Replacement shocks

[rdm]

We have to replace the front and rear shocks on our coach.
Has anyone have experience with Bilstein or Munroe's new RV shock. Also what type of shock is used between the rear duals and the single rear axle in a tandem axle.
Many thanks
Ray

[PeterH-350LE]

Ray,
I have used both the bilstein and the monroe's.
If you don't mind spending the extra money, the bilsteins are excellent shocks (and harder to install)
Sorry, no help with the tag axle shock.

[winner]

Peter -- are these the shocks I should get for Big Girl and if so where are they available and do I order by specifiying what chassis? P37? (that is in my VIN)

[ALANSD]

Dr Joe-you get shocks for a P-30 chassis- the Monroe's ran me 62 a piece for the rear, plus installation. Camping World had the Bilsteins for a bit more, but their installation is only 10 dollars a shock. I paid 75 or the 2 to be installed here in Atlanta.(no CW anywhere near here)
I am going to get the front done- maybe do them myself if I can get to the bolts without killing myself. Our MH rode so much better with the shocks, and the proper air in the bags (thanks PH).
Also check your steering damper a shock that controls that kick back you can get on the steering when you hit a bump.

[PeterH-350LE]

Always consult your owners manual for proper replacement parts.

Bilsteins are on sale right now at campingworld.
http://www.campingworld.com/browse/s...m?skunum=18375

[rdm]

Thanks Peter,
Whats your opinion on steering dampers I have been told the oem shock works the best. The Bilstein has been considered to stiff for the P30 chassis.
Thanks for your reply
Ray

[winner]

OK Peter - will check on correct shocks with GM Motors for my chassis. With regard to the steering damper - I had to replace (with new) the entire power steering/brake cylinder module and while I don;t know if that included the "damper" all I know is that now I have perfect steering at all times and brakes are fine too (albeit Peter has indicated that I should have my rear brakes repaded and possibly ground smooth

[PeterH-350LE]

Ray,
I am using the OEM's. Steering dampers take all the beating, its worth checking them often.
I had a new one leak after 2 weeks.

[ALANSD]

Has anyone replaced their front shocks on their own? Is it necessary to lift the vehicle to decompress the shocks to replace as on a car? (If so i won't be doing it) If not how tough was it top get the new shocks on? I would like to replace my fronts, and save the 80 buck mounting charge if I can do so with no major difficulty.

[PeterH-350LE]

Alan, you can do it. No need to lift the vehicle.
I used an air wrench and it took less than hour for both. Mount the top first, leaving the tie strap on. Cut the strap and wedge a big screwdriver in place (at the bottom bracket) to keep them from expanding all the way. If they should expand all the way, the monroes are fairly easy to push back up, the Bilsteins a bit harder.

[gspilker]

first of all this is my first response. i have used bilstien shocks on my 325 with good results. i have also used belstien steering damper with good results. i think that airstream classic motorhomes area unique investment. i have 6yrs experence and have been well satisifed.

[ViewRVs]

It is long overdue to have a 325'er among us! Welcome! We have lots of models represented but the 325's are not too common. We did not have a 325 at our motorhome rally. I think we should require you to attend the next rally!

[ALANSD]

Yes welcome to our new member. Now if we can get a 310 (Paul?)
to come next time we will have a good representation of models.
Also someone with the rare 24 foot Airstream would be a good addition.

[LKappenman]

We would love to come but Washington State is a bit far. Maybe after retirement. Or why not have one in the middle. Anyone going to Rapid City in June/July for the big one?

[ALANSD]

we are checking on the possibility of Oklahoma, Arkansas, etc. as a future destination, don't know when...but it is in the info gathering stages. Especially if we can generate enough real interest.

[rdm]

Fred
You Mentioned that the 325 was not produced that often. Do you happen to know the year they were first made and the last year made.
We own a 1985 325 and are the 3rd owners. First owner was car dealership owner that only used the coach 2500 miles a year for the first 14 years. The second owner owned it 14 months and put on 5000 miles travelling the US and Canada. We bought the unit in August 2001 and have been on 2 trips.
We look forward to the next rally date and hope we can attend I operate a farm supply business in Ontario and we were to busy to get away for the first rally.
Thanks
Ray

[ViewRVs]

It looks like the 325 and it's sister the 345 were made from 1984 to 1990. I have pictures for 85, 87, and 88 at my motorhome archives. The 'Classic' line started in 1991 with the 250, 300, and 350. I did pull the model listing from nadaguides.com. I will add it to my site at some point.