Is the Ford Chassis Reliable in RVs?
Did you know the Ford chassis is a popular choice for RVers looking for incredible horsepower and torque?
When you think of the Ford brand, you likely imagine the Ford Mustang or the reliable Super Duty line of Ford trucks.
Recently, though, the Ford motorhome chassis has faced some major scrutiny. Is it still worth considering?
Let’s take a look!
About Ford Motorhome Chassis
The chassis of a vehicle serves as the skeleton. You’ll find Class B and Class C motorhomes using the Ford chassis as their foundations. Manufacturers like Winnebego, Coachmen, and Thor are using this chassis.
There are two styles of this chassis for RVs, the F-53 and F-59. Both of these models come with a 7.3-liter V8 gas engine. Ford designed these models for power, ease of maintenance, and packaging.
Hill-start assist, lane departure warnings, and increased Gross Vehicle Weight Ratings (GVWR) are just a few of the many reasons RVers love this chassis. The GVWR ranges from 16,000 to 26,000 pounds.

What Is a Stripped Chassis Motorhome?
A stripped chassis refers to the chassis only and does not include the body of the motorhome. RV manufacturers purchase stripped chassis from Ford and build their motorhomes on them. This style of building allows motorhome manufacturers to benefit from the engineering and quality of experienced chassis manufacturers.
Large motorhome manufacturers and even custom motorhome builders select a stripped chassis to give them the freedom to build as they please. Only the builder or manufacturer’s imagination limits the flexibility of a stripped chassis.
Is the Ford Chassis Reliable in RVs?
The Ford chassis uses a gas engine, which brings down the price but makes them more short-lived than diesel. Many users report having a wobble problem, especially when wheels are out of balance. Early editions had frequent reports of the infamous “death wobble.”
However, this is often only found in older models as Ford has changed their manufacturing to eliminate the wobble.
Changes in recent years made these chassis some of the most popular and reliable for Class B and Class C motorhomes. Ford has a reputation for its quality craftsmanship and commitment to improving with each new edition.

Ford Recalls Tens of Thousands of Motorhomes
In April 2021, Ford recalled more than 16,000 2020 and 2021 F-53 Motorhome Stripped Chassis and F-59 Commercial Stripped Chassis vehicles. This recall addressed a lubrication issue on the rear axle. A lack of lubrication caused bearing damage and seizures, as well as driveshaft failures.
These issues could cause loss of motive power, failure of the parking brake, and an inability to shift into park.
Which Manufacturers Use the Ford Motorhome Chassis?
The Ford Motorhome Chassis is one of the top picks for manufacturers in Class B and Class C motorhomes. Brands like Pleasure Way, Winnebago, Coachmen, Thor, and Coach House use it.
Should You Buy an RV on a Ford Chassis?
Ford has a reputation for being an innovative and quality manufacturer. The Ford chassis is one of the most popular choices for Class B and C RVs. The gas engine frees up weight compared to a diesel alternative but sacrifices strength and longevity. If you’re looking for a top-shelf chassis to build on, the Ford chassis is one of the best.
The Ford chassis has developed a reputation among Class B and C RVers as one of the best. It’s tough and powerful but still affordable. It’s a great combination of durability when off-road and smoothness when in the city. Do you know what kind of chassis your RV has?
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You mention “death wobble” in certain older Ford chassis. Which years?