Stromberg Carlson Dual Power Landing Gear Conversion Kit 29.5in. Legs 5500 Lb. Motor Review

Inside the Experience: Stromberg Carlson Dual Power Landing Gear Conversion Kit 29.5in. Legs 5500 Lb. Motor

The journey to finding reliable, robust gear is often paved with necessity and a healthy dose of frustration. For anyone managing a recreational vehicle, a stable foundation is not just a convenience, it’s a safety imperative. This led me to the Stromberg Carlson Dual Power Landing Gear Conversion Kit 29.5in. Legs 5500 Lb. Motor, a component designed to elevate and secure RVs with a blend of power and dependability.

My particular scenario involved an aging travel trailer whose manual landing gear was becoming increasingly cumbersome. The sheer effort required to crank it down, especially on uneven terrain or after a long day of travel, was a significant deterrent. I needed a solution that offered not only automated operation but also the brute strength to handle the trailer’s weight without hesitation.

Upon unboxing, the immediate impression was one of solid construction. The Stromberg Carlson Dual Power Landing Gear Conversion Kit felt substantial, hinting at materials that could withstand the rigors of outdoor use. The kit components, from the motor housing to the gear mechanisms, exuded a sense of purposeful engineering.

I briefly considered other brands, but the combination of Stromberg Carlson’s reputation for RV accessories and the specific specifications of this kit, particularly the 5500 lb. motor capacity, made it stand out. My initial reaction was one of cautious optimism, a feeling that the physical heft of the unit might translate directly into operational ease.

Real-World Testing: Putting Stromberg Carlson Dual Power Landing Gear Conversion Kit 29.5in. Legs 5500 Lb. Motor to the Test

My testing grounds for this dual power conversion kit were primarily my driveway and a few campsites. The initial installation itself was a controlled environment, allowing me to get a feel for the electrical connections and mounting hardware. Once installed, the real test began: repeatedly raising and lowering the travel trailer under varying conditions.

The 29.5-inch legs provided ample lift, and the 5500 lb. motor handled the trailer’s weight with noticeable authority. I tested it on slight inclines and on relatively level ground, observing how the gear engaged and supported the load. The IP rated switch was exposed to a light drizzle during one setup, and it continued to function without any lag or hesitation, which was reassuring.

Ease of use was the primary driver for this upgrade, and this kit delivered. The transition from manual cranking to a simple button press was incredibly intuitive. There was no significant learning curve; the operation was straightforward from the moment I flipped the switch.

One minor surprise was the slightly higher pitch of the motor’s hum compared to what I might have expected, but it was well within acceptable operational noise levels and certainly preferable to manual cranking. The overall performance in these initial tests was smooth, with the legs extending and retracting evenly.

Extended Use & Reliability

Over several months and multiple camping trips, this dual power landing gear has proven its mettle. It has become an indispensable part of the RV setup process, significantly reducing the physical exertion required. The consistent performance, even after being deployed and retracted dozens of times, speaks volumes about its build quality.

I haven’t observed any significant wear and tear, such as grinding in the gearbox or stiffness in the legs. The exterior of the motor housing and switch unit has held up well against dust and minor road grime. Its reliability has been unwavering, making campsite setups far less of a chore.

Maintenance has been minimal, largely consisting of occasional wiping down of the exterior components and ensuring connections remain secure. Unlike manual systems that require periodic greasing of external screw mechanisms, this powered unit keeps its vital workings enclosed and protected. Compared to the manual gear it replaced, the durability and low maintenance of this conversion kit are a clear advantage.

Breaking Down the Features of Stromberg Carlson Dual Power Landing Gear Conversion Kit 29.5in. Legs 5500 Lb. Motor

Specifications

The Stromberg Carlson Dual Power Landing Gear Conversion Kit 29.5in. Legs 5500 Lb. Motor is built around a robust 5500 lb. motor, which is crucial for providing sufficient power to lift even larger RVs. The kit includes 29.5 inches of leg travel, offering a generous range for accommodating varying ground heights and trailer levels. Importantly, the kit comes complete with an IP rated switch, indicating a good level of protection against dust and water ingress, essential for outdoor equipment.

This substantial 5500 lb. motor rating means that this unit can confidently handle the considerable tongue weight and overall load of most travel trailers and fifth-wheels, ensuring stability. The 29.5 inches of leg travel ensures that you can achieve a level setup on a wider variety of terrains than shorter leg systems might allow. The inclusion of an IP rated switch is a thoughtful detail, promising greater longevity and reliability in the face of weather elements.

Performance & Functionality

The primary job of this landing gear conversion kit is to reliably and efficiently raise and lower an RV. In this regard, the Stromberg Carlson Dual Power Landing Gear Conversion Kit performs admirably. The motor provides consistent torque, and the gearbox operates smoothly, translating that power into controlled vertical movement of the trailer.

Its greatest strength is the sheer ease with which it operates; it transforms a physically demanding task into a simple button push. A minor area for potential improvement might be the speed of extension and retraction; while not slow, it’s not lightning-fast, but this is a trade-off for the significant power it offers. This kit meets and often exceeds expectations for ease of use and stable support, especially considering its price point.

Design & Ergonomics

The build quality of this Stromberg Carlson Dual Power Landing Gear Conversion Kit is immediately apparent. The motor housing appears robust, likely made from durable metal with protective coatings, and the gearbox is sealed to keep out debris. The overall feel is one of a component designed for longevity in a harsh outdoor environment.

Ergonomically, the kit excels due to its automation. The main point of interaction is the IP rated switch, which is typically mounted in an accessible location, making operation comfortable and straightforward. There’s no complex learning curve; it’s designed for immediate intuitive use, which is exactly what you want when setting up camp.

Durability & Maintenance

Given its construction, this landing gear conversion kit is designed for extended use. The 5500 lb. motor is a heavy-duty component, and the sealed gearbox should prevent premature wear from dirt and grit. For a component exposed to the elements on an RV, it appears built to last for many seasons.

Maintenance is refreshingly simple. Beyond keeping the exterior clean and ensuring electrical connections are sound, there’s little else required. Unlike manual jacks that have exposed screw mechanisms prone to rust and stiffness, the internal workings here are protected. Potential failure points are minimized by the robust design and the use of sealed components, meaning it should offer years of reliable service with basic care.

Accessories and Customization Options

This particular kit is a conversion, meaning it integrates with existing landing gear legs or replaces manual ones. The main included “accessory” is the IP rated switch and its associated wiring and mounting hardware, which are essential for operation. There aren’t typically other add-ons like different leg lengths or specialized feet included in the conversion kit itself, as these are usually part of the original landing gear assembly it’s designed to work with.

However, the key aspect here is that it converts your existing system. This means you can often retain your current landing gear legs if they are in good condition, saving cost. For those looking for customization, the primary choice would be where to mount the switch for optimal accessibility, but the core function of the kit is self-contained.

Pros and Cons of Stromberg Carlson Dual Power Landing Gear Conversion Kit 29.5in. Legs 5500 Lb. Motor

Who Should Buy Stromberg Carlson Dual Power Landing Gear Conversion Kit 29.5in. Legs 5500 Lb. Motor?

This dual power landing gear conversion kit is an excellent choice for RV owners who find manual landing gear to be physically taxing, particularly those with larger travel trailers or fifth-wheels that require considerable effort to level. It’s ideal for individuals who prioritize convenience and speed when setting up camp, and for anyone who wants to reduce the physical strain associated with RV travel. Campers who frequently move locations or are setting up in challenging terrain will also appreciate its capabilities.

Anyone looking for an ultra-budget solution or who doesn’t mind the workout of manual cranking should likely skip this upgrade. Those who may struggle with basic wiring or mounting might want to budget for professional installation. A must-have accessory would be appropriate wiring and connectors, ensuring a secure electrical setup, and potentially a sturdy, larger foot pad if your existing legs don’t have them, to provide better ground stability.

Conclusion on Stromberg Carlson Dual Power Landing Gear Conversion Kit 29.5in. Legs 5500 Lb. Motor

The Stromberg Carlson Dual Power Landing Gear Conversion Kit 29.5in. Legs 5500 Lb. Motor is a solid investment for any RV owner looking to upgrade their setup experience. It delivers on its promise of ease of use and reliable performance, thanks to its 5500 lb. motor and ample 29.5 inches of leg travel. While the initial cost and installation requirements are factors to consider, the reduction in physical labor and increased convenience it offers are, for many, well worth the price.

This unit provides excellent value for its capabilities, transforming a tedious chore into a simple electronic operation. I would readily recommend this kit to fellow RV enthusiasts who are seeking a dependable and powerful solution to their landing gear needs. If you’re tired of the crank handle and want a smoother, faster setup, this conversion kit is a very compelling option.