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Topic: Best Practices for parking the coach regarding the leveling system (Read 582 times) previous topic - next topic

Best Practices for parking the coach regarding the leveling system

I've been working on my parked coach for a couple of weeks. During that time I haven't started the engine. I've been running the generator to power the AC.

I noticed yesterday the air pressure was holding at around 30# but It seems that the coach has settled. The front wheels are slightly turned. To my eyes it looks like if they were straight, the tires would be rubbing against the airbag bracket.

1. When parking like this should I dump the air? Leave it in parking mode?
2. Should I be starting the engine to recharge the air?
3  Start the engine just to run it?

Thanks all, I appreciate your patience with a newb.

Jeff

Edited to add: I am deploying the battery disconnect when I leave the coach. Should I be doing this?
1993 U300 40ft GV SE
Build # 4344

Re: Best Practices for parking the coach regarding the leveling system

Reply #1 –
 Best practice is if you start the engine run it for 30 minutes/miles on the highway to ensure full operating temperature is reached.  So don't start the engine just to bring the air system up to operating pressures.

 Sounds like you have a slow leak in the leveling system.  Other than finding and repairing the air leak, the next best thing is to rig up a way to increase the air pressure in the system using an external compressor.  Others who have done this will chime in.

I only dump the leveling  system if I am on a level surface.  Or, if I am placing the coach in storage.
Peter & Beth Martin
No Forrest? What have you done?
MC# 15890 until Dec 2016; FMCA #F329677
Cincinnati, OH

Re: Best Practices for parking the coach regarding the leveling system

Reply #2 –
If you disconnect the batteries the auxiliary air pump cannot keep the leveling system working.  If you are connected to power or have solar then leave it on.  If not turn it off to save the batteries.

Keith
Keith, Joyce & Smokey the Australian Cattle Dog
1995 U320 SE Extreme 40' WTBI Build # 4780, with a Honda CR-V hopefully still following behind.
Motorcade # 17030
FMCA # F422159

Re: Best Practices for parking the coach regarding the leveling system

Reply #3 –
When I park for more than a week , I level coach , in storage and I have measured and cut 8 4x4 blocks to put in between frames and for get it . Coach will stay level even if you have small leak. Works for me you can leave as long as you need to.  When your ready to go start up raise coach, if you need to remove blocks and your on your way. If you keep coach in same place all the time works really well.
Regards,Irwin
Irwin

Re: Best Practices for parking the coach regarding the leveling system

Reply #4 –
Irwin,

I really like that idea for those who park/store in the same location more than once.

Level, then measure and cut unique supports for each wheel position-- all, with, say 1/2" clearance so they can be inserted between the H beams. Then just shut down the leveling system/batteries if no shore power.

Best if total of 8, so you are not torquing the chassis-- one just inboard of each air bag.

Sounds like the beginning of  a cottage industry for some enterprising metal worker.

I know for the last 15 years we have always parked our coaches indoors with the wheels within 1" of the same location each time.
Brett Wolfe
EX: 1993 U240
Moderator, ForeForum 2001-
Moderator Diesel RV Club 2002-
Moderator, FMCA Forum 2009-2020
Chairman FMCA Technical Advisory Committee 2011-2020

Re: Best Practices for parking the coach regarding the leveling system

Reply #5 –
Quote from: wolfe10 –
I know for the last 15 years we have always parked our coaches indoors with the wheels within 1" of the same location each time
ONE INCH DEVIATION FROM TARGET!!!!  That's pretty sloppy driving, Brett.  I expect a PRO like you to be within 0.25" plus or minus at most! :thumbsup:
1993 U280 SE 40' WTBI, Build: 4359
C8.3 300hp, 6-Speed, Exhaust Brake
960 watts on the roof (6 x 160)
Sorento (or BOLT) on a Kar Kaddy SS
"Nature abhors a vacuum"
 

Re: Best Practices for parking the coach regarding the leveling system

Reply #6 –
Quote from: Chuck & Jeannie –
ONE INCH DEVIATION FROM TARGET!!!!  That's pretty sloppy driving, Brett.  I expect a PRO like you to be within 0.25" plus or minus at most! :thumbsup:

Wow.  I listen to a higher authority.  I have a boss who tells me when to stop the coach in the garage (and most other places).  And, I LISTEN! 

Repeat after me: "Yes, Dear".
Brett Wolfe
EX: 1993 U240
Moderator, ForeForum 2001-
Moderator Diesel RV Club 2002-
Moderator, FMCA Forum 2009-2020
Chairman FMCA Technical Advisory Committee 2011-2020