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Posdeer's avatar
Posdeer
Explorer
May 01, 2018

Which stabilizers do I need?

I've got a 1998 aerolite 830fk, I bought it a few months ago and it is missing the back 2 stabilizers. There is still 2 up front but I'm unable to read any numbers on it. From what I've learned they're a BAL stabilizer. The dry weight on the camper is 5500 lbs. Do I need stabilizers rated for that? And how to I know which length to get?
  • I ordered a set from Amazon but couldn't tell what the ends looked like. Hopefully they are the same but if not I'll deal with it for a while until I replace the front 2, then I'll make sure they all match.
  • You may want to be sure the stabilizers you buy have the same `end' as the originals to avoid having to have two different cranks. Our original ones had ends with a hole which required a crank with a right angle end that would fit into the hole.
    The ones we have now have a hex end that uses a crank with a socket.
  • Thanks everyone, I stopped by a few rv stores and I couldn't get any answers. I'll pick some up and give them a try.
  • Go to any RV parts store and just pick a pair up. Any will work for you. Remember, they are made to stabilize, not "lift". And "stabilize" does not mean motionless. The camper will still rock and shake a little, no matter what you do. The stabilizers keep the camper from tipping if too much weight is put on the end. That's the primary purpose.
  • Are you sure you need stabilizers in the front? Consider moving them to the rear and let the tongue jack stabilize the front.
  • Just measure to the ground and get something longer. It really isn't an exact science. Get a set that matches or exceeds your weight requirements. Going higher gets you a better built jack with superior bearings in the end.
    Something to take note of is the direction that it turns to raise and lower. Different brands turn in opposite directions.
    I learned this one the hard way and it was very annoying!

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