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Explanation of WARNING and CAUTION symbols and critical safety advice for operation and maintenance.
Procedure for safely unhitching the trailer from the tow vehicle using the power tongue jack.
Procedure for safely hitching the trailer to the tow vehicle using the power tongue jack.
Steps for manually unhitching the trailer from the tow vehicle without electrical power.
Steps for manually hitching the trailer to the tow vehicle without electrical power.
Information on identifying and replacing blown fuses, and factors causing premature fuse blows.
Explanation of why the clutch might slip and how to address it to prevent motor damage.
The Lippert Power Tongue Jack is a robust and essential component designed for travel trailer A-frame applications, facilitating the vertical movement of the trailer for hitching and unhitching operations. Its primary function is to provide automated and manual control over the trailer's tongue height, making the process of connecting to or disconnecting from a tow vehicle significantly easier and more efficient.
The jack features a durable textured casing, engineered to offer protection against common wear and tear such as chips and cracks that can occur during regular use and exposure to various environmental conditions. This protective casing not only enhances the longevity of the device but also contributes to its aesthetic appeal, blending seamlessly with the trailer's existing structure.
One of the key usage features of the Power Tongue Jack is its integrated lighting system. Equipped with four LED lights, the jack provides excellent illumination, which is particularly beneficial when operating in low-light conditions or at night. These LEDs are designed to be energy-efficient, minimizing power consumption while still offering ample light for visibility during setup or breakdown. It's important to note that while the lights are convenient, leaving the ON/OFF light switch engaged for extended periods can drain the trailer's battery, so mindful use is encouraged.
The internal mechanics of the jack are engineered for smooth and quiet operation. It incorporates helical cut gears, which are known for their ability to reduce noise levels during extension and retraction, thereby improving the overall operating efficiency. This design choice ensures that adjustments can be made without causing undue disturbance, a valuable feature in quiet campgrounds or residential areas.
User interaction is facilitated through an enhanced rocker switch, which controls the extension (EXT) and retraction (RET) of the jack leg. This switch is designed for improved durability, withstanding repeated use over time. The ON/OFF light switch, located separately, allows independent control of the LED illumination. The intuitive layout of these controls simplifies the process of adjusting the trailer's height, making it accessible even for novice users.
For situations where electrical power is unavailable or interrupted, the Power Tongue Jack is equipped with a manual operation feature. This allows users to extend or retract the jack using a manual crank handle. To engage manual operation, a rubber plug on top of the jack's gearbox is removed to expose the manual drive shaft, into which the crank handle is inserted. Turning the handle clockwise extends the jack, while turning it counterclockwise retracts it. This manual override ensures that the trailer can always be hitched or unhitched, providing a critical backup in emergencies.
Maintenance features are straightforward, focusing on user awareness and simple checks. The jack is protected by a 30A ATO-type in-line fuse. If the jack fails to operate electrically, the fuse is the first point of inspection. A blown fuse indicates a potential issue, often related to low voltage from the battery, which can cause premature blowing. Therefore, ensuring the trailer's battery is fully charged is a crucial maintenance consideration for optimal performance and fuse longevity.
The Power Tongue Jack also incorporates a clutch mechanism, which serves as an overload protection for the motor. The clutch is designed to slip under two specific conditions: when the jack reaches its full extend or retract limit, or when the tongue weight of the trailer exceeds the jack's capacity limits. This slipping action prevents damage to the motor and internal components. Users are advised to release the switch immediately upon hearing the clutch noise to prevent excessive wear on both the clutch and the motor. If the clutch frequently slips due to excessive tongue weight, it suggests a need to reorganize items within the trailer to reduce the load on the jack.
Installation of the Power Tongue Jack is designed to be relatively simple for aftermarket applications. It involves carefully sliding the jack leg through the coupler hole on the trailer's A-frame, aligning the mounting plate holes, and securing it with hex bolts. Electrical connection requires connecting the red power wire to a grounded 12V power supply on the trailer, ensuring it's wired through a 30 amp fused circuit. All electrical wiring harnesses should be properly loomed and secured to prevent damage, adhering to RVIA electrical standards.
Before any installation or operation, it is paramount to support the trailer according to the manufacturer's recommendations. This safety precaution prevents serious injury or property damage. The footpad, which provides a stable base for the jack, is attached to the jack leg using a clevis pin and hairpin cotter pin, ensuring it is securely in place during operation.
In summary, the Lippert Power Tongue Jack is a user-friendly, durable, and reliable device that significantly enhances the convenience of managing a travel trailer. Its combination of automated and manual operation, protective casing, efficient lighting, quiet gears, and essential safety features like the clutch mechanism and fuse protection, make it an indispensable tool for any travel trailer owner. Regular checks of the battery charge and awareness of the clutch's function are the primary maintenance considerations, ensuring long-term, trouble-free operation.
General| Model | 285318 |
|---|---|
| Category | Jacks |
| Type | Electric Stabilizer Jack |
| Voltage | 12V DC |
| Mounting Type | Bolt-on |
| Material | Steel |
| Finish | Powder Coated |
| Travel | 18 inches |
