BAC Forum

General Boards => Technical Support => Topic started by: Paul Champagne on August 03, 2010, 04:40:17 PM

Title: Aging Shocks
Post by: Paul Champagne on August 03, 2010, 04:40:17 PM

Hello everyone we have a 2000 Thunder with 105000 miles and I noticed that the ride when the coach is empty no water and low on fuel the ride is really spongy lots of bumping around.

I believe that the coach has Bilstein shocks but before I look into replacing all 8 shocks has anyone else run into this problem with their coach?

Im sure the shocks are getting tired..... Any feedback would be appreciated

Thanks

Paul

Title: Re: Aging Shocks
Post by: George H. Wall on August 03, 2010, 05:34:57 PM

Factory installed shocks usually last 30-40,000 miles, replace them with KONI shocks. It will be the best investment yoy'll ever make, like a new coach, both ride and handling!! H. Wall

Title: Re: Aging Shocks
Post by: Paul Champagne on August 03, 2010, 05:38:24 PM

Thanks for the tip will do any idea of the Koni part number?

Title: Re: Aging Shocks
Post by: Karl Welhart on August 03, 2010, 07:23:44 PM

I would call Koni direct in Hebron Ky at 800.922.2616, option #6 and talk to Paul McLaughlin.  He can tell you the part number for your specific application.  Then order direct online....  Pay someone that can handle that kind of job to put them on.

Title: Re: Aging Shocks
Post by: Joel Ashley on August 03, 2010, 11:35:21 PM

105,000 is a lot of miles.  From what others have posted in other threads about the topic, Koni FSD shocks are likely a good choice.  If it is feasible for you to get there, Henderson's Line-up Shop in Medford, Oregon, would give you unbeatable service - chassis ride and handling is their expertise, and they have state-of-the-art equipment to back them up.  As a bonus reason to go there, Henderson's is a sponsor of the BAC, as well, and deserves our support.  As Karl said, call Koni direct, or call Henderson's if you can get your coach to them.  They will quote you the correct shock and price.  ;)

Link through the BAC site here, http://www.beaveramb.org/, and click on the Henderson's logo on the right.
-Joel

Title: Re: Aging Shocks
Post by: Paul Champagne on August 04, 2010, 01:26:00 AM

Hi Joel

Thanks for the tip I have called them and Koni it will be.  I am curious to see the difference in my ride when it's done.

Thanks for the support

Paul & Maggie Champagne

Title: Re: Aging Shocks
Post by: Larry Fritz on August 18, 2010, 03:56:12 AM

We have a 37' Patriot, 98:  Replaced the original Biltstein shocks with Koni at Henderson's in Grants Pass, OR over a year ago at 55K miles.

Can't tell a stitch of difference in any apects of the ride.  For us it was a total waste of money; but, most people who have converted really love the Koni's.  I think every coach is different.  Have traveled over 15K miles now and many states with Koni shocks.

Henderson's are great people and we really liked their service and shop.