Towing Suspension

Submitted: Sunday, Nov 12, 2006 at 15:20

ThreadID: 39363 Views:2296 Replies:4 FollowUps:3

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Member - Steven H (ACT)

I am trying to work out what's best set-up for towing my new Goldstream. I am using the Ford weight distribution system although it has some limitations when compared to Hayman Reese set-up. When towing behind the 80 series l haven't been so worried about it as the suspension is much more suitable. Having said that l have recently discovered when going off road just how much weight has come off the front end of the 80 series and indeed the difference it makes re front traction. Given the fact that its off road l don't believe WD system is appropriate and therefore l need to consider other options. I have Old Man Emu suspension and its already a pretty stiff set up so my question is what other aids should l consider to regain some weight over front wheels, Poly Air?

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Reply By: Brian B (QLD) - Sunday, Nov 12, 2006 at 16:45

Sunday, Nov 12, 2006 at 16:45

Steven,

What model Goldstream do you have and is it an off road model?

Just interested as we are selling our camper trailer shortly and will probably end up with either a Goldstream or Jayco camper in their ofroad models. I don't want to hijack your thread so could you message me or send me an email?

Thanks

AnswerID: 204440

Reply By: Member - Ross (NSW) - Sunday, Nov 12, 2006 at 16:54

Sunday, Nov 12, 2006 at 16:54

Steven H,

It is my understanding that a WDS is only required to be used if excessive weight is on the rear of the car. Ways to alleviate this would be to ensure you have your van load evenly distributed and have upgraded suspension. My van has a tare weight of 1535 kgs and the Patrol has OME heavy duty shocks and springs and I dont require the use of poly bags. I suppose you could consider using poly air bags if you still have a problem.!MPG:16!

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Follow Up By: Member - Steven H (ACT) - Sunday, Nov 12, 2006 at 18:47

Sunday, Nov 12, 2006 at 18:47

Thanks Ross for your feedback. I've tried to ensure the van is loaded properly although I think its more to do with the vehicle as it has long range fuel tank, split rim on the rear hitch/step etc. which when added to the fridge and cargo in the rear means l probably have 400 or Kgs sitting behind rear axle already. When l add the weight of the camper onto the hitch it probably goes up another 120Kgs. It would be my preference not to use anything but I'm not so sure about front traction going up hill off road.

FollowupID: 464225

Reply By: Member - Doug T (W.A) - Sunday, Nov 12, 2006 at 20:11

Sunday, Nov 12, 2006 at 20:11

Steven
If you got the right OME setup you should not need anything else,what is the towing vehicle ??? , I sit my 20ft Evernew on my Troopcarrier with OME and it might drop 35 mm ,it tows good,no sway.

Doug

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Follow Up By: Member - Steven H (ACT) - Sunday, Nov 12, 2006 at 20:20

Sunday, Nov 12, 2006 at 20:20

Hi Doug its an 80 series with OME 850 & 863 coils, as mentioned above it tows fine on the road but I have noticed the traction on the front is less sure footed than normal on uphill stretches of off road tracks perhaps my expectations are more than the vehicle can deliver when saddled up with the camper.

FollowupID: 464247

Reply By: Member - Brian (WA) - Sunday, Nov 12, 2006 at 22:32

Sunday, Nov 12, 2006 at 22:32

Hi Steven. When I got my goldstream I had Firestone air-bags fitted.Should have
had them on when I had the other camper.As I always had a lot of weight on the
a-frame, 2 spares 4 jerry cans.I did try to even it out when I loaded it but it still
sat down. cheers Brian

AnswerID: 204542