As I'm sure David and Larry have, I've driven the Columbia Gorge dozens of times, and in various vehicles. The wind is a huge factor there. The scenarios vary, from a constant following wind for hundreds of miles to ditto a headwind, to dead calm into sudden side gusts barreling down headlands next to the freeway. It is a good testing ground for vehicle stability. Towing my 8000+lb. boat was worst, being relatively more vulnerable to wind, but the old Pace Arrow was often no picnic. The Beaver however seems quite the opposite to the Pace; I often have a heck of a time feeling the effect of wind, and briefly blame side shift of the rig on some unknown mechanical fault, at least until I verify wind effect on roadside flora.
The combination of weight and a phenomenal compensational air suspension probably leads to my being so briefly deceived. The Pace was like a cracker box going down the road, and reacted to wind easily, whereas the Beaver is like "what wind?" Plus if the blow is from a shallow angle as opposed to 90 degrees, its effect on the coach body-to-chassis is even less perceptible. Though not felt in your seat or wheel, it may still force the front end to guide one way or the other.
Usually occupying the copilot seat gives my wife the unique opportunity to fully experience the terror of my drifting to the right. Unlike Glenda, she usually reacts vocally at least to some degree. It used to be, "are you falling asleep? Do you want me to drive?" Since getting the Beaver it is, "is there a wind?" followed by us both trying to discern moving treetops or brush or grass roadside.
I guess my point is that if you've had tires and alignment checked, Jerry, don't be too quick to rule out wind, especially if symptoms only happen occasionally. If that doesn't seem feasible, then take Ed's advice and have the coach checked by experts like Henderson's in southern Oregon, or other facility capable and reputable.
Joel
