Shock absorbers

JerryJ · 09-10-2018, 08:45 AM

We have a 2018 Eagle HT 306RKDS. With the rear kitchen, the pantry is on the rear wall of the trailer. Though we travel almost exclusively on interstate, US, and state highways, the plastic shelf supports in the pantry have twice failed and a shelf collapsed. We have replaced them with metal, but I am wondering if adding shock absorbers will reduce the bounce and avoid further problems. Has anyone had success with adding shocks to their rig?

Greencanoe · 09-12-2018, 09:35 AM

I have the same trailer and looked at adding shocks, was told it would offer minimal help. I don't have the issue as a severe as what you have but the kitchen does bounce.

We are using fridge bars in the fridge to stop movement there.

SOMBATFAMILY · 09-12-2018, 10:29 AM

I have 28 BHBE and have added wet bolts and shocks. My wife leave coffee maker on counter by the sink and sometimes we leave dish tray full of dishes and they haven’t fallen on the floor. Before adding the shocks I would make sure everything was put away and secured.

Seann45 · 09-13-2018, 04:12 PM

It is always a problem with rear kitchens.. Hit a bump and the rear is like on a lever so it is magnified.. I had a rear kitchen once wont do that again...

CampNow · 09-14-2018, 10:19 AM

No problems with our rear kitchen 306RKDS after many thousands of miles. We've always stored everything (throughout the trailer---including the fridge) inside small storage bins which keep everything properly situated (and reduce stress to the shelf). It's very rare we find anything out of place.

Not sure why your shelving units are breaking--especially since you've replaced them with metal supports. We regularly stock our entire kitchen and pantry shelving units completely full of various utensils, appliances, and heavy canned goods for month-long trips with no issues.

I would think it would be easier and less costly to somehow better reinforce your current shelving units (vs. installing shocks---which may or may not help). Unless the interior support walls (inside your pantry) are failing, I would think there has to be a way to better secure those shelves to the walls.

bdreinv · 09-14-2018, 11:05 AM

Had 06 Toy Box had shocks, now 16 5er no shocks! Can not tell any difference. Thanks

ALJO · 09-14-2018, 11:46 AM

On a ship or on the road, we have to prepare for it.

Dskyward · 09-15-2018, 10:00 PM

Upgrade to the Moryde SRE4000 equalizers. They’ve been getting excellent reviews on 5ers and TT tandem axle trailers. Sometimes less costly. $400.

JerryJ · 09-20-2018, 07:29 PM

Thanks for the thoughts, all. Trailer came stock with CRE3000 equalizers, so I doubt that an extra inch of suspension travel with the 4000s will make much difference. One vendor suggested too-stiff springs; surely Jayco wouldn't mess that up! Still thinking shock absorbers are the most likely to provide improvement.

TakerEasy · 09-20-2018, 09:00 PM

In the past, I've seen the spring bolts and equalizer bolts tightened so tight that nothing wanted to pivot like it should. That causes a really rough ride and is hard on lots of stuff, suspension, frame, and everything else.

Dskyward · 09-21-2018, 10:37 AM

Quote:

Originally Posted by JerryJ

Thanks for the thoughts, all. Trailer came stock with CRE3000 equalizers, so I doubt that an extra inch of suspension travel with the 4000s will make much difference. One vendor suggested too-stiff springs; surely Jayco wouldn't mess that up! Still thinking shock absorbers are the most likely to provide improvement.

I don’t understand how some think shocks don’t help a heavy camper, yet take them out of the vehicles they drive, and you know for sure they will have a change of heart since it’s the one they ride in. Anything you can do to cushion the beating trailers go thru means longevity of components inside the camper. I’m wanting them for my 16.5k 5er as well as the SRE4000s as another North Point owner has added the JoyRider system and then 4000s later and he likes it.

JerryJ · 05-10-2019, 11:17 AM

I bit the bullet and installed shock absorbers and a wet-bolt kit. Some of the factory bronze bushings were worn through after about 6000 miles, and Jayco reimbursed for the wet bolts. Just returned from a 7-week trip to AZ and NM from OH, and one or both of those mods did wonders for the problem. Only one day with issues after a VERY rough dirt parking lot while a companion got fuel. Otherwise everything in the kitchen basically stayed in place. Very pleased with the mods.

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