Negative Leaf Springs (Frowning). How do I know if this is my problem?

[CuzEddieClassC]

Got my 2002 Ford E350 RV running great. Drove from central Texas to Phoenix and back for the holidays. 2000ish miles. Very bouncy rear end. Lots of banging. Felt every bump. I had installed new shocks just before we left. No help. Studied the rear leaf springs today. Both have a negative (upwards) flex. 9 leaf. Guessing 3450lb rating. Curb weight is stated as 11,500 lbs. Rig has around 95,000 miles on it. I have read that this Ford was designed with negative flex, but I'm not convinced. I need to get this thing smoothed out if I'm getting the wife back in it for run up to New England this summer. Thank you for your opinions on a fix.

 

[Chargerman]

I would look to see if they make a heavier spring like for a 450 if they made them for that year. If not search for a local spring shop to take a look and make a recommendation

 

[CuzEddieClassC]

Thank you. Yes, there is a 5,000 lb rated leaf spring available. Concerned that extra 3,000 lb capacity (both leafs combined) will take me past the "sweet spot" for a comfortable ride, but it certainly is an option.

 

[Chargerman]

I don’t think they will. I think that rating would work out real well. I think you will have plenty of weight to give you a soft feel. If you really want to be sure take it to a scale

 

[DennisT]

Our E450 coach did the same.

Lots of opinions and options for springs, shocks, etc to get a better ride.

Ours finally got to a comfortable ride when we had liquid springs installed in the rear. Not an inexpensive option but it rode like a dream after that.

No more banging, no being pushed around from passing semis etc, rode awesome after the install.

Had it installed for the last few years we owned the coach and had no issues with the system.