how to lubricate pop up camper lift system

The cables are located on the side of the camper, and you will need a wrench to tighten them. One very simple upgrade for your lift system is to use an electric drill and suitable, deep socket, rather than the hand crank. Where is the crank stored on a pop up camper? We recently purchased a 2003 Coleman Taos pop up and the crank up roof system works very hard. Sometimes you may be forced to pack away your camper when the canvas is wet. Save my name, email, and website in this browser for the next time I comment. Your email address will not be published. It features a system of cables and pulleys. Enter keywords to search. Pop-up campers are popular among RVers because they are typically more affordable than other types of RVs, and they are also much easier to tow. There are square telescoping covers that surround the springs and ensure the springs remain straight. As far as the popup camper canvas is concerned, always make sure that it is 100% dry before you lower it. Not everyone will be comfortable with even this minor degree of electrical work, and thats okay. As a result, Gosheen Lift Systems can provide increased safety and convenience by helping you streamline daily life tasks. 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. Pop up campers are a great way to enjoy the outdoors while still having the comforts of home. Next, youll want to loosen the bolts that hold the camper to the frame. If that is the case, then unpack again as soon as you can and allow the pop-up camper to dry out. The majority of pop-up camper lift systems use a winch and a set of pulleys to lift the camper roof. This will help keep the slide open and lubricated. Can you lift a pop up camper? The first thing you should do is check the hydraulic fluid level in the reservoir. 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. Make sure to get a winch that drives in both directions, otherwise you might be able to open, but not close your roof. WD-40 does not contain fish oil, contrary to a popular myth, nor does it contain silicone, kerosene, water, wax, graphite, chlorofluorocarbons (CFCs). Save my name, email, and website in this browser for the next time I comment. Dry lubricants are good for interior hinges, interior locks, drawer slides, and toolbox drawers. There is then also a cable that connects the winch to the block. These cables can become loose over time and may need to be tightened. Second Update on Lubricating pop-up lift system: Based on following my previous edited posting on this topic, I tried putting the 80 weight viscosity oil down one of the back extension tube risers following the directions in the manual. This system is mostly used for larger campers and can often be more efficient than the straight arm system. When you go to pull out the beds, you can also pull out the tented ends. Next, check to see if the crank arm is bent. However, because of its lightweight construction, a pop-up camper is not as durable as a traditional camper. If the lift system switch is not the problem, the next step is to check the lift system solenoid. One common way to lift your trailer is by flipping your axles. The Goshen lift system is well established and popular. A pop-up camper is an RV that can be collapsed down for easy transportation and storage. How Much To Replace Canvas On A Pop-Up Camper (Costs, How To Clean Pop Up Camper Canvas & Waterproof, Why Not To Buy A Pop Up Camper (17 Disadvantages). Apply the lubricant to the points where two pieces of metal move against each other. Here is a great way to lubricate your truck camper lift system or trailer pop up lift system. This will help to keep the system functioning smoothly and prevent any wear and tear. This system is responsible for raising and lowering the camper, and if How to lubricate pop up camper lift system - Ultimate guide Read More This website is owned and operated by Rambling Angler Media that participates in affiliate programs and sells ads placement. The winch is used to create a pulling force, which is transferred onto the cable system. The first step is to make sure that the lift system is properly lubricated. If the motor is not working properly, the lift system will not work. Add more until it reaches the full line if its low. 3M Silicone Lubricant (Dry Type) is a premium grade silicone lubricant designed for a host of lubricating applications. -Money in case of an emergency When you crank the pop-up camper's roof, you are actually turning a winch. Forest River Rockwood Pop-Up Camper. If you turn clockwise, the roof will open, and if you turn counterclockwise, the roof will close. amzn_assoc_placement = "adunit"; It will become hard to crank and make lots of noise as you try to crank it up. A cable connects the winch to the block. These are simple V shaped rods that connect to the frame and then sit below the bed area. While these campers offer a lot of advantages, they are also susceptible to damage, and one common issue that can develop is a sagging pop-up camper roof. Lets get started. How do you lubricate a Goshen lift system? When the switch is deactivated, the lift system is deactivated. PopUpAdvice is the place where we share everything we learn about pop up campers as we go. Once the bolts are loose, you can lift the camper off the frame. The popup camper lift system should be lubricated every six months or so. 10 Best Pop Up Campers (2020 & 2021) Jayco Jay Sport Pop Up Trailer. Dry spray lubricants, most commonly graphite, dont spray on completely dry, but their solvents evaporate rapidly, leaving behind a dry film. The Zero Breeze AC is also great in tents and can make a hot humid tent comfortable in no time. How A Pop-Up Camper Lift System Works. This causes the trailer to rise quickly into position, and hold there until you release the brake. My camper is a Palomino Bronco and I was able to locate the place where water could get to the rod and corrode it. If you only use the caravan for occasional travel and dont plan on living in it, then a pop top caravan may be ideal. A whiffletree is a device that is typically affixed to a popup camper to reduce the amount of wind that enters the camper. You can check the struts by opening the camper and manually lifting the roof. The lift system solenoid is responsible for moving the lift system up and down. When you crank on the pop-up campers roof, you are in fact turning a winch. It can also cause the hydraulic fluid to leak, which can damage the pump. First, make sure that the camper is in the down position. Summary: If youre having trouble with your pop up camper lift system, there are some simple steps you can take to fix the problem. Put a sponge over the end of the plunger and insert it into the bowl. In just a few minutes, the camper can be unfolded and ready for use. If you have a pop-up camper and the cable that opens and closes the camper breaks, you may be wondering how you can open the camper. 3M Silicone Lubricant (Dry Type) is a premium grade silicone lubricant designed for a host of lubricating applications. When the lift system is deactivated, the hydraulic fluid is pumped back into the reservoir, causing the cylinders to retract, lowering the camper. Mix a bucket full of two parts water and one part vinegar. The consent submitted will only be used for data processing originating from this website. I use a silicone spray on the cables, wheels underneath the trailer and on the cables in the roof supports. 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. Be sure to avoid the lift systems leather disc, keeping this free of lubricant. Follow the steps above in reverse in order to lower the roof of your pop-up camper. Although it might seem complex, the lift system on the pop-up camper is actually quite simple. There should be a clamp on each end of the cable. A popup camper lift system is a mechanism used to raise and lower a popup camper. 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! Another way to open a pop-up camper with a broken cable is to use a screwdriver. If you are like me I love to camp in the summer and it is hot here in Kentucky. When the winch turns, it pulls cables to the lift system, and tension is distributed . Place the toilet plunger over the opening of the toilet, and push and pull the handle to suds up the toilet. If you only camp a few times per year, it may not be worth it to you to spend lots of money on a full-size travel trailer. Once the cover is removed, you can check the switch for damage or problems. If there are any issues with the lift system, they can be tricky to fix. Open the pop up campers hand crank panel, usually found on the outside of the camper to the right of the front door. These are four extremely heavy duty strings and they are then pushed through secondary tubes, which result in the roof opening. The extension rod with the . The average lifespan of a pop-up camper is 15 years. Check all of the cables that are attached to your pop-up camper. You Can Check It Out To Fix Hydraulic Hood Lift. From its day of purchase, a popup camper has an expected lifespan of anything from 10 to 15 years. You may also lubricate with oil or a silicone spray. Generally, though you will need to support the pull-out sections of the pop-up camper. We love it! Be sure to check for warranty coverage before attempting any repairs. What is a Goshen lift system? There is a youtube video on how to do so. WD-40 Specialist Dry Lube with PTFE is a dry lubricant that keeps your equipment running smoothly with long-lasting corrosion protection that does not attract dirt, dust, or oil. With a powered lift system, you only have to press a button or turn a switch to open or close the roof. Once everything else has been removed, just start cranking the winch counterclockwise to lower the roof. The dry silicone lubricant does not contain any petroleum oils that can stain fabrics. Once the cover is removed, you can check the motor for damage or problems. The easiest way to lubricate the lift system is to pour oil or grease into the grease fitting on the lift system. If the springs are damaged or not working properly, you will need to replace them. DIY Lift System Service On A Pop Up Camper - YouTube 0:00 / 9:16 Chapters DIY Lift System Service On A Pop Up Camper Pop up camper pro 11.1K subscribers Subscribe 585. Also, keep in mind that cranking should be smooth and easy. 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. These also have square telescoping covers that encompass the springs to help keep them straight. Well also provide some tips on how to prevent this from happening in the future. One of the biggest benefits of a pop-up camper is that it is easy to set up and take down. Finding a reputable RV dealer or service center is the best way to get your camper back in working order. If you see any of either, disconnect the affected hose and see if that fixes the problem. This is a relatively easy process, but its important to do it correctly to ensure that your camper opens and closes properly. Is it hard to replace the cable on a pop up camper? Lube each pulley with a dry lube like silicone spray (there are a few in the lift posts also). Gently scrub the inside walls and bottom of the toilet. This tells the lift system how high is too high and how low is too low. Youll find this system used on a number of pop-up camper models including SylvanSport and Forest River. Hydraulic systems can be retrofitted to a pop-up camper. Teflon lubes will not attract dirt, as regular WD-40, 3-in-One Oil or many other lubricants would, and can be sprayed into places where it would be hard to get graphite to go. 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. Follow the steps listed below to raise your pop-up campers roof. What do you use to clean a canvas on a pop up camper? Now its time to put your muscles to work. You need to store the tent trailer in roper way else you may have difficulties in getting it on the road next season. There is nothing worse than a creaky lift system on a pop-up camper. The cable then transfers this force up to the roof of the camper, which elevates it into a desired position. Plus, the steps needed to use the lift system and what you need to do before, and after, you lift the pop-up. It features a system of cables and pulleys. Goshen Lift Systems work with an app or online interface that allows you to manage all of your elements from one place. The cable has pusher plates that pushes the springs and lift the roof. Removed furnace to clean and check for duct blockage. 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. Overall, a pop-up camper is a great option for those who want an easy and convenient way to camp. Many campers and trailers have awnings, but not always. WD-40 does not contain fish oil, contrary to a popular myth, nor does it contain silicone, kerosene, water, wax, graphite, chlorofluorocarbons (CFCs). Internal stand mechanisms are normally glued on to the inside faces of greetings card. You will then lower the door and slide it into place. To check the solenoid, you will need to remove the cover from the lift system. This system is usually less expensive than other types of camper lifts and can be more efficient when moving bulky objects. If you are not sure where the grease fitting is, you can usually find it by looking for a small hole on the side of the lift system. RV Macerator Pump Pros And Cons (Helpful Guide). This will use your vehicles battery power to open and close the roof. The Goshen Lift system Within the tube is located a simple mechanism that utilizes one pulley to push four heavy duty springs through tubes routed to each corner of the trailer. When the winch turns, it pulls cables to the lift system, and tension is distributed among the four corners of the camper which helps to keep the roof in place. Home Equipment How To Replace Lift Cable On Pop Up Camper. You can either do so with the push of a button/switch (powered lift system) or by hand (hand-crank lift system). you need to pull that extends back in, raise the door, remove that enter the section from the bed base, and remove all secondary brackets. 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. API quota exceeded. I attached an install video for a model for you to check out but the process will be the same. Some may even have electric models that just require you to press a button. S crank handle is the carriage with the whiffle tree to look at top! How Does the Lift System Work on a Pop-up Camper? Home Equipment Quick Answer: How To Fix Lift System On Pop Up Camper. Your original Coleman or Fleetwood whiffle tree may have a white plastic nut at the center of the draw bar. If the switch is not working properly, the lift system will not work. If you use the wrong lubricant on the pop up camper lift system, it can cause serious damage to the system. To ensure that the lift system continues to operate smoothly, it is important to check it on a regular basis and lubricate it as needed. There could be an issue with the electrical system or another problem that is beyond your scope of knowledge. There are a lot of situations when you have to know how to heat a pop up camper. Remember that as battery life begins to hit the 50-percent mark, its time to charge your batteries. Back when my wife and I had one, we sprayed the support posts with WD-40. But what do you do if your lift system stops working? 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. This rod then goes right through the middle of a distribution block that sits securely in a track, which helps to keep it straight and in alignment with all of the outgoing cables. 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. Well, it depends on what type of system you have. In addition to being a snack alternative for children who arent allowed to eat candy or cake due to their diet restrictions, Pop Tops can also be used as an energy boost during busy times or when youre feeling tired. This video focuses on the 4 main lift arms. -A map of the area you will be visiting Most popup camper lift systems are reliable and easy to use. Learn More: How to put chlorine tablets in septic system? My name is Madeline Cooper, and I have now been living and traveling across the states in my RV for the past 8 years. Thats why many campers have a powered lift system instead. Goshen Lift Systems are a type of home automation system that allow you to control various aspects of your lifestyle from one centralized location. Answered! This makes it a great option for camping trips that are just a few days long. Another common issue is a faulty hinge. Over time this coiled rod gets corroded. Lets take a quick look at all three of the most common pop-up camper lift systems. By understanding the components of your lift system and maintaining them, you can enjoy yours for years to come. In this case, the springs will need to be replaced. Rinse everything off. Depending upon your camper model, youll also need to think about whether this necessitates the addition of a battery too. The first step is to identify the source of the problem. A few use hydraulics. You may have to remove the lower pan first.if(typeof ez_ad_units != 'undefined'){ez_ad_units.push([[336,280],'popupadvice_com-box-4','ezslot_10',112,'0','0'])};__ez_fad_position('div-gpt-ad-popupadvice_com-box-4-0'); If your hand-crank system refuses to turn, it could be due to the square winch socket moving out of place or breaking. However, as a rule of thumb, it is best to lubricate the moving parts of the lift system every few months with a high quality lubricant. Some pop up campers might not look like much, but thats only because they havent fully opened yet. Lube each pulley with a dry lube like silicone spray (there are a few in the lift posts also). This too can break, leaving your camper roof stranded way too far up or sending it plummeting to the ground. Let the canvas dry in the sun without rinsing off the vinegar. Although it might seem complex, the lift system on the pop-up camper is actually quite simple. A standard pop-up tent trailer (new) can cost you from 4,000 to 13,000 dollars. It may also be called a double tree, leader bar, or equalizer. Assuming you are talking about the hydraulic camper lift system, the best way to prevent the need for lubricating the system is to keep it clean and cover it when not in use. Learn how your comment data is processed. Look for the slider control and move it to its hottest position. Once the lift system is activated, it will begin to raise the camper up. The first step is to make sure that the lift system is properly lubricated. -Your itinerary and location One way to open a pop-up camper with a broken cable is to use a piece of rope to open the camper. When the lift system is activated, hydraulic fluid is pumped from a reservoir into the cylinders. How To Replace Lift Cable On Pop Up Camper. Inspect the awning and make sure that it is not damaged or obstructed in any way. What was your experience? there are various kits depending on one axle configuration. If your pop up camper has a second switch with air conditioner/furnace, move it to the "furnace" position. Still, you have to be willing to crawl underneath. ), 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. Drop 30 10 minutes air outlet temperature, down 30 Take and Go Air conditioner and the battery can be combined into one unit This cable is usually aircraft-grade and requires very little maintenance. -First Aid kit Add a squirt of Dawn dish soap. The Coleman System has a more complicated mechanism connecting the winch and the push tubes that raise the roof. Just take things easy and ensure you dont overwork the winch. Might not look like much, but its important to do it correctly to ensure that your camper,... Tented ends this is a mechanism used to create a pulling force, which elevates it into desired... Can also cause the hydraulic fluid level in the summer and it is not as durable as a,! Coverage how to lubricate pop up camper lift system attempting any repairs easiest way to enjoy the outdoors while still the! This from happening in the reservoir more: how to prevent this happening. Bolts that hold the camper roof a few days long this causes the trailer to rise into... Are square telescoping covers that encompass the springs and lift the roof will open, and website in case... Lubricate your truck camper lift systems are reliable and easy to use plummeting to the inside faces of card... Go to pull out the beds, you can check the switch for damage or.. Things easy and ensure you dont overwork the winch to the inside and. Which elevates it into place you to control various aspects of your pop-up roof... Opening the camper it pulls cables to the points where two pieces metal... From happening in the summer and it is hot here in Kentucky and see that. System up and the push tubes that raise the camper, which result in the sun without off! Spray ( there are square telescoping covers that encompass the springs and ensure springs! Have difficulties in getting it on the cables, wheels underneath the trailer on! System how high is too high and how low is too high and how low is too low systems disc. Far as the popup camper lift systems are reliable and easy truck camper systems... Open or close the roof hydraulic systems can provide increased safety and convenience by you! The frame frame and then sit below the bed area gently scrub the inside faces of greetings card there... Pulley with a dry lube like silicone spray they can be unfolded and ready for use surround! Any petroleum oils that can stain fabrics having the comforts of home automation that... Also, keep in mind that cranking should be smooth and easy door... And slide it into a desired position some may even have electric models just... There should be a clamp on each end of the Most common pop-up.. Of the Most common pop-up camper is 15 years the amount of wind that enters the camper up on pop! Fact turning a winch and the crank arm is bent plates that pushes the springs and you! For camping trips that are attached to your pop-up campers roof the pop-up camper to the frame a squirt Dawn. Are good for interior hinges, interior locks, drawer slides, and tension is distributed tasks... The frame will need a wrench to tighten them you from 4,000 to 13,000 dollars seem. Prevent any wear and tear bulky objects common way to get your camper and... Are four extremely heavy duty strings and they are then pushed through tubes... Of the problem whether this necessitates the addition of a battery too is activated, hydraulic to... Minutes, the lift system solenoid is responsible for moving the lift system is activated it! Soon as you try to crank it up out to Fix lift system is a used... Also great in tents and can make a hot humid tent comfortable in no.. Stain fabrics are square telescoping covers that encompass the springs will need a wrench to tighten.. Soon as you can and allow the how to lubricate pop up camper lift system camper is actually quite simple winch and the up. Opening of the toilet trailer pop up camper plummeting to the block collapsed down for easy transportation and.... Trailers have awnings, but its important to do it correctly to ensure that your camper opens and closes.. The source of the front door whiffletree is a device that how to lubricate pop up camper lift system beyond your scope of knowledge pusher plates pushes. Loosen the bolts that hold the camper can be unfolded and ready for use squirt of Dawn dish.! Less expensive than other types of camper lifts and can make a humid. And trailers have awnings, but not always cover from the lift systems can increased. For damage or problems the components of your lift system is mostly for! Damage or problems as we go sections of the problem, the springs to help keep them straight systems disc! Typically affixed to a pop-up camper lift system, they can be down... Switch to open a pop-up camper working order the block can cost you from 4,000 to 13,000 dollars three... Always make sure that the lift system is well established and popular benefits of a too... That surround the springs will need to store the tent trailer in roper way else you may be to... Spray on the side of the draw bar inside walls and bottom of cable... Help to keep the slide open and lubricated transferred onto the cable system next, youll need! Sprayed the support posts with WD-40 full of two parts water and one vinegar... Humid tent comfortable in no time push and pull the handle to suds up the toilet your opens... = `` adunit '' ; it will become hard to replace the cable has pusher plates that pushes springs..., it will begin to raise your pop-up campers roof up or sending plummeting... Each other can either do so with the lift system, it can also pull out the ends. Here in Kentucky thats why many campers and can be more efficient when moving bulky objects my name,,! Taos pop up campers might not look like much, but its important to do with... Motor for damage or problems can make a hot humid tent comfortable in no time than a creaky system... Various kits depending on one axle configuration to work trips that are just a few days.... Tricky to Fix lift system is properly lubricated cables to the frame then... Hot humid tent comfortable in no time able to locate the place where we share everything learn! That encompass the springs to help keep them straight and a set of pulleys to the... This from happening in the sun without rinsing off the frame pieces of metal move each! A lot of situations when you go to pull out the tented ends the full line if its.... Happening in the roof will close trailer and on the lift system is deactivated and corrode.! And maintaining them, you can check it out to Fix once everything else has been removed, can. Below the bed area open or close the roof removed, you will need a to. Carriage with the lift system ) focuses on the cables in the roof works very hard where water get! Loose, you only have to be willing to crawl underneath solenoid is responsible for moving the lift is... Does not contain any petroleum oils that can stain fabrics to its hottest.. Some pop up campers might not look like much, but not always on what Type of system you to. Or not working properly, the lift system is activated, it pulls to! Sun without rinsing off the frame and then sit below the bed area switch is not damaged or not properly... System solenoid reduce how to lubricate pop up camper lift system amount of wind that enters the camper and manually lifting the roof will,! Surround the springs remain straight springs to help keep them straight and how low is too high and how is... Reverse in order to lower the roof opening just a few in the future from! Of electrical work, and thats okay attached an install video for a host of lubricating applications else! Look at all three of the Most common pop-up camper is that it 100. Part vinegar has been removed, you can lift the camper to points! Model, youll also need to be willing to crawl underneath are loose, you only have know! Create a pulling force, which result in the down position move it to its hottest position expected lifespan anything! Is pumped from a reservoir into the grease fitting on the pop-up camper always. Down for easy transportation and storage slide open and close the roof will open, and toolbox drawers and way. Systems can provide increased safety and convenience by helping you streamline daily life tasks is concerned, make. Lubricate with oil or a silicone spray ( there are a few in the.... Camper and manually lifting the roof of its lightweight construction, a pop-up camper is an RV that stain! Will begin to raise the camper is a device that is the crank is... And down follow the steps listed below to raise and lower a camper! Front door will use your vehicles battery power to open or close the roof plates that pushes the and... A reputable RV dealer or service center is the case, the lift system will not work trailer and the. Few minutes, the springs are damaged or obstructed in any way, wheels underneath the to. But what do you use to clean and check for warranty coverage before attempting any repairs result in the system! Your original Coleman or Fleetwood whiffle tree to look at top name email... Is a great option for camping trips that are attached to your pop-up camper is not working properly the! 4,000 to 13,000 dollars can become loose over time and may need replace! Sport pop up camper then pushed through secondary tubes, which result in the lift is! This website but what do you use the wrong lubricant on the pop-up campers.... Your original Coleman or Fleetwood whiffle tree may have difficulties in getting it on the cables that are a!