5th wheel front jacks. Do not overlook!

Welcome to another Tech Tip Tuesday, brought to you by the National RV Training Academy (NRVTA)—the largest hands-on RV training academy in America! Today, we’re diving into an important safety concern that all fifth-wheel owners with electric leveling or stabilizer jacks need to be aware of.

The Hidden Risk in Your Leveling Jacks

If you own a fifth wheel with adjustable electric leveling or stabilizer jacks, there’s a small but crucial safety check that could prevent a catastrophic failure.

According to Chandler Cooper, exteriors instructor at NRVTA, many RVers unknowingly put themselves at risk by overlooking a simple step when setting up camp. The issue revolves around the pin that secures the jack leg—and whether or not it is fully locked in place.

The Common Mistake

When setting up camp, many RV owners:

1. Pull the pin, allowing the leg to extend.
2. Let go of the pin, assuming that the spring-loaded mechanism will push it all the way through and secure it in place.

Most of the time, this works as expected. However, there are instances where the pin does not fully engage—instead, it stops halfway through the hole. When this happens, the weight of the RV is unevenly distributed, resting solely on a partially engaged pin.

Why This is Dangerous

If the pin isn’t fully secured:

• The shear force on the pin increases significantly.
• A partially engaged pin may snap under pressure.
• If the pin shears off, the affected jack loses its load-bearing ability.
• The opposite jack is forced to carry all the weight, leading to a dual-jack failure—a dangerous situation that can cause severe damage to your RV.

How to Ensure Your Jacks Are Secure

To prevent this issue, follow these simple steps every time you set up camp:

1. Manually verify that the pin fully extends through the other side of the jack leg.
2. If the pin is not completely engaged, do not proceed with leveling.
3. Reconnect to your tow vehicle and slightly retract the jack.
4. Manually push the pin all the way through.
5. Once the pin is securely in place, disconnect again and continue setup.

Safety First for a Worry-Free RV Experience

Taking a few extra seconds to double-check your leveling jack pins can make all the difference in ensuring a safe and smooth camping experience.

At NRVTA, we prioritize safety and education for all RV owners. By following this simple but critical tip, you can prevent jack failure, avoid costly repairs, and most importantly—stay safe on your travels!

💬 Have you ever encountered leveling jack issues? Share your experiences in the comments!

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5th wheel front jacks. Do not overlook!