-
Changes in 2004 H3-45
In looking at H3-45s I came across info that Prevost made a couple of chassis changes around 2004.
My understanding is that one or all axle weights were increased to 18,000 lbs and the pitch angle of the shocks were changed. This was in an effort to make for a better driving coach with a less top heavy feel. Does anyone have any more info on this as to how much difference it makes. I’m looking at Hs and many I am intersted in are pre 2004 chasses.
-
5 Replies
-
Wahoo,
Axle weights are serious changes and since the geometry of the coach has not changed there is a definite value in having greater capacity. This is especially true as coaches got slides which added weight,
But usually changes that affect ride comfort are not so critical. Those subtle changes may have produced better ride quality but may not be discernable from coaches with and without the changes except to engineers who are using instrumentation to measure the revisions. I cannot tell you my IFS coach rides or handles any different than the two solid axle coaches produced previously for example.
Bottom line is ride feel is not likely to have much value unless you are highly trained as a test driver and you have experience with both types, pre and post changes. But increasing the weight rating of an axle is very important unless you prefer to never weigh your axles, or use those weights to select the correct inflation pressures for your coach tires based on axle position.
-
I didn’t think the H feels top heavy… does it?? It looks top heavy but I’ve never felt that??? Anyone know?? Now I am curious.
Diane
-
Theoretically it should have a higher center of gravity than an XL or XLII for example because the floor of the house is higher on an H and that raises the CG up a little. But how it feels is subjective.
I think our coaches have a significant part of their weight down low. The engine, generator, batteries, holding tanks, fuel and other stuff we store or have mounted in the bays represents a large percentage of the total coach weight. Our coaches are not going to handle like a sports car, but I don’t think because they are tall that they are going to tip over either. I think an H with empty bays and 50 passengers is what prompts changes because the CG on that seated coach is going to be significantly higher than a motorhome conversion.
-
It sounds like a pre 04 h will be fine as long as I have tires properly inflated then. Thanks for the replys.
-
The H rides like a limo. Just smooth.
Inflate your tires correctly, check your shocks an lubricate the chassis as advised. Squeak free and easy riding.
An H does swing on the turns, so load your stuff as low as poossible. Tools and fluids on the floor of the bay. Puts all the weight at axel level and adds to better handling, just my personal observaton.
Log in to reply.