Maintaining your RV stabilizer jacks, or as some call them, scissor jacks or even leveling jacks ensures a smooth and enjoyable camping experience. To Keeps simple, for the rest of the article I will be refer to them as stabilizer jacks.
Stabilizer jacks are crucial in providing stability and leveling support for your recreational vehicle. A good lubricant is essential to keep them functioning correctly, as it can significantly extend their lifespan and performance.
When selecting a lubricant for your RV stabilizer jacks, you should consider factors like protection against rust and corrosion, ease of application, and compatibility with your jacks’ material.
Key Takeaway:
Boeshield T-9 lubricant stands out as a top choice for RV stabilizer jacks because of its unique formulation that offers long-lasting protection against rust and corrosion, while also penetrating deeply to displace moisture and lubricate moving parts. Originating from aerospace applications, its proven efficiency ensures smooth operation of stabilizer jacks in various weather conditions, reducing wear and extending the lifespan of the equipment.
Why Lubrication Is Crucial
Lubrication is a vital aspect of maintaining your RV stabilizer jacks. In this section, we will discuss the importance of lubrication in three crucial areas: preventing rust and corrosion, ensuring smooth operation, and increasing the lifespan of your jacks.
Preventing Rust and Corrosion
Applying a high-quality lubricant like Boeshield T-9 creates a barrier against moisture and dirt that can cause rust and corrosion over time. Keeping the exposed metal parts of your jacks clean and well-lubricated helps to minimize potential damage and maintain their functionality.
Smooth Operation
Another vital aspect of lubricating your RV stabilizer jacks is to ensure smooth operation. Proper lubrication reduces friction between the moving parts and makes it easier to raise and lower the jacks. A well-lubricated jack will operate more efficiently and with less effort on your part. Don’t forget to clean and lubricate the shaft and seal to prevent dirt from causing damage.
Increasing Lifespan
Lubrication is essential in increasing the lifespan of your RV stabilizer jacks. By cleaning and lubricating them regularly, you can prevent premature wear and tear and prolong the life of your jacks. Taking good care of your stabilizer jacks by using the right lubricant will save you money in the long run by reducing the need for frequent replacements.
Other Lubricants for RV Stabilizer Jacks
3-IN-ONE Professional Garage Door Lubricant
Another great option is 3-IN-ONE Professional Garage Door Lubricant. This high-performance lubricant is designed to penetrate deep into moving parts to reduce friction and wear. It is safe for use on metal, rubber, and plastic components, making it a versatile choice for maintaining your RV stabilizer jacks.
Lubricating Your Stabilizer Jacks: A Step-by-Step Guide
Before You Start
Gather the necessary tools and materials. You will need a cloth or rag to clean the jacks, a dry lubricant specifically designed for RV stabilizer jacks, and safety goggles to protect your eyes from debris.
Note: Avoid using lubricants like the standard form of WD-40, as they can attract dirt and grime, leading to further complications with your jacks’ performance.
Cleaning the Jacks
- Park your RV on a level surface to ensure the stabilizer jacks are not bearing any weight.
- Put on your safety goggles.
- Lower the stabilizer jacks, but do not apply pressure to the ground.
- With a cloth or rag, thoroughly wipe off any dirt, grime, or debris from the jack’s surfaces, especially the extending and retracting parts.
Cleaning your jacks ensures proper lubricant application and prevents dirt from causing future performance issues.
Applying the Lubricant
After cleaning the stabilizer jacks, follow these steps to apply the lubricant:
- Spray the dry lubricant on all moving parts of the jack, including the gears, springs, and any pivot points.
- Pay extra attention to the extending and retracting parts, as these tend to suffer the most wear and tear.
- After applying the lubricant, raise and lower your jacks several times to help evenly distribute the lube throughout the mechanism.
Sustainable Maintenance
To maintain your RV stabilizer jacks in optimal condition, follow these tips:
- Regularly inspect your jacks for visible wear, rust, or damage.
- Clean and lubricate your jacks at least once yearly or more often if subjected to prolonged exposure to dirt or harsh environmental conditions.
- Consider adding mud flaps in front of the jacks to minimize dirt and debris.
By following this step-by-step guide, you can keep your RV stabilizer jacks functioning smoothly and prevent costly repairs in the long run.
Conclusion
In order to maintain the longevity and optimal functionality of your RV stabilizer jacks, it is crucial to lubricate them with a high-quality product. A good option that many RV owners recommend is Boeshield T-9, which provides excellent penetration, moisture displacement, and long-lasting rust protection.
When applying the lubricant, make sure you thoroughly clean the jacks first. This is important not just for protecting the shaft from rust, but also for lubricating the seal and keeping dirt from damaging it. Ensure that you also wipe the cylinder recess.
Silicone spray can be a good alternative for providing some protection, especially in coastal areas where corrosion might be a concern.
Remember that the goal is to keep your stabilizer jacks working effectively and extending their lifespan. By applying the right lubricant correctly, you’ll be well on your way to preventing problems and ensuring smooth operation during your RV adventures.
Frequently Asked Questions
It’s essential to regularly lubricate your RV stabilizer jacks to ensure they function smoothly and to prevent any corrosion or damage from occurring. Generally, it is advised to lubricate them every 3-6 months, depending on how frequently you use your RV. If you frequently travel on dusty or gravel roads, it’s a good idea to lubricate them more frequently. Always remember to clean your jacks before lubrication to remove dirt and grit that might have accumulated.
While it might be tempting to use cooking oil as a lubricant for your RV stabilizer jacks, it is not recommended. Cooking oil can attract dirt and dust, leading to buildup and corrosion, decreasing the performance and longevity of your stabilizer jacks. Instead, consider using a high-quality dry lubricant such as Boeshield T-9 or silicone spray, specifically designed for this purpose and providing better protection.
Yes, weather can indeed affect the lubrication of your RV stabilizer jacks. Extreme temperatures, rain, and snow can lead to moisture buildup, causing corrosion and damage over time. This is why choosing a lubricant that provides excellent moisture displacement and long-lasting rust protection, like the Boeshield T-9 is essential.