Classic xl limited sleeper bottoms out on big bumps

Discussion in 'Trucks [ Eighteen Wheelers ]' started by j.r.1981, Oct 3, 2021.

  1. j.r.1981

    j.r.1981 Light Load Member

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    I have a 2001 Freightliner classic xl limited with the factory 84" bunk. The problem is the sleeper hits the bump stop on big bumps. So far I have replaced the shocks and bags, it doesn't do it as bad now but still does. I am wondering if the shocks and bags where different for the 84" compared to the 70" bunk.. maybe Freightliner sold me the wrong parts, they look the same as the old stuff. The bags are inflated to the point that they are solid. Anyone have any ideas, my co-driver is complaining .. The top mount bracket for the bags has some rust but I don't think this is the cause because everything still attached solid.
     
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  3. Rideandrepair

    Rideandrepair Road Train Member

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    Yes the bags are different. I have on also. Same year. Don’t have part # but my old 99 Classic 70” bunks vin was A10466. Check that vin/air bag against the ones they sold you. . If It’s the same. They sold you the wrong airbag. The 84’s are bigger. Set the gap on the bumper between them at the thickness of a pack of box marlboros. That’s with the rubber bumper, if bumpers missing, set it a little bit higher. Set right it won’t bottom out. Even with a lot of weight.
     
  4. j.r.1981

    j.r.1981 Light Load Member

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    Thanks for the info, I will check those numbers and go from there.
     
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  5. Rideandrepair

    Rideandrepair Road Train Member

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    When I bought mine, it had one for 70” replaced instead of the 84”. Whole Truck sat crooked. Check the cab front rubber bushings, and torque rod too. Pretty sure they’re the same as a 70”. But take a lot more stress. All that was bad on mine, including axle torque rods. Makes for a real loose ride. When it’s all good, new shocks. Cab and axle height valves adjusted right. It’s a very smooth ride.
     
    Last edited: Oct 3, 2021
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  6. Rideandrepair

    Rideandrepair Road Train Member

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    I’ve been running this 01 for 13 yrs. Last 99 70” for 8 yrs. I don’t know everything (yet) but most things are very common. If you have any other questions or problems. Don’t hesitate to PM me, They’re great Trucks. Good Luck.
     
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  7. j.r.1981

    j.r.1981 Light Load Member

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    I have replaced both of the front cab mounts, both axle torque rods, complete new 5th wheel and slider, 2 new rear diffs...the list of work I have done to this truck is very long lol. I haven't replaced the torque rod under the cab yet. I might try that also while I'm wrenching on it. My most recent repair was a new steering gear box. I love the truck, everything I do to it makes it a little better. It has over a million miles on it, not sure the exact number though, ecm and odometer have both been replaced. I will definitely pm you with my next issue, thanks for the help!
     
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  8. Rideandrepair

    Rideandrepair Road Train Member

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    OK, for some reason I assumed it was new to you. Same here, pretty much same stuff.
     
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  9. j.r.1981

    j.r.1981 Light Load Member

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    I bought it in December, and was having problems with the way it was running. I think you are one of the people that made some recommendations then. So I haven't had it a year yet. I let the sleeper issue go for way too long, but I was trying to work on bigger things.
     
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