RV Leveling Jacks Won’t Extend [What to Do?] 

If you’re an RV enthusiast, you know how vital leveling your RV is. There are many reasons why your RV should be leveled at all times. They include steady movement, reduced risk of toppling over, and keeping your refrigerator running!

Your RV must be leveled to ensure the ammonia-water solution flows smoothly.

But your leveling jack won’t extend. Continue reading our articles for a step-by-step guide to fixing your RV leveling jack.

Leveling RV Jacks: How they Work

Before diving into the article, let’s understand how leveling jacks work. Leveling jacks are essential to ensure that your RV stands uniformly.

If your RV comes with an auto-leveling system, it makes your job much easier. 

On the other hand, hydraulic jacks may require a little extra effort to work with. It consists of a water-filled tube with springs on the jack.

The water-filled tube creates a hydraulic pressure that applies force on the springs. It then decreases the pressure for them to come back up.

There are many different types of leveling jacks in the market today. Let’s look at some of the best ones you can choose from!

1. Hydraulic bottle jacks
2. RV scissor jack
3. Frame jacks
4. Stack jacks 
5. Power gear leveling jacks 

Step-by-Step Guide for RV Leveling Jacks that Won’t Extend!

We know how annoying it is when you’re leveling process is hindered by an RV leveling jack that won’t extend. We’ve enlisted steps to help fix your jack in no time! 

Step 1: Primary Inspection

The first step, although essential, is always necessary. It is easy to overlook small signs, especially in a hurry. Doing this will point you in the right direction of fixing your leveling jack. 

Click on the button and try to hear something. If there is no sound, there is a high chance that the problem is associated with the power. The jack may have simply blown a fuse. 

On the other hand, if you can hear the jack attempting to lower sounds, it is most likely a mechanical problem.

Now, it is also essential to narrow down why the jack is not descending. This could be an issue with the front jacks, rear jacks, or the entire system. Sometimes, there could also be a problem with one jack. So, it is essential to figure out what exactly is wrong.

Step 2: Checking for Signs

Take a close look at your jacks to spot any noticeable problems that could potentially prevent them from extending.

Please check if the hydraulic fluid is leaking out. If you’re in a cold temperature, we advise you to use some hot water at the base of the jacks. This way, you can unfreeze them if they happen to be frozen.

Step 3: Reading the Manual

The owner’s manual is one of the first things you must consider! It has various details about all your RV components.

Most of us find these manuals quite dull to get through, but it is an excellent way to find the fix on your own.

Once you’ve found the accurate solution, you can follow the manual’s steps to fix your leveling jacks. It can also guide you to extend the leveling jacks manually. 

Step 4: Extending the Jacks Manually

Most hydraulic leveling jacks’ HWH leveling system typically has a manual mode. This way, even if the technical aspect fails you, you can still pull the jacks down manually.

If you choose to go with this, please ensure that you’re being careful. Taking the necessary safety precaution is vital before allowing yourself or anyone else under the RV to extend the jacks manually. 

Step 5: Checking for Electrical Issues

Electrical issues are sometimes overlooked in situations like this. It doesn’t always have to be a mechanical problem.

Sometimes, it could be as simple as the fuse blowing out. It is essential to understand what electrical issue your leveling jacks have so you can allow the current to flow smoothly again.

Step 6: Call for Extra Assistance

If you have gone through all the steps only to find it fruitless, calling for assistance is always an option! It is okay if you can’t get your way around the leveling jacks.

After all, it isn’t most people’s area of expertise. So, you can holler for someone around your neighborhood that know how to handle a leveling jack.

The best option is to call a professional and leave the fixing to them! 

If possible, watch the wires connecting the leveling jack system to the electrical panel. Sometimes wires can get loose and simply need to be reconnected.

You can repair it with a wiring nut and electrician’s tape.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

Can I level an RV on a slope?

Yes, you can level an RV on a slope! We recommend digging a couple of inches to park it to ensure your RV is elevated. This way, your RV can get some extra blocking, which especially helps when the ground is sloped.

Where should leveling jacks be placed on RVs?

We recommend you level your RV from side to side and front to back. After positioning it, set the leveling jack on the rear bumper. To level your RV front to back, you have options: either set it on the RV step or the window frame.

How many leveling jacks are required for an RV?

Typically, around 10 leveling blocks should do to build a solid ramp in front of the wheel.

Conclusion

We’ve reached the end of the article! We hope our post has helped you fix your RV leveling jacks.

There could be one or more issues associated with defective leveling jacks. Narrowing down what is wrong with the jacks is essential. 

So, once you have that figured out, troubleshooting the components won’t be much of a task.

Nevertheless, please call for help whenever you need it. This could either be a helping around your neighborhood or a professional mechanic. 

Please feel free to share any more solutions to this problem. Have a great day with your RV!