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Topic: Passenger seat shaking during acceleration? (Read 455 times) previous topic - next topic
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Passenger seat shaking during acceleration?
Hi there - I toured a 2007 23.5' TK E-450 yesterday that I'm interested in buying and while we went for a test drive (I opted to not drive it this time and sat in the passenger seat), I noticed some intense shaking of the passenger seat, especially when accelerating. It doesn't feel normal (I am aware of typical vibrations, but this was much more intense) but seller thinks it's normal and attributed to the E450 chassis and road conditions. My first thought was - how would my passenger feel comfortable sitting and dealing with that level and intensity of shaking?

I am pursuing a pre-purchase mechanical inspection and would like for them to check if maybe it's a driveline issue? Does anyone else have any wisdom on this potential issue? Thank you in advance.
2006 Mid-Bath newbie
Re: Passenger seat shaking during acceleration?
Reply #1 –
There’s one thing that is certain and it’s not normal so good for you to be suspicious.  There could be several reasons for that kind of vibration which should be inspected by a mechanic.  And in my opinion, that inspection should be done by someone you choose and paid for by the seller.  At least that’s my opinion since it’s a buyer’s market right now.
Re: Passenger seat shaking during acceleration?
Reply #2 –
Thanks, Ed - I emailed you directly when I noticed you're in the vicinity where this rig is (it's not in my city and four hours away) - do you have any recs on who could do a pre-purchase mechanical inspection?
2006 Mid-Bath newbie
Re: Passenger seat shaking during acceleration?
Reply #3 –
I know of 2 reputable mechanics.   One that I’ve used and another that is highly recommended by a trustworthy RV service company that doesn’t handle the Ford mechanics.  One is in north Fort Worth and the other is just south of Fort Worth.

What I’d like to do is use this Forum’s email system and give you their phone numbers.   I’ll also give you my phone number if you think I can help.  Does that sound like it would help?

Btw, I didn’t receive an email maybe because I’ve changed email addresses recently. 
Re: Passenger seat shaking during acceleration?
Reply #4 –
That would be great, Ed - thank you so much!
2006 Mid-Bath newbie
Re: Passenger seat shaking during acceleration?
Reply #5 –
Going back 15-20 years, there were many reports of the same issue on new and near-new 24' models.
Our 2003 24' LD had a few minor occurrences when new, which disappeared as the chassis loosened up with use..

Most reports had the passenger seats shaking when unoccupied, and only under certain road conditions. Intense shaking when the seat is occupied is not normal.
Other owners had Ford attempt to find the cause, many eventually going to driveline specialty shops. Some of the cures tried were driveshafts rebalanced or replaced, along with new tires.
The Forum had a lot of speculation as to the cause. My guess it was some kind of harmonic that caused the vibration under certain conditions. Maybe others here will have better recollections.

An 18-year-old MH could have a failing u-joint, a driveshaft balance problem, or a bad center support bearing that could cause such a vibration.

Larry
Larry
2003 23.5' Front Lounge, since new.  Previously 1983 22' Front Lounge.
Tow vehicles  2020 Jeep Wrangler Rubicon, 2001 Jeep Cherokee
Photo Collection: Lazy Daze
Re: Passenger seat shaking during acceleration?
Reply #6 –
Thanks a bunch for the thoughtful and informative reply, Larry!!  :)
2006 Mid-Bath newbie