How Does a Power Tongue RV Jack Work?

Basics

A power tongue jack is just that, powered. It takes a little of the work out of setting up your RV versus using a manual jack. With a manual jack, you have to hand crank the jack into place to be able to move the vehicle out from under the RV. A power jack eliminates this step.

Installation

Installing the power RV jack is simple, but you will need to have something else hold the RV up while you remove the manual jack and replace with the powered one. You should make sure that the wheels are braced and secure so that the RV will not roll. Remove the old jack by taking out the three or so bolts that are holding it is place. The foot might have to be temporarily removed to get the manual completely out. Now place the power jack in the same position that the manual jack was in and put the three balls back in. Now connect the wire to the battery and note that you can weld the jack in place to ensure stability.

Operation

Once attached, it is as simple as pressing a button. The jack then lowers to the ground. A computer in the jack makes sure to stop when the RV is level. Some models work with a safety system set up. In this case, pressing the button the first time lowers the jack almost to the ground and allows the user time to clear the ground under the jack. The button must be pressed again to lower the jack the rest of the way.