justjimmy

Been doing some research and I'm seriously considering this to resolve my shudder issue. Dcfluid: From what I've read, either the traction bars (you're doing that) or this should solve it. Thoughts and experiences please? (Pulled this off their website) WHAT IS AXLE WRAP AND WHEEL HOP Axle wrap and wheel hop is a problem that plagues vehicles with rear leaf spring suspension. Before we drive into the actual definitions we should clear up some terminology. Axle wrap is the twisting motion of the axle housing when it reacts to torque from the engine during acceleration or braking force on deceleration. Wheel hop refers to the rapid up and down motion of the tires caused by Axle wrap. Axle hop is the term that refers to both axle wrap and wheel hop. Axle wrap occurs when the rotational force of the tires causes the axle housing to twist and rotate. It’s most noticeable during hard acceleration from a standing start and on hill climbs while accelerating. This rotation of the axle housing forces the springs to bend into and S-shape. When the axle housing rotates far enough, two things happen: The spring force tries to push the housing in the opposite direction, and the U-joint attempts to make a straight line between the axle-assembly yoke and driveshaft. These forces cause the tires to loose traction, and “jump”, or “hop”. Once the traction is lost, the leaf springs snap back into their original position. This happens over and over until the truck either gains better traction or the drive reduces torque input by letting off the throttle. Axle wrap can also occur during deceleration, such as hard braking. Axle wrap has a negative effect on several components. As the axle housing rotates under load, the pinion angle changes. This means the yoke on the axle housing moves up or down in relation to the driveshaft. During acceleration, axle wrap can cause driveline vibrations because of the increased U-joint angle at the pinion yoke. In the extreme cases, this increased angle exceeds the limits of the U-joint and causes it to fail or rapidly wear out. Wheel hop places shock loads on the internal components of an axle assembly, putting the components under excessive strain. Which can lead to failure. The springs are affected because the extra stress caused by bending under load wears them out more quickly. Finally, traction is reduced because the tires don’t transfer torque to the ground efficiently.

Fx4_5.0Man

Those look pretty interesting. I wonder how they will work out for you? I kind of get the idea. Seems like it will be stronger in once direction, aka forward rather than reverse. Doesn't seem like a problem since most heavy pulling and accelerating is done in forward gears.

11screw50

wonder if it stiffens the ride or makes it more harsh.

might be something to look into at some point. would be nice if it actually (legally) increased load carrying capacity (GWVR/GCWVR).

danelizer

I just last weekend installed the RoadMaster active active suspension on my 2011 4X4 super crew. I had them on a previous Ram and they work great. I installed them to help eliminate the bounce you get when hooked up to a RV or carrying a heavy load. It will not legally allow you to increase your vehicle weight limitations but it does a good job of carrying additional weight. . Go to the RoadMaster active suspension web site to learn more.
Properly adjusted my trucks rear sits a 1/4 inch higher.

11screw50

if you dont mind me asking, whats it cost? (I did go to the site, no dealers within 100 miles of me).

danelizer

Strutmasters.com got them for me for $374.07 plus shipping which was $20.00.
They drop shipped them from RoadMaster.

justjimmy

From what I've read, it doesn't stiffen the ride at all and for an F150, I was quoted $350 parts, $30.00 shipping and $75.00 installed - around $450.00 total.

That was from a "authorized dealer" here in South Florida.

Seriously, check out their web site. Very interesting alternative.

Looking for blogs now so I can talk to owners and get the "real" scoop.

So far however, it looks promising.

Skandocious

Real interested in what you find out Jimmy... I've got the 5-10 MPH shudder and I'm thinking its related to axle wrap...

danelizer

Easy to install these yourself. Hardest part was jacking up the truck and putting it on jack stands so the rear end would hang free. Save some bucks.

justjimmy

Me too. I'm really sick of the shudder when I tow my toy hauler - frustrates me that no one (FORD) can find a fix!

You may have to wait a little while however, I am waiting for my Billestein 5100s to come in - sometime in early April, then the Terra Grapplers (305-50-20) then the Loadmasters.

I'm thinkin around late April or May (sorry). Depends on existing tire wear.

I DO research the CRAP out of things tho.

Keep this thread bookmarked for further updates.

I would totally agree and appreciate your comment - but $75.00 to install? I can eat lunches at work for a few weeks and save that easy. Besides, I'm gettin to old for this mechanic stuff.