Cruisers Forum
Main Forum => General Discussion => Topic started by: JoeyD on February 26, 2013, 04:16:36 pm
-
Hello,
OK, for you folks with levelers on their PCs... do you put them down while in long or short term storage? Is there an argument for or against doing so?
-
Up but I don't know why other than I don't want the cylinder to rust.
-
Up!
-
The following is copied from the HWH website:
Vehicle Storage Information Concerning HWH Equipment
54. Can I store my coach with my jacks extended?
Yes, this will not hurt the system.
55. How long can I leave my coach parked with the jacks extended?
As long as you want. We recommend operating the system occasionally if possible.
-
Contrary to what HWH writes, in my opinion (based on over 4 decades of experience with hydraulic systems):
A cylinder's extended actuator rods:
1. are not able to resist long-term exposure to the elements and will rust.
2. will collect dust and dirt.
Then, aside from damaging the surface of the rod, retracting and extending the dirty/rusted rods will eventually damage the cylinder seals.
Therefore, unless you're able to regularly clean and lube the rods (with transmission fluid), best to keep them retracted during storage.
Also keep this in mind when parking the rig for extended periods; regardless of chassis, turn the steering wheel in whatever direction that will most completely retract/house the steering damper's rod.
Last item: although initially protecting the cylinder rods, those neat accordian type covers on some aftermarket dampers will eventually break down and allow moisture and dirt to enter and be trapped, resulting in damage as described in items 1 and 2 above.