Coach Wanders

[dmroaming]

We purchased a 2004 32' Winnebago Journey because we like to get into smaller places. The coach is on a Freightliner chassis. Realizing it's a relatively short wheelbase, the coach tends to wander going down the road and takes constant attention to keep it where I want it. I don't know how the short wheelbase contributes to that instability. I've read about after market stabilizers and would appreciate feedback about what the root causes might be as well as how well these after market stabilizers work. Additionally, any other suggestions would be much appreciated. Thanks.

Denny

[Mr_D]

Some times the problem is the seat/steering wheel interface. People tend to overcorrect and cause their own problems.
FL support told me to look further ahead and "plant" my elbows on the seat arms, just use your wrists to steer. Might give it a try.

[Go Dawgs]

I would also look at weight distribution. Do you have too much weight centered behind the back wheels. That can cause wonder. It happens all the time when towing if too much weight is causing the front end to raise.

[charles tuit]

I have a 32T that I have driven 177,000 miles. You should not have any problems with handling if loaded correctly and tires are at proper pressure. Weigh each wheel indivually. Adjust your load as best as possible. Then reweigh and adjust tires to the heaviest load on each axel. The only modification I have made to the suspension is Koni shocks on the front. My guess is that you have too much pressure in your tires.

[RCtime]

Denny

My 34 Journey had some wander just as you describe. I bought it used 5 years ago.
I had a 4 wheel laser alignment done on it. They found it had toe out.
What a difference. Now drives straight and true
If you choose to do an alignment take it to an alignment shop that deals RV/trucks etc , fully loaded for travel, fuel, water, etc.
Also a 4 wheel weight check is a good thing also. adjust tire pressure accordingly.
I cant believe the original owners put up with it.

[skigramp]

I agree ... before you add any "hardware"

1. have it aligned
2. weigh each wheel
3. redistribute weight to the front
4. inflate tires according to the inflation table for your tires

Then if you still have steering problems consider adding/changing hardware

[nbounder]

Have you heard of the 'far sighting' technique?? It means you always look far down the road, not directly in front of the coach. I had to hear regularly from DW about how I wander all over the road. I took the free driving class at Lazy Days in Tucson, and - holy crow- the wandering almost disappeared totally. Try it, you'll like it!