Stabilizer Tripod

[karl404]

We’ve got a Grand Design Solitude with a leveling system that is making popping noises. The solution seems to be to add some alternative hydraulic fluid to prevent slippage. However, in order to do that, I need to raise and lower the leveling jacks. I don’t have a truck to hitch it to. Can I use a stabilizer tripod to briefly hold the front weight while I exercise the jacks?

[DutchmenSport]

I don't think those tripods are capable of supporting 2500 - 3000 pounds of weight.

Here's a simpler solution. Put blocks, concrete or wooden, under the frame of the camper near the front. Then you can lower the camper onto those blocks. It's stable, well supported, and the trailer won't move on you. Be sure your tires are chocked real good too.

If you don't have any jack stands, like in my photos below, you can use wooden blocks, or something else. Just be sure whatever you use will not collapse:

https://i.imgur.com/kjhpviN.jpg

https://i.imgur.com/ZhXlC8M.jpg

If you need more height, add more blocks under the jacks and then raise the jacks as high as they'll go. Then insert the supporting blocks under the trailer frame:

https://i.imgur.com/XRavHRT.jpg

https://i.imgur.com/LbGeaFv.jpg

[Notanlines]

As Dutch said, the short answer is no. Use his system and use a product such as
https://www.amazon.com/Hot-Shots-Secret-HSS32Z-Eliminator/dp/B0053YFDNM/ref=asc_df_B0053YFDNM/?tag=hyprod-20&linkCode=df0&hvadid=312181776237&hvpos=&hvnetw=g&hvrand=16615615656231116824&hvpone=&hvptwo=&hvqmt=&hvdev=c&hvdvcmdl=&hvlocint=&hvlocphy=1014485&hvtargid=pla-572224541417&psc=1
I'm not recommending this one in particular, but this is the correct fluid to use.

[Cummins12V98]

Simply fully retract and extend the fronts it will not hurt a darn thing.

[karl404]

Thanks for your replies. FWIW, the tripod is rated for 5000 lbs. I’ll probably go with a suspenders and belt approach of tripod plus blocks.

[Cummins12V98]

Thanks for your replies. FWIW, the tripod is rated for 5000 lbs. I’ll probably go with a suspenders and belt approach of tripod plus blocks.

Why not simply lower the front all the way then run the rears in and out a few times. Then raise the front and lower a few times. Now level the RV and run the slides in and out a few times.

ZERO reason for a TriPod or suspenders whatever that is. You are making this way harder than it has to be.

[Notanlines]

I'm with Cummins. You're giving way too much thought to a simple operation. And be sure to have that iphone camera running when you put 5K on the tripod.
By the way, WTF is a 'suspenders and belt' approach?

[Cummins12V98]

I'm with Cummins. You're giving way too much thought to a simple operation. And be sure to have that iphone camera running when you put 5K on the tripod.
By the way, WTF is a 'suspenders and belt' approach?

TOO DAMN FUNNY!!! Yea I would love to watch that experience unfold.