Level-up Noises??

[ingalmi]

35 ROK with 6 pt. level-up system, level-up seems to work fine but on our last outing parked on a reasonably level site and the level system control panel indicated a level condition we noticed periodically what I can only describe as a shutter or settling of the 5th wheel. Seemed to come from front left jack but when we checked we found no evidence of change, fluid leaking, etc. Level-up control panel still showed level. This was not a one time occurrence but happened several times on that outing. Anyone experience anything similar? Suspect it's not specific to Sandpiper. Maybe air in the system?

[Iggy]

The system is self bleeding any air out so if you use the system regularly and the tank is at proper level this shouldn't be the case.

I have heard this happening when the outside air temperature changes from night and day and the fluid expands or contacts.


Now another possibility is if you have noticed a leak or the tank is lower than normal.
This would indicate a leak and the system pressure drops off and pump tried to maintain pressure.


Just my ideas what I think it may be.

[ingalmi]

Certainly have not seen any obvious leaks, checking servicing of the system looks good, maybe it was just air. THANKS!!

[Ken91720]

I have experienced the same thing, I only notice it a night when laying in bed but I have yet to pin point the issue. I seam the get the noise 3 times or so before I fall asleep. I am taking my in to the dealer here shortly and that was on my list for them to look at.

[ingalmi]

Ours also happens at night after things have cooled down. Mines at the dealer for A/C and the level-up. Maybe they can find something but I suspect it's got something to do with expansion/contraction but that's purely a guess. Thanks for your reply, at least I'm not alone.

[NMWildcat]

We have had our level up system for 5 years. Never had any popping or settling noises. We camp in the desert frequently where temps swing drastically from day to night. So I don't buy the expand/contract theory unless the hydraulic fluid used is vastly different.

[Iggy]

Originally Posted by NMWildcat

We have had our level up system for 5 years. Never had any popping or settling noises. We camp in the desert frequently where temps swing drastically from day to night. So I don't buy the expand/contract theory unless the hydraulic fluid used is vastly different.

Don't buy it?
FACT:
Hydraulic fluid under pressure will expand and contract with temperature changes within a closed system.
That is why they have a relief valve that dumps fluid back into the tank when it expands.
If the valve is having a problem it will sound like a popping sound.
He has it in the shop and I'm guessing the dealer will say nothings wrong with the system.

[NMWildcat]

Originally Posted by Iggy

Don't buy it?
FACT:
Hydraulic fluid under pressure will expand and contract with temperature changes within a closed system.
That is why they have a relief valve that dumps fluid back into the tank when it expands.
If the valve is having a problem it will sound like a popping sound.
He has it in the shop and I'm guessing the dealer will say nothings wrong with the system.

Oh, I buy the fact that fluids expand and contract, some more than others. That's easy. If you think it's your relief valve then replace your valve. I'm saying that several of our camping buddies and ourselves have level ups and none of them pop, crackle, or snap regardless of temp changes or fluid expansion/contraction. So I would doubt the temp changes are the reason for the noises. But if you have a bad valve, leak, or seal... I would buy that. Have a nice day.

[BDavis]

There is another thread about removing a quart of the regular hydraulic oil and replacing it with a quart of caterpillar hydraulic synthetic

[Narboza]

Lippert hydraulic systems use automatic transmission fluid --- ATF. See here for recommended fluid versus temperature: http://www.lci1.com/assets/content/s...heets/0291.pdf

See here for how to add anti-stiction fluid to resolve popping: https://www.lci1.com/assets/content/...ic_Systems.pdf

[ingalmi]

Excellent, the dealer had no clue! I'll try this and see what happens. Thanks so much for your help.