Lippert 643589 Smart Jack Review

What Led Me to Try the Lippert 643589 Smart Jack

As a gear and equipment specialist with over a decade of hands-on experience across diverse environments, I’ve learned the value of reliable and thoughtfully designed components. My personal RV, a vintage A-frame, recently needed a serious upgrade to its leveling system, and I was on the lookout for something that offered more than just basic functionality. The prospect of an automated hitch height memory and illuminated controls on the Lippert 643589 Smart Jack caught my eye, promising to simplify a often tedious part of the camping setup process. I’d grown tired of manual cranking and fumbling in the dark, so this electronic jack seemed like a logical step up. While I briefly considered some competitor models with similar lift capacities, Lippert’s reputation for RV accessories made this particular smart jack my primary focus. The initial impression upon unboxing was one of solid construction and clean, modern aesthetics, hinting at a significant improvement over my old manual jack.

Real-World Testing: Putting Lippert 643589 Smart Jack to the Test

First Use Experience

My initial testing took place in my own driveway, where I needed to hitch and unhitch my A-frame trailer for a weekend trip. The installation itself was straightforward, requiring basic wiring to the trailer’s 12-volt system. Connecting the power and ground leads, and then the control unit, was a simple affair.

My first actual use involved lowering the trailer onto the hitch ball. I pressed the retract button, and the jack smoothly and quietly lowered the trailer to the precise height I had previously programmed. The illuminated control panel was incredibly helpful for aligning the hitch ball, especially as dusk began to settle.

The Auto-Hitch Memory Function was a standout feature right out of the gate. After setting the desired hitch height for connecting, I tested the memory recall function. A single button press, and the jack extended to the exact position needed to couple with the ball. This saved a considerable amount of back-and-forth adjustment that I was accustomed to with my old manual jack.

Extended Use & Reliability

Over the past few months, this smart jack has become an indispensable part of my RV setup and teardown routine. I’ve used it on various campsites, from smooth asphalt to slightly uneven gravel lots. Its performance has remained consistent, even with repeated use throughout multiple trips.

The extra-large footplate has proven its worth on softer ground. It distributes the weight effectively, preventing the jack from sinking prematurely, which was a common issue with my previous jack’s smaller base. I haven’t encountered any cracks or significant scuffs on the durable, textured housing, even after a few accidental nudges with a cooler.

Maintenance has been minimal. A quick wipe-down of the exterior with a damp cloth is usually sufficient. I periodically check the wiring connections to ensure they remain secure, but beyond that, it’s a pretty much set-it-and-forget-it component. Compared to the constant manual effort and potential for joint strain with a manual jack, the ease of use and reliability of this electric unit have been a revelation.

Breaking Down the Features of Lippert 643589 Smart Jack

Specifications

The Lippert 643589 Smart Jack boasts a robust design tailored for A-frame trailers. It features a 3,500-pound lift capacity, which is ample for most smaller to medium-sized A-frame campers and utility trailers. The internal mechanism utilizes helical-cut gears, known for their strength and quiet operation, contributing to a smoother lift than traditional spur gears.

This unit draws 30 AMPs of power from a standard 12 Volt motor, requiring a reliable 12V power source from the trailer’s battery system. Its construction emphasizes durability, with heavy-gauge, steel construction forming the core structure. The exterior is finished with a black powder-coat finish, offering resistance to corrosion and chipping.

A defining characteristic is its innovative control panel. This modern, backlit monitor illuminates upon touch, making it easy to operate in low-light conditions. The panel also features an auto-off function to conserve battery power, a smart consideration for any RV component.

The Auto-Hitch Memory Function is a significant operational feature, allowing the user to store and recall a specific hitch height. Complementing this is an auto-retract feature, which streamlines the process of stowing the jack. Finally, the jack is equipped with bright, halo-effect LED lights integrated into its design, illuminating the ball and coupler area for easier night-time hookups.

Performance & Functionality

In terms of its primary job – raising and lowering the trailer tongue – the Lippert 643589 Smart Jack performs admirably. The 3,500-pound lift capacity feels more than adequate for my application, and the motor operates with surprising quietness, a welcome change from the loud grind of many older electric jacks. The helical-cut gears definitely contribute to a smoother, less jarring motion.

The standout functionality is undoubtedly the Auto-Hitch Memory Function. Being able to set and recall my specific hitch height has been a game-changer. It eliminates the guesswork and tedious manual adjustments, making the hitching process significantly quicker and less frustrating, especially when working against the clock or in less-than-ideal weather. The auto-retract feature is equally beneficial, tucking the jack away neatly with a single button press.

The integrated LED lights are a thoughtful addition, casting a clear, bright circle of light around the coupler and ball. This has made hitching and unhitching after dark a much less precarious task, removing the need for a separate flashlight or headlamp just to see what I’m doing. My only minor quibble here is that I wish there were an option to turn these lights on independently of the jack’s operation, perhaps for illuminating the front of the trailer.

Design & Ergonomics

The design of this smart jack is a clear step up from utilitarian components of the past. The modern, sleek control panel is intuitive to use, with clearly marked buttons for retract, extend, memory recall, and override. The backlit display is a significant ergonomic win, enhancing usability during early morning or late evening setups.

Build quality feels robust. The heavy-gauge steel construction and durable, textured housing project a sense of longevity and resilience. The black powder-coat finish not only looks good but also appears to be holding up well against minor abrasions.

The extra-large footplate is a critical design element for stability. It provides a broad, solid base, which instills confidence, especially on varied terrain. While the unit itself is relatively compact, its sturdy construction gives it a substantial feel, and its operation is commendably smooth and controlled, devoid of the excessive wobbling or vibration common in less well-engineered jacks.

Durability & Maintenance

Based on the materials and construction, the Lippert 643589 Smart Jack appears built for longevity. The heavy-gauge steel and the durable, textured housing suggest it can withstand the rigors of regular use and exposure to the elements. I haven’t observed any signs of rust, cracking, or stiffness in the jack’s mechanism after several months of use, which speaks well to its construction.

Maintenance is refreshingly simple. Beyond occasional cleaning of the exterior and ensuring the wiring connections are secure, there’s little required. The powder-coat finish seems to resist dirt and grime fairly well, making it easy to keep looking its best.

The helical-cut gears are also known for their durability and resistance to wear compared to spur gears. This component is likely to remain smooth and reliable for a considerable time, provided it’s not subjected to loads exceeding its 3,500-pound lift capacity. No specific failure points have emerged during my testing, which is a testament to its solid engineering.

Accessories and Customization Options

The Lippert 643589 Smart Jack comes with its primary component – the jack itself – and a modern, backlit control panel. The integrated halo-effect LED lights are a functional accessory built directly into the jack’s head. No additional accessories, such as different footplates or specialized mounting hardware, are included as standard.

Customization options for this unit are somewhat limited, as it is designed as a complete, integrated system. Users cannot easily swap out the jack tube for a different length or modify the motor assembly. The main area for personalization lies in the programming of the Auto-Hitch Memory Function, allowing users to tailor it to their specific trailer and vehicle combination.

While the jack operates on standard 12V power, and its wiring harness is straightforward, it’s not designed to accept aftermarket accessories in the way some other trailer components might. Its strength lies in its all-in-one smart functionality, rather than modular upgradability.

Pros and Cons of Lippert 643589 Smart Jack

Who Should Buy Lippert 643589 Smart Jack?

This smart jack is an excellent choice for A-frame trailer owners who frequently hitch and unhitch and value convenience and ease of use. RVers who often set up camp late or leave early will particularly appreciate the illuminated controls and the Auto-Hitch Memory Function. It’s ideal for those looking to upgrade from a manual or older electric jack and seeking a more modern, automated solution.

Anyone seeking the absolute lowest cost option for a trailer jack should probably look elsewhere, as this unit sits at a premium price point. Similarly, if your trailer has highly specialized leveling requirements or operates well within the capacity of a simple manual jack, the advanced features might be overkill.

For those who do opt for this jack, ensuring a consistent and healthy 12V power supply from your trailer’s battery system is crucial for optimal performance. While no must-have accessories are strictly necessary, a simple battery disconnect switch could be a wise addition for long-term storage.

Conclusion on Lippert 643589 Smart Jack

The Lippert 643589 Smart Jack represents a significant leap forward in trailer jack technology, offering a blend of robust engineering and intelligent features. Its performance in raising and lowering is strong and quiet, but it’s the Auto-Hitch Memory Function and the integrated LED lighting that truly elevate the user experience, turning a mundane chore into a streamlined, almost effortless task. The build quality feels substantial, promising durability for years of use.

Considering its price of $359.99, it’s an investment, but one that pays dividends in saved time and reduced frustration. For owners of A-frame trailers who are looking to enhance their camping setup with modern conveniences and reliable performance, this smart jack is a highly recommended upgrade. If you value ease of use, smart functionality, and don’t mind paying a premium for those benefits, the Lippert Smart Jack is a well-engineered solution that delivers on its promises.