The Story of My Time with the Stromberg Carlson Electric Landing Gear 33.5in. Legs 5500 Lb. Motor
For years, navigating the quirks of manual leveling on my fifth wheel trailer had become a tiresome ritual. The old crank system, while functional, was a sweaty, time-consuming ordeal, especially after a long day of driving or setting up camp in less-than-ideal conditions. I’d find myself wrestling with jammed gears or struggling to get the trailer perfectly level, often leaving me feeling more frustrated than relaxed. It was during a particularly windy setup on a slightly uneven campsite that the decision was finally made: a more automated and reliable solution was needed. I explored several options, from heavy-duty manual jacks to other electric jack systems, but the combination of Stromberg Carlson’s reputation for RV accessories and the specific capabilities of this model caught my eye. The immediate impression upon unboxing was one of robust construction; the metal felt substantial, and the gears appeared well-machined, hinting at a build designed to handle the significant weight of a fifth wheel. This felt like a significant upgrade, a step towards simplifying the often-cumbersome task of trailer setup.
Real-World Testing: Putting Stromberg Carlson Electric Landing Gear 33.5in. Legs 5500 Lb. Motor to the Test
First Use Experience
My initial deployment of the Stromberg Carlson Electric Landing Gear 33.5in. Legs 5500 Lb. Motor took place in my own driveway, a familiar, flat surface that allowed me to focus solely on the operation of the new system. Connecting the power and running the motor for the first time was met with a satisfyingly smooth, albeit audible, hum. The legs extended and retracted with a consistent motion, easily lifting and lowering the front of my substantial fifth wheel. I tested it several times, cycling the jacks up and down to ensure consistent performance and to get a feel for the speed and responsiveness.
During this initial testing phase, I encountered no immediate issues or surprises. The operation was as intuitive as advertised, with a simple up/down switch controlling the entire process. The 33.5-inch legs provided ample travel for my needs, and the 5500 lb. motor handled the load with apparent ease, showing no signs of straining.
Extended Use & Reliability
Over several camping trips and a few instances of repositioning the trailer in my yard, this electric landing gear system has proven its worth. It has consistently performed its primary function of leveling the trailer, significantly reducing the effort and time involved in setup and takedown. Even after being exposed to a light dusting of campground dirt and the occasional splash of mud from tire spray, the mechanism continued to operate smoothly.
Durability has been impressive so far. I haven’t noticed any significant wear and tear on the legs, gears, or motor housing. There’s been no stiffness in operation, no concerning noises, and the performance has remained consistent, unlike some previous budget manual jacks I’ve used that would eventually bind.
Maintenance has been minimal. A quick wipe-down of the exposed leg sections after dusty excursions is usually sufficient. The motor housing seems well-sealed, providing peace of mind against the elements. Compared to my old manual system, which required periodic lubrication and adjustment, this electric setup is remarkably low-maintenance, a definite advantage for someone who prioritizes time and convenience on trips.
Breaking Down the Features of Stromberg Carlson Electric Landing Gear 33.5in. Legs 5500 Lb. Motor
Specifications
The Stromberg Carlson Electric Landing Gear 33.5in. Legs 5500 Lb. Motor is built around a robust set of components designed for heavy-duty trailer leveling. Its core strength lies in the 5500 lb. motor, which provides substantial lifting power, easily capable of handling the tongue weight of most fifth-wheel trailers. This significant capacity ensures stability and confidence when the trailer is parked. The system includes two 33.5-inch legs, offering a generous range of vertical adjustment to accommodate various campsite terrains and ensure a perfectly level setup.
These specifications are critical for its intended purpose. The high 5500 lb. motor capacity means the system won’t struggle or overheat under load, which is a common failure point in less powerful units. The 33.5-inch leg length is crucial for providing adequate lift height, especially on slightly sloped sites, and it offers more flexibility than shorter legs found on some other systems. The included components, such as the legs, gears, motor (LG-142178), and IP switch (LG-145236), are all designed to work in concert for reliable operation.
Performance & Functionality
The primary job of any landing gear is to lift and stabilize the trailer, and this Stromberg Carlson unit excels at that. Its main job – extending and retracting the legs to level the trailer – is performed smoothly and with consistent power. The 5500 lb. motor handles the weight effortlessly, providing a noticeable sense of security as the trailer lifts.
A significant strength of this system is its sheer power and the resulting stability. There’s no wobble or hesitation, even when fully extended. However, a minor weakness could be the speed; while not painfully slow, it’s not lightning fast either, which is to be expected with such a heavy-duty component. This is a trade-off for the immense power and reliability it offers. For its intended use – providing a stable foundation for a large trailer – it meets and often exceeds expectations, especially considering its competitive price point.
Design & Ergonomics
The build quality of this electric landing gear is immediately apparent. The materials used feel solid, with a substantial metal construction for the legs and motor housing. The finish appears durable, designed to resist road grime and the occasional bump.
In terms of ergonomics and usability, the system is straightforward. The IP switch is typically mounted in an accessible location, making operation simple. There’s virtually no learning curve; it’s a direct up/down function. Practical design details like the sturdy housing and the well-protected motor contribute to its overall feel of reliability and longevity.
Durability & Maintenance
Given the robust construction and the quality of the components, this electric landing gear system is likely to last for many years under normal use. For RV applications, where it’s subject to regular deployment and retraction, it seems built for the long haul.
Maintenance is refreshingly simple. Keeping the exposed leg sections clean and free from debris is the primary requirement. While I haven’t encountered any specific failure points, consistent lubrication of the gear mechanisms (as per manufacturer recommendations) would likely further extend its lifespan. The sealed motor unit also minimizes concerns about dust or moisture ingress, common issues with less protected systems.
Accessories and Customization Options
The Stromberg Carlson Electric Landing Gear 33.5in. Legs 5500 Lb. Motor comes as a complete system, including the essential legs, motor, and IP switch. While specific aftermarket accessories for this exact model might be limited, its compatibility with standard RV electrical systems is a key advantage. The LG-177201/LG-177202 legs and LG-142178 motor are proprietary to this setup, meaning direct part replacement would come from Stromberg Carlson.
Pros and Cons of Stromberg Carlson Electric Landing Gear 33.5in. Legs 5500 Lb. Motor
Pros
- Effortless Operation: The electric motor makes leveling the trailer significantly easier and faster than manual systems.
- Robust Lifting Capacity: The 5500 lb. motor provides ample power to lift even heavy fifth-wheel trailers with confidence.
- Generous Leg Extension: 33.5-inch legs offer substantial vertical adjustment for varied terrain.
- Durable Construction: Appears to be built with quality materials designed for longevity in RV applications.
- Reliable Performance: Consistent and smooth operation experienced across multiple uses.
Cons
- Price Point: While offering good value, the initial investment is higher than basic manual systems.
- Audible Operation: The motor is noticeable when running, though this is typical for such units.
- Requires Power Source: Dependent on a 12V RV battery or shore power connection.
Who Should Buy Stromberg Carlson Electric Landing Gear 33.5in. Legs 5500 Lb. Motor?
This electric landing gear system is an excellent choice for fifth-wheel trailer owners who prioritize convenience and ease of setup. It’s ideal for those who frequently move their trailer or find manual cranking physically demanding. RVers who value stability and want to ensure their rig is perfectly level with minimal effort will appreciate its capabilities. It’s particularly suited for individuals who have experienced the frustrations of manual jacks, especially in challenging weather conditions or on uneven ground.
Anyone looking for a reliable, powerful, and relatively low-maintenance solution for leveling their RV should seriously consider this model. Those seeking an initial upgrade from a manual system or replacing an aging electric jack would benefit greatly. Users who may need to skip this product are those with very small, lightweight trailers that don’t require such a high lifting capacity, or individuals who are on an extremely tight budget and cannot justify the initial cost. For optimal use, ensuring a secure 12V power source connection and understanding the switch operation are the primary “must-have” considerations.
Conclusion on Stromberg Carlson Electric Landing Gear 33.5in. Legs 5500 Lb. Motor
The Stromberg Carlson Electric Landing Gear 33.5in. Legs 5500 Lb. Motor delivers on its promise of robust performance and simplified RV setup. Its powerful 5500 lb. motor and generous 33.5-inch legs provide a stable and convenient leveling solution for a wide range of fifth-wheel trailers. While the initial cost is higher than manual alternatives, the time saved, physical effort reduced, and overall improved user experience make it a worthwhile investment for serious RV enthusiasts.
The value proposition is strong; you’re investing in reliability, convenience, and peace of mind. I would personally recommend this electric landing gear system to anyone looking to upgrade their trailer’s leveling capabilities. If you’re tired of wrestling with manual jacks and want a system that just works, this Stromberg Carlson model is definitely worth your consideration.