Sumo Springs Install, Before and After Video. Full Time Van Life

[@lawrencelengyel2092]

What a great and pleasant couple! Great video too ...thanks

[@CareyOnVagabond]

Thank you 🙏

[@briancleanwaters3743]

Thanks again for the hands on review. Ready to put them on, sumos have been in the garage for months. Needed to watch it done again. 😉

[@lovematters7122]

Thank you so much for your willingness to share with the RV community. Blessings to you!

[@CareyOnVagabond]

You’re most welcome.☺️

[@justaroundthebend2861]

WOW!! you can sure tell a big difference.... Glad you did a Video on that.... We learn all kinds of things by guys that show how its done on here.... Awesome!!! Loved it! Thanks....

[@CareyOnVagabond]

Thank you so much!!’ We are glad we did the video too! That camera shot under the van was eye opening!

[@anniegogogone1806]

So cool, I did this to my 2018 Travato last weekend. I put them on all 4 wheels with great results. I was doing donuts in a parking lot and it felt really stable. Great mod! Good to show it is not a difficult task and well worth the trouble. Great video!

[@CareyOnVagabond]

Thanks Annie! “Donuts in the parking lot”😂 I’ll have try that today being its National Donut Day!😉

[@tuomasholo]

Thanks for your video. I installed the SumoSprings and Coil SumoSprings on our new Roadtrek Zion in about 2 hours without removing the wheels. The ride is significantly better.

[@CareyOnVagabond]

Glad this helped!👍😁🚐🚐

[@roncleminson9005]

Super video... thank you. I now have a set of sumo springs and will install these in the near future. Keep on “carrying on”!👍🏻😃

[@CareyOnVagabond]

Thanks Ron! Wish we had done it a long time ago! Let us know what you think of them after your install.

[@joeosborne8354]

DEFINITELY on the to-do list now. Thanks for the demo, showing how easy it is to swap them out!

[@CareyOnVagabond]

You’re more than welcome! Sure wish we had done it a long time ago:)

[@campfire52]

That looks like great upgrade to your suspension and ride. I am sure that you will be much more relaxed and comfortable now in your future travels. It looked pretty easy and it didn't appear that any special tools were required, what a nice idea! Now just go out and enjoy yourselves. Thanks for sharing your experience my friends.

[@CareyOnVagabond]

Easy, inexpensive modification that makes a HUGE difference!! Can’t believe we didn’t do this sooner. It’s gonna be a smooth ride from here on out! 👍🏼🚐💨

[@malimish]

We just installed sumosprings too in our van. I also thought it made a huge difference but couldn't tell if it was just in our mind or not. Very happy with them.

[@CareyOnVagabond]

Maybe the huge difference is in both our minds😂😂 Either way we’re happy😂😂

[@fariyashereen7506]

Dt nc y gv Mf lk gl m kgo t mgg gv M gi m

[@rvboondocker2559]

Thanks for thinking of this. Made it look easy and what amazingly technical explanation at the end! I’ll see how much they are when I get my RV in the Spring...no pun intended. I wish I could see more sway comparisons from the side of the road.

[@CareyOnVagabond]

Thanks, hope it helps! And yes, that’s us, all about the technical stuff😆

[@loissmith4123]

Oh wow this just what I need for my 2500 Pro Master as I also noticed a lot of sway. Thanks much.

[@CareyOnVagabond]

Here’s a recent install we did on our new Promaster. I think it’s a clearer video. Good luck! kzbin.info/www/bejne/d56sapaba9qCeK8

[@opbear1]

We’re picking up a 2021 59K … it was suggested to upgrade to Sumo shocks….. thanks for the post it helped us decide to do the upgrade .. but I will not be doing it myself I don’t trust me😎

[@CareyOnVagabond]

Glad it helped! 👍🙌😁

[@CGreciful]

It makes a huge difference on the highway when you get hit with a strong cross wind, like mega huge difference!

[@CareyOnVagabond]

That is great to hear! Any improvement when driving in high winds will be so worth it!

[@darinviar2376]

Nice upgrade happy to see it worked out

[@CareyOnVagabond]

Thanks Darin!

[@oursomedayisnow3915]

Great video, I've used these on my old F250, now we're going to install on the new Promaster, going with Rear Sumos and also the front ones that wrap around the coil

[@CareyOnVagabond]

Our Someday Is Now thanks! We did a later video when we installed the front ones. Both well worth it!

[@tayninh69]

I sure like your videos, I'm installing Sumo Springs tomorrow on our 2018 Travato Van. Your video was a big help.

[@CareyOnVagabond]

Good luck😉😁

[@DavidHuffTexas]

Cool, thanks for videoing this. It seems like a pretty simple install.

[@CareyOnVagabond]

Thanks David. It was very simple! This video was a bit different but fun to film:)

[@jcro2066]

Hi guys awesome job and Pistol was an excellent helper ...... I notice the before shots the bag would lose contact with the leaf spring ...in the after it stays touching the leaf.....much more comfortable I'm sure....Again Dave your becoming an awesome mechanic :) thanks for sharing

[@CareyOnVagabond]

Thanks Joe! This project couldn’t have been completed without Pistols help.😉 We were surprised by the under-van footage! It really showed the difference!

[@jcro2066]

awesome job videoing it really professional

[@CareyOnVagabond]

Thank you!

[@TroySwezey]

Very good video. Thank you. Would love to install these but, at the moment, certain restrictions such as HOA rules will not allow. You showed the challenge with the jacking on the left side, as well. So next option is just to take it to the mechanic and pay a few bucks but the local RV shop has taken two months (so far) to do an oil change, replace a door lock and the macerator hose.

[@larryguffey42]

looks like a huge difference from under the van. looks like money well spent.......lg

[@CareyOnVagabond]

Wasn’t that crazy?!😳 Worth every cent!

[@joer1757]

thank you for this video. so you did gain one inch. that seems realistic. many owners claim they gained more but i think that is optimistic

[@CareyOnVagabond]

We did. Maybe much lighter vans got a bit more.🤷‍♂️

[@billworkman8430]

I've had them om my 2015 118 Diesel for almost 2 years greatly improved body lean on cloverleafs and turns and overall handling is vastly improved the ride actually improves if its loaded up the only thing I noticed that going over dips the nose will be slightly forced down sometimes but I have the short wheelbase

[@kerryshrode]

thanks for beginning and ending with Pistol lol. THAT was an easy upgrade. I am a research nut. I would go for Sumo springs as soon as I buy my van, front and rear for the overall added clearance. I have seen some folks upgrade their shocks too but that seems a bit much. GOOD JOB! looking forward to you two being back on the road, happy trails and CAREY ON!

[@CareyOnVagabond]

Such an easy upgrade wish such a noticeable difference! We are enjoying our time here but also looking forward to getting back on the road. Soon! Carey On! 🚐💨

[@trekfortruth2841]

Thx for this very helpful video...just ordered a set for my truck camper!

[@CareyOnVagabond]

Trek For Truth You’re welcome! I hope they work for you as well as us! Drove in some high crosswind recently and that was even better!

[@pennylee6569]

Wow that so awesome love yah Irene and Dave

[@CareyOnVagabond]

Thanks Penny!

[@Eyagsf]

Great information to share. Thanks you guys

[@CareyOnVagabond]

Thanks! Hope it helps anyone who’s thinking of doing it!

[@happycat]

Great informative video for the people that have such issues.Not to be negative but I noticed Pistol had a tear stain running down her cheek, which I haven't noticed before.As usual love your choice of music and the extra shots of Pistol, which you know myself and others enjoy.. Happy Trails To You!

[@CareyOnVagabond]

Her eyes have been weeping a lot. I think she’s suffering from allergies. I’m going to get her into the vet to see. I did give her a Benadryl and that seemed to help. The pollen here this year is out of control! It doesn’t help that she is always romping around. It’s always something with that little girl. Has Jewel’s had allergies before?

[@happycat]

No she never has, but she is always in the same location and rarely in the grass for very long. She has food addiction and built in gut alarm!

[@CareyOnVagabond]

happycat 😆😆

[@jaywillis1587]

great video guys oh yea by the way congratulations on hitting 3k subscribers. love them videos keep up the great work and thanks for all the work you guys do......later gater.

[@CareyOnVagabond]

Thanks Jay! We really do appreciate all of your comments and encouragement!

[@marilynbeardslee2163]

Honestly, I don't really care about springs in a van. But I watch because of Pistol. What a wonderful dog!😊

[@CareyOnVagabond]

Marilyn Beardslee 😆😆😆 Pretty sure everyone watches because of Pistol.😆😆😆

[@rogerghering7969]

I did this to my 2009 Winnebago Navion 24j and I put koni shocks on also

[@andreatuckman1084]

Great job, Dave👏🏽👏🏽👏🏽

[@CareyOnVagabond]

Thank you Andrea!🚐😁

[@urbanwarrior5367]

Probably the easiest suspension upgrade I have ever seen. That extra inch will also help. I almost did a "Dave" already, but the cover survived!

[@CareyOnVagabond]

It was super easy and so worth it! Dave sure hopes he doesn’t wind up being the namesake for that cover thing tho...😂😂

[@freddubose5539]

Thanks. Great video. Looking for some for a 2003 ford excursion. Thanks

[@MultiRabe]

Oh wow, you can see a difference in the speed bump test! I wonder if there will be a big, noticeable diff in the up n down bounce & swaying on some of those BLM desert roads? Congrats on the success of your modification 👌👍😎✌🏻

[@CareyOnVagabond]

Thanks Roberto! Yes! The footage was very telling! We are very confident there will be a big improvement on those rough roads. We already notice a much better ride on paved roads!

[@justlucky13]

Looks like smooth sailing from now Careying On

[@CareyOnVagabond]

So far so good! Thanks Scott!

[@Lracnolip]

great video, this install looks easy thank you

[@CareyOnVagabond]

You’re welcome 😉😁

[@smoke09able]

Great visuals on before and after. Love the installation music!

[@CareyOnVagabond]

Thanks Rick! We were very pleasantly surprised when we watched the under-van footage!

[@MikeWallace61]

Would love to see a short video of how your black and gray tanks mount under your rig.

[@CareyOnVagabond]

Mike Wallace If I ever get it lifted enough to crawl under it safely I’ll film everything underneath the van!

[@richardjones990]

Nice install. If you can’t get the bike up there, did out your 70’s platform boots.

[@CareyOnVagabond]

That is hilarious! 😂😂🕺🕺

[@paulbearbradford2498]

Great video, Mahalo for sharing

[@CareyOnVagabond]

Thank you!

[@cinnamon--girl]

I appreciate your "Real World Scientific Discoveries." You guys always ROCK!! And Miss Pistol too. x0x0x

[@CareyOnVagabond]

Thank you! It was a fun video:) Pistol says thanks too:)

[@mishu3271]

Did you say you were in Kitchener again? Well come on over if you can install them on a 13’ Vintage Fg trailer. No shocks at all! Bumpity bumpity...😱. Love your vids. Am thinking of a Zion but in Canada over $100,000 plus plus plus and Roadtrek is practically in my backyard! Wish I could get my hands on a Fiat Ducato - fab design. Take a look at Finish couple at Vantastic who live in their van ft. Thanks for taking us along!

[@CareyOnVagabond]

😁Still in Oregon for now. Our first RV was an 11 ft home built trailer with no shocks so we know exactly what you mean by bumpity bumpity !😳 Thank you for watching and the kind words. We’ll check out that other couple. Maybe when we return to Ontario we’ll see you down the road!

[@alliesandow7016]

Great video! We just ordered some and hopeful we can put them on ourselves! Dave, we want to take you up on your offer to help! Coming to Ohio anytime soon?? 😂 I know I can email you with any questions!!👌😘🐾🚐😜

[@CareyOnVagabond]

Thanks Allie! 😆Would Love to help! Pretty sure you’ll have them on by the time we get there tho!😂 And Yes! You can email us anytime!

[@msh441]

I know this is an older vehicle, and you’ve moved on to another Promaster... but did you ever install the front Sumo ‘spring’ to either of your vans? It’s basically just a urethane coil spacer. I was SUPER skeptical on the front, but knew the rear was a ‘must’. Did all four corners yesterday, by myself. Took about an hour, start to finish. Didn’t remove a single tire. Results are terrific! The rears operate as expected (less sway, and the suspension calms down quicker). The fronts though were a huge surprise! I’ve noticed a little ‘bump steer’ in the Promaster, as it FWD. Really took a lot of that sensation away. It feels like the rig just holds a line and tracks better/easier. I’m a convert, and would recommend the ‘full package to anyone considering the rears may be ‘good enough’.

[@CareyOnVagabond]

I agree! We did front and back in the first van and were so happy we did all four in the new van!

[@philiptarnaski1667]

Great video thanks for the how to. After a month can you all give an update on how you like or dislike them? Thanks again and safe travels.

[@CareyOnVagabond]

Thanks Philip! We will try and remember to do that. If we forget don’t hesitate to remind us:) So far we really really like the improvements!

[@bevn362]

Did Dave prefer to take the tire off or crawl under and change the Sumo? I thought little Sumo wrestlers were going to pop out of the Sumosprings box and hold the Van up for Dave while he changed them.😉 What is that black loop rubber-band that hangs down (you can see it in the video when doing the comparison test over speed bump; seems like in the very first speed bump test in the beginning of the video that rubber-band really swings to the inner side of the van) Yellow👍🏼👍🏼👍🏼 Interesting to know about the different (from Sumo site): SumoSprings come in various densities, also referred to as durometer, grade, or light|medium|heavy duty. This question is common for all SumoSprings’ applications. The answer is twofold. One, what is the vehicle being used for? Commercial applications almost always carry a lot of weight, and therefore a heavy-duty material is recommended. Class B coaches do carry a lot of weight, but drivers tend to want improved ride quality over load carrying ability. So, a medium -47 (black) or -54 (yellow) are both acceptable. Therefore, two, it comes down to personal preference. If you have ever driven an American muscle car in comparison to a German sports car, you may be familiar with comments like “the American muscle felt loose,” or “the German sport felt tight.” It is personal preference in most Class B applications. Statistically speaking, for the front, the -40 SumoSprings and/or Coil SumoSprings are most popular. For the rear of 2500 series vans, without anything in tow, the -47 SumoSprings are most popular. For 3500 series vans, the -54 SumoSprings are most popular. In some instances, SuperSprings are used, but that is a different conversation. Carry on🚐

[@CareyOnVagabond]

He liked both ways because taking the wheel off first gave him a good look at it. He’d probably not remove the wheel again. Harder to get to but quicker once you know how. Actually jacking it up was the longest part of the project!:) We saw the strap also and we think it is a Velcro strap for the auxiliary propane hose which we had removed 2 years ago after it developed a leak. We never got around to replacing it because we never use it and figured why replace something may leak again if we don’t need it:)

[@mriguy7824]

OMG.... Dave Carey is the new Sumo Pro! (and Irene is the new video Pro) Great job...this is the best video so far for Sumo Spring installations... ( and the most entertaining ! ) ...just one question? Did Pistol chase around your friends cat?

[@CareyOnVagabond]

Haha! Well I don’t know about Pro but they are really simple to install! Thanks for taking the time to show us yours. If not for that we wouldn’t even have them. You’re right, the ride is SO MUCH BETTER! Thanks again! Feel free to share. 😉 Did Pistol chase the cat? No, quite opposite actually. That kitty is crazy and chases Pistol. She is terrified of him! 😆😬

[@stanw909]

Do you think you can now get tires one inche taller to give you a little more clearance under your axle ?

[@CareyOnVagabond]

I wish I could Stan but I think it would be just a bit tight. Too bad because there is room on the front two.

[@johnnelson903]

Super job 👏 I have 2015 fiat ducato van the same can you tell me the code number on the springs from Ireland 🇮🇪 cheers

[@CareyOnVagabond]

Sorry I don’t as this is a fairly old video. Check out their website. I think it should give you any info you need. Good luck!

[@vickielane7387]

Thanks for showing all that! It would seem that being more stable..less rocking...would ease the possibility of tipping over...right? FYI, if your intetested, there is a product out there you can add to the back sides to divert wind. I saw them on Advanced rv channel Safe travels :)

[@CareyOnVagabond]

Thanks Vickie! We definitely hope it’s less likely to tip over!:) It sure feels more stable and we’ve heard from others that it’s way better in a high cross wind. We’ll check out that other product! Thanks for the tip!

[@SuperSpringsInternational]

Hey love the video, I was wondering if you'd let us use some of the footage for social? We'd tag you and give you credit whenever we use it. - Josh

[@CareyOnVagabond]

Help yourself 👍

[@littleaub2145]

When you get a little bit more money change them to Timbren, you will be glad you did.

[@notanomad9320]

Looks great, Why wouldn't Roadtrek install these as an option or even as standard equipment?

[@CareyOnVagabond]

I’m not really sure. I don’t think any of the RV companies that use the Promaster do it. Maybe that will Change:)

[@rogerghering7969]

Why did you not do that to the front too I also put koni shocks on my 2009 Winnebago Ithaca’s Navion 24 J motor home made a big difference

[@CareyOnVagabond]

I’m confused? The video shows us installing the front also.

[@josephbianchimano5672]

great difference even in the video , however do you think doing the front would also make any difference ?

[@CareyOnVagabond]

They are amazing! You will have to keep watching, we install the front ones later! 👍🏼

[@theresaboudreau2206]

Hi! I don't know if there's much difference between the weight of your van compared to Pleasure Way vans but I listened to a video from Ultramobility yesterday and he said Pleasure Way didn't recommend raising their vans for safety reasons. With the weight of solar and the air conditioner on top they're top heavy.

[@CareyOnVagabond]

Probably a good idea. I suspect they are referring to a traditional lift kit. With this added support it feels way more stable and safe. Others have noticed an increase in stability in heavy winds.

[@theresaboudreau2206]

I see, Thanks.

[@charlienewmark6974]

Did you do front and back or just the back? Also which ones did you get? I saw they have several kind on the website. Various weight capacities. Wondering if I should just get the highest one 5000 lbs or If that will raise it too high. Great video and very helpful. Thank you,

[@CareyOnVagabond]

We did both front and back. The amazon links to the ones we used are on the products page of our website. www.careyonvagabond.com/amazon-products The picture of the front ones are on the page. The rear link is under that one. Good luck!

[@starspaa]

Wow,wow,wow!!!!!

[@CareyOnVagabond]

That’s what we said when we watched the under-van footage! Pretty amazing. We were thinking of sharing it on the Zion/Simplicity site because it really shows the difference but we don’t want anyone to think we are using the site to promote our channel:) Hope all is well with you!

[@starspaa]

i'll link it there for ya. gonna run to Jupiter Island on the east coast for a coupe days for a test run with Sitka ... see how he does. i then hope to hit the road between the 9th and 14th.

[@CareyOnVagabond]

Oh I so hope he’s well enough to get on the road for the summer. Sending good vibes your way! I bet a road trip is just what he needs. 😊🐶 Thanks for sharing the vid! 👍🏼 See ya down the road.! 🚐💨

[@rickgoldberg2392]

Curious if you did the front also since doing the back.

[@CareyOnVagabond]

Yes. In future videos. They help and raise the front about half an inch.

[@randya8164]

Great Mechanically illustrated video. Need to get a set of those springs. I noticed you just hand tightened the springs. was the blue stuff you put on the screw a type of Lock-tight? You needed a leverage to get the old ones off, so I am a little concerned about these coming loose (unless you have great torque strength in your hands :). "Keep traveling and Carey on".

[@CareyOnVagabond]

Thanks Randy! We were super happy with the under-van footage! The blue stuff is lock-tite that came with the springs. The instructions actually said to only hand tighten. Yup, Dave actually read the instructions.😂 Thanks for watching!

[@pete4633]

Where did you get these? I have a 2021 Zion on a 3500 ram pro master. I looked on Amazon and the sumo springs are all made in China not America. Where did you get yours?

[@CareyOnVagabond]

@@pete4633 I really don’t recall. This was 6 years ago.

[@swiftadventurer]

I’m also wondering if Sumos are more advantageous for vans that are heavily loaded like yours compared to the bare bones like mine with a bit of gear and a dirt bike on the back. I still mumble over the harshness of the ride over frost cracks and think a heavier loaded van like yours would be smoother. Would like to hear if Sumo install does anything about that. I’ll get out my “certified” tape measure and see what my measurement says. I did go over a free weigh scale, ironically along Oregon coast; read 3400lbs on front and 3300 on rear axle. Would also like to know how that compares. Good video, folks. And speaking of testing van gear...was in upper Pen Mi. yesterday, guy with dead battery asked me for a boost, I had cables but after just 30 seconds of looking for a battery under the seat where I knew it was, light bulb moment occurred, and thought there’s got to be a lead under the hood...yup. A Michigander is happier cuz of that, but I got to expand my knowledge of the Promaster a tiny bit.

[@CareyOnVagabond]

I suspect you’d find them helpful for side to side sway even tho you are lighter but I don’t really know. I haven’t noticed any difference on cracks and rough pavement but I haven’t driven on them much yet. I’m sure ours is quite a bit heavier than yours, especially when the 36 gal water tank is full! I need to weigh it but maybe I’m afraid to.😳 It’s funny about the lead under the hood. I just noticed it yesterday when I was looking at the near future job of air filter change. Looks like a pain... Been enjoying your flying videos! Stay safe!

[@swiftadventurer]

oh boy, oh boy, would like to see a vid about the air filter, BUT I can easily look elsewheres if you're otherwise occupied than producing something like that.

[@CareyOnVagabond]

I actually couldn’t find a video on the engine air filter! I did see one on changing the cabin air filter which I am Also changing.

[@swiftadventurer]

sheesh, don't you just hate it when they leave it to us amateurs to spread all this crucial public information.

[@hdlowrider5413]

Excellent informational video. I have done over $3000 in chassis upgrades on my C. It has been an unbelievable difference in driving. I can drive all day versus a couple of hours with the factory set up. No fatigue from constant handling adjustments behind the wheel. Someday a RV builder will make these upgrades an option or standard equipment. Does your chassis have upgradeable sway bars?

[@CareyOnVagabond]

Thank you!😊 I don’t really know what else is upgradable under this van.🤷‍♂️

[@vanellopespitstop3093]

Are Boston Terriers a required tool for installation?

[@CareyOnVagabond]

Of course!😉😁

[@edwardhardison6772]

You folks going to be in SW Florida anytime this winter ? Been wanting to do this mod on front and back of my Ram 3500 . Come visit , free place to stay . Would appreciate the help . Cheers

[@CareyOnVagabond]

I don’t know if we will or not. Thanks for the offer😉😁

[@BearUkulele]

Bravo! on both the installation and video documentation. Did you ever weigh the rig? I know most RVs are very near the GVWR of the base van when they leave the factory. Something like these Sumo springs should probably be standard equipment even though they don't do anything to increase cargo capacity.

[@CareyOnVagabond]

Thanks! Haven’t weighed it yet and after seeing the under-van footage I agree they should be standard! Hope all is well with you!

[@jimcal9106]

Nice

[@michaelscott369]

This is kind of off topic the dome lights in the front replace the bulbs with LEDs

[@jimguyett7969]

Great video, would you not put them on the front also?

[@CareyOnVagabond]

Thanks Jim! They do make a product for the front as well and we may get those as well. Most of the people we talked to said the biggest ride improvement was just doing the rear.

[@CGreciful]

Jim you can do the front. The logic for most people only doing the rear is that Roadtrek added a lot more weight (house build out) on the rear, so it actually feels pretty balanced with only the rear done. I guess you'd need a truck scale to be sure of the loading balance....

[@CareyOnVagabond]

Thanks for the info Christopher!

[@wd60th]

Irene, You will have to ride in the back now and see if it’s smoother. I’ve heard nothing but good things about those Suma Springs. Good job Dave. I think I might even be able to do it. You made it look so easy.

[@CareyOnVagabond]

Hi Karen, Dave here. Thank you! Usually its Irene talking here:) It was pretty easy. I’m thinking Irene may just stay in bed while I drive now😆 (Let’s see if she sees that comment:)

[@jluis5188]

You have leaf springs in the rear, why not just use a new HD leaf pack or add-a-lead?

[@endtimes2]

As per instructions you’re suppose to tighten those with a ratchet

[@jackrussell8858]

Ciao. Come si comportano a distanza di 5 anni?

[@CareyOnVagabond]

We sold that van several years ago but they worked great while we had it.

[@fidelhc6595]

trabaja mucho mejor el resorte amarillo

[@CareyOnVagabond]

Thanks for watching

[@sin4459]

Per the instructions aren't you supposed to have 1/2 or 1 inch gap between the bump stops.

[@jim-uu2db]

Pistol missed momma.

[@CareyOnVagabond]

She is definitely mommas girl😍

[@dougmorrison644]

👍A+ TY

[@CareyOnVagabond]

Doug Morrison Thanks!

[@danielnation9123]

The term you're looking for is More stable.. Lol

[@ruijing2049]

Wast of money