RV HYDRAULIC LEVELING SYSTEM MAINTENANCE: WHAT YOU NEED TO KNOW

 RV hydraulic leveling system maintenance, besides being a mouthful, is brand-specific, meaning each has its own maintenance requirements. Fortunately, most of the procedures are similar, with small differences here and there, usually in terms of spray lubricants and cleaning requirements.

Sure, it’s not the most entertaining topic to parse through online, but it is one of the most important aspects of your routine, RV maintenance. If your RV isn’t properly leveled, it tends to cause all sorts of issues, including issues with the fridge, puddling water in the shower, sticking doors, cabinet doors swinging open, a bad night’s sleep, malfunctioning slide-outs, and more.

Leveling your RV is a fact of RV life, as immutable in necessity as the sun rising in the east and setting in the west. Regular maintenance not only leads to a happier camping life but also a cheaper one. Hydraulic leveling systems are costly to repair, and the damage an unlevel RV can cause is significant.

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Your RV hydraulic leveling system requires routine maintenance for a reason. Though it’s a closed system by design, things tend to wear down over time. Understanding the basic function of an RV leveling system will help you identify potential issues well before they crop up.

Despite its name, an RV hydraulic system is part hydraulic and part electric. RV hydraulic leveling systems typically use Dexron or ATF fluid, but it’s always a good idea to check your manual and make sure. Don’t let the fact that hydraulic systems require more maintenance confuse you into thinking these systems are complicated.

A hydraulic system, though it sounds complex, operates on a straightforward principle and comprises a few key components:

1. Fluid Reservoir: This is where the hydraulic fluid is stored. It serves as the starting point for the hydraulic pump to draw fluid, which is then circulated through the system.
2. Hydraulic Pump: Powered by an electric motor, the pump’s role is to convert mechanical energy into hydraulic energy. This energy is what enables the lifting action in the system.
3. Electric Motor: The motor provides the necessary power to the hydraulic pump, enabling it to function and circulate the hydraulic fluid.
4. Valves: These components regulate the system by controlling the flow of hydraulic fluid and maintaining internal pressure within safe limits.
5. Hydraulic Cylinder: Positioned at the end of the system, the cylinder plays a crucial role in converting the hydraulic power back into mechanical energy, completing the cycle.

In essence, the hydraulic fluid is directed into the appropriate components to create pressure. It’s this pressure that activates the jacks, allowing them to lift or move objects. The valves ensure that everything runs smoothly, preventing the system from over-pressurizing and keeping the operation within safe parameters.

SIGNS YOUR RV HYDRAULIC LEVELING SYSTEM NEEDS MAINTENANCE

If you practice preventative RV hydraulic leveling system maintenance, the issues we cover in this section will be few and far between. Of course, that’s the entire idea behind preventative maintenance, making it one of the most important actions you can take throughout the life of your RV.

Though the system is simple, there are several components, and the more components there are in any system, the more potential there is for problems down the road.

Common issues include:

1. Jacks won’t extend or retract: This is a common symptom of issues within hydraulic systems, often related to inadequate hydraulic fluid levels, air in the system, or mechanical failure of components.
2. Jacks fail to hold their positions: This could indicate a leak in the hydraulic fluid system or failure of the valves that maintain hydraulic pressure.
3. The leveling system is not working at all: This could be due to several factors, including electrical problems, pump failure, or severe hydraulic fluid issues.
4. Excessive noise (grinding, whining, or creaking): Such noises are typically indicative of mechanical issues, low fluid levels, or contamination of the hydraulic fluid, which can affect the system’s efficiency and health.
5. Signs of fluid on the ground: Leaks are a clear sign that the hydraulic system needs maintenance. Leaking fluid can lead to loss of pressure and system failure.
6. A change in the smell of the hydraulic fluid: Changes in the odor of hydraulic fluid can indicate contamination, which is detrimental to the system.
7. Hydraulic fluid is milky, pink, foamy, or dark: These are signs of water contamination, air in the system, or degradation of the fluid, all of which can compromise the system’s performance and longevity.

There’s no such thing as hydraulic fluid that never deteriorates over time. Like everything else, hydraulic fluid has a shelf life, especially if you are using the system a lot. The best way to determine that the fluid is bad is to test it. However, most RVers don’t have chemical labs inside their campers. Visual and smell comparisons have to suffice.

Bad hydraulic fluid will have a very different smell. In fact, hydraulic fluid can become infested with bacteria, especially if it just sits unused for a long period of time. This bacteria contributes to the overall chemical breakdown of the fluid.

PREVENTATIVE MAINTENANCE TIPS

On the bright side, hydraulic system care is relatively simple. It’s just a matter of getting it done. You don’t have to go full-on Sherlock Holmes and break out the magnifying glass every time you park your RV. But you should have a routine or, at the very least, use your downtime to give the system a good look-through.

REGULAR INSPECTION AND CLEANING OF COMPONENTS

RV hydraulic leveling system maintenance begins and ends with visual inspections. After all, other than a malfunction, how are you going to know something is amiss if you don’t look? Before your first go-round, be sure to check over the manual associated with your system, whether it’s a third-party, aftermarket installation, or a part of your RV manual.

This will help you recognize the various components, and you’ll have a better understanding of how the system functions. Some manufacturers suggest a routine cleaning process and recommend specific RV maintenance tips. For instance, one manufacturer may recommend WD-40 post-washing. Others may recommend something different lubricant.

CHECKING AND TOPPING UP HYDRAULIC FLUID LEVELS

You should clean the cylinders periodically, but always make sure they are dry and well-lubricated after you finish. The lubrication brand will most likely be in the manual. Check the hydraulic fluid. It should be red, so any other color or a severe darkening of the fluid are causes for concern.

INSPECTING HYDRAULIC HOSES AND CONNECTIONS FOR LEAKS OR WEAR

Hoses and wiring degrade and absorb damage more often and quickly than metal components. All RV hydraulic leveling systems have hoses and wiring to some degree or another. Get your flashlight ready, even if it’s a sunny day. You’ll spend most of the time in the shade of the RV’s underside, and a good flashlight will provide you with a more detailed visual inspection.

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The Pros and Cons of Living Full-Time in an RV

  

Young adults are the fastest-growing group of RVers in the country. They are ditching the sticks and bricks and opting for a nomadic life, traveling the country in a house on wheels. With remote work becoming increasingly common, young adults are finding fewer reasons not to join more than 1 million people living full time in an RV in the U.S. For those considering making the move, it’s important to know some of the pros and cons before taking the leap.

Living Full-Time in an RV Has Its Perks

RVing is no longer just for snowbirds or vacationing families. There are several perks for young adults who choose this lifestyle.

Save Money

Approximately 66% of high school graduates attend college right after finishing their secondary education, racking up an average of $37,000 in student loan debt. One of the appeals of moving into an RV is the ability to save some cash.

Though it can get expensive to rent a campground spot on a nightly basis 365 days per year, many people find parks that offer monthly long-term rates. These rates make living full time in an RV much cheaper than paying a mortgage or rent. Additionally, RV parks often offer additional amenities, including:

• Free Wi-Fi
• On-site laundry
• Shower and restroom facilities
• Community use facilities
• Walking trails and dog parks
• Exercise facilities

With these kinds of perks, you get the benefits of living in a residential community at a more reasonable rate. You can take the money you save and stash it away or use it to pay off debt or have more fun.

Spend More Time in Nature

One of the biggest draws to nomadic life is spending more time in nature. Often, living full time in an RV allows you to explore the country’s most scenic environments. Whether you prefer mountains, deserts or beaches, you can find a place to park your rig. There is no better way for an adventure-loving young adult to see and experience it all than by living in a home on wheels.

Follow the Good Weather

In Texas, the phrase, “If you don’t like the weather, wait five minutes,” is appropriate. In most areas, you don’t want to wait around for weather you like. Winters in the Northeast can be harsh, while summers in the Southwest are brutal. When you’re living full time in an RV, you don’t have to wait. You can chase your idea of perfect weather around the country.

Find Freedom

Many young adults who choose the RV life wax poetic about the freedom life on the road affords them. When you opt for minimalism, you aren’t tied to the trappings of consumerism. You don’t have to earn as much money to maintain the traditional, modern lifestyle, which means you can work less and have more free time to do what you love. What’s more, it takes a lot less time to clean a rig than it does a house!

Work With a View

For most young adults, living full time in an RV doesn’t mean you don’t have to have a job. It just means you have more freedom to choose where you work. With today’s technology, remote work is getting easier to find. Your rig becomes the ultimate office with a view, and when you get bored with one view, you can change it without looking for a new job.

Full-Time RV Life Has Some Drawbacks

If you look at social media to learn about RV living, you may get the idea that there are no downsides to this lifestyle. Before you decide whether living full time in an RV is the right choice for you, you should have a clear picture of what the cons are.

Connecting Isn’t Always Easy

While it’s great to get away from the hustle and bustle of modern life, it’s still important to make connections with other people. When you move your home from location to location regularly, it’s harder to build a network of friends and people you can trust. Many young adults rely on social media or organized RV groups to connect with fellow nomads.

Breaking Down Is a Risk

When your home has an engine and other mechanical parts, it’s going to break down. Living full time in an RV requires the patience and flexibility to cope with the inevitable flat tires, worn-out parts and mechanical failures. Some repairs you can learn to take care of yourself, but others may require you to find someplace else to stay while your rig is in the shop.

Sticking to a Schedule May Be Hard

When you work from home, and you can take your home to the most beautiful spots in the country, it can be challenging to make a schedule and stick to it. With the outdoors calling, you may be tempted to take to the trails rather than attend to your job. Living full time in an RV requires some degree of self-motivation and -discipline.

Working Remote Presents Challenges

Remote work doesn’t work without a good Wi-Fi connection and cell signal. Remote locations often have neither. However, most modern, full-service RV campgrounds have Wi-Fi in the park, making it easier to log in to your job (we offer high speed, triple encrypted wifi for streaming etc.). You’ll also appreciate the Wi-Fi on those rainy days that keep you inside your rig.

Finding a Place To Stay Can Be Challenging

Living full time in an RV usually means changing your home base regularly. With so many people taking to the roads these days, it can be hard to find your next campground. During the summer months, America’s top destinations book up early. In the winter, snowbirds and full-timers alike flock to the southern and southwestern regions of the country, where winters are mild. Be prepared to plan ahead.

Living Full-Time in an RV Is Possible With Texas Campgrounds

Many young adults living full time in an RV choose to spend time in Texas. This state offers a wide range of environments to suit every taste. The Boston Group manages campgrounds in some of the most desirable locations in the Lone Star state, and we offer monthly rates and numerous amenities that appeal to full-timers. Get in touch with us today to find out more about our campgrounds.

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Why Texas Is the Best State for Full-Time RVers

 If you’ve never been to Texas, why are you waiting? Texas is a big state with a big heart and offers incredible adventure. The landmass is a whopping 268,597 square miles (a little larger than France), so it’s time to get going and see what all the talk is about.

Many of the following locations are within a short driving distance. Life in Decatur Texas is just a few miles from many of these destinations for vacation or short getaway.

Whether you want to relax by the shore, visit beautiful cities, listen to live music, or get out in nature, Texas is the best state for full-time RVers.

Natural Spaces in the Best State for Full-Time RVers

If you plan to visit the coast, be sure to check out Padre Island National Seashore. This national park is the largest undeveloped barrier island in the world that is abundant with wildlife and sea creatures that inhabit the tidal flats.

Stay at a nearby luxury RV resort, so you have extra time to explore the dunes and swim in the Gulf of Mexico. Catch a beautiful sunset on popular Mustang Island and keep your camera handy for some memorable shots.

Historical Sites

When in San Antonio, you must remember to visit the Alamo. This cultural institution is a global treasure for all who visit. Join a guided tour to learn about the Spanish mission’s vibrant history and the famous people connected to the Alamo’s story.

The famous Riverwalk is steps away, so plan to meander this beautiful city feature. There’s lots of shopping and great food to enjoy along the path, making this another reason Texas is the best state for full-time RVers.

Cultural Experiences

Head to “Big D” Dallas to experience one of the finest collections of artworks by the Spanish masters at the Meadows Museum. You can browse the artistry of Goya, Murillo, Picasso and Ribera, to name a famous few.

The Texas State Capitol is the seventh-largest building in the world, constructed in the Italian Renaissance Revival style. Its red-granite exterior is breathtaking and worth the trip. Stay at an RV park in the area and find out why “Keep Austin Weird” is an apt slogan for this unique city.

Musical Venues

While Austin is billed as the Live Music Capital of the World, you’ll find great music throughout the state. From concert halls to honky-tonks, Texas has a thriving music scene, which is why it leads the pack as the best state for full-time RVers.

Gruene Hall in Hill Country is the oldest dance hall in the state that features both budding and famous artists playing to excited crowds ready to two-step the night away. Park your rig outside the hall and head next door to the Gristmill Restaurant before the show. Try the best onion rings on the planet as a starter.  

Plan Your Travels Around the Best State for Full-Time RVers

The Boston Group manages premier RV properties across the state of Texas. Our parks and resorts feature excellent facilities and amenities for our visitors. Contact us to learn more about our portfolio and see why we believe this is the best state for full-time RVers.

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Top Reasons to RV

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Ask any RVer why they RV and you're likely to get a long answer. There are so many reasons why folks love to travel with their recreational vehicles that you would be scrolling down the page forever if we tried to list them all here. So, we've tried to narrow the list a bit for you. Here are a few of our favorite reasons to RV...

RVers are AWESOME!!!

We have met so many great folks through our RV travels. Folks from all over the world, that we never would have met otherwise. Most RVers are always ready to share a smile, a story, travel tips, or even lend a hand when needed. [Learn More About RVers Being Awesome!]

There is something for everyone.

From pop-up campers to tag axle diesel pushers, RVs come in all sizes and price ranges. And the great part is, you don't have to spend a lot of money to RV. It's an incredibly affordable way to vacation with the family.

Pets are welcomed.

Why leave Fido and Fluffy at home with the neighbors or pay boarding fees? Most RV campgrounds and resorts welcome pets. And walking your dog around the campground is a great way to get some exercise, enjoy the scenery and meet other RVers. 

You can escape crazy travel fees.

Think about all of the extra fees you normally pay when you travel... airline baggage fees, rental car mileage fees, hotel resort fees... we can't believe some of the things they charge for these days! You'll never be charged an "extra towel fee" when you travel in your own RV. 

The stars at night really are big and bright!

But you don't always see them from your house. There's nothing like sitting outside and really seeing the Milky Way. Our guess is most folks have never seen it, and it is truly amazing.

Your Personal RV is a "No Bed Bug Zone".

It seems that every year we all hear stories about hotel cleanliness questions or bed bug encounters. The best way to avoid the pesky little critters is not to get around them. In your RV you know who has slept in your bed and that it is definitely bed bug free. 

RVing is great for your health!

The RV lifestyle is all about getting outside and enjoying your environment. When we are camping, we cook all of our meals (so we eat healthier) and we are more physically active. We hike, bike, geocache, kayak. We are relaxed and stress-free when we are camping in our RV.

You can camp comfortably in an RV year round.

One weekend we were out camping when a terrible thunderstorm blew in bringing hours of pounding rain and high winds. The next morning, the tent campers had all packed up after "surviving a long night". But the RVers slept dry and worry-free. We have A/C when it's hot, a heater when it's cold, a solid roof over our heads and we're up off the ground, so we don't have to worry as much about weather. In fact, we've gotten some great campsites at the last minute when other folks have cancelled reservations because of weather forecasts (and usually the weather turns out just fine)!

You can have a lake house, a beach house, a house in the hill country... all in one!

An RV is a house on wheels. So with an RV your "home" is where ever you park it. You don't have to mow the grass or worry about commuting to and from your destination. Your vacation begins as soon as your wheels start rolling and the scenery always changes!

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