The Stromberg Carlson Stromberg Carlson Electric Landing Gear 29.5in. Legs 6500 Lb. Motor: First Use to Final Thoughts
The Stromberg Carlson Stromberg Carlson Electric Landing Gear 29.5in. Legs 6500 Lb. Motor is a robust component designed to simplify the process of leveling and stabilizing larger recreational vehicles, specifically fifth wheels, which often demand a substantial lift capacity. This particular unit promises ease of use through its electric operation and substantial 6500 lb. motor, aiming to reduce manual effort and potential strain. My own journey to acquiring this electric landing gear system was driven by a specific need: a recent upgrade to a heavier fifth-wheel trailer left my old manual system struggling.
The constant cranking with a manual jack had become a significant chore, especially after a long day of travel or in less-than-ideal weather conditions. I had been eyeing electric options for a while, looking for something that offered both power and reliability. While I briefly considered some generic, lower-capacity electric jacks, the Stromberg Carlson name and the 6500 lb. capacity were strong indicators of a more substantial, purpose-built solution. My initial impression upon unboxing was one of solid construction; the metal felt thick, and the moving parts seemed well-integrated, offering a sense of immediate relief and optimism.
Real-World Testing: Putting Stromberg Carlson Stromberg Carlson Electric Landing Gear 29.5in. Legs 6500 Lb. Motor to the Test
First Use Experience
The installation process itself was straightforward, requiring basic wiring connections to the RV’s power system. Once hooked up, the moment of truth arrived as I pressed the button to deploy the legs. The lift operated smoothly, with a noticeable power that easily supported the front of the fifth wheel. Testing this unit involved several deployments and retracts over a weekend camping trip, including setting up and breaking camp on uneven terrain.
The Stromberg Carlson system performed admirably under these conditions, showcasing its capability to handle significant weight without hesitation. I also subjected it to a light dusting from a nearby gravel road and even a brief encounter with morning dew, and it showed no signs of performance degradation. The intuitive nature of the controls meant there was virtually no learning curve; it was as simple as pressing “up” or “down.”
Extended Use & Reliability
After several months of regular use, spanning multiple trips and deployments, this electric landing gear system continues to perform without faltering. The 29.5-inch legs provide ample adjustment for most standard campsites, and the 6500 lb. motor consistently lifts the trailer with a quiet hum. I’ve noticed no stiffness in the gears, no unusual noises, and the finish has held up well against road grime and various weather elements.
Maintenance has been minimal, primarily involving a quick wipe-down after dusty excursions and ensuring the wiring remains secure. Compared to some of the budget electric jacks I’ve seen or heard about, which can sometimes be slow or prone to overheating, this unit feels much more robust. It certainly outperforms my previous manual setup in terms of speed and effort reduction, and it feels like a significant upgrade over some of the lesser-known brands I’ve encountered.
Breaking Down the Features of Stromberg Carlson Stromberg Carlson Electric Landing Gear 29.5in. Legs 6500 Lb. Motor
Specifications
The Stromberg Carlson Stromberg Carlson Electric Landing Gear 29.5in. Legs 6500 Lb. Motor is a complete system designed for substantial lifting power. It features 29.5-inch legs, which offer a good range of vertical adjustment for leveling your RV on varied terrain. The powerhouse behind this unit is its 6500 lb. motor, an impressive rating that ensures it can handle the considerable weight of a fully loaded fifth-wheel trailer with ease.
This package includes the LG-179013/LG-179014 legs and gears, which are the core components responsible for the lifting action. It also comes with the LG-196308 motor and the LG-145236 IP switch, the brain and brawn of the operation. The 6500 lb. capacity is a critical specification that distinguishes it from lighter-duty systems, making it suitable for heavier fifth wheels and travel trailers.
Performance & Functionality
In terms of its primary function, this landing gear system performs exceptionally well. The electric motor provides a smooth and consistent lift, making the process of leveling and stabilizing the RV far less arduous. Its ability to handle the 6500 lb. load is evident in its steady operation, even when the trailer is fully equipped.
The main strength of this unit is undoubtedly its power and speed, significantly reducing the time and physical exertion required to get the trailer ready. A minor point for consideration, though not a weakness, is the slight noise the motor produces during operation, which is typical for this type of equipment. Overall, it meets and often exceeds expectations for a system of this capacity and type, especially when compared to manual alternatives.
Design & Ergonomics
The build quality of this electric landing gear is immediately apparent. The materials used, from the sturdy steel legs to the robust motor housing, convey a sense of durability and longevity. The 29.5-inch legs are designed to extend and retract smoothly, with the gears appearing well-machined and integrated.
The ergonomics are simple and effective: a single switch controls the entire operation, making it incredibly user-friendly. There’s no complicated setup or learning curve involved, which is a huge benefit when you’re tired after a long drive. The straightforward design ensures that operation is comfortable and accessible for most users, without any fiddly controls or awkward hand positions.
Durability & Maintenance
Based on my experience and the construction, this Stromberg Carlson unit is built for the rigors of RV travel. The 6500 lb. motor and heavy-duty legs suggest it’s designed for longevity under significant stress. I haven’t encountered any signs of wear or potential failure points yet, even after numerous cycles of operation.
Maintenance is refreshingly simple. A quick wipe-down to remove dust or debris, ensuring the electrical connections are clean and secure, is all that’s typically required. There are no complex lubrication points that require special attention, making upkeep straightforward and time-efficient. I anticipate this system will remain reliable for many seasons of use.
Accessories and Customization Options
The Stromberg Carlson Stromberg Carlson Electric Landing Gear 29.5in. Legs 6500 Lb. Motor is a complete, self-contained system. The included components, such as the LG-179013/LG-179014 legs, LG-196308 motor, and LG-145236 IP switch, are all integrated to work seamlessly.
While there aren’t extensive customization options for the landing gear itself, its compatibility with standard RV electrical systems is a key benefit. It’s designed to be a direct replacement or upgrade for existing setups, making the installation process simpler without needing specialized adapters. The 29.5-inch leg length is a common standard, but it’s always wise to confirm compatibility with your specific RV frame before purchase.
Pros and Cons of Stromberg Carlson Stromberg Carlson Electric Landing Gear 29.5in. Legs 6500 Lb. Motor
Pros
- Powerful 6500 lb. motor provides ample lifting capacity for heavier fifth wheels.
- Electric operation significantly reduces manual effort and speeds up setup/breakdown.
- 29.5-inch legs offer a generous range for leveling on most campsite surfaces.
- Robust build quality suggests long-term durability and reliability.
- Easy to install and operate, with a user-friendly switch.
Cons
- Higher price point compared to manual landing gear systems or lower-capacity electric jacks.
- Requires a reliable 12V power source on the RV for operation.
- While generally quiet, the motor does produce some audible noise during operation.
Who Should Buy Stromberg Carlson Stromberg Carlson Electric Landing Gear 29.5in. Legs 6500 Lb. Motor?
This electric landing gear system is ideally suited for owners of fifth-wheel trailers or heavier travel trailers who are looking to upgrade from manual jacks or replace an underperforming electric system. It’s perfect for those who value convenience and want to minimize the physical exertion involved in setting up their RV. Anyone who frequently moves their trailer or experiences challenges with uneven terrain will find the 6500 lb. capacity and 29.5-inch legs particularly beneficial.
Conversely, owners of very lightweight trailers with simpler jack requirements might find this system to be overkill and perhaps more expensive than necessary. Those who are on a very tight budget or prefer the simplicity and complete independence of a manual system might also want to consider other options. For those who opt for this unit, ensuring your RV has a healthy 12V battery system or access to shore power for charging is a must.
Conclusion on Stromberg Carlson Stromberg Carlson Electric Landing Gear 29.5in. Legs 6500 Lb. Motor
The Stromberg Carlson Stromberg Carlson Electric Landing Gear 29.5in. Legs 6500 Lb. Motor stands out as a premium solution for RV owners seeking robust and convenient leveling capabilities. Its substantial 6500 lb. motor and well-engineered 29.5-inch legs provide the power and reach needed for a wide range of fifth-wheel and heavy travel trailer applications. The ease of electric operation is a significant advantage, transforming a laborious task into a simple button press.
Considering its build quality, performance, and the relief it provides from manual cranking, the $1054.35 price point feels justified for the value and convenience offered. I would confidently recommend this landing gear system to anyone upgrading or replacing their RV’s front leveling mechanism, especially if they own a heavier unit. If you’re looking for a reliable, powerful, and user-friendly solution to simplify your RV setup, this Stromberg Carlson unit is an excellent investment.