Swift Escape 664 Problems

Owning a Swift Escape 664 can be a dream come true for many motorhome enthusiasts. However, like any vehicle, it can have its quirks. One such intermittent issue revolves around the functioning of the gas struts supporting the French bed.

Problem: Intermittent Gas Strut Issue

Owners of the Swift Escape 664 occasionally encounter a peculiar challenge. The French bed’s gas struts, designed to assist in lifting and lowering the bed, sporadically lock in an extended position. Most of the time, these struts function without a hitch, but on the rare occasion, they can be a cause for distress. The bed refuses to be pushed down, and owners can find themselves spending considerable time adjusting the bed until the struts decide to cooperate.

Potential Solutions:

1. Jarring the Bed: Before attempting to lower the bed, giving it a slight push upwards might help in unlocking the struts. This action might help in disengaging any internal components that might be causing the issue.
2. Replacing the Struts: If the problem persists, consider replacing the struts. Some users have found that the original struts were not robust enough, especially when the bed was laden with bedding. Thankfully, these replacements aren’t overly expensive.
3. Limited Lifting: Some users observed that the problem arose because they didn’t lift the bed entirely very often. Just raising the bed slightly and not fully might cause some internal seals or components to stick occasionally. Ensure you fully lift the bed once in a while to maintain the strut’s functionality.
4. Check for Both Struts: Investigate if both struts are causing the issue. If one of them is the primary culprit, you might consider temporarily removing it. Some users have suggested using a makeshift prop, like a softwood batten with V notches, to support the bed.
5. Lubrication: Drawing parallels with similar problems in other contexts, applying a lubricant like WD40 on the struts might be beneficial. Spray the strut, and then move it up and down a few times to ensure smooth operation. It may help in freeing up any internal components that might be sticking.

Conclusion:

Gas strut issues on the Swift Escape 664’s French bed can be mildly frustrating, especially when they don’t behave as expected. However, with a little bit of troubleshooting and maintenance, this challenge can be managed effectively. Regular checks, lubrication, and understanding the mechanism can go a long way in ensuring a hassle-free experience with your motorhome’s bed. Whether you’re a seasoned Swift Escape owner or new to the community, it’s always good to be aware of potential challenges and their solutions.