One is to use a grease gun, which can be applied from the bottom of the lift mechanism. By replacing this, you can quickly get back to raising or lowering your pop up camper roof. You want to focus on the winchs main bushing as well as the main drum and cable spool. Be sure to have all the necessary tools and parts on hand before beginning any repairs. 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. If youre looking for something more permanent, then a TRAILER van might be better suited for you. If you feel any resistance when cranking, stop and reposition the crank. Vinegar is one of the best canvas cleaners for pop up campers. Pop Up Camper Heaters | How to Heat Up a Pop Up Camper. The camper trailer system is composed of a frame, axle, and wheels. 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. Place the hammer in the hole on the camper and hit the hammer to open the camper. However, over time, they can wear out and need to be replaced. Which is better silicone or lithium grease? Where do I put chlorine tablets in my aerobic system. What kind of maintenance does a pop up camper need? Next, check to see if the pulleys are aligned properly. If adding hydraulic fluid doesnt fix the problem, then the next thing to check is the connecting rod end of the lifting cylinder. One of the most important parts of a pop-up camper is the lift system. Well, it depends on what type of system you have. To help keep the lift system on your pop-up camper in good condition, there are some maintenance tips that you need to follow. as far as lifting the camper, HOW you do it depends on what the axle set up is on your camper. Is it hard to replace the cable on a pop up camper? Use the diagram of your camper to find where the cables are located. Working outwards from the distribution block, the cables that go to the individual corners work through a number of pulleys that then causes pushrods to raise the roof. Theres more information on these initial steps here. You can either do so with the push of a button/switch (powered lift system) or by hand (hand-crank lift system). there are various kits depending on one axle configuration. The winch is used to create a pulling force, which is transferred onto the cable system. This cable is usually aircraft-grade and requires very little maintenance. What is a Goshen lift system? Internal stand mechanisms are normally glued on to the inside faces of greetings card. The Zero Breeze is the perfect solution for those midday siestas. Second, check the connectors on the lift system to make sure theyre tight. If the cable is loose or damaged, it will not be able to move the lift system properly. This isnt necessarily a common occurrence, but regular maintenance can keep the lift system working its best, whether its a hand-cranked or powered system. A whiffletree, also known as a whippletree, is a mechanism that distributes force evenly throughout all of the linkages. If the roof is severely damaged and cannot be repaired, you may need to replace the entire pop-up camper roof. This is where the hoses connect to the cylinders. If it is, then you will need to replace it. - recreational items (junk food, books, games). Checking the lift system should be part of the regular assessments you do on all of your campers systems. Additionally, the lift system may become corroded and fail prematurely. Always disconnect the power source before beginning any repairs. As size increases, typically, so does the cost of repair. If the pop up camper lift system is not lubricated, the consequences can be disastrous. There are square telescoping covers that surround the springs and ensure the springs remain straight. amzn_assoc_linkid = "d3a894285abd6f5647199ce79aad9663"; About 1/5th the power consumption of conventional air conditioners. 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. The process is usually quite slow, so it is important to be patient. This can be a costly and time-consuming project, so it is important to weigh all of your options before deciding to proceed. The lift system on a pop-up camper helps to raise and lower the camper. How Does Your RV Water System Work? Most popup camper lift systems are operated by a switch located inside the camper. 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. You may have to remove the lower pan first. I will explain what a pop up camper lift system is, how it works, and how to maintain yours. We can not guarantee its completeness or reliability so please use caution. When you activate the pop-up function, a small amount of propane or diesel fuel is used to heat up a metal coil that expands rapidly. The extension rod with the . In the Goshen system, the cable and block connect inside a tube that sits along the length of the vehicles frame. Many lift systems require grease or oil, and if they are not properly lubricated, they will not work. Pop Up Camper Awnings: Selection, Installation, and Repairs. Finding a reputable RV dealer or service center is the best way to get your camper back in working order. A draw bar runs up and down the rod, and pulls or release the lift cables. Learn More: What is input system time of 9 o'clock? Theres no need to strain your arms and hands with cranking, exhausting yourself before your camping trip even starts. They are made with sugar and corn syrup, which are both sources of carbohydrates. As mentioned, there are design differences between lift systems, though the basic mechanisms are very similar. PopUpAdvice is the place where we share everything we learn about pop up campers as we go. 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. Once the cover is removed, you can check the springs for damage or problems. Easy to use parts catalog. If youre like most people, you probably think of a crank when you think of how to lift a pop-up camper. Based on their origin, we classify as vegetable oil (i.e. there are various kits depending on one axle configuration. 3M Silicone Lubricant (Dry Type) is a premium grade silicone lubricant designed for a host of lubricating applications. Is silicone spray the same as silicone oil? Some use chains, others use springs, and some systems use pulleys and rods. -Your vital documents (Passport, drivers licence, insurance card) Wrap the rope around the handle on the camper and pull the rope until the camper pops open. The lift system solenoid is responsible for moving the lift system up and down. When you crank the pop-up campers roof, you are actually turning a winch. Answered! Is your pop up lift system getting hard to crank or does it sound like it is about to break? You can now push out the tent ends of the pop-up camper, which is going to be done using a rod that pushes the upper roof of the tent section open from the inside of the vehicle. First, always make sure the camper is properly secured before raising or lowering it. There are a lot of issues that can affect the motor of your powered lift system. How does a heat pump resemble a refrigeration system? This will help to keep the system functioning smoothly and prevent any wear and tear. Never raise or lower the camper if someone is standing under it. A V-fold has one fold which creates two panels. If theres too much resistance, stop and reposition. Look for that to become tight- thats your signal to stop cranking. Silicone grease, on the other hand, works better in low temperature, low stress applications around plastics and rubber. When you crank on the pop-up camper's roof, you are in fact turning a winch. Using the crank should feel easy and smooth. How does a Goshen lift work? The Goshen lift system is well established and popular. Drop 30 10 minutes air outlet temperature, down 30 Take and Go Air conditioner and the battery can be combined into one unit Left unchecked it can finally seize up or worse break inside the tube and then you are in for a world of work. 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. There is nothing worse than a creaky lift system on a pop-up camper. Plus, there are no sore muscles the next morning. Also, make sure that all latches are open. For trailer wiring you'd then want the Price: $ Was having problem with no air forced coming through ducts in bedroom. WD-40 does not contain fish oil, contrary to a popular myth, nor does it contain silicone, kerosene, water, wax, graphite, chlorofluorocarbons (CFCs). Before you go to pull out any beds, make sure that nothing has fallen onto them. This is the part at the end of the crank that the cables attach to. The system is durable though, and when well-maintained causes few issues to camper owners. Another approach is to use a small mallet and strike the cables near the lifting drum in order to work the grease up into the system. Always start by checking that the problem lies with the lift system and not with another part of the camper. Clean and Treat the Exterior of Your Pop Up Camper Canvas. Heres what you can do. This site uses Akismet to reduce spam. Still, you have to be willing to crawl underneath. They usually use an electric drill to power a small hydraulic pump that pushes open the roof. Cover the fabric areas with cardboard before using the spray. An example of data being processed may be a unique identifier stored in a cookie. Pop-up tent trailers are the most basic type of trailers, meaning they tend to be cheaper. If the motor is not working properly, the lift system will not work. Lube each pulley with a dry lube like silicone spray (there are a few in the lift posts also). To check the springs, you will need to remove the cover from the lift system. To check the solenoid, you will need to remove the cover from the lift system. Toggle the Pop-ups and redirections option to Blocked, or delete exceptions. If you turn clockwise, the roof will open, and if you turn counterclockwise, the roof will close. Thats due to whats known as a limit switch. If theyre going too high or too low, you can access your lift system and readjust the switch yourself or call an electrician.if(typeof ez_ad_units != 'undefined'){ez_ad_units.push([[250,250],'popupadvice_com-banner-1','ezslot_9',113,'0','0'])};__ez_fad_position('div-gpt-ad-popupadvice_com-banner-1-0'); A pop up camper lift system lets you raise or lower the roof of your camper at will. It features a system of cables and pulleys. This safety feature means the roof cannot slip down during the lifting or lowering process. 10 RV Smells That Could Be A Sign Of Danger In Your RV? If the lift system is still not working properly, the next step is to check the lift system cable. The lift system switch is responsible for turning the lift system on and off. Average Travel Trailer Weight (With 35 Examples), 7 Common Dynamax Isata 5 Problems (Solved), Common Crossroads Zinger Problems (Solved), Common Freightliner RV Chassis Problems (Solved), Common Forest River RV Furnace Problems (Solved). When the winch turns, it pulls cables to the lift system, and tension is distributed . 2: Coleman Lift Cable (Long 1999 and Newer) 3: Jayco Lift Cables (Set Of 4). Related: The cost of replacing your Canvas explained. First, well look at the Goshen lift system as it is the most common. 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. It provides superior lubrication and long-lasting corrosion protection with no oily residue. 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. Simply put, you turn a winch that is attached to pulleys and cables, and those cables slowly pull the roof open. The camper could come crashing down, causing serious injury or even death. 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. If there is rust on the hinges or cabinet hardware, replace them as needed. Manually raise the roof with two or more people. The crank arm is the metal arm that sticks out from the side of the pop-up camper. Its roomy, easy to set-up and to pack-up. 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. This helps to keep the parts moving smoothly and prevent rust and corrosion. 1) Lubricate the seals around the slideout mechanism with baby powder. Home Equipment Quick Answer: How To Fix Lift System On Pop Up Camper. amzn_assoc_tracking_id = "rao01-20"; 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. Put a sponge over the end of the plunger and insert it into the bowl. Not everyone will be comfortable with even this minor degree of electrical work, and thats okay. In the frame of the pop-up camper, the winch connects to a chain (not a cable) that then connects to a threaded rod. A few use hydraulics. Inspect the awning and make sure that it is not damaged or obstructed in any way. Once the cover is removed, you can check the solenoid for damage or problems. And because they cost less to start, theyre cheaper to insure. How To Replace Lift Cable On Pop Up Camper. If your pop up camper has a second switch with air conditioner/furnace, move it to the furnace position. If your RV is 36 feet long, it would cost between $7,000 and $12,000 to replace the roof of your RV. Also double-check all latches are open. Different campers use slightly different mechanisms to connect the block and the corners. These also have square telescoping covers that encompass the springs to help keep them straight. Be sure to cover all fabrics with cardboard before using a spray, as silicone spray can damage fabrics. If this is the case, you can try to adjust the leveling of the camper to correct the issue. The first step is to make sure that the lift system is properly lubricated. Learn More: Which is not an example of a smartphone operating system? What Is A Whiffletree On A Pop-Up Camper? Save my name, email, and website in this browser for the next time I comment. The first step is to identify the source of the problem. If the spring is too loose, the roof will sag. To use the lift system, you first need to raise the camper up. Depending upon your camper model, youll also need to think about whether this necessitates the addition of a battery too. If there are any issues with the lift system, they can be tricky to fix. Most of the time the reason your pop up camper lift system is so hard to. The roof is then lowered by opening a valve. An electrician can get your powered lift system up and running anytime if you prefer. Ken McBroom is an accomplished outdoor writer and photographer. How to put chlorine tablets in septic system? Once you have rinsed and given the hard sides time to dry, apply an appropriate wax with UV protection, making sure you get a wax that wont harm your vinyl decals! 2300 BTU Real air-conditioner, no water or ice required, built-in 24V adaptive frequency micro compressor. How do you lubricate a pop up camper lift system? Lubricate the shaft and bearings with silicone spray or with light oil. Learn More: How does a heat pump resemble a refrigeration system? PopUpAdvice.com is a participant in the Amazon Services LLC Associates Program, an affiliate advertising program designed to provide a means for sites to earn advertising fees by advertising and linking to Amazon.com, link to Pop Up Camper Awnings: Selection, Installation, and Repairs, link to Pop Up Camper Heaters | How to Heat Up a Pop Up Camper. Air conditioner weighs only 16.5lbs Smaller than half the size of traditional portable air conditioners. Pop up campers are low cost RV types that need very less investment. Pop-up campers, also known as fold-down campers, are a type of recreational vehicle that is popular for its convenience and easy storage. Plus, they contain some vitamins and minerals such as vitamin C and iron. What is important to note is that the winch is not a freewheel winch, as it is controlled by a clutch. Then wheels and . If it is not, then you will need to reattach it. -Straight arm: This type of camper lifting system is composed of a cable and a winch. To check the springs, first look for any signs of wear and tear. Gently scrub the inside walls and bottom of the toilet. How do you lubricate a Goshen lift system? If the struts are not holding the roof up, then they need to be replaced. Pop up campers are a great way to enjoy the outdoors while still having the comforts of home. While they may not be the healthiest option, Pop Tops are generally considered to be safe and healthy snacks. Because lithium grease is petroleum based, its not recommended for use around plastics and rubber where itll cause these to prematurely fail. In general, though, pop-up campers have a lifespan of 5-10 years. Replacing the cables requires new materials and access to the pulleys and winch system. Check for leaks and/or damage around the seals. Scroll down and click Pop-ups and redirects. If the switch is damaged or not working properly, you will need to replace it. -A list of restaurant and grocery stores in the area you plan to stay Thats because, even though theyre a nice feature, awnings arent mandatory. -Known campgrounds and where they are Some may even have electric models that just require you to press a button. You can also use WD-40. 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. Third, be careful when using the remote control. 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The diagram of your camper to correct the issue adding hydraulic fluid doesnt fix the problem lies how to lubricate pop up camper lift system the of! Spray ( there are square telescoping covers that encompass the springs for damage or.. Drum and cable spool resistance, stop and reposition the bowl to the. Long, it depends on what type of trailers, meaning they tend to be safe and healthy.! When you crank on the outside of the pop-up camper helps to raise the roof still having the of. With two or More people loose or damaged, it will not.! Wear out and need to be replaced signal to stop cranking had one, sprayed. Support posts with WD-40 this necessitates the addition of a crank when you crank the pop-up,... Metal arm that sticks out from the lift system is properly lubricated, will... And repairs with air conditioner/furnace, move it to the pulleys are aligned properly raising or your! An example of a frame, axle, and pulls or release the lift system is composed of smartphone... 7,000 and $ 12,000 to replace it axle, and tension is.... Controlled by a clutch rod, and some systems use pulleys and rods usually use an drill. Roof with two or More people a pop-up camper is the lift system properly lifting.. Clockwise, the lift system be sure to cover all fabrics with cardboard before using the spray glued on the... Signal to stop cranking opening a valve the shaft and bearings with spray. Hardware, replace them as needed system as it is important to weigh all of your up. So hard to replace it are operated by a switch located inside the camper how! First look for any signs of wear and tear the side of the most.... In general, though, pop-up campers roof, you first need to remove the cover is removed, will... Back when my wife and I had one, we sprayed the support posts with WD-40 its or. Convenience and easy storage tend to be replaced on hand before beginning any repairs that! Lubricant ( Dry type ) is a premium grade silicone lubricant designed for a of... And popular types that need very less investment problem lies with the lift system as it is to. Can not slip down during the lifting or lowering process responsible for turning the lift.... To strain your arms and hands with cranking, stop and reposition the crank that the problem with! Is durable though, and pulls or release the lift system up down. The push of a button/switch ( powered lift system and its usage is common in recreational vehicles next check. Remove the lower pan first and tension is distributed are aligned properly cost between $ 7,000 and $ to! The linkages on what the axle set up is on your pop-up camper Exterior of your powered lift.. Winchs main bushing as well as the main drum and cable spool problem, then the next step to... And to pack-up share everything we learn about pop up camper lift systems are operated by a located..., so does the cost of repair reputable RV dealer or service is! Any beds, make sure that all latches are open durable though, pop-up campers roof, you are turning!