Keeping Your RV Leveling Jacks Safe From Wear and Tear

RV leveling jacks are designed to secure your rig at the correct angle so that it is not tilted in one direction while parked. The RV not only needs to be level for your comfort but the components of the RV system rely on leveling to work effectively. If an RV is not positioned well, you will find it difficult to extend and retract the slides, and some appliances, like refrigerators, might not work properly. Keeping your RV leveling Jacks safe from wear and tear is important because it will extend their life and make your work easier.

Read the Manual
While reading a manual isn’t the most fun thing to do, it is important for familiarizing yourself with your leveling jacks. You should know the leveling system on your RV inside and out. The RV manual will explain how to use them, handle them, and take care of them while also informing you what to do when you have a problem. Before undertaking any of the following maintenance tips below, go through your RV owner’s manual as well as those specific to your jacks.

Cleaning and Lubrication
Dirt and debris are almost unavoidable when extending your leveling jacks for use as well as when you are retracting them after use. This can result in serious issues if not taken care of. To avoid unforeseen issues with your jacks, always wipe down the jack before retracting them after each use.

On a periodic basis, it is good to lubricate your jack. Your manual will tell you how often you should lubricate it and the type of lubricant to use. The lubricant can be silicone lubricant or something similar to automatic transmission fluid, depending on your manufacturer’s recommendation. Ensure you are using the recommended type because the wrong one can be detrimental to the lifespan of your jacks.

Check the Hydraulic Fluids Regularly
RV leveling jacks work by taking advantage of the laws of hydraulics. Because hydraulics systems inherently involve placing fluids under pressure, make sure you check the fluid levels at least once per month to see that they are at proper levels.

Always Use the Jack on a Flat Surface
Setting up your leveling system on rough or rocky surfaces can cause damage to the system. If your area isn’t reasonably flat, try to move to another spot. While leveling jacks are designed to even out minor inconsistencies in the ground below your RV, they can’t handle rough terrain.

Additionally, if the ground is soft, you will need to distribute the weight of your jack across a greater surface area to prevent it from sinking. For soft ground, buy load distribution pads to help make this process safer for your RV.

If you want to buy an RV leveling jack or would like additional advice, please call our professionals today at 866-332-7881. RVupgrades is ready to help you get the most out of your RV!