Forum Discussion

Dave_Spurgeon's avatar
Nov 08, 2013

HWH leveling jack won't go up

I have a '98 Winnebago Brave w/ HWH leveling jacks. Three days ago, my right front jack didn't raise with the left. They were both extended just about all the way. I eventually get it to go up, but I want some direction as to how to proceed to get it repaired. Thank you.

26 Replies

  • You didn't say where you were at the time the jack would not retract, which could be the reason. I have had my jacks FREEZE to the ground in cold temps. Since the retraction is by springs, and not hydraulic pressure, if something like ice is holding the jack down, it will not retract. Once the ice melts, or the ground softens, everything is back to normal.
  • write azpete a pm and he can tell you what is wrong...He was or is an HWH rep and was very helpful when I had a problem with all four jacks not retracting....
  • I have had the same problem with the right rear jack, been that way since it was new.
    They supposedly repaired it about 3 times till it was out of warranty. Then I just gave up.
    If the jacks are lowered for more than a day it takes it about 15 minutes to go up. If it is pretty cool weather it some times takes longer. I just never get in a hurry. Good Luck
    This jack is on a 06 Winnebago Adventurer.
  • When problems occur with the HWH system and it has to do with the right front jack, it isn't the jack itself. For some reason, that's the jack that is the last to get fluid or have the air bled off.

    I'd check the solenoid like Brett suggested. He knows this stuff frontwards and backwards. Check to see if the handle is partially turned in. It has to be all the way out.

    Due to the age of your coach, I'd change the fluid. It uses MD3, or the old style GM transmission fluid. It takes about a gallon. Syphon out the old fluid, pour the new stuff in and recycle the jacks several times.

    Finally, lubricate the shinny part of the jack with the same MD3, using a rag or paper towel. I spray my jacks with silicone spray and have been doing that for over 10 years. They retract and store in about 5 seconds, and work great. I understand you should not use WD40 for some reason.

    My springs are all still original and the jacks are all still original. I haven't replaced anything except the fluid. The coach is 20 years old.

    When I had a problem with my right front jack, HWH said to send it to them for rebuilding. I didn't. They didn't have any other suggestions. Others on this forum suggested lubricating the jack and that's what I did. I changed fluid as a preventive measure and since it so easy and cheap.
  • Could be the solenoid for that jack. HWH has some pretty good help by phone and on line.