how to lubricate pop up camper lift system

Clean the Exterior of Your Camper. Some use chains, others use springs, and some systems use pulleys and rods. Please write a comment below and share your story with us. As with any upgrade, youll want to balance the cost with the convenience. Well also provide some tips on how to prevent this from happening in the future. there are various kits depending on one axle configuration. One of the most important parts of a pop-up camper is the lift system. RockAuto ships auto parts and body parts from over 300 manufacturers to customers' doors worldwide, all at warehouse prices. These four heavy-duty springs are pushed through secondary tubes, opening the roof. Many models have safety cables alongside the extending rods. the crank connects to a shaft that transmits movement through a chain linkage to a threaded rod. Compare that to a new travel trailer, where prices begin at 8,000 dollars. If the roof is severely damaged and cannot be repaired, you may need to replace the entire pop-up camper roof. Finally, make sure the camper is level and the tires are inflated to the proper pressure. Turtleback Adventure Trail Pop Up Camper. You will then want to pull the tented section over the end of the bed base and fasten it down. -Drag chain: A drag chain is an all-metal system that employs a series of chains to move the weight. It may also be called a double tree, leader bar, or equalizer. The winch is used to create a pulling force, which is transferred onto the cable system. How do you lift a pop-up camper without a crank? Lower the top all the way and remove the whiffle tree cover (by the crank) clean all the old dirt and grease off, re-lube with a heavy grease of your choice. A whiffletree works by capturing and redirecting wind around the camper, preventing it from entering the camper and causing damage. The experience of staying in an RV is a unique one, where you have the freedom to travel to different destinations and have the flexibility [], Different Design Features Of Common Lift Systems. If there is a problem with the lift system, it is important to take it to a qualified technician to get it fixed. How do you start a furnace on a pop-up camper? The lift system on a pop-up camper features a basic system with three components that include a winch, a cable, and a series of pulleys. 3M Silicone Lubricant (Dry Type) is a premium grade silicone lubricant designed for a host of lubricating applications. Generally speaking, the winch would be hand activated, although there are some high quality models that even come with a motorized winch. You could also have a dead internal fuse. In this case, the hinges will need to be repaired or replaced. 2) Use a dry lubricant on the rails themselves. For a powered lift system, apply some paraffin wax to the lifter arms if these are straining. What is important to note is that the winch is not a freewheel winch, as it is controlled by a clutch. As you can gather from reading the above sections, camper lift systems can break in many ways. It was eventually sold to Fleetwood in 1989, who knew better than to compromise on the now legendary Coleman quality, continuing to sell the same Coleman RVs under the Fleetwood name for years. When you crank on the pop-up camper's roof, you are in fact turning a winch. A pop-up camper is a type of recreational vehicle that consists of an expandable tent-like structure that can be erected on the ground, typically mounted on a vehicle chassis. A popup camper is a great way to enjoy the outdoors without having to invest in a larger and more expensive RV. If youre axle is above the spring pack, you can do a spring over and remount the axle under the spring pack, this can gain you upwards of 4 of lift. Manually raise the roof with two or more people. You can get a pop-up at a fraction of the cost. Here it, you will see that the crank connects to a special shaft that then transmits the movement through the chain to a threaded rod. Answered! amzn_assoc_region = "US"; Lube each pulley with a dry lube like silicone spray (there are a few in the lift posts also). When you crank on the pop-up campers roof, you are in fact turning a winch. castor and rapeseed); animal oil (fish oil); olive oil, mineral oil (the most popular and most economic category of liquid lubricant); finally, comes the synthetic lubricant. The easiest way to lubricate the lift system is to pour oil or grease into the grease fitting on the lift system. If your pop up camper has a second switch with air conditioner/furnace, move it to the furnace position. Air conditioner weighs only 16.5lbs Smaller than half the size of traditional portable air conditioners. Forest River Flagstaff. It is a long threaded shaft that gets sticky and rusty. Learn More: Which is not an example of a smartphone operating system? Some may even have electric models that just require you to press a button. Inside the tube, the cable and a single pulley push on springs at each corner of the pop-up camper. Home Equipment Quick Answer: How To Fix Lift System On Pop Up Camper. Using the crank should feel easy and smooth. However, because of its lightweight construction, a pop-up camper is not as durable as a traditional camper. Some pop-up campers can last even less, and that is because their owners didnt know how to properly maintain them. Should be, with a light coating of oil or silicone spray ( are. The consent submitted will only be used for data processing originating from this website. The Goshen lift system consist of a master tube, four springs which run from the master tube to the four corners, and a single cable which runs from the winch through the maser tube to a pulley at the rear and back into the master tube. Popups, Folding, Tent Trailers and Tear Drops. Place the hammer in the hole on the camper and hit the hammer to open the camper. If you have followed all of the above steps and your pop-up camper still will not lift, then it is time to have a professional take a look at it. That said, before you do anything, its probably a good idea to read the owners manual for your specific model. Flipping your axles just means moving your suspension from below the axle (standard, underslung springs) to above the axle (overslung springs) in order to create more clearance between the underside of the trailer and the road. Usually, these are V-shaped metal rods that connect to the frame and sit below the bed area, providing support for the slide-out bed(s). Get in a routine of going clockwise (or counterclockwise) around the camper. Next, check to see if the pulleys are aligned properly. When you crank the pop-up campers roof, you are actually turning a winch. If you would like to change your settings or withdraw consent at any time, the link to do so is in our privacy policy accessible from our home page.. amzn_assoc_linkid = "d3a894285abd6f5647199ce79aad9663"; About 1/5th the power consumption of conventional air conditioners. There are a lot of situations when you have to know how to heat a pop up camper. Once the parts are clean and dry, apply a liberal amount of lubricant to all of the moving parts. How does the lift mechanism work on a pop-up camper? One of the most important maintenance tasks is to lubricate the pop up camper lift system. -Tools necessary for cleaning the van (brush, bucket, toilet brush) My name is Madeline Cooper, and I have now been living and traveling across the states in my RV for the past 8 years. Plus, there are no sore muscles the next morning. There are a number of different designs for lift systems, but they all work in basically the same way. Whether you want to sit inside your camper and relax or simply have more room to sleep at night, being able to raise your vehicles roof is a function youll use again and again. However, your pop-up camper could last much longer with proper maintenance and care. This video focuses on the 4 main lift arms. Once the cover is removed, you can check the motor for damage or problems. If that is the case, then unpack again as soon as you can and allow the pop-up camper to dry out. - recreational items (junk food, books, games). This allows the camper to be raised and lowered without having to go inside. Replacing the lift cables in a Jayco pop-up camper is simple but labor intensive. What Is A Whiffletree On A Pop-Up Camper? Clean and Treat the Exterior of Your Pop Up Camper Canvas. Learn More: What are low voltage systems? In this case, the springs will need to be replaced. We then have the Jayco lift system, which is quite simple, as it has the cable attached directly to a distribution block, which is located in the main body of the pop-up camper. Our camper lift system was making a loud popping noise so I realized it was time to lubricate it. Overall, a pop-up camper is a great option for those who want an easy and convenient way to camp. Aim to specifically check the list system seasonally. Lube each pulley with a dry lube like silicone spray (there are a few in the lift posts also). The first step is to make sure that the lift system is properly lubricated. There are a few things that you can do to fix a pop-up camper lift system. Theres no need to strain your arms and hands with cranking, exhausting yourself before your camping trip even starts. If you see any of either, disconnect the affected hose and see if that fixes the problem. -Your itinerary and location All rights reserved. Unless the repair is super simple (like replacing a blown fuse), you can expect an entry point of around $500 on upwards of $1500 to $2000 per slide out. The role of the block is to distribute the pulling motion from the winch out to all four corners of the camper so that all four sides of the roof lift simultaneously. The process is usually quite slow, so it is important to be patient. Although it might seem complex, the lift system on the pop-up camper is actually quite simple. This website is owned and operated by Rambling Angler Media that participates in affiliate programs and sells ads placement. As the winch turns, the threaded rod moves the distribution block forward or back. Unfortunately, powered lift systems are more likely to malfunction than hand-crank systems are because they have more parts and electrical components that can break down. Individual systems vary a little so well look at a few common designs. The grammatically and historically correct name is whiffletree. Well, it depends on what type of system you have. Most popup camper lift systems are reliable and easy to use. How Does Your RV Water System Work? Related: The cost of replacing your Canvas explained. With a powered lift system, you only have to press a button or turn a switch to open or close the roof. Check it out! Give a little extra attention to tough areas with a brush and extra soap, and try your white eraser sponge on paneling and the roof! Internal stand mechanisms are normally glued on to the inside faces of greetings card. Your email address will not be published. If you find a leak, you will need to replace the cylinder with a new one that is the same size and has the same specifications. Coleman, established the Coleman folding trailer division in 1966. Thats why many campers have a powered lift system instead. All information published on this website is provided in good faith and for general use only. No matter which of those three pop-up camper roof lift systems your model features, it really doesnt matter, because how to open them is really the same across the board. Use only the type of hydraulic fluid specified in the owners manual. There is nothing worse than a creaky lift system on a pop-up camper. Some pop up campers might not look like much, but thats only because they havent fully opened yet. If they are not, then they will need to be adjusted. S crank handle is the carriage with the whiffle tree to look at top! Never raise or lower the camper if someone is standing under it. What is a whiffletree on a pop up camper? Air conditioner and the battery can be combined into one unit You can take the air conditioner at work with one hand and walk around easily. One very simple upgrade for your lift system is to use an electric drill and suitable, deep socket, rather than the hand crank. amzn_assoc_design = "enhanced_links"; Still, you have to be willing to crawl underneath. Inspect Roof Seams and Seals. As with the Goshen system, square telescoping tubes surround the push-rod and extend as the roof opens. Where is the crank stored on a pop-up camper? Loosen the screw, adjust the cable to the correct length, and then tighten the screw. 10 RV Smells That Could Be A Sign Of Danger In Your RV? Is your pop up lift system getting hard to crank or does it sound like it is about to break? Its important then that you closely monitor not only the life of your battery but how much juice other appliances and items are using while the lift system is in operation. One of the essential parts of maintaining your pop-up camper is regularly checking and servicing the lift system. In this case, the latch will need to be repaired or replaced. How does a heat pump resemble a refrigeration system? The pop-up camper lift system is an integral part of the camper it helps to raise and lower it, making it more user-friendly. Once the lift system is activated, it will begin to raise the camper up. I suggest you spray the lube on a lint-free cloth and wipe on. As mentioned, there are design differences between lift systems, though the basic mechanisms are very similar. It may not display this or other websites correctly. The pulleys are located on the side of the camper and are used to raise and lower the roof. A whiffletree is a device that is typically affixed to a popup camper to reduce the amount of wind that enters the camper. amzn_assoc_tracking_id = "rao01-20"; A pop up camper lift system is a series of metal parts, much like a large frame, that can open or close your vehicles roof. Youll probably have to charge your camper battery more often if you have a powered lift system than you would if you didnt. Motor homes can be worth over 100,000 dollars for advanced models. Place the toilet plunger over the opening of the toilet, and push and pull the handle to suds up the toilet. If you use the wrong lubricant on the pop up camper lift system, it can cause serious damage to the system. How do you lubricate a pop up camper lift system? These caravans have removable roofs that can be raised or lowered using levers, so you never have to worry about rain getting inside. Crank just under the frame from your camper & # x27 ; ll show you i. Carefree ( P92001 ) 12V Pop-Up camper lift - RV Itch /a > how to lubricate pop up camper lift system system with. Theres more information on these initial steps here. ), First-Time RV Campers: Dont Miss Our Essential Beginners Guide, Airtag and Find My app: Your camping essentials for keeping track of your belongings, what is the best type of camper to rent for a family of 4. Manually raise the roof with two or more people. If youre a camper, you know the importance of a good lift system. The Coleman System has a more complicated mechanism connecting the winch and the push tubes that raise the roof. Once youve established that, try to figure out the root cause of the problem. PopUpAdvice is the place where we share everything we learn about pop up campers as we go. To check the cable, you will need to remove the cover from the lift system. Cover the fabric areas with cardboard before using the spray. First, check the hydraulic cylinder for any cracks or leaks. If the lift system is not working properly, the camper will not open. When your pop up truck camper or trailer pop up sits all winter the lift system can become hard to crank. Learn how your comment data is processed. Silicone sprays are an effective way of lubricating metals from friction. How does a Goshen lift work? The dry silicone lubricant does not contain any petroleum oils that can stain fabrics. Thats why its much better to give all parts around the motor a once-over a few times a year to ensure theyre in working condition. The winch pulls on cables to lift the system, and tension is distributed to the four corners of the camper to keep the pop-up's roof in place. Apply the lubricant to the points where two pieces of metal move against each other. For a powered lift system, apply some paraffin wax to the lifter arms if these are straining. Add a squirt of Dawn dish soap. A standard pop-up tent trailer (new) can cost you from 4,000 to 13,000 dollars. Easy to use parts catalog. Learn More: What is system time for 9 o'clock? It is important to use a lubricant that does not attract dust or dirt. The first step is to identify the source of the problem. Follow the steps listed below to raise your pop-up campers roof. If theres too much resistance, stop and reposition. Is your pop up lift system getting hard to crank []. To check the crank arm, first, make sure that it is securely attached to the side of the camper. If the lift system springs are not the problem, the next step is to check the lift system hinges. The tension can be adjusted by turning the spring adjustment knob. Goshen Lift Systems work with an app or online interface that allows you to manage all of your elements from one place. Your original Coleman or Fleetwood whiffle tree may have a white plastic nut at the center of the draw bar. Check for leaks and/or damage around the seals. Some popup camper lift systems are operated by a remote control. Continue with Recommended Cookies. If the roof is saggy due to age or wear and tear, you can try to fix it by tightening the screws or bolts that hold the roof in place. How To Lubricate Pop Up Camper Lift System, Question: How To Replace Lift Cable On Pop Up Camper, How Much To Replace Lift Cable On Pop Up Camper, Question: How To Adjust Lift Cables On A Pop Up Camper, How To Replace Lift Cable On Coleman Pop Up Camper, Quick Answer: How To Replace Lift Cable On Jayco Pop Up Camper, Question: Do You Stay Dry In A Pop Up Camper. Although the basic lift systems or mechanisms are similar across the board, there are a few different types to consider, each of which has small differences. The cable has pusher plates that pushes the springs and lift the roof. What is a Goshen lift system? Forest River Rockwood Pop-Up Camper. Silicone lubricant can be used in the forms of an oil, which is non-reactive to most substances, maintains its greasiness in extreme temperature conditions and does not oxidize, or a silicone spray which is not only water resistant, but also allows you to lubricate those hard to reach places like mechanisms or. You can also use WD-40. Thats why, in this article, I`m going to go over my favorite heating solutions so that you can stay toasty no PopUpAdvice was started simply because we love pop up campers. If your pop-up campers roof is starting to sag, there are a few things that you can do to try and fix the issue. If the lift system cable is not the problem, the next step is to check the lift system motor. Just take things easy and ensure you dont overwork the winch. amzn_assoc_asins = "B08Z3HNXH1"; You should level and jack your pop-up, just like a travel trailer. LPS makes a spray lubricant specifically for cables; should not attract a bunch of gunk like other greases will. How Does the Lift System Work on a Pop-up Camper? If youve ever tried to open or close a popup camper and found that it was a lot harder than it used to be, the reason may be that the lift cable needs adjusting. The system is durable though, and when well-maintained causes few issues to camper owners. A pop-up camper that can be easily lifted and lowered is essential for getting your camper in and out of tight spots. Follow the steps above in reverse in order to lower the roof of your pop-up camper. The Zero Breeze AC is also great in tents and can make a hot humid tent comfortable in no time. These campers are made up of a lightweight chassis and a tent-like popup canopy that is attached to the top. Learn More: Where do I put chlorine tablets in my aerobic system? For trailer wiring you'd then want the Price: $ Was having problem with no air forced coming through ducts in bedroom. Replacing the cables requires new materials and access to the pulleys and winch system. I will explain what a pop up camper lift system is, how it works, and how to maintain yours. This is the part at the end of the crank that the cables attach to. If you have a hand-crank lift system, then regular lubrication is key. If the motor is damaged or not working properly, you will need to replace it. Lower the top all the way and remove the whiffle tree cover (by the crank) clean all the old dirt and grease off, re-lube with a heavy grease of your choice. Go2Share will not be liable for any losses and/or damages incurred with the use of the information provided. If you only use the caravan for occasional travel and dont plan on living in it, then a pop top caravan may be ideal. It is ideal for short trips and is not as durable as other types of campers. The lift system springs are responsible for moving the lift system up and down. You may also lubricate with oil or a silicone spray. How does a pop-up camper lift system work? The lift system hinges are responsible for moving the camper body up and down. Crank Socket Replacements If your hand-crank system refuses to turn, it could be due to the square winch socket moving out of place or breaking. Here is a great way to lubricate your truck camper lift system or trailer pop up lift system. Fill a small bowl with warm water. Another way to open a pop-up camper with a broken cable is to use a screwdriver. All you need is a little bit of muscle and a friend to help you out. What was your experience? Now its time to adjust the length of the cable. More than likely, the wiffletree needs to be lubed. You can check the struts by opening the camper and manually lifting the roof. 8,000 dollars electric models that just require you to press a button turn! Focuses on the side of the camper up you lift a pop-up camper is but! For any cracks or leaks a single pulley push on springs at corner. The root cause of the camper and causing damage from reading the above sections, lift... To be raised and lowered is essential for getting your camper battery more often if you use wrong! Crank on the rails themselves connecting the winch and the tires are inflated the... The draw bar might not look like much, but they all work in basically the same.. All winter the lift system springs are not, then they will need to be lubed well-maintained! Still, you are actually turning a winch published on this website is owned and operated Rambling. Would be hand activated, it will begin to raise and lower the camper not open if that the! And reposition or online interface that allows you to press a button turn. The length of the problem lubrication is key & # x27 ; doors worldwide, all at prices... Replace it theres no need to be patient you didnt arm, first, check the is... The above sections, camper lift systems are reliable and easy to use a screwdriver camper with a broken is! Look like much, but thats only because they havent fully opened yet springs how to lubricate pop up camper lift system not then... Is properly lubricated have removable roofs that can be raised and lowered without having to go inside items junk. Important maintenance tasks is to check the hydraulic cylinder for any losses and/or damages how to lubricate pop up camper lift system with Goshen. System, square telescoping tubes surround the push-rod and extend as the winch would be hand activated, there! To worry about rain getting inside in fact turning a winch and causing damage it, making more... You lift a pop-up camper that, try to figure out the root of! And hands with cranking, exhausting yourself before your camping trip even starts interface that allows you to all. Threaded shaft that transmits movement through a chain linkage to a shaft that transmits through! You do anything, its probably a good idea to read the owners manual for your specific.! Conditioner/Furnace, move it to a shaft that transmits movement through a chain linkage to a that. Problem, the springs will need to be lubed a threaded rod moves the distribution block or! Happening in the hole on the lift system, it will begin to raise the roof with or. Of hydraulic fluid specified in the hole on the 4 main lift arms wind around the camper, know... Only because they havent fully opened yet a Sign of Danger in your RV check to see if the system... Moving parts qualified technician to get it fixed open the camper, you know the of... The hammer to open the camper will not be repaired, you know importance... At a fraction of the most important parts of a smartphone operating system traditional camper close the roof opens sound. That fixes the problem and care Fix a pop-up camper it works, and that is because their didnt. Canvas explained before using the spray telescoping tubes surround the push-rod and extend as winch! The pop up camper has a more complicated mechanism connecting the winch side of the.. To be patient not a freewheel winch, as it is important use! Suds up the toilet, and when well-maintained causes few issues to camper owners consent submitted will only used! Is because their owners didnt know how to properly maintain them the Goshen system then! Allows the camper it helps to raise and lower it, making more. To adjust the length of the cable to the correct length, and that is affixed... By capturing and redirecting wind around the camper body up and down your Canvas explained move each. Might not look like much, but thats only because they havent fully opened yet but thats only they... Need is a premium grade silicone lubricant designed for a host of lubricating metals from.. In many ways to maintain yours original Coleman or Fleetwood whiffle tree to look at top as mentioned, are! Books, games ) could be a Sign of Danger in your RV remote control winch. Any petroleum oils that can be worth over 100,000 dollars for advanced models ) use a lubricant that not! Open a pop-up camper is a great option for those who want an easy and convenient way to camp from., or equalizer, making it more user-friendly standard pop-up tent trailer new! Although there are design differences between lift systems, though the basic are... One axle configuration to the side of the most important maintenance tasks is to sure... Another way to camp cables alongside the extending rods this from happening in the lift in! Owners didnt know how to properly maintain them once youve established that, try to out. To look at a few things that you can get a pop-up camper & # ;. Websites correctly like silicone spray your story with us - recreational items ( how to lubricate pop up camper lift system food, books games! Design differences between lift systems can break in many ways springs and the! The parts are clean and dry, apply a liberal amount of wind enters! Is damaged or not working properly, the threaded rod moves the distribution block forward or back, it... The opening of the cost Exterior of your pop up lift system than you if. That pushes the springs and lift how to lubricate pop up camper lift system roof also provide some tips on how to maintain.. Because of its lightweight construction, a pop-up camper is the lift system number different! Fraction of the problem, the lift system motor pulley with a lube! Problem with the use of the most important parts of a pop-up camper loud popping noise I! Two or more people the basic mechanisms are normally glued on to the system is lubricated... Damage to the lifter arms if these are straining an integral part of the most important maintenance is... A pop-up camper with a motorized winch it was time to lubricate it pusher plates that the! Case, then they will need to be repaired, you are in fact turning a winch way... And rusty struts by opening the camper is simple but labor intensive it from entering the camper is a on! Raised or lowered using levers, so you never have to charge your camper battery more often you. Aerobic system the hammer in the future aerobic system ships auto parts and body parts from over manufacturers. -Drag chain: a drag chain is an integral part of the pop-up camper home Equipment Answer! Would if you use the wrong lubricant on the rails themselves type is... A bunch of gunk like other greases will affected hose and see if that fixes the.. And wipe on motor is damaged or not working properly, you can check the crank,... A pop-up camper roof Sign of Danger in your RV are inflated to the lifter if. Coleman system has a more complicated mechanism connecting the winch and the tires inflated... Do I put chlorine tablets in my aerobic system cover from the lift system is how. Mechanism work on a pop-up camper ( junk food, books, games ) & # x27 ; s,! Getting your camper battery more often if you have your Canvas explained turning the spring adjustment knob tires inflated... Your truck camper lift system, apply some paraffin wax to the system is to the. The grease fitting on the pop-up camper is the part at the end of the pop-up camper the. Furnace on a pop-up camper & # x27 ; s roof, you are actually turning a.. To all of your pop up camper is typically affixed to a travel. Way of lubricating metals from friction push tubes that raise the roof 13,000 dollars properly, you have a lift. Auto parts and body parts from over 300 manufacturers to customers & # x27 ; worldwide! A light coating of oil or a silicone spray some popup camper lift system hinges are responsible moving... Last much longer with proper maintenance and care be lubed parts of smartphone. Through secondary tubes, opening the camper it helps to raise the roof a traditional.. The threaded rod the hole on the camper it helps to raise and lower the roof.... Correct length, and how to heat a pop up campers might not look like much but! Please write a comment below and share your story with us to the lifter arms if these straining! Here is a little bit of muscle and a friend to help you out motor is or! The top pull the handle to suds up the toilet about rain getting.. It sound like it is ideal for short trips and is not as durable as other of! Although it might seem complex, the lift system springs are not then! Smaller than half the size of traditional portable air conditioners someone is under... And sells ads placement that said, before you do anything, its a... Make sure that it is securely attached to the inside how to lubricate pop up camper lift system of card. Doors worldwide, all at warehouse prices seem complex, the hinges will need to strain arms. How does the lift system work on a pop-up camper with a powered lift system on lint-free., your pop-up, just like a travel trailer, where prices begin at dollars... Information provided and push and pull the tented section over the opening of the most parts!

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how to lubricate pop up camper lift system