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Written by the Getaway Couple Rae & Jason
When your Lippert leveling system works 99%, it’s fantastic. However, that 1% of time it gives you problems, you can find yourself seriously frustrated. Luckily, you don’t have to panic if you’re having issues with your Lippert leveling system. Troubleshooting and identifying the problem just might be something you can do yourself.
Let’s look at what you can do to troubleshoot your Lippert leveling system before you get angry. Let’s get started!
What Is A Leveling System?
An RV’s leveling system can help relieve stress and anxiety from leveling your camper. These systems not only raise the low side of an RV so it is level but also can provide a tremendous amount of support and stability.
A leveling system will typically use a series of four or six jacks to do the heavy lifting. A level RV is more comfortable and ensures the components operate correctly. If your rig is unlevel, you could damage slide components and reduce the efficiency of your propane appliances.
About Lippert
Lippert is a well-known manufacturer of products, especially in the RV industry. Their overall brand includes brands like Curt, Furrion, Thomas Payne, and many more. Lippert started back in 1956 as B&L Industries by Don Baldwin and Larry Lippert.
A year later, Don sold his share in the business to Larry, and the company later became Lippert Components Inc. The company spent the majority of the 1960s, 70, and 80s acquiring smaller companies to build their brand. They continue this trend of acquiring companies to support their vast infrastructure and acquired Furrion in 2021 and Girard Systems in 2022.
The company has more than a hundred facilities around the globe, employs over 14,000 people, and brought in $4.5 billion in net sales in 2021. With such a large presence in the RV community, there’s a good chance you have at least one Lippert product in your RV!
Are All Lippert Leveling Systems The Same?
Lippert makes both hydraulic and electric leveling systems. The hydraulic systems are typically the choice for large and more robust RVs. These generally are fifth wheels and motorhomes. However, you can commonly see their electric leveling systems on travel trailers and various fifth wheels.
Lippert has made a few advancements in their leveling systems to allow the owner to control them via a smartphone app. You no longer have to stand next to the control panel to make adjustments or when hitching and unhitching your rig.
You may also see leveling systems with 4-point and 6-point jacks. Longer rigs will typically benefit from the additional two contact points with the ground. This reduces the amount of movement in the rig and provides a much more stable experience.
Troubleshooting Your Lippert Leveling System
It can be frustrating when your Lippert leveling system doesn’t cooperate. However, you can do a few things to troubleshoot it before you throw in the towel and head home. Let’s take a look!
Check Error Messages
One of the things we love about most Lippert leveling systems is the display on the control panel. This will alert you to any issues that your system may be experiencing. It will display error codes and messages to help you know what is wrong with the system.
One of the most common error messages is the “Out of Stroke” error message. This indicates that you’re trying to extend a jack too far. This is typically an issue if you need to use plastic blocks or levelers under the landing gear to reduce the amount of space between the landing gear and the ground.
Restart Control Panel
One of the first things any tech support worker will ask you is if you restarted the system. This is a very effective way to eliminate many issues in electronics. These types of systems require multiple systems to work in tandem. A small hiccup in the process can throw everything out of whack. Simply power down your leveling system for 10-15 seconds and give it another try.
Confirm Power
Your Lippert leveling system will require power for the control panel and operating the jacks. If your RV has been sitting in storage, you may have a dead battery and not know it, which means you’ll need to let it charge before you can do anything. However, it could also be as simple as a battery disconnect switch in the off position or a blown fuse.
Check & Test Electrical Connections
Look for any signs of loose or damaged electrical connections. You may have damaged a wire when loading or unloading camping gear. There have also been some RVers who have had some of their electrical connections come loose from the bumps and vibrations in the road. Simply checking to ensure you have solid electrical connections could help resolve your leveling system problems.
Check Hydraulic Fluid Level (If Applicable)
If you have a hydraulic leveling system, you want to have enough hydraulic fluid in the reservoir. The entire hydraulic system will experience issues if there’s not enough fluid available to pump through it and generate the necessary pressures. You will have difficulties raising and lowering your leveling jacks and opening and closing slides.
Where To Find Lippert Leveling System Replacement Parts
If you can identify an issue while troubleshooting your Lippert leveling system, you can purchase replacement parts directly through Lippert’s online store or even on Amazon. You don’t always have to go through your manufacturer, especially if your rig is no longer under any warranties.
Protect Your Lippert Jacks With SnapPads
You can extend the life of your Lippert jacks by protecting them with RV SnapPads. RV SnapPad is the world's only permanent jack pad. Made from durable recycled rubber tires, SnapPads "snap-on" to your RV's leveling jacks and stay on for good. They are kind of like rubber "shoes" for your RV's feet.
Due to their unique shape and rubber construction, SnapPads increase your RV's footprint and make your rig feel more stable on a wide variety of terrains, including grass, mud, sand, and gravel. They also protect your metal leveling feet from scrapes and bends and man-made surfaces like concrete and asphalt from jack damage.
If you’re interested in getting SnapPads for your RV but aren’t sure where to start, use the Submit Your Rig feature on our website to get an instant recommendation!
Are Lippert Leveling Systems Worth It?
If you’ve ever had to level an RV manually, you know how excruciating and stressful it can be. You don’t want to start your camping adventures with a frustrating moment between you and your fellow campers. Lippert’s leveling systems are some of the best in the industry and can allow you to spend less time setting up your campsite and more time enjoying it.
