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Topic: Foretretravel U240 (Read 675 times) previous topic - next topic

Foretretravel U240

HI I'm Kevin and completely new to the site. we are about to bring home a 95 U240. Any advice would be helpful. Particularly related to the torsilastic suspension. lifespan, replacement bits, handling expectations. I am not without some skill as I have restored several Airstreams, Chryslers, Imperials,  vintage Power Wagons Land Rovers..... the list goes on. Any advice, tips, hints and potential parts sources would be appreciated. Cant wait to get my Harley/sidecar rig into the trailer and go exploring.
kevin
Kevin Baert
1996 U295 40'

Re: Foretretravel U240

Reply #1 –
Quote from: airflow guy –
Cant wait to get my Harley/sidecar rig into the trailer and go exploring.


Welcome!

You do realize you'll need a standard poodle to properly outfit that sidecar, right?  Just ask Brad M. and Jim D.  (and Molly and Xin Loy).

Michelle
Learn every day, but especially from the experiences of others. It's cheaper!  - John C. Bogle

2000 U320 36' non-slide / WildEBeest Rescue
2003 U320

Re: Foretretravel U240

Reply #2 –
Him Kevin,
  Welcome to the Foretravel group! You need to talk with our own Brett Wolfe. He is very well versed with the torsilastic suspension. Enjoy your Foretravel.
Raymond
Raymond & Babette Jordan
1997 U 320
1998 Ford Explorer XLT

Re: Foretretravel U240

Reply #3 –
Here is a basic primer on your suspension.  I will PM you my phone number-- call if questions after you read it:

Foretravel Torsilastic Suspension

Brett
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: Foretretravel U240

Reply #4 –
Torsilastic suspension components are again available.  FT no longer stocks them, but Mike Grimes can give you contact information.
Regards,
Brett

'99 42' Foretravel Xtreme
'14 Brown Motorsports Stacker
'05 Chevy SSR
'02 BMW R1150R

Re: Foretretravel U240

Reply #5 –
Yes, Pioneer Metals Pioneer Metal Works bought the full complement of Torsilastic parts used by Safari when Monaco went bankrupt.  These are original parts from the 1990's.

What you want if you are out of ride height adjustment in the rear is the 19,000 pound rear springs (I have never seen the fronts give problems).

I don't know how many pairs he has left.

I would suggest you speak to Ralph Andrews, the owner of Pioneer Metals and the designer of many suspension upgrades for the Safari applications of the Torsilastic Suspension.

Brett-- the other Brett
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: Foretretravel U240

Reply #6 –
I have a 92 U-240.  Anything you want to know, ask Brett Wolfe.  He knows more about it than any human being alive.  I am at no shims to remove in the rear and hoping it has settled out and will stay as is for a long time.  My biggest problem with the design is the propane generator space too small for a diesel replacement (when the Onan bites the dust).  Biggest problem so far was a failed hydraulic pump for the radiator fan.  There is no direct replacement.  Some have said you might be able to have it rebuilt but if replacing the factory has a new model, parts for engineering a pressure bypass (which the old one had internal) and can send you or your repair shop the whole 9 yards with instructions for the technician for a retrofit.  All in all, there is no better built coach in this price range.  Read up on the bulkhead separation issue as that is the other big thing you might have to deal with. I guess it is not such a big deal if you monitor it and take necessary action before you have a problem.
Dwayne Keith
1992 U240
3116/MD3060