ran through some test courses and while the Timbren's are the better choice for real heavy duty or off-road applications, I do prefer the the SumoSprings for your specific application. Both of these products have a simple bolt on installation that will replace the factory bump stop already on your frame. In my experience it took longer to get the vehicle lifted and locked into place than it did to actually complete the install.

expert reply by: Kevin C