Sam and Angela's Tracbar Journey
Enhance your RV Performance with a Rear Trac Bar by SuperSteer!
Sam and Angela, passionate RV enthusiasts, embarked on a mission to transform their driving experience with their beloved RV, affectionately named Project Maximus. They aimed to enhance the stability and handling of their RV by installing a performance suspension part—a venture that led them to the SuperSteer Rear Trac Bar SS401 Kit.
The Challenge: Navigating the Open Road
Before discovering SuperSteer's solution, Sam and Angela faced significant challenges while driving their RV on highways. The massive size of their RV, built on a 2008 Ford F53 chassis, made it susceptible to sway and lateral movement, especially when overtaken by large semi-trucks. The passing trucks created turbulence that pushed and pulled the RV, requiring constant steering corrections to keep it in lane. This not only made driving strenuous but also affected Sam's comfort and sanity on long trips.
"Each time a truck or large vehicle passes, it's a constant dance with the steering wheel to stay in my lane. It probably looks like I'm exaggerating the steering wheel for the video clip, but honestly, I'm not." — Sam
The Solution: SuperSteer Rear Trac Bar SS401 Kit
In search of a remedy, Sam learned about the SuperSteer Rear Trac Bar, a product designed to significantly reduce the side-to-side movement of the rear axle, thereby enhancing driving stability. Recognizing the potential of this upgrade, Sam reached out to us and we were thrilled to collaborate with him on this project.
We provided Sam and Angela with the SuperSteer Rear Trac Bar SS401 Kit, tailored specifically for their RV's Ford F53 chassis. The kit is a comprehensive package that includes everything needed for installation:
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- High-strength rear trac bar
- Mounting brackets for both metric and standard differentials
- Grade 8 hardware with thread locker
- Detailed installation instructions
- Additional accessories like wire loom and zip ties
Installation: A Step-by-Step Upgrade
Sam, Angela, and their son Elijah formed the installation crew, meticulously following the provided instructions to ensure a seamless upgrade. Here are key highlights from their installation process:
Preparation
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- Safety First: They ensured the RV was on level ground with the full weight resting on the suspension.
- Elevation: Instead of using leveling jacks, they drove the RV onto sturdy blocks to gain necessary clearance underneath.
Identifying the Differential
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- They determined their RV had a metric differential by inspecting the bolt heads on the rear differential, which influenced the choice of mounting brackets and bolts.
Mounting the Differential Bracket
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- Removed three specific bolts from the differential using a 21mm socket.
- Applied the provided red thread locker to the new bolts.
- Installed the metric differential bracket securely, torquing the bolts to the specified settings.
Installing the Frame Bracket
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- Assembled the frame clamp, ensuring it fit snugly around the RV's frame.
- Used the trac bar itself to align the frame bracket correctly before tightening.
Attaching the Trac Bar
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- Connected the trac bar between the differential bracket and the frame bracket.
- Ensured proper alignment and secured all hardware with the lock nuts provided.
- Used wire loom and zip ties to protect and manage nearby brake lines and hoses.
The Transformation: Post-Install Driving Experience
With the SuperSteer Rear Trac Bar installed, Sam and Elijah took the RV back on the road to assess the improvements. The difference was immediately noticeable.
"Honestly, I'm driving one-handed, which is so nice. The steering wheel is so much more calm. It doesn't get rid of all the movement, but it makes the movement in the chassis and steering mostly disappear." — Sam
Key Improvements
- Enhanced Stability: The RV no longer swayed significantly when passed by large vehicles.
- Reduced Steering Corrections: Sam experienced less need for constant steering adjustments.
- Improved Comfort: Driving became less strenuous, enhancing overall enjoyment of the journey.
Understanding the Trac Bar's Impact
Sam eloquently explained what the rear trac bar does and doesn't do:
- What It Does: Eliminates the side-to-side movement of the rear axle relative to the frame, reducing sway and improving steering responsiveness.
- What It Doesn't Do: It doesn't affect body roll (tilting during turns), porpoising (bobbing up and down), or prevent issues like front tire blowouts.
Final Thoughts: A Worthwhile Upgrade
The installation of the SuperSteer Rear Trac Bar SS401 Kit proved to be a game-changer for Sam and Angela. Not only did it enhance the driving dynamics of their RV, but it also increased safety and comfort during their travels.
"The trac bar has made a perceptible, noticeable difference, which is great. We would have hated to go through all that work and not feel any different. But it definitely feels different." — Sam
If you would like to see the video Sam made - CLICK HERE!
We at SuperSteer are delighted to have been part of Sam and Angela's journey to improve their RV experience. Collaborations like this inspire us to continue providing top-quality products that make a real difference for RV enthusiasts.
Why Choose SuperSteer's Rear Trac Bar?
- Quality Engineering: Made in the USA with high-strength materials designed for durability.
- Comprehensive Kit: Includes all necessary components and detailed instructions for DIY installation.
- Improved Handling: Significantly reduces rear axle sway, enhancing steering control and driver confidence.
Learn More and Join the Community
If you're experiencing similar handling issues with your RV, consider check out Learning Center or give us a call, we would be happy to steer you towards the perfect product for you RV!
"At SuperSteer, we are committed to supporting RV owners in their quest for better performance and safety. We extend our heartfelt thanks to Sam and Angela for choosing our product and sharing their story."