If you're an F-53 motorhome owner, you've probably heard about the Safe-T-Plus Steering Control and how it can dramatically improve the handling of your coach. Many RV owners experience issues with wandering, stiffness, and poor return-to-center steering, making long drives exhausting and even dangerous.

Some newer motorhomes, like those from Jayco and Entegra, are now coming factory-equipped with a steering stabilizer—leading many owners to wonder:

👉 "If my RV already has a stabilizer, do I really need Safe-T-Plus?"

The short answer? Yes! And in this article, we’ll break down why factory stabilizers fall short and why Safe-T-Plus is the best upgrade for your RV’s steering, safety, and overall driving experience.

What Comes Standard on Some Motorhomes?

Manufacturers like Jayco and Entegra have started installing a Bilstein steering damper on some F-53 chassis motorhomes. While Bilstein is a well-known brand that makes decent shocks, the factory-installed stabilizer is not the same as Safet-T-Plus.

The Bilstein unit is a gas-charged monotube shock designed to extend outward under pressure. This means it applies force to your steering system, but not in a way that actually helps keep your wheels centered.

The Problem with Factory Stabilizers

1 No True Centering Force – The Bilstein damper provides resistance, but it does not center your steering. It simply wants to extend fully rather than hold your wheels straight.

2 May Cause Steering Drift – Since it applies outward pressure, it can actually push your steering to one side, contributing to right-hand drift, a common issue on the F-53 chassis.

3 Doesn’t Address Steering Stiffness – The F-53 chassis already struggles with poor return-to-center steering. Without centering force, a damper adds resistance without solving the problem.

4 Minimal Blowout Protection – A damper provides some resistance in case of a front tire blowout, but it won’t actively help you maintain control like a properly designed stabilizer.

Why Safe-T-Plus is the Best Steering Upgrade

The Safe-T-Plus Steering Control solves these issues by adding both hydraulic damping and a powerful centering spring—two key components missing from the factory stabilizer.

Key Benefits of Safe-T-Plus:

✅ 230 lbs. of Centering Force – Keeps your steering straight and improves return-to-center after turns.

✅ Reduces Wandering & Driver Fatigue – Keeps your RV from constantly drifting left or right, making driving much easier.

✅ Enhances Safety in a Blowout – Provides real, tested tire blowout protection, helping you maintain control.

✅ Reduces Steering Stiffness – Unlike a standard damper, Safe-T-Plus actually makes your steering more responsive.

✅ Works with Other Steering Upgrades – Pairs perfectly with rear track bars and sway bars for even better stability.

Real-World Results

When testing an F-53 motorhome with the factory-installed Bilstein stabilizer, it exhibited a strong right-hand drift—a problem likely worsened by the gas-charged damper pushing the steering outward.

After installing Safe-T-Plus, the coach:

✔ Tracked straight down the road
✔ Had better return-to-center steering
✔ Felt more stable and predictable in turns

The Bottom Line: Not All Steering Stabilizers Are Created Equal
While a factory-installed steering stabilizer is better than nothing, it doesn’t come close to the performance of Safe-T-Plus.

If you want:

🔹 Safer handling in all conditions
🔹 Reduced driver fatigue on long trips
🔹 Better control in an emergency

…then Safe-T-Plus is the must-have upgrade for your RV.

Ready to Upgrade?

If you’re tired of fighting your steering and want a smoother, safer ride, check out Safe-T-Plus Steering Control today! It’s one of the best investments you can make for your RV’s handling and your peace of mind. CLICK HERE TO SEE PRODUCTS.