Some of the early to mid 90's Safari's have the BFG rubber based Velvet Ride suspension. While nobody is currently using it in a production coach, it looks to be a solid system, good for about a million miles.
If the coaches themselves appear to be a sensible choice - nice interior and layout, good engine, good power/weight ratio, etc. - would the suspension hold you back?
fulltime 5 months a year
FMCA 368297
1990 Beaver Marquis 40'
Gillig MHA 3208T chassis, 300 HP Cat 3208, Allison MT647
Yup. Drive one. Drive one with a more modern air ride system. Decide. Cost can be an issue, the velvet ride is going to be less. If the ride is OK to you, go for it.
Bill & Jolene / FL 1997 Southwind 35P 2006 Yamaha 1100 Classic &
1970 Norton Commando 750 in state of recuperation (Almost road ready!!!)
6x12 Enclosd trailer
Check with Brett Wolfe (Wolfe10 here on the forum) - Foretravel U240s I believe had the same suspension (Torsilastic). Problem is some of the parts are NLA
Dave Head
Oviedo FL
95 Foretravel U320C SE
M11, HD4060
I had the BFG rubber based Velvet Ride suspension on a 1997 30 ft Safari Sahara. It was the best roller coaster ride around. It was suggested by several to add 500 lbs of weight to the front. Also, It did ride better with a full tank of fuel.
I have been told that the ride is better in a longer MH. The 30 footer really did have a short wheel base.
Safari's use of the Torsilastic suspension was not the best. But there are aftermarket devices that go a long way to making this simple, low maintenance system livable.
Others using this suspension were: Eagle Bus, some MCI busses, Dina bus of Mexico, some Foretravel motorhomes, etc.
I do have the Goodrich Aerospace shop manual for the Torsilastic suspension if you need information.
from people I know it cost them about 3,000.00 for an aftermarket cure. It did improve it greatly but if I knew I had to spend that before buying I would not unless I was getting a great deal. Have heard the same from others about the velvet ride.
Online
Offline
Have A Nice Day
