Electric tongue jack repair

[CALNNC]

The up/down switch went bad on my 23J tongue jack. Jayco says replace the whole jack, no parts available. I had a momentary DPDT toggle that I wired for use temporarily, covering the top of the jack with a plastic bag to protect the switch that just hung in the open. I found on Ebay an almost exact match switch, a Genssi, Momentary 12V 3 Position DPDT, is how they describe it, with no part numbers but does have a bar code number: 682858532300, made in China of course, just like the original. I used the crimp style slide on terminals, making the wiring as needed to adapt it, instead of soldering like the original was, and a poor soldering job it was at that. I have a terminal crimper that puts a dimple in the backside of the lug assuring solid contact. Simple squeeze crimpers might not be enough. I lost the weather boot that went on the original switch, it may have fit this new one. I put a thin coating of clear RTV around the edges, along with a little 'shed roof' sheet metal screwed above the switches to shed rain.

[ALJO]

Switches are available at automotive stores (at least in this great country).
Most Jacks need a cover as they are not waterproof and will ruin switches and seize the motor. Also install a #10 ground directly to the motor and the battery.

[pawpaw]

The switch is definitely replaceable - I've done it. Very simple to do. Check for the manufacturer's plate on the jack and contact the them for the part. Mine is a Stromberg Carlson. I agree with ALJO - cover it. I just use an old bucket to keep the rain out.
Happy camping!

[Bassdogs]

Don't know if mine was a switch issue but the OEM tongue jack died when the TT was 1 year out of warrantee. After doing some research and advice from many forum contributers, I replaced and upgraded to a stronger unit for about $120. Has worked great since. OEM componets used by RV manufacturers are not the best, just the cheapest. Spending time and $$ to keep them in service is often not the best decision.

[robert9999]

Originally Posted by Bassdogs

Don't know if mine was a switch issue but the OEM tongue jack died when the TT was 1 year out of warrantee. After doing some research and advice from many forum contributers, I replaced and upgraded to a stronger unit for about $120. Has worked great since. OEM componets used by RV manufacturers are not the best, just the cheapest. Spending time and $$ to keep them in service is often not the best decision.

Got a link to the brand you got?

[Sundancer330]

Check out this link to Amazon Warehouse deals, there are always several models to choose from, I bought a brand new Barker VIP 3500 jack for $80.

https://www.amazon.com/gp/offer-list...condition=used

[Atlee]

What do you use to cover it while going down the road? I have a cover supplied when I bought my jack, but I don't trust it to stay on while traveling. When parked, I use the cover.

Originally Posted by pawpaw

The switch is definitely replaceable - I've done it. Very simple to do. Check for the manufacturer's plate on the jack and contact the them for the part. Mine is a Stromberg Carlson. I agree with ALJO - cover it. I just use an old bucket to keep the rain out.
Happy camping!

[Bassdogs]

Originally Posted by robert9999

Got a link to the brand you got?

Purchased on Amazon. Bulldog 500200 model. Has worked great with significantly more power than the OEM.

[Camper_bob]

I agree with replacing the jack with a new one. Especially if the unit is still under warranty. If Jayco is paying for replacement, maybe try to add a few bucks to their cost and replace with something better. That's exactly what I did when my OEM jack bit the dust (water intrusion).

I replaced with a Husky Brute (screw-type ball bearing drive) that had higher capacity, was water proof, came with a breaker instead of a fuse, and worked A LOT smoother than the OEM jack ever did. My only regret was not getting the one with a remote, that would've come in handy a few times...