How much does a tag axle improve the ride quality? I'm trying to decide whether to get an RV with or without a tag. I'm wondering how the tag can have a major difference in the ride quality. All opinions will be greatly appreciated.
Tag axle is not so much for ride quality as it is for increased weight capacity and braking. In my opinion air ride suspension is far superior to spring suspension in ride quality.
Not so much ride quality, but a tag axle rig will be less likely to move around when passing or passed by a big truck.
Agree with both Clint and Richard. Having had both, the directional stability of coaches with tag axles is improved. Air suspension is the key to a luxury ride. Tags are added by the manufacturer to allow extra weight to be carried. Newell hasn't made a coach without a tag axle in over 20 years. #428, a 38'2" 1996 was the last Newell built without a tag that I am aware of. #374, a 37'8" 1995 was the next to the last non-tag Newell. #366, a 38'2" 1994 was likely the only 1994 model without a tag axle. Prior to 1994, non-tag Newells were more common. Due to weight restrictions, I am unaware of any Newell built after 1990 that was 40' or longer built without a tag axle.
Pro to non tags is 2 less tires to buy, 2 less bearing to oil, 2 less brakes and 2 less air bags to maintain.
I LOVE the look of mine with the tag axle. It is very stable on the road when semis pass.
However the non tag version of my coach has a little more storage.
As for me, the improved stability while driving is worth whatever the tags cost in lost storage & increased maint cost.
coach 366 does not have a tag axle. Paul
Thanks Paul, I typed "with" instead of "without". I have corrected my post.
It's a fact that tags are better for weight distribution, as i worry about our coach#428 being over loaded. I am still amazed,as i pass a semi-truck, as to how minimal wind shear we experience! Great engineered unit no doubt!
Russ