Chassis Information --- Section 10
Cayman 2005
325
• The correct ride height should be maintained. All motorhomes with air springs have a speci-
fied ride height established by the manufacturer. This height should be maintained within ¼
inch. This dimension can be checked with the motorhome loaded or empty.
• The leveling valves (or height control valves) play a large part in ensuring that the total air
spring system works as required. Clean, inspect and replace if necessary.
• Make sure to check shock absorbers for leaking hydraulic oil and worn or broken end con-
nectors. If a broken shock is found, replace it immediately. The shock absorber will normally
limit the rebound of an air spring and keep it from over extending.
• Check the tightness of all mounting hardware (nuts and bolts). If loose, tighten. Do not over-
tighten.
Cleaning:
The approved cleaning method is to use soap and water, methyl alcohol, ethyl alcohol and isopropyl
alcohol. Unapproved cleaning methods include all organic solvents, open flames, abrasives and direct
pressurized steam cleaning.
HEIGHT CONTROL VALVES
Height Control Valves (HCV) inflate or deflate air springs to maintain proper suspension height
throughout the load range. Two Height Control Valves are installed at the rear drive axle to control rear
suspension height and left or right tilt of the motorhome. A separate HCV is installed to control front
suspension height. The three HCVs mount to the main frame of the motorhome, above the axles, with a
linkage rod connecting the valve to the axle.
Actuating components inside of the valves are oil dampened to reduce valve reaction to momentary
suspension bounce and rebound. When a constant suspension change occurs, such as a load change or
weight transfer through a sustained corner, the valve reacts by adding or purging air from the air
springs as needed.
The air springs mount between the main frame rails and the trailing links. There is a specified dis-
tance the air spring must maintain between the mounting plates. Other than specified distance between
the plates will compromise ride quality and handling, and affect shock absorber travel, drive shaft
angle, as well as various other running gear components.
Should it become necessary to check the suspension ride height, start with the motorhome on a flat
level surface. The air system must be fully charged with the suspension normalized at ride height.
Specified distances may vary plus or minus ¼". Small offset adjustments to the rear valves may be nec-
essary to compensate for slight tilt. Example: Adjusting the curbside rear height control valve up will
pivot the roadside front corner down.
NOTE:
Drive shaft angle is affected by the suspension ride height. Improper drive shaft
angle can damage suspension or shorten the life of universal joints. Shock
absorbers and air springs are in travel centers at proper ride height.
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