Aftermarket self-leveling systems

MOODMAN · 07-20-2015, 05:32 PM

I own a Heritage Glen 5er, 42.5 foot, 2015 356QBQ.

One of my "must haves" on this newest one was that it had to be self-leveling. But, I couldn't get it all, so this one had most of the things I wanted, so I bought it.

Anyway, I really do miss having a self-leveling feature. But I was told by the salesman that the reason most 5ers don't have it is because the frame is too flimsy and would bend with levelers.

I am not an engineer, and that might be true. But it might not too. I wouldn't want to put more stress on this than its designed for, but OTOH, if it really is strong enough, I would want to upgrade to such a system. It seems to me that if it is strong enough to take the front jacks, and the read stabilizers, then it ought to be strong enough to have a 6-point system too, but maybe not.

Anyone done this mod with a comparable 5er? If so, any problems? Cost?

MOODMAN · 07-21-2015, 02:21 PM

Somehow this thread disappeared. I am bringing it up again.

Scotty · 07-22-2015, 06:50 AM

Quote:

Originally Posted by MOODMAN

Somehow this thread disappeared. I am bringing it up again.

If you haven't already I think I would ask FR and probably go with their recommendation. Most large 5ers now days do offer this option. Not sure its the best and not sure on the Heritage/Hemisphere family of 5ers. I would hope the frame is capable. I know I've had issues with frame flex on my Heartland Big Horn that actually weights 12,100 basically empty. Trust me you don't want to overload Lippert frame.

Rigpdx · 07-22-2015, 07:43 AM

I have the leveling system, and I love it. Mine is a four-point on a 42ft Crusader 351REQ. If Forest River says it'll work, I'd do it! Now that I know how to correctly work it, I would never get another unit with out self-leveling. Enjoy!

MOODMAN · 07-22-2015, 08:15 AM

Rigpdx,
I looked on the net about your RV, and it is a beautiful rig. Just wondered though, it seems the back leveling legs are right behind the tires. Doesn't that allow sway at the back of the RV, seeing as that part isn't supported from underneath? On mine, there are stabilizers at the very rear.

Witch Doctor · 07-22-2015, 08:53 AM

I have a 4 point level-up system installed by lippert at the last rally. They only used 4 rams being they said I was under 32' and they would fight to get level with 6. I left on my rear stabilizer. They did need to reinforce my frame before and aft. You will not twist your frame. Unless you do something stupid in the manual mode. I would never own another trailer without this option. My rear rams are just aft of the rear axle. 6 point system 4300.00, 4 point 3400.00

Rigpdx · 07-22-2015, 09:23 AM

Quote:

Originally Posted by MOODMAN

Rigpdx,
I looked on the net about your RV, and it is a beautiful rig. Just wondered though, it seems the back leveling legs are right behind the tires. Doesn't that allow sway at the back of the RV, seeing as that part isn't supported from underneath? On mine, there are stabilizers at the very rear.

This is my first 5'er...having moved from a travel trailer, on which we used standard stabilizers. On the 'cottage' (the 5'er) we do use a king pin stabilizer (that made a big difference). So far we are OK with the amount of movement, it is no more so than the old travel trailer...very acceptable for a mobile unit.

However...it is on my 'future upgrade' list to install JT strongarms front and rear. Initially we were concerned that it should have the six-point, but now that I have used the system for a while, I am glad it has the four (due to the potential for 'battling levelers' working against each other as mentioned in the above post).

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