Rear Sway Bar and SumoSpring Kit for 2011 Itasca Cambria to Improve Handling
Question:
I own a 2011 Itasca Cambria 31 ft. on a Ford E-450 Super Duty with the Ford V-10 Work Horse engine. 34,000 miles. VIN # 1FDXE4FS7BDA54306. Im the new second owner. The steering is a bit mushie for lack of a better word. I had a very well known RV dealership put on the Road Master Direct Center Steering Stabilizer that I purchased. As soon as I got it out of their shop the steering was way worse than before with a terrific pull to the left while driving. Took it back and they made some adjustment that removed 75 of the mushie driving and centered up the driving by 90. Ive never felt totally comfortable that they really knew how to install that product and dont even feel comfortable taking it back a 3rd time. Im thinking of replacing that product and switch to the appropriate model Bilstein Steering Stabilizer. It has a lot of good youtube clips out there and it reads like I can most likely install that myself. I have reasonable household handyman kinda skills and tools. Which would be the correct model? Also, Im thinking of installing some of those Sumo helper springs while Im under there. Front set for sure...rear set maybe?? Which model do you suggest?
asked by: David H
Expert Reply:
Hey David, actually what is going to make the biggest improvement in handling and stability for your 2011 Itasca is an upgraded rear sway bar with the part # RM-1139-175. I know that's not what you asked about but for motorhomes where most of the weight is out back the rear sway bars make a huge improvement. You won't see much of a difference going to a different steering stabilizer.
This is also true for SumoSprings. A rear set like the part # SSR-118-54 with the rear bar will make a huge improvement.
David
3/28/2024
Good morning Jameson, Thanks for your speedy reply. This is all good news. I previously purchased the upgraded front and rear sway bars (still in the boxes) from you about 4 or 5 months ago....maybe Nov. 2023. Just been swamped at the office. Since I am getting ready to do the work I just wanted to see about the Sumo Springs and get it all installed the same weekend (me and my neighbor's help). I certainly don't want to spend anymore than I have to but I think I will add Both the front and rear Sumo Spring sets at the same time. So, that being said, you just sent me the link for the rear Sumo Springs....please send me the link for the matched set of Front Sumo Springs so I can order them both at the same time and have them on-hand and install them along with the front and rear sway bars all on the same weekend !! Note: I still don't like the feel of the Roadmaster Exact Center Steering Stabilizer when I'm on the road so I want to switch to another product....would you say that the Bilstein Steering Stabilizer 24-174534 is a good substitution or do you recommend another Make/Model? Lastly, can you recommend a couple of youtube video clips for visual installation instructions? Thanks again !! David Hollis
Products Referenced in This Question
Roadmaster Rear Anti-Sway Bar - 1-1/2" Diameter
- Anti-Sway Bars
- Anti-Sway Bar
- Rear
- 1-1/2 Inch Diameter
- Steel w Polyurethane Bushing
- Roadmaster
more information >
SumoSprings Solo Custom Helper Springs - Rear Axle
- Vehicle Suspension
- Rear Axle Suspension Enhancement
- Jounce-Style Springs
- Standard Duty
- SuperSprings Intl
more information >
Product Page this Question was Asked From
SumoSprings Solo Custom Helper Springs - Front Axle
- Vehicle Suspension
- Front Axle Suspension Enhancement
- Jounce-Style Springs
- Standard Duty
- SuperSprings Intl
more information >
Featured Help Information
Instructions
Continue Researching
- Q&A: SumoSpring Kit that Fits 2018 Ford E-450 Motorhome Chassis
- Article: Hitch Adapters and Extenders
- Article: Choosing the Right Suspension Kit for Your Truck and Trailer
- Q&A: Will SumoSprings Lift the Front End of a 2017 Ford F-350
- Q&A: Suspension Enhancement Options For 2021 Entegra Vision XL on Ford F-53 Chassis
- Q&A: Front Suspension Enhancement For A 2011 Ford F-350 With A 2" Lift
- Q&A: Air Lift Load Lifter 5000 Suspension for 2003 F350 Cab and Chassis
- Q&A: Best Suspension Enhancement For 2024 Mercedes-Benz Sprinter 3500
- Article: Wiring Trailer Lights with a 7-Way Plug (It's Easier Than You Think)
- Article: RV Sway Control, Stabilization, and Suspension Enhancement
- Q&A: Recommended Suspension Upgrades for a 2022 Thor Omni Motorhome
- Article: Stability Control for Heavy Duty Vehicles
- Article: 2023 Holiday Must Haves
- Article: Performance Chips and Modules
David H.
4/1/2024
Tow Bar One last question (for tonight), This is the tow bar I'm looking at. The old 91 YJ weights in at something less than 3, 000 pounds. What is your opinion ?! Curt Adjustable Tow Bar - Coupler Style for 2" Ball - 5,000 lbs Item # C19745