I ordered the 12 volt compressor fridge for my new rig so I wouldn’t have to be so perfect getting the fridge level! That jack maintenance is outstanding, we did that to the landing gear on aircraft on carriers, every flight!
I have greatly appreciated your video. Very descriptive and practical. I bought a used Cruiser Master 30 'and I am reviewing all the systems and especially the leveling system, which I had not understood. Your video has helped me fully. Thank you
I just discovered your channel today and I've been watching your videos all day. Love the TT reviews and your more indepth "How to's" Thanks for working hard for us who are just starting out.
I am having so many problems trying to get level front to back. I'm in my driveway on a very slight incline. My manual says to level side to side first. That's easy, but not helping. I'm going to try front to back first. Makes a whole lot more sense. I knew about the refrigerator, but had no idea about the windshield! Wow. Sure glad I listen to you!!!!!!!!
OK, so....what you can do to make leveling the front to back a little easier since you're on a incline-and I'm assuming the incline is downwards so the front of your RV is lower than the rear-is to put a 2" x 12" x 2' board behind the front tires. (Buy a 8' x 2" x 12" @ Home Depot) and cut it into two pieces 2' long. Place these two 2' x 12" boards right behind the front tires. Make sure the bottom of the entire front tires rests on the boards. You don't want any part of the tire off the board. Now that will raise your front end 2" right off the bat. Then manual level, raising the front end first. Then having your phone with your leveling app on the counter, raise the rear end till your level. 👍
For my leveling I had the Levelmate Pro installed and works everytime and the rv is level everytime plus I can check the level status on an app I have on my phone.
Your title was perfect. I needed to know WHY leveling was so important. I thought my old man was being anal-retentive and capricious. Last night he forced my recently badly-injured 36-year old son who is a single father with primary custody of his only son, and who runs a thriving business, and is in the middle of an insanely stressful move, and who had just worked 18 hours in EXTREMELY stressful conditions, to run out in the middle of the night to get the right tool to level our RV. It wasn't horribly unlevel and it probably could have waited another day, but after watching your vid, I'm convinced of the importance of leveling, though frankly, I still think waiting one more day wouldn't have hurt a thing. That said, I'm probably being hyperbolic, but you may have saved my marriage of 36 years. But one for fuck up and I might just lose it! Thank you for you vid. I, liked, subbed, and clicked on the bell - and I'm getting that product! P.S. Kindly link that spray bottle 3M 08897 so I can buy it from you, and I'll pass this yt along to my "boys." Thanks again!!!
Thank you for another great video! For the longest time, when I first got my RV, I kept forgetting to buy those manual levels, so I used a beer bottle for the longest time. (Somehow i never forgot to buy beer!) I got pretty good at it! I have levels now, though! But you've got me wondering about this phone app now! Gonna look into it.
great video as im not undertanding very well the american i could understand all what you say and easily thank you very much for helping the community :) take care and have a great summer from quebec ;)
Thanks Martin! Great tips , well we did it... we bought our first brand new rv, 2020 Grand Design 150 reflection 29RS series fifth wheel! It has all the gadgets and now having to learn about electric jacks and proper leveling your maintenance tips will be very helpful!! Yes I’ve always been very keen on leveling so the fridge works proper and I too use wooden planks and blocks (old school technology) lol, besafe and keep those videos rolling! 🇨🇦
Thank you so much John. BTW....we really like GD RV's. One of our friends also has a Reflection. We're thinking of getting a Solitude 5ver way down the road when all this traveling is over and park it in a permanent site and living there. 😜
HWH advised that WD-40 is ok to apply to shafts when in salt environments or for long term deployed storage but the point you make about lubrication and the seals makes sense. Dry lube is great since it doesn't attract stuff like wet lubes.
thx for taking the time to comment Dean 👍 My 2 cents..... Yeah I know HWH suggest that but I disagree. WD-40 is not a lubricant and evaporates quickly. I have a lot of experience with chrome shafts like this and on other types of machinery and the 3M dry lube is the best IMO. My leveling system is Power Gear not HWH but the equipment is basically the same. This is one of those subjects that never finds a conclusion in discussions, but that's ok with me. My leveling system is 10yrs. old now, never one problem with them and my chrome shafts look like new. I have a bin in my tool bay with multiple special sprays, lubes and protectants and you will not find a can of WD-40.
Just curious, why can't the fridge have some leveling under it, if it's the only important thing to be level? Again, I watched the whole video and the title says there are many reasons to level but unless I missed it, the only reason you actually stated in the video was the fridge thing. I can use an ice chest instead.
I don't understand why these manufacturers change systems from proven systems they've used for years. I just don't get it. Thank you for the kind words. 🔧 👍
Great tips but the instructions from HWH that came with my 2004 Itasca Sunrise specifically state to level from SIDE to SIDE before leveling from FRONT to BACK.
Yep, side to side and front to rear leveling within specs is important to keep the fridge in good working order for many years. thx Avery for tuning in. 👍
Thank you 👍🏼 I am green as grass as far as RV’s go . Worked on cars and homes all my life . But motor homes 🤯Just got a 1989 Beaver marquee. 😊And man oh man there was so much stuff to learn. But slow and steady ..I’ll get there. I too am a retired maintenance man and yes if you have something good you have to maintain it. Good tip on the jacks I’ll keep mine clean😎 thanks for your help 👍🏼
I love the "Beaver's". When I started looking for our RV, Beaver's was one of the manufacturers on my list. Have you checked out my PLAYLIST page yet? There's a ton of videos there that I know will help you. ua-cam.com/users/RVstreetplaylists
Thanks again. The Beaver's are good coaches. Well built and very high quality materials used inside. But they do have their own-how should I say....quirks to them. Especially when it comes to electrical things. Beaver's back then we're built and wired a little different than most other manufactured coaches. Doesn't make them bad, just different. So as you run into different things you'll have to keep that in mind as you research how to fix certain things. I don't know much about the internal workings of Beaver's and especially the electrics, but as far other things on how to take care of them what I cover on my channel applies to all RV's including yours. Good luck and enjoy your Beaver. 👍
@@RVstreet thanks for the heads up 👍🏼 there is a Beaver site on Facebook book that has lots of info .. just in case I need it . Hahaha I’m all ready we’ll known think 😎When I went looking for an RV I wanted to find the best drivetrain possible and I heard the Bears have that.. mine has the Gilliage drivetrain with a Detroit diesel. I really wanted a cat or a Cummins but after studying the Detroit diesels have a good name to. After driving at home for hours I put a great big piece of cardboard under the engine… Not one drop of oil 😊
Martin, this was very key info and well explained, my wife and I are most likely gonna need this tip and we’re glad to have you in our subscriptions, were in the process of purchasing another coach and this time I’ll be having a leaveling system, thanks and God bless!
Thanks Doug. Ya back then I was doing everything myself and very new. Now that Joanie is doing all the camera work it has really freed me up to develop the curriculum I want to cover, learn how to be on camera and focus on what's important during filming. Running a YT channel isn't easy and it takes time-a lot of time-to develop the right kind of skills. I watch some of my old videos and I go "Oh man that was terrible". That's why I released a new water heater video recently. WAyyyyyy.....better than the first one. Quite frankly I have seriously been thinking about redoing the leveling video too. Thank you for noticing. 👍
Thank you!! Also had no clue about windshield!!! I'm doing a lot of studying up because I'm soon to RV FT!! Kinda overwhelming but I'm confident that I'll have it down in no time!!
Yep there's a lot to learn so you don't go to the school of hard knocks. I have tons of other videos, but to start off with, if you watch the videos in this PLAYLIST you'll be miles ahead of everyone else that's starting out. 🔧 🙏 ua-cam.com/play/PLkQXtMp9xodR-PDUkTg936iZAeMuOqwnj.html
@@RVstreet Thanks 😊 I've been watching your videos!! I'm starting out close to familiar territory in Page Arizona where my son is a mechanic at Antelope Point Marina and then hit the Grown-up road in my Brave 35C to Crossroads campground. I'm so excited 😆
Hi Martin, good morning sir,as you know, we have the same rv model, but you have a 2012,,we have a 2014, we have the lci system,how do you manually adjust the lifts,we never used it manually,always automatically,I see the jacks on yours are different as well Say hi to Joanie for us, Mike and Betty
Always enjoy your maintenance and tip videos. Thanks for sharing. My Itasca 30 W has similar leveler rams and springs. I use the silicone for the rams and it also has grease fittings that I put lithium grease into periodically. Yours may or may not be the same. I love the idea of using the manual process. Will try it!
Thank you Michael 👍 FYI....Those wiper seals that have the grease fitting takes the same multi-purpose grease that you use for greasing the 9 points on the front suspension. One shot of grease every year in those seals. Anymore than that and you risk blowing the seal.
Thanks for the very helpful video. I just ordered a can of the silicone. We just bought our first rv (2019 Winnebago Sightseer 36Z) and the auto leveler just doesn't seem to work very well. The official instruction manual leaves a lot to be desired! I will do manual next time. Can you give any details on how you made concave area on 2x12s for the pads to fit in and not slip? Thanks.
I appreciate the video. I bought the 3M silicone from the link. I recently purchased a used motorhome and figuring things out. Looking for some help if you have a recommendation The jacks were not well maintained for. I have changed out a hydraulic motor and 2 solenoids and probably looking at a 3rd. I'm in process of making wood pads. I like the idea. The pads and the springs are a bit rusty looking can I clean them up and if so what would you recommend? Thank you in advance
Thank you Jolene for your question 👏 I would first wash the pads and springs good with hot soap and water and get them totally clean. Then....I'd treat them with my Permatex treatment. You can find that in my Amazon Store in the "Sealants, Lubes and Protectants" category: www.amazon.com/shop/rvstreet Check out this video I did awhile back on treating rust and the steps to restore them back to like new: ua-cam.com/video/QQnsKk1he-M/v-deo.html Thanks for coming aboard and being a part of learning how to take care of your RV 💗 ua-cam.com/users/RVstreetplaylists
Martin, I have the same coach. Could you expand on this video and show the actual process-which button does what. I can’t figure out the side to side portion. Bruce
Hey Bruce 👍 Ya, I do have on my list to do another-more in depth video-on leveling in the future. Just not sure when yet. Hopefully this winter or spring.
Good question Liz, I would use *"0000 steel wool"* and some WD40 and get those shafts as clean as possible. Then going forward, use the 3M lube I showed in the video at least once a month. It will provide a light protective film over those shafts. This is important to do. I have both products in my Amazon Store in the "Sealants, Lubes and Protectants" category if your interested. www.amazon.com/shop/rvstreet
Just found your channel and it is very informative. Thank you Martin and Joanie!! I noticed that the leveling pads and springs look new and unused. Can you share how you clean and maintain them?
Thank you so much for that Arjuna. Have you seen any of these other videos? You may also find these helpful. Just click "VIEW PLAYLIST" under each category. ua-cam.com/users/RVstreetplaylists
I love your videos what kind of leveller app you have, i have a 24 foot motorhome, installed hydraulic jack by pushing a buttom something easy for me but when I open my tip-out it’s always off a bit and doing after manually I have trouble with it
It's called "Bubble Level". I have an iPhone so I got it on the app store. It's FREE. It has 6 different functions, but the function I use is a round circle with a standard horizontal leveling bubble. Below the bubble it tells me exactly how many degrees I'm out of level so I know how much to raise the RV. I keep leveling until I get within the tolerance I like and that for me is .5º in both directions-side to side and front to back. It's very simple to use and works great.
Thank you Martin, your videos are great . I am learning about my coach. It is my first time dealing with a RV. Tell us please, do you make or get the wooden raising blocks?
Just found your channel a few weeks ago, I really appreciate the information, I have a 2008 winnebago 32H. it is much like yours and the tips you give are right on. I do have a question, I noticed in the video the front stabilizer has a blue 3" or so plate bolted to it. Is that an add on or something to improve ride? Thanks so much..
It's an add on. It's an adjustable bracket that stiffens up the sway bar to avoid all the roll you get in the front suspension. Unfortunately these blue brackets are no longer available. I have since added Sumo Springs in the front and they have greatly improved the ride and the impact of bad roads and Hwy expansion joints. Overall, I have done several chassis upgrades that has made our coach ride like a dream. thx Charles for watching. 👍
Nope, no video, but, 3 - 2" x 12" treated wood blocks-glued and screwed together-and then I used my router to make a 1/2" deep bowl on the top so my jack pads rest inside there.
If your parking in a very un-level site it can help to put additional leveling blocks under the tires first. You can use these under the front tires, the rear tires or front and rear tires on one side. It just depends on how the coach is sitting on the site. Here's what I carry and use to get the coach in the right position under the tires BEFORE I put my wooden blocks down and deploy the leveling jacks: www.amazon.com/dp/B00T36KG42?ref=exp_rvstreet_dp_vv_d
In my manual they specifically call out WD40 which has always puzzled me. This is on a 03 Fleetwood Flair. I do clean them quite often but not on a monthly basis. I kind of lean the way you are talking about the 3m dry silicone but will have to do some more research. I do use dry lube on my kwikee steps so could be the same product I already have
Yeah different leveling systems can suggest different types of lubes. Like electric jacks. That's why I specifically pointed out that these are Power Gear Jacks and that's what they recommend. But just from my own mechanical experience this 3M Dry Silicone is exactly what should be used on these types of chrome extending rods. I've seen threads on assorted RV forums that just drive me nuts on some of the arguments some folks make on what to use and what not to use. Like WD40. WD40 is not a lubricant nor does it protect. It evaporates very quickly and it also will not protect against contaminants. thx Bob
Yes there is a particular reason. Because we have a 2 way absorption fridge. I launch my leveling app on my iphone and place my iphone on the counter right near the fridge so I can get the best and most accurate reading there for the long term health of my fridge. It's like 5 steps from the drivers seat to read where I am leveling wise.
My Norcold refrigerator manual says to level the frig within 3 degrees max from side to side (which is front to back for the motorhome) and within 6 degrees max from front to back (which is side to side for the motorhome). This is because the frig is mounted on a sidewall so side to side on the frig corresponds to front to back for the motorhome, etc.
Maybe you just typed it wrong but from what I read in your comment it's exactly the opposite. Norcold states that their unit should be level within 3º side-to-side and 6º front to back. This is the rule for all absorption fridges. 👍
I can tell two ways: 1) As soon as they kiss I can feel the RV raise up a little. Same with the rear 2) Joanie is outside and she confirms all jacks are firmly on the blocks Then I launch my leveling app, place my phone on the counter to see where I am level wise and then make any small adjustments from there.
@@RVstreet Thank you. You can tell, I’m new at this. From what I’ve read, then you have to slightly raise them to finish the leveling? Then touch them down, again?
@@SrBottch That's OK. No. You can't slightly raise leveling jacks. Once you hit the retract button they will come all the way up. So again, once they kiss the wooden blocks, and the coach is firmly planted on all 4 blocks, I look at my leveling app. If I have to raise the front or the rear a little more to get it level then that's what I do.
Treated, glued and screwed them together. Then I used my router on the top board to make a shallow bowl so my leveling jack pads sits down down in it. BTW....now you can always get anything you need through our Amazon Store. We didn't have our store back when I did this video but do now. Just keep our store link (below) in a convenient place and use it when you have to shop on Amazon. www.amazon.com/shop/rvstreet Thank you so much Dover for supporting our channel. 🔧 🙏
@@RVstreet So I went back and looked at the video and I guess I was wondering how you cut out the circle impression in the wood did you use a hole saw bit or something else ?
@@RVstreet oh man I had a feeling you were going to say that, I have a lot of tools but not that one. I will have to borrow from a friend. I just bought my first motorhome yesterday a Georgetown Forest River 335DS When I was in the store I looked at those plastic ones and I was like..... I'm not buying plastic. I could have used them in my driveway I will be making them soon. I been trying to take in all the information I can, information overload lately !! Thanks for your videos I enjoy watching them and appreciate you.
@@Brian-bo9nv Thanks Brian 👍 *information overload* Ya you've entered into whole world. But you can do this. You can do 80% - 90% of the maintenance it will need yourself. Take one item or system at a time and learn it. Overtime all this will become 2nd nature. As far as leveling goes, learn how to level manually. Is your MH used or new?
I am planning to get a 22 ft motorhome (BT Cruiser 5210). Does this need to be leveled when I park? I can't find anything about their leveling jacks. Maybe I just need those plastic things that one would drive on top of?
@@RVstreet Newbee question1... IF Class C, parked for long term [1-2 month] with Refrig off and NO elect/LPG power on, AND RV Not leveled, will Frig have operating issues? Love your coaching!--- SC JayHawk,
@@RVstreet If RV laid up for winter, no power on Refrig to operate [E or LPG], will it have start-up / operating issues if RV not level on Gravel parking pad? Auto level lifts off wheels. Is it ok to leave parked w/o level?
@@miltonsmith8989 Hi Milton I highly encourage you to go to iRV2.com. Create a user name and password and post your issues there. They're are a lot of experienced folks like me on that forum. We you post your question, be sure to give the details of the issue along with make & model. You'll have many folks chime in for possible solutions instead of just me. They will be a great resource for you in the future too.
@@miltonsmith8989 No. If the coach is parked and everything is OFF your fridge will be fine. It's when you are USING your absorbtion fridge that you need to be level.
You should not have any front wheels off the ground. If you have one front tire off the ground that means you have totally extended you leveling jacks. No need for this, causes a somewhat unsafe situation and makes the coach over all less stable Options are: 1) Put additional blocks under the tire that is low first, then level. For example, use 3 or 4 - 2"x12"x 20" pieces of wood, OR carry a couple of ramps. Roll the front of the coach up the ramp or blocks to get the front end a little higher, then level. 2) But the best choice is just to move to a different site or area that isn't so sloped As an added note: NEVER, NEVER raise any back tires off the ground. That's where your emergency brakes are and if those tires come off the ground you may just roll away and bad things will happen. Hope this helps Larry
I have followed your guidance and read all the owner's manuals. I believe you made a misstatement about refrigerator leveling. You said 6 degrees front to rear and 3 degrees side to side
continued in reference to the motorhome. The refrigerator leveling is relative to the refrigerator. as you are facing the refrigerator side to side is left and right and front to back is away and towards you. Or to put it another way 90 degrees off from the orientation of the motorhomes front/ back and side to side.
@@patriotofgod9827 Well in our rig that's the procedure and remember we level manually, never auto level. But yes, doing the front first is the best practice because it settles the windshield firmly so as the coach levels itself back and forth, twisting the chassis somewhat it won't damage the or crack the windshield.
@@patriotofgod9827 I have no idea. I'd have to be really familiar with your coach and the way your battery bay is set up. But in a nut shell, solar is only going to charge your batt's. Then you'd turn on your inverter and run a heat source from an inside electric outlet. However, most electric heaters draw a lot of watts which equals lots of AMPS and would kill your house batt's pretty quickly if you don't have them set up right and have a lot of AMP hrs. Use your propane heater instead. There are a lot of ways to heat your coach. Google is your friend or online forums would be a good place to address your particular situation. Good luck my friend.
Pretty good videos but being level doesn’t have to be so precise. If your rv is level enough for you to be comfortable then it’s level enough for the rv and all mechanicals in the rv.
Being level enough for you to be comfortable is not good enough if you have an absorption refrigerator. Absorption Refrigerators are fussy about being level within tolerance if you want them to work right and last long. But from a practical point of view, think of it this way. If your not level, when you cook on the stove-like in a frying pan-and your using olive oil or butter all that will pool to one side of the pan. When you shower, the water will accumulate to one corner of the shower pan. Then you have to use your foot to push the water towards the center of the drain. Being nice and level is also good for your slides (if you have them) as they deploy and retract. It's just a good practice to be good and level and it's not that hard to do. But everyone can do what they want. thx Scott
@@RVstreet not true, I have a absorption refrigerator and have talked to many RV people and have owned Rv’s for 20years. Any concrete pad at a campground is plenty level for a fridge to work with no problem at all. Only if you boondocking on unlevel ground would this be a concern and like I said if if comfortable enough for you your fridge should be fine
that's it? it's just all about a stupid refrigerator? wow i thought leveling was so important since everyone seems to obsess over it. I think I don't even care if the fridge works that much.
This is as relevant today (23) as when it first came out. Well worth watching. Thanks
I love the no nonsense, clear, directness of your videos. Great job!
I appreciate that SD. 👍
Martin, I cant say enough of the good you do for people and myself
Same here...keep up the great work 👏
Did not know that about the windshield very good info thanks.
You should really watch my latest 3 part series. Part 1 and 2 have been released with Part 3 being released tomorrow night @ 8:30pm as usual. 👍
Agree with your approach. Auto level is a problem for me too. Manual is cool
Thank you for the clear "picture" as to how important it is to level the fridge...😊
Yep a very important step which may over look.
I ordered the 12 volt compressor fridge for my new rig so I wouldn’t have to be so perfect getting the fridge level! That jack maintenance is outstanding, we did that to the landing gear on aircraft on carriers, every flight!
Just bought a MH with auto leveling, you are correct it wants to raise too much. I will start going back to manual leveling Like I had on my former MH
Marin..i watch all your vidies.
You are a great guy & you explsin everything well.. Thankyiu
The great thing about old school levels is they never fail you if you know how to use them.
I have greatly appreciated your video. Very descriptive and practical. I bought a used Cruiser Master 30 'and I am reviewing all the systems and especially the leveling system, which I had not understood. Your video has helped me fully. Thank you
Great job on your videos. I have learned quite a bit.
I just discovered your channel today and I've been watching your videos all day. Love the TT reviews and your more indepth "How to's" Thanks for working hard for us who are just starting out.
Thank you Tim
Thanks Martin. Very helpful and descriptive. Keep up the great work!
I am having so many problems trying to get level front to back. I'm in my driveway on a very slight incline. My manual says to level side to side first. That's easy, but not helping. I'm going to try front to back first. Makes a whole lot more sense. I knew about the refrigerator, but had no idea about the windshield! Wow. Sure glad I listen to you!!!!!!!!
OK, so....what you can do to make leveling the front to back a little easier since you're on a incline-and I'm assuming the incline is downwards so the front of your RV is lower than the rear-is to put a 2" x 12" x 2' board behind the front tires. (Buy a 8' x 2" x 12" @ Home Depot) and cut it into two pieces 2' long. Place these two 2' x 12" boards right behind the front tires. Make sure the bottom of the entire front tires rests on the boards. You don't want any part of the tire off the board. Now that will raise your front end 2" right off the bat. Then manual level, raising the front end first. Then having your phone with your leveling app on the counter, raise the rear end till your level. 👍
Definitely nose downhill. Was trying to figure out something and the board is perfect. Thanks
Excellent maintenance video thank you
For my leveling I had the Levelmate Pro installed and works everytime and the rv is level everytime plus I can check the level status on an app I have on my phone.
Your title was perfect. I needed to know WHY leveling was so important. I thought my old man was being anal-retentive and capricious. Last night he forced my recently badly-injured 36-year old son who is a single father with primary custody of his only son, and who runs a thriving business, and is in the middle of an insanely stressful move, and who had just worked 18 hours in EXTREMELY stressful conditions, to run out in the middle of the night to get the right tool to level our RV. It wasn't horribly unlevel and it probably could have waited another day, but after watching your vid, I'm convinced of the importance of leveling, though frankly, I still think waiting one more day wouldn't have hurt a thing. That said, I'm probably being hyperbolic, but you may have saved my marriage of 36 years. But one for fuck up and I might just lose it! Thank you for you vid. I, liked, subbed, and clicked on the bell - and I'm getting that product!
P.S. Kindly link that spray bottle 3M 08897 so I can buy it from you, and I'll pass this yt along to my "boys." Thanks again!!!
Thank you for another great video! For the longest time, when I first got my RV, I kept forgetting to buy those manual levels, so I used a beer bottle for the longest time. (Somehow i never forgot to buy beer!) I got pretty good at it! I have levels now, though! But you've got me wondering about this phone app now! Gonna look into it.
Very helpful!! Thank you so much I'm pretty new in this RV world, so I'm learning a lot with your channel! ❤
So glad!
great video
as im not undertanding very well the american i could understand all what you say and easily
thank you very much for helping the community :) take care and have a great summer from quebec ;)
Thanks Martin much appreciated.
Thanks Martin! Great tips , well we did it... we bought our first brand new rv, 2020 Grand Design 150 reflection 29RS series fifth wheel! It has all the gadgets and now having to learn about electric jacks and proper leveling your maintenance tips will be very helpful!! Yes I’ve always been very keen on leveling so the fridge works proper and I too use wooden planks and blocks (old school technology) lol, besafe and keep those videos rolling! 🇨🇦
Thank you so much John. BTW....we really like GD RV's. One of our friends also has a Reflection. We're thinking of getting a Solitude 5ver way down the road when all this traveling is over and park it in a permanent site and living there. 😜
Yes, please make it relevant! I clicked the video because I wondered what the benefits of leveling are but you didn't tell
See 3:09
HWH advised that WD-40 is ok to apply to shafts when in salt environments or for long term deployed storage but the point you make about lubrication and the seals makes sense. Dry lube is great since it doesn't attract stuff like wet lubes.
thx for taking the time to comment Dean 👍
My 2 cents.....
Yeah I know HWH suggest that but I disagree. WD-40 is not a lubricant and evaporates quickly. I have a lot of experience with chrome shafts like this and on other types of machinery and the 3M dry lube is the best IMO. My leveling system is Power Gear not HWH but the equipment is basically the same. This is one of those subjects that never finds a conclusion in discussions, but that's ok with me. My leveling system is 10yrs. old now, never one problem with them and my chrome shafts look like new. I have a bin in my tool bay with multiple special sprays, lubes and protectants and you will not find a can of WD-40.
Oh! You have leveling jacks! Thought this would show leveling with blocks under tires! If your rich this video is ok
I don't have leveling Jack's on my 32 foot class A.
HOW CAN I TELL HOW HIGH TO LEVEL EACH WHEEL.
IT WOULD BE NICE TO GET IT RIGHT ON THE FIRST TRY
Just curious, why can't the fridge have some leveling under it, if it's the only important thing to be level? Again, I watched the whole video and the title says there are many reasons to level but unless I missed it, the only reason you actually stated in the video was the fridge thing. I can use an ice chest instead.
I may attach outside levels to each corner of my RV
as always ,,,,you amaze me martin totally informative, even thou we have the same rv but we have the lippert system,,,,,,
I don't understand why these manufacturers change systems from proven systems they've used for years. I just don't get it.
Thank you for the kind words. 🔧 👍
Great tips but the instructions from HWH that came with my 2004 Itasca Sunrise specifically state to level from SIDE to SIDE before leveling from FRONT to BACK.
Yep, side to side and front to rear leveling within specs is important to keep the fridge in good working order for many years. thx Avery for tuning in. 👍
Thank you 👍🏼 I am green as grass as far as RV’s go . Worked on cars and homes all my life . But motor homes 🤯Just got a 1989 Beaver marquee. 😊And man oh man there was so much stuff to learn. But slow and steady ..I’ll get there. I too am a retired maintenance man and yes if you have something good you have to maintain it. Good tip on the jacks I’ll keep mine clean😎 thanks for your help 👍🏼
I love the "Beaver's". When I started looking for our RV, Beaver's was one of the manufacturers on my list.
Have you checked out my PLAYLIST page yet? There's a ton of videos there that I know will help you.
ua-cam.com/users/RVstreetplaylists
@@RVstreet thank you Martin . I’m all ears and well eyes too 😎 lots to learn and I think I found my teacher 👍🏼
Thanks again. The Beaver's are good coaches. Well built and very high quality materials used inside. But they do have their own-how should I say....quirks to them. Especially when it comes to electrical things. Beaver's back then we're built and wired a little different than most other manufactured coaches. Doesn't make them bad, just different. So as you run into different things you'll have to keep that in mind as you research how to fix certain things. I don't know much about the internal workings of Beaver's and especially the electrics, but as far other things on how to take care of them what I cover on my channel applies to all RV's including yours.
Good luck and enjoy your Beaver. 👍
@@RVstreet thanks for the heads up 👍🏼 there is a Beaver site on Facebook book that has lots of info .. just in case I need it . Hahaha I’m all ready we’ll known think 😎When I went looking for an RV I wanted to find the best drivetrain possible and I heard the Bears have that.. mine has the Gilliage drivetrain with a Detroit diesel. I really wanted a cat or a Cummins but after studying the Detroit diesels have a good name to. After driving at home for hours I put a great big piece of cardboard under the engine… Not one drop of oil 😊
Martin, this was very key info and well explained, my wife and I are most likely
gonna need this tip and we’re glad to have you in our subscriptions, were in the process of purchasing another coach and this time I’ll be having a leaveling system, thanks and God bless!
You're very welcome Lisa and thanks for subbing us.
Newbees here....thanks for the tip on leveling and the silicon spray. We have an all manual system. Already replaced the jack springs....
There ya go. It will protect them.
Martin great video. I can see you have improved your presentations over time. Still good but you are really good at it now.
Thanks Doug. Ya back then I was doing everything myself and very new. Now that Joanie is doing all the camera work it has really freed me up to develop the curriculum I want to cover, learn how to be on camera and focus on what's important during filming. Running a YT channel isn't easy and it takes time-a lot of time-to develop the right kind of skills. I watch some of my old videos and I go "Oh man that was terrible". That's why I released a new water heater video recently. WAyyyyyy.....better than the first one. Quite frankly I have seriously been thinking about redoing the leveling video too.
Thank you for noticing. 👍
Thank you!! Also had no clue about windshield!!! I'm doing a lot of studying up because I'm soon to RV FT!! Kinda overwhelming but I'm confident that I'll have it down in no time!!
Yep there's a lot to learn so you don't go to the school of hard knocks. I have tons of other videos, but to start off with, if you watch the videos in this PLAYLIST you'll be miles ahead of everyone else that's starting out. 🔧 🙏
ua-cam.com/play/PLkQXtMp9xodR-PDUkTg936iZAeMuOqwnj.html
@@RVstreet Thanks 😊 I've been watching your videos!! I'm starting out close to familiar territory in Page Arizona where my son is a mechanic at Antelope Point Marina and then hit the Grown-up road in my Brave 35C to Crossroads campground. I'm so excited 😆
@@littleweasel1957ify I bet you are. It's so fun FTing in an RV. Everything and I mean everything is an adventure. 👍
Hi Martin, good morning sir,as you know, we have the same rv model, but you have a 2012,,we have a 2014, we have the lci system,how do you manually adjust the lifts,we never used it manually,always automatically,I see the jacks on yours are different as well
Say hi to Joanie for us,
Mike and Betty
Hi Michael,
Sorry can't help you with Lci manual mode. Your manual should give you the proper procedures.
Joanie says hi 💗
Always enjoy your maintenance and tip videos. Thanks for sharing. My Itasca 30 W has similar leveler rams and springs. I use the silicone for the rams and it also has grease fittings that I put lithium grease into periodically. Yours may or may not be the same. I love the idea of using the manual process. Will try it!
Thank you Michael 👍
FYI....Those wiper seals that have the grease fitting takes the same multi-purpose grease that you use for greasing the 9 points on the front suspension. One shot of grease every year in those seals. Anymore than that and you risk blowing the seal.
Thanks! Great Job!
Thanks for the very helpful video. I just ordered a can of the silicone. We just bought our first rv (2019 Winnebago Sightseer 36Z) and the auto leveler just doesn't seem to work very well. The official instruction manual leaves a lot to be desired! I will do manual next time. Can you give any details on how you made concave area on 2x12s for the pads to fit in and not slip? Thanks.
Once I screwed the 2"x12" together, I took a plate, outlined it with a pencil and then I used a router to make the concave area.
@@RVstreet Great idea, Martin Thanks
Great info, thanks Martin
I appreciate the video. I bought the 3M silicone from the link.
I recently purchased a used motorhome and figuring things out. Looking for some help if you have a recommendation
The jacks were not well maintained for. I have changed out a hydraulic motor and 2 solenoids and probably looking at a 3rd. I'm in process of making wood pads. I like the idea. The pads and the springs are a bit rusty looking can I clean them up and if so what would you recommend?
Thank you in advance
Thank you Jolene for your question 👏
I would first wash the pads and springs good with hot soap and water and get them totally clean. Then....I'd treat them with my Permatex treatment. You can find that in my Amazon Store in the "Sealants, Lubes and Protectants" category: www.amazon.com/shop/rvstreet
Check out this video I did awhile back on treating rust and the steps to restore them back to like new:
ua-cam.com/video/QQnsKk1he-M/v-deo.html
Thanks for coming aboard and being a part of learning how to take care of your RV 💗
ua-cam.com/users/RVstreetplaylists
Martin,
I have the same coach. Could you expand on this video and show the actual process-which button does what. I can’t figure out the side to side portion.
Bruce
Hey Bruce 👍
Ya, I do have on my list to do another-more in depth video-on leveling in the future. Just not sure when yet. Hopefully this winter or spring.
Great video! Thank you! What would you recommend to do an inital cleaning of the jack shafts? Ours look a little rusty.
Good question Liz,
I would use *"0000 steel wool"* and some WD40 and get those shafts as clean as possible. Then going forward, use the 3M lube I showed in the video at least once a month. It will provide a light protective film over those shafts. This is important to do. I have both products in my Amazon Store in the "Sealants, Lubes and Protectants" category if your interested.
www.amazon.com/shop/rvstreet
I would like to see a video of how you made those blocks.
Just found your channel and it is very informative. Thank you Martin and Joanie!! I noticed that the leveling pads and springs look new and unused. Can you share how you clean and maintain them?
Thank you Mimi 👍Spray the chrome shafts often like I showed, and clean the pads and springs-if needed-with soap and water then hose off.
I use wood block levellers
Thanks for the tip! Just order a can of the 3M. Love your video guys.
I own a 1983 gmc corvair 30 ft motorhome
Martin, you rock!
Thank you so much for that Arjuna. Have you seen any of these other videos? You may also find these helpful. Just click "VIEW PLAYLIST" under each category.
ua-cam.com/users/RVstreetplaylists
I love your videos what kind of leveller app you have, i have a 24 foot motorhome, installed hydraulic jack by pushing a buttom something easy for me but when I open my tip-out it’s always off a bit and doing after manually I have trouble with it
It's called "Bubble Level". I have an iPhone so I got it on the app store. It's FREE. It has 6 different functions, but the function I use is a round circle with a standard horizontal leveling bubble. Below the bubble it tells me exactly how many degrees I'm out of level so I know how much to raise the RV. I keep leveling until I get within the tolerance I like and that for me is .5º in both directions-side to side and front to back. It's very simple to use and works great.
@@RVstreet thanks
I know that leveling an RV is important. For fridge ..water flow & furnace
Thank you Martin, your videos are great . I am learning about my coach. It is my first time dealing with a RV. Tell us please, do you make or get the wooden raising blocks?
I made them.
Could you please give instructions how to do them? Materials and instructions over the process. Do you already have a video about it?
Hi, how did you cut out the circle on the top of the wood where the stands sit? Thank you.
With a router.
Thanks for the information. What are the measurements?
Just found your channel a few weeks ago, I really appreciate the information, I have a 2008 winnebago 32H. it is much like yours and the tips you give are right on. I do have a question, I noticed in the video the front stabilizer has a blue 3" or so plate bolted to it. Is that an add on or something to improve ride? Thanks so much..
It's an add on. It's an adjustable bracket that stiffens up the sway bar to avoid all the roll you get in the front suspension. Unfortunately these blue brackets are no longer available. I have since added Sumo Springs in the front and they have greatly improved the ride and the impact of bad roads and Hwy expansion joints. Overall, I have done several chassis upgrades that has made our coach ride like a dream.
thx Charles for watching. 👍
Nice!
I put my 4 ft level on the floor in directions
Martin, what material are the blocks? Anything special? Do you have a video on them?
Nope, no video, but, 3 - 2" x 12" treated wood blocks-glued and screwed together-and then I used my router to make a 1/2" deep bowl on the top so my jack pads rest inside there.
@@RVstreet Thank you for your speedy reply. I have a diesel, Winn Forza. At what point do I also put something under the tires?
If your parking in a very un-level site it can help to put additional leveling blocks under the tires first. You can use these under the front tires, the rear tires or front and rear tires on one side. It just depends on how the coach is sitting on the site. Here's what I carry and use to get the coach in the right position under the tires BEFORE I put my wooden blocks down and deploy the leveling jacks: www.amazon.com/dp/B00T36KG42?ref=exp_rvstreet_dp_vv_d
@@RVstreet thank you for your advice/suggestions AND your quick responses. I’ll check out these blocks.
Thanks god bless
Do you level your coach before the slides are deployed?
Yes we do. But some of the other coach manufacturers may have a different procedure. Check your owners manual.
In my manual they specifically call out WD40 which has always puzzled me. This is on a 03 Fleetwood Flair. I do clean them quite often but not on a monthly basis. I kind of lean the way you are talking about the 3m dry silicone but will have to do some more research. I do use dry lube on my kwikee steps so could be the same product I already have
Yeah different leveling systems can suggest different types of lubes. Like electric jacks. That's why I specifically pointed out that these are Power Gear Jacks and that's what they recommend. But just from my own mechanical experience this 3M Dry Silicone is exactly what should be used on these types of chrome extending rods. I've seen threads on assorted RV forums that just drive me nuts on some of the arguments some folks make on what to use and what not to use. Like WD40. WD40 is not a lubricant nor does it protect. It evaporates very quickly and it also will not protect against contaminants.
thx Bob
Martin, is there any particular reason you dont put your leveling device of choice on the floor near your drivers seat for easier viewing?
Yes there is a particular reason. Because we have a 2 way absorption fridge. I launch my leveling app on my iphone and place my iphone on the counter right near the fridge so I can get the best and most accurate reading there for the long term health of my fridge. It's like 5 steps from the drivers seat to read where I am leveling wise.
Do I see Te Jay Plate's in there?(CHF)
Leveling correctly also keeps the eggs in the center of the frying pan too!!!
Yes you do.
Thanks!
Thank you for your support
I raise each tire equeally
My Norcold refrigerator manual says to level the frig within 3 degrees max from side to side (which is front to back for the motorhome) and within 6 degrees max from front to back (which is side to side for the motorhome). This is because the frig is mounted on a sidewall so side to side on the frig corresponds to front to back for the motorhome, etc.
Maybe you just typed it wrong but from what I read in your comment it's exactly the opposite. Norcold states that their unit should be level within 3º side-to-side and 6º front to back. This is the rule for all absorption fridges. 👍
How can you tell when the front jacks ‘kiss’ the blocks. Can you actually feel it, or sense it?
I can tell two ways:
1) As soon as they kiss I can feel the RV raise up a little. Same with the rear
2) Joanie is outside and she confirms all jacks are firmly on the blocks
Then I launch my leveling app, place my phone on the counter to see where I am level wise and then make any small adjustments from there.
@@RVstreet Thank you. You can tell, I’m new at this. From what I’ve read, then you have to slightly raise them to finish the leveling? Then touch them down, again?
@@SrBottch That's OK.
No. You can't slightly raise leveling jacks. Once you hit the retract button they will come all the way up.
So again, once they kiss the wooden blocks, and the coach is firmly planted on all 4 blocks, I look at my leveling app. If I have to raise the front or the rear a little more to get it level then that's what I do.
Great information on leveling! It was great meeting you here in Harlingen TX.
I'm glad I was able to help you with you leveling mishap. Hope your repairs all went well once you got home.
Hey Martin. Are those blocks you made treated or standard lumber? Just ordered a can of 3m silicone from your link!
Treated, glued and screwed them together. Then I used my router on the top board to make a shallow bowl so my leveling jack pads sits down down in it.
BTW....now you can always get anything you need through our Amazon Store. We didn't have our store back when I did this video but do now. Just keep our store link (below) in a convenient place and use it when you have to shop on Amazon.
www.amazon.com/shop/rvstreet
Thank you so much Dover for supporting our channel. 🔧 🙏
@@RVstreet right on!!! Thank YOU!
Great and thoughtful instruction again. Keep em comin
Thanks Ron
I use a 4 ft level to level my Rv.
Is there a video on how you made the 2x12 blocks for your leveling jacks
No there isn't but I believe I gave that information in the comments.
@@RVstreet So I went back and looked at the video and I guess I was wondering how you cut out the circle impression in the wood did you use a hole saw bit or something else ?
@@Brian-bo9nv I used a router. All 3 layers of wood were glued and screwed. 6 yrs. old now and still good.
@@RVstreet oh man I had a feeling you were going to say that, I have a lot of tools but not that one. I will have to borrow from a friend. I just bought my first motorhome yesterday a Georgetown Forest River 335DS When I was in the store I looked at those plastic ones and I was like..... I'm not buying plastic. I could have used them in my driveway I will be making them soon.
I been trying to take in all the information I can, information overload lately !! Thanks for your videos I enjoy watching them and appreciate you.
@@Brian-bo9nv Thanks Brian 👍
*information overload* Ya you've entered into whole world. But you can do this. You can do 80% - 90% of the maintenance it will need yourself. Take one item or system at a time and learn it. Overtime all this will become 2nd nature. As far as leveling goes, learn how to level manually.
Is your MH used or new?
I am planning to get a 22 ft motorhome (BT Cruiser 5210). Does this need to be leveled when I park? I can't find anything about their leveling jacks. Maybe I just need those plastic things that one would drive on top of?
For a 22' rig, plastic pads will work. Just takes more time. If you have an absorbtion fridge you need to keep that rig level.
@@RVstreet Newbee question1... IF Class C, parked for long term [1-2 month] with Refrig off and NO elect/LPG power on, AND RV Not leveled, will Frig have operating issues? Love your coaching!--- SC JayHawk,
@@RVstreet If RV laid up for winter, no power on Refrig to operate [E or LPG], will it have start-up / operating issues if RV not level on Gravel parking pad? Auto level lifts off wheels. Is it ok to leave parked w/o level?
@@miltonsmith8989 Hi Milton
I highly encourage you to go to iRV2.com. Create a user name and password and post your issues there. They're are a lot of experienced folks like me on that forum. We you post your question, be sure to give the details of the issue along with make & model. You'll have many folks chime in for possible solutions instead of just me. They will be a great resource for you in the future too.
@@miltonsmith8989 No. If the coach is parked and everything is OFF your fridge will be fine. It's when you are USING your absorbtion fridge that you need to be level.
what do we do if after leveling one of our front tires is off the ground by 5 or 6 inches
You should not have any front wheels off the ground. If you have one front tire off the ground that means you have totally extended you leveling jacks. No need for this, causes a somewhat unsafe situation and makes the coach over all less stable
Options are:
1) Put additional blocks under the tire that is low first, then level. For example, use 3 or 4 - 2"x12"x 20" pieces of wood, OR carry a couple of ramps. Roll the front of the coach up the ramp or blocks to get the front end a little higher, then level.
2) But the best choice is just to move to a different site or area that isn't so sloped
As an added note:
NEVER, NEVER raise any back tires off the ground. That's where your emergency brakes are and if those tires come off the ground you may just roll away and bad things will happen.
Hope this helps Larry
Could not agree more with not using auto level.
Thank you. Great video.
I have followed your guidance and read all the owner's manuals. I believe you made a misstatement about refrigerator leveling. You said 6 degrees front to rear and 3 degrees side to side
continued in reference to the motorhome. The refrigerator leveling is relative to the refrigerator. as you are facing the refrigerator side to side is left and right and front to back is away and towards you. Or to put it another way 90 degrees off from the orientation of the motorhomes front/ back and side to side.
My Thor Coach manual made the same misstatement you did I choose to take the Norcold manual as the correct information.
I'm trying to find where to fill the hydraulic oil for my jacks?
Not sure where it is on your rig. Probably in a bay. But do not use hydraulic oil. All of these units use ATF. Check your Manual.
@@RVstreet Roger that. I'll have to find a manual online. Now... from what I understand, the front jacks should go down first?
@@patriotofgod9827 Well in our rig that's the procedure and remember we level manually, never auto level. But yes, doing the front first is the best practice because it settles the windshield firmly so as the coach levels itself back and forth, twisting the chassis somewhat it won't damage the or crack the windshield.
@@RVstreet Thanks. Am I able to run any type of heat through the solar panel and inverter with 2 house batteries. Sorry it's getting cold.
@@patriotofgod9827 I have no idea. I'd have to be really familiar with your coach and the way your battery bay is set up. But in a nut shell, solar is only going to charge your batt's. Then you'd turn on your inverter and run a heat source from an inside electric outlet. However, most electric heaters draw a lot of watts which equals lots of AMPS and would kill your house batt's pretty quickly if you don't have them set up right and have a lot of AMP hrs. Use your propane heater instead. There are a lot of ways to heat your coach. Google is your friend or online forums would be a good place to address your particular situation.
Good luck my friend.
I trust wood
They will be bubble levellers.
Martinez Paul Williams Cynthia Robinson Steven
Pretty good videos but being level doesn’t have to be so precise. If your rv is level enough for you to be comfortable then it’s level enough for the rv and all mechanicals in the rv.
Being level enough for you to be comfortable is not good enough if you have an absorption refrigerator. Absorption Refrigerators are fussy about being level within tolerance if you want them to work right and last long. But from a practical point of view, think of it this way. If your not level, when you cook on the stove-like in a frying pan-and your using olive oil or butter all that will pool to one side of the pan. When you shower, the water will accumulate to one corner of the shower pan. Then you have to use your foot to push the water towards the center of the drain. Being nice and level is also good for your slides (if you have them) as they deploy and retract. It's just a good practice to be good and level and it's not that hard to do. But everyone can do what they want.
thx Scott
@@RVstreet not true, I have a absorption refrigerator and have talked to many RV people and have owned Rv’s for 20years. Any concrete pad at a campground is plenty level for a fridge to work with no problem at all. Only if you boondocking on unlevel ground would this be a concern and like I said if if comfortable enough for you your fridge should be fine
OK, that's kewl with me 👍
thx Scott
that's it? it's just all about a stupid refrigerator? wow i thought leveling was so important since everyone seems to obsess over it. I think I don't even care if the fridge works that much.
Thanks for the video 👍
No problem 👍