Forum Discussion

rcjays's avatar
rcjays
Explorer
Jan 17, 2014

Powergear Level System

I have a 2001 Holiday Rambler Endeavor diesel coach. The jack system is a Powergear manual system. Problem: I have been parked for several weeks and the jacks seem to be "lurching" ???? Once a day or more the jacks seem to release just a slight amount. More feel and sound than any change in level. Just annoying, especially at night. Reservoir is full, can't detect any leaks or seepage. Do I have a dirty valve?? Sticking valve? Would cycling the system several times help. Anyone have a similar problem? Thanks, JDA
  • wa8yxm's avatar
    wa8yxm
    Explorer III
    I have seen what appears to be what you are talking about,, Turns out the rig was still level after the "SPROOONG" and shudder.. Still do not know what was happening.
  • Go to powergearus.com

    That has all kinds of information...and you might even be able to contact (e-mail or phone) a real live person.

    If your jacks are sticking....spray some silicone on the chrome pistons at least 3-4 times a year.

    I have a 2001 system (hydraulic) and just replaced (myself) one of the jacks. Over 600 bucks (new, from PowerGear). They won't sell you, but you have to buy thru a dealer or retailer. They are not exactly consumer (us) friendly.

    My problem is this old, leaking jack might be able to get rebuilt. I cannot find any shop closer than 80 miles away that would even THINK about taking care of a rebuild....and if it cannot be rebuilt, I would have to pay them to take the thing apart and diagnose the problem. IF there is any kind of dings, scratches or imperfections on the chrome piston, forget any rebuild....for any kind of savings over a new one.

    You can find used ones on the 'net for about $350....but would you trust that? Not I.......

    If you want my story on buying and replacing, PM me.
  • Are you seeing large temperature swings between day and night. How cold is it at night. Anything below minus 10 and we hear things like that. Its loud. Especially at two in the morning.
  • From the PowerGear troubleshooting document:

    Sympton: Jack legs create popping sound

    Corrective Action: Extend jack legs, clean rod, lubricate with light weight grease if equipped with grease fittings
    or lubricate with silicone spray

    Corrective Action: Due to changes in temperature, expanding and contracting of fluid will magnify the problem of
    popping jacks, to help minimize this replace fluid with Mercon V fluid

    I think I would extend the jack legs, clean the rods, grease the foot if it has a grease fitting (not all do) and also lubricate with silicone spray. Then if this did not improve it, I'd change the fluid to Mercon V.

    Good luck.

    Fred
  • Thanks for the advice. I have already completed what fcooper suggested. We will see is I get positive results. JDA