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JorgeS's avatar
JorgeS
Explorer
Feb 11, 2018

Newbie - '90 Holiday Rambler Limited DP - HWH Jack System

I'm looking for help on a 1990 HR Limited we're seriously considering, and really like, but have some concerns.
It's been well cared for, but has some issues that make us afraid it will empty our wallets. If we can figure out how serious these are, we will make an offer, or walk away. I'm posting several threads by item, to make it easier to answer. Hopefully someone here is familiar with these coaches, and can offer some advice.

It has the HWH jack system with multiple toggle switches.
These jacks retract, and fold upwards (like airplane landing gear).
I pushed button to "autolevel" the coach; one jack started pivoting downward, but stopped after moving only slightly, and nothing else happened after this. I pushed several buttons after this, including the "retract", and others, but nothing woudl happen. I don't think I was "going crazy" pushing buttons, but pushed what seemed (to an ignorant newbie) to make sense. Anyone have a suggestion on what might be going on here?
Is the jack system very difficult, or parts very expensive, to repair?

Thank you in advance! My wife and I really like the coach, the layout, the quality, the ruggedness, etc., and would like to get it if we think we can address the concerns

Jorge
Class A
  • MrWizard's avatar
    MrWizard
    Moderator
    Feb 12, 2018
    need model number on jacks

    I suspect they are hydraulic, a pumps supplies pressure
    a 12v electric valve controls the flow for each jack
    the switches connect to a control board, that controls the valves

    did you hear the pump running ? or did it stop running

    if running, could be low on ATF fluid, or bad connections or control
    if not running, its the most costly 'problem' in the list

    you like the 'floor plan' design etc

    i think i would look for another RV with a similar floor plan

    at least consider the fact, you could spend thousands more if you have to replace the jack system

    and instead end up using portable plastic leveling blocks under the wheels, about $30 per set, one set for each wheel

    for this system this age
    it might be 'manual mode' to get each jack on the ground
    and 'then auto level'

    i prefer manual mode all the time, i don't like the way auto level works on most systems
    getting the rv higher than necessary
  • JorgeS's avatar
    JorgeS
    Explorer
    Feb 12, 2018
    Thank you Mr. Wizard.
    Engine was running at the time, so I don't think I would have hears the pump running.
    In my view, the jacks are not a deal breaker. I think I could level it by other means, although it would be nice to have the use of them.
    I didn't see any leaks anywhere... in fact the coach had no leaks of any kind.
    Being that one pivoted only a little (say 10-15 degrees downward only), and the others not at all, does this mean there's a good chance that its' a pump or low on oil?
    I know... impossible to diagnose accurately by my half baked description, so educated guesses are appreciated.
    As for numbers, the coach is 2 hrs away from me :-(

    Thanks again, I appreciate the thoughts.
  • MrWizard's avatar
    MrWizard
    Moderator
    Feb 12, 2018
    you would need to retract that 'one'
    and then try another one

    better to just check the jacks hyd system, pump reservoir
    could be stuck valves not opening ? loose corroded connections etc..
    with engine off and key on you should hear the pump
    just something to think about
    IF you go back for a second look
  • johnhicks's avatar
    johnhicks
    Explorer
    Feb 12, 2018
    With the jacks up fill the jack reservoir with ATF. It'll take a surprising amount. Then with the engine runninng try the jacks again. You need to download a manual for your jacks from WH.
  • dougrainer's avatar
    dougrainer
    Nomad
    Feb 12, 2018
    1. HWH no longer supports the OLD toggle switch controlled panel.
    2. Here is the link to the Kick down system and maintenance and operation for the 100 series. You would have to remove the existing control system and the cheapest route would be to install the Lever system on this link. Doug

    https://www.hwhcorp.com/ml7367.pdf
  • JorgeS's avatar
    JorgeS
    Explorer
    Feb 12, 2018
    Sheesh guys... thank you!!
    Great information.
    And yes Mr. wizard... if we go back. We're still thinking about it.
    Thanks again! If we go back, i'll be sure to print and take this manual with me.
  • johnhicks's avatar
    johnhicks
    Explorer
    Feb 13, 2018
    Thanks Doug!

    If your control box has fuses, replace them. Don't think about it, just do it.
  • JorgeS's avatar
    JorgeS
    Explorer
    Feb 13, 2018
    Thanks guys.
    We're going to make an offer, and it f we meet on pricing, will go Saturday to close the deal.
    Fortunately, I think all the manuals are in the coach. Including Cat engine, Gillig, HWH, and so on. There's a pile about 8" thick (or more) with manuals under the dinette seat.
  • dougrainer's avatar
    dougrainer
    Nomad
    Feb 13, 2018
    If you are paying over 10k for this motorhome, it is NOT a good deal. Doug

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