Pop-Up Power Lift Issue

[AERO63]

Good morning folks...I have an issue that's got me stumped. My 2007 Rockwood Freedom 1620 is equipped with a power lift...the lift is equipped with an overload switch that kills power to the lift when (I assume) the lift becomes overloaded with resistance.

When I first bought the trailer (used) the overload switch would kill power to the lift maybe once or twice as I lifted the roof. Not a big problem, but it seemed strange that it would kill on a "normal" lift of the roof. Unfortunately, the problem has progressively gotten worse. The overload switch is now killing multiple times per lift, sometimes only allowing the roof to come up 6" or so and even that 6" is very slow and labored.

Obviously we've got an issue here...I have greased the lift system cables in all provided zerks, and I've greased up the gearing inside the power lift box as well. Doesn't seem to make a difference.

The lift is really struggling...does it sound like it could be an issue with the voltage coming from the battery?? If it's getting well below 12 volts I assume this could cause the problem...if that is the case (low voltage from the battery) what could be some possible solutions?

Any other ideas outside of voltage? I suppose it could be a bad motor on the lift itself...that would make sense...haha...but I'm hoping not.

Any experiences and/or help would be appreciated!!

[wayne in florida]

Ckeck the amp draw on the wench and reserch the overload switch as it maybe getting week and is the issue. If in the lift system im thinking it would have given out by now.

[w4drr]

Mine usually trips at least once every time I raise it up. Right now it is more of a nuisance than anything else. BUT, it has been my experience with those bi-metal thermal breakers that each time they heat up and trip it tends to weaken the metal, making them more likely to trip the next time. If it gets to the point I need to replace it, it might be worthwhile to look for the next bigger size. <legal disclaimer> I would never recommend anyone do this as it may cause overheating of the wiring and/or the winch motor.

[AERO63]

Thanks for the ideas folks...much appreciated!

[jeeplj8]

I am thinking three possible scenarios:
1) your lift mechanism has become corroded over time and it more difficult to operate. Find the manual override on your power lift winch (usually a plastic cover with a hex bolt underneath, and a handle to manually crank) and try cranking. It should crank easily and smoothly, if rather slowly. If not - then this is probably your problem.
2) the power winch motor is going bad and heating up. IIRC these actually have two built in limiters, a physical limiter set on the cable that once the winch reaches that point it shuts off and heat or current based breaker that shuts the winch down when it gets too warm. IT is obviously not the first one, but if the winch motor is going bad it will get hot quick.
3) the switch itself is going bad and giving you intermittent contact.