Enhance your motorhome’s steering control and reduce road fatigue with a Safe-T-Plus stabilizer
If your motorhome tends to wander on the road, especially in windy conditions or when passing large trucks, it can make long drives feel stressful. A steering stabilizer, such as Safe-T-Plus, can greatly reduce this wandering, improve road feel, and enhance overall steering stability, making your driving experience safer and more comfortable.
Here’s how to install a Safe-T-Plus steering stabilizer in your motorhome.
What You’ll Need
-
Tools:
-
Socket set
-
Torque wrench
-
Ratchet and extension
-
Floor jack and jack stands
-
Lubricant for bolts and mounts
-
-
Safe-T-Plus Kit:
-
The Safe-T-Plus stabilizer unit, mounting brackets, and hardware specific to your RV model.
-
Step 1: Prepare Your RV
-
Park your motorhome on a flat surface and engage the parking brake.
-
Chock the wheels to prevent movement while working on the steering system.
-
Lift the front of your RV with a floor jack, if necessary, to access the steering linkage and suspension components. Secure it with jack stands for safety.
Step 2: Locate the Steering Linkage
The Safe-T-Plus stabilizer is installed between the steering box and the tie rod. Locate these components before beginning the installation.
-
Steering Box: The steering box is typically located on the frame or near the front axle.
-
Tie Rod: The tie rod connects the wheels to the steering box. It’s essential that you attach the stabilizer to the tie rod, as this is where you’ll get the most effective stability.
Step 3: Install the Safe-T-Plus Brackets
-
Frame Bracket: Start by attaching the frame bracket to the vehicle’s frame. Depending on your RV’s make and model, you may need to drill mounting holes for the bracket.
-
Tie Rod Bracket: Next, attach the tie rod bracket to the tie rod using the supplied mounting hardware. It’s essential that the tie rod bracket is securely mounted to the tie rod, ensuring proper alignment and function of the stabilizer.
Step 4: Attach the Stabilizer Unit
-
Mount the Safe-T-Plus stabilizer between the frame and tie rod brackets. The stabilizer should be aligned so that the piston is centered and extends evenly when the steering wheel is turned.
-
Attach the stabilizer to the brackets using the provided bolts and nuts. Tighten everything with a socket wrench, but avoid over-tightening at this stage.
Step 5: Torque the Bolts
Once the stabilizer is in place and the bolts are attached, use a torque wrench to tighten the mounting bolts to the recommended torque specifications. This ensures a secure, stable fit that will last over time.
-
Refer to the Safe-T-Plus manual for specific torque settings for your motorhome model.
Step 6: Test the Installation
-
Lower your motorhome back to the ground and remove the jack stands.
-
Start the engine and slowly turn the steering wheel from left to right, ensuring that the stabilizer engages and operates smoothly without obstruction.
-
Take your motorhome for a test drive to ensure the steering feels more controlled, with less wandering and improved road handling.
Final Tip
After a few hundred miles of driving, it’s a good idea to check the Safe-T-Plus stabilizer for any signs of loosening or wear. Ensure all bolts remain tight and that the stabilizer operates smoothly.