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Have you ever been stranded at a campsite or rest stop because your RVโs slide or leveling system failed? You’re not aloneโand you’re not powerless. Whether you’re facing unresponsive jacks or a slide that refuses to budge, there’s now a practical solution that gives you back control and peace of mind.
Welcome to another Tech Tip Tuesday, brought to you by the National RV Training Academy (NRVTA)โthe largest hands-on RV training academy in America.
Introducing: The Rescue Tech
Hi, Iโm Chandler Cooper, the Exteriors and Hydraulics Instructor at NRVTA, and today Iโm excited to introduce you to a tool that I personally developed to help RV owners handle one of the most frustrating situations on the roadโbeing stuck because of a failed slide or leveling system.
Itโs called the Rescue Tech, and itโs designed to get you out of a jam and back on the road quickly, safely, and with confidence.
Why the Rescue Tech Was Created
As an RV technician, Iโve taken countless calls from panicked RV owners. Theyโre trying to leave a campground or hit the road after a stop, and suddenlyโnothing. The slides wonโt come in. The jacks wonโt retract. And in many areas, I might be the only tech around, which means theyโre stuck waiting hours for help.
Thatโs exactly why I created the Rescue Tech. It gives you the power to get your slides in and jacks up, so you can safely travel to your next destination and schedule a proper repair when it’s more convenient.
What Is the Rescue Tech?
The Rescue Tech is a compact, portable device that allows RV owners to override failed slide-out and leveling control systems. Itโs simple to use and designed with both beginners and seasoned DIYers in mind.
There are two generations of this device:
- Gen 1: Designed for basic hydraulic systems (not compatible with electric leveling).
- Gen 2: More advanced and compatible with hydraulic systems, electric leveling systems (like Lippert Level-Up), Schwintek, and Slim Rack systems. It also has attachments for motorhomes using Power Gear, Equalizer, and other common setups.
How It Works
The Rescue Tech allows you to bypass a failed controller, switch, or even a dead battery, giving you manual control over your system.
Features:
- Mobile and Local Controls: Use the control box directly or connect to a mobile app for wireless operation.
- Standard Battery Compatibility: No need to rely on your RV battery! Use a standard drill battery from DeWalt, Milwaukee, Makita, Ridgid, and more. Just plug in and go.
- Easy Plug-and-Play Setup: Simply locate your system controller, unplug the motor connections, and plug them into the labeled ports on the Rescue Tech.
๐ง Important Note: This tool wonโt fix mechanical motor or pump failuresโbut itโs ideal for controller failures, switch malfunctions, or total battery loss.
Real-Life Example
In a 2017 Grand Design Imagine, the slide controller was located under the rear bathroom sinkโa common (and hard-to-find) spot. Once found:
- Unplug Motor 1 and Motor 2 from the failed controller.
- Plug them into the Rescue Tech.
- Use the box or mobile app to retract the slide manually.
Problem solved. No tow truck. No waiting. No stress.
Who Needs the Rescue Tech?
This tool is ideal for:
- DIYers who want control over emergency issues.
- Full-time RVers who canโt afford delays.
- Weekend warriors looking for peace of mind.
- Anyone who has ever been stuck and didnโt want to be again.
Final Thoughts
The Rescue Tech gives RV owners confidence, control, and independence in the face of unexpected mechanical problems. Itโs not a replacement for proper repairsโbut itโs a powerful stopgap that can save your trip.
Whether you’re a hands-on RV enthusiast or just want the comfort of a backup plan, this tool belongs in your emergency kit.
๐ Learn more or order your own at skillabove.com.
And thereโs your Tech Tip!
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