Don’t Let Wobble Ruin Your RV Adventure: The Critical Importance of Professional Stabilizer Jack Service
When you’re settling in for a peaceful evening at one of Orange County, North Carolina’s beautiful campgrounds, the last thing you want is a wobbly, unstable RV that shakes every time someone moves inside. RVs, being built light for easy (and economical) travel are not “rock solid” in camp. The longer they are, the more they tend to rock and shake as folks move about inside. To that end, most travel trailers and fifth wheels are equipped with stabilizer jacks. Professional stabilizer jack service isn’t just about comfort—it’s essential for safety, proper appliance function, and preventing costly structural damage to your recreational vehicle.
Understanding the Critical Role of RV Stabilizer Jacks
RV stabilizer jacks are designed to reduce movement and sway within your camper when it’s parked and set up at a campsite. These systems serve multiple vital functions beyond just minimizing wobble. These jacks level the rig which is important for comfort while sleeping but also to ensure the refrigerator is level and the solution of hydrogen, water, ammonia, and sodium chromate in the cooling unit can make its way back to the boiler vessel. Both Norcold and Dometic require the cooling unit to be level 6 degrees side to side and 3 degrees front to back otherwise it will pool in a corner and start to heat up and eventually block the flow.
The jacks are also used to stabilize a rig which keeps it from rocking back and forth while walking through the unit. The constant banging of mini blinds can be very annoying! More importantly, the jacks and leveling system in your RV are vital for stability and safety. When you park your RV, especially on uneven ground, these systems ensure that your vehicle remains level and secure. A properly leveled RV is more comfortable, prevents structural stress, and ensures that appliances work correctly.
Common Stabilizer Jack Problems That Require Professional Attention
RV owners frequently encounter several issues with their stabilizer jacks that can compromise both safety and comfort. The affected stabilizers would not hold the position once tightened. This is often a sign of worn internal components or motor failure in electric systems.
Another common problem is excessive extension leading to instability. He advised that the trailer will be less stable the more the stabilizers are extended. As mentioned by a previous reply, the closer the stabilizer footing is to the trailer frame, the more stable the trailer will be. Scissor style stabilizer jacks have their rated strength ONLY after being extended out so far. Here’s a quote from one jack manual: “This jack’s weight capacity is 5,000 lb. only between 13-3/4″ and 23-1/2″; the weight capacity drastically reduces as the height drops below this level.”
Maintenance neglect is another significant issue. Grease attracts dirt, especially underneath a trailer, and that dirt gets in to the threads and causes binding. Get it all out with a good degreaser and a power washer and start over. This highlights why professional maintenance using proper lubricants is crucial.
The Importance of Professional Maintenance and Service
Regular professional maintenance is essential for optimal stabilizer jack performance. The jack manufacturer recommends lubricating the threads of the jack and bearing area with WD-40 as needed. If the jacks become difficult to turn or there is a lot of visible surface rust then you should apply the WD-40 or similar product to the affected areas. Remember, even if you don’t use the jacks that often they are still under the trailer frame and exposed to harsher elements like road grime, magnesium chloride, salts, etc. XT owners should check and make sure both jacks are operating properly before leaving on each camping trip.
Schedule regular maintenance appointments to have your RV’s jacks and leveling system professionally inspected and serviced. Remember, regular inspection, cleaning, lubrication, and prompt attention to any issues are key to a well-maintained RV. Professional technicians can identify potential problems before they become costly repairs and ensure your system operates safely and efficiently.
Why Choose Professional RV Services in Orange County, NC
When it comes to stabilizer jack service in Orange County, North Carolina, choosing the right service provider is crucial. Stream RV is a locally owned and operated, fully licensed and insured Chapel Hill, NC RV service provider. For years, our team of certified and experienced technicians has been repairing the RVs of Orange County travelers. For expert RV Services Orange County NC, Stream RV offers comprehensive solutions for all your stabilizer jack needs.
Here are just a few reasons why you should consider Stream RV, and why we are your best choice for RV maintenance and Travel Trailer repair and service in North Carolina: We offer professional, personalized service. We will discuss recommended repairs in a way that is easy to understand and transparent … We’ll keep you posted on progress and provide you with details about your repair or service. We source quality parts and complete the repair or service as soon as possible to get you back on the road right away. We warranty our workmanship for 6 months or 6,000 miles, whichever comes first.
Preventive Measures for Stabilizer Jack Longevity
Proper usage and maintenance can significantly extend the life of your stabilizer jacks. Before attempting to stabilize your XT, it’s essential to park on the most level surface you can find. Adding blocks or risers under your levers or stabilizing jacks of your RV not only creates a more stable RV, it helps prevent excessive stress on leveling legs and stabilizers on your RV.
Avoid using any power tools during the cranking process. Although tempting, it will likely ruin your jacks within a few uses as they are only designed to move at a slow rpm under human strength. This is why professional service is so important—experienced technicians understand the proper procedures and limitations of different jack systems.
The Stream RV Advantage
Stream RV offers personalized service and repair for all types of RVs, campers, motorhomes, food trucks, travel trailers, 5th wheels, and horse trailers. Don’t get lost in the shuffle dealing with large high-volume dealers – we are locally owned and operated and strive to address the individual needs of each customer. We have the knowledge required to work on both new and old models. We work on Forest River, Keystone, Jayco, Heartland, Dutchmen, Coachmen, Grand Design, Chinook, and many other brands.
Customer satisfaction speaks volumes about service quality. Great communications with me with the issue with my rv. Chris the service manager did a fantastic job communicating with me the issue. They repaired my rv in a timely manner.
Conclusion: Don’t Compromise on Safety and Comfort
Neglecting these systems can lead to costly repairs and unsafe conditions. Professional stabilizer jack service is an investment in your safety, comfort, and the longevity of your RV. Whether you’re planning a weekend getaway to Jordan Lake State Recreation Area or an extended stay at one of Orange County’s many campgrounds, properly maintained stabilizer jacks ensure your home away from home remains stable and secure.
Don’t let a wobbly RV ruin your outdoor adventures. Schedule professional stabilizer jack service with qualified technicians who understand the intricacies of these critical systems. Your peace of mind—and your RV’s structural integrity—depend on it.