JR Products 13635 5Th Wheel/Tongue Jack Switch Review

Was the JR Products 13635 5Th Wheel/Tongue Jack Switch the Right Choice?

The need for a reliable switch that can handle the demanding electrical load of an RV’s leveling system is paramount. My old tongue jack switch, a generic unit that came with the trailer, had started to exhibit a concerning sluggishness, often requiring multiple attempts to engage or disengage the jack. This unreliability became a constant source of anxiety, especially when navigating the often tight and stressful maneuvering situations common at campgrounds. The JR Products 13635 5Th Wheel/Tongue Jack Switch presented itself as a robust and purpose-built solution, specifically designed for the rigors of RV applications. Considering its listed electrical ratings and the manufacturer’s reputation, I felt this unit offered a significant upgrade over the faded original. I’d briefly looked at generic toggle switches at the local auto parts store, but their amperage ratings and lack of specific RV application were immediate red flags. My initial impression upon unboxing was one of solid construction; it felt substantial and well-made, a welcome departure from the flimsy plastic of its predecessor. This replacement part offered immediate promise for restoring confident operation to my RV’s critical leveling system.

Real-World Testing: Putting JR Products 13635 5Th Wheel/Tongue Jack Switch to the Test

First Use Experience

My initial installation of the JR Products 13635 5Th Wheel/Tongue Jack Switch took place in my home garage, a familiar environment for tinkering. The switch is designed for panel mounting, and I simply transferred the existing wires to the new terminals, a process that took less than five minutes. The Mom-On/Off/Mom-On functionality was immediately apparent and crisply responsive. There was no need for an extended break-in period; it performed flawlessly from the very first press. I tested it by repeatedly extending and retracting the trailer’s tongue jack, both with and without a load, simulating typical campground scenarios. The positive tactile feedback from the switch action provided a reassuring confirmation of each command.

Extended Use & Reliability

After several months and numerous camping trips, this switch has proven to be exceptionally reliable. It has consistently handled the repeated cycles of extending and retracting the jack, even under the considerable weight of a fully loaded fifth-wheel trailer. I haven’t noticed any degradation in its performance; the switch remains as crisp and responsive as it was on day one. The exposed terminals have held up well against occasional dust and the general grime of outdoor use, with no signs of corrosion or degradation. Cleaning is straightforward; a quick wipe down with a damp cloth is usually all that’s needed. Compared to my previous, more temperamental switch, the JR Products 13635 has been a revelation in terms of consistent performance and durability.

Breaking Down the Features of JR Products 13635 5Th Wheel/Tongue Jack Switch

Specifications

The JR Products 13635 5Th Wheel/Tongue Jack Switch is engineered for demanding electrical loads commonly found in RV applications. It boasts impressive amperage ratings, capable of handling 16 Amp @ 125 VAC (CSA) and 15 Amp @ 125 VAC (UL), making it suitable for higher-draw motors. For DC applications, it can manage 30 Amp @ 12 VDC, which is crucial for direct battery power in RVs. The switch also supports 10 Amp @ 250 VAC and 3/4 H.P. @ 250 VAC, indicating its versatility for various motor-driven equipment. Its certifications, including UL/CSA/CUL/IP55 RoHS approved, speak to its adherence to safety and environmental standards. The physical dimensions are also practical for integration; it requires a cutout of 1.300″ x 0.75″, while the switch itself measures 1.736″ x 0.95″.

These specifications are not just numbers; they translate directly to performance and longevity. The higher amperage ratings mean the switch can safely handle the startup surge of a tongue jack motor without overheating or failing prematurely, a common issue with undersized components. The DC rating is particularly important for RVs, where systems often run off the 12V battery. Approvals like UL and CSA provide peace of mind regarding safety and reliability, ensuring it meets stringent industry standards. The compact cutout size makes it easy to replace older, similarly sized switches without extensive panel modification.

Performance & Functionality

The primary job of the JR Products 13635 5Th Wheel/Tongue Jack Switch is to reliably control the motor of a fifth-wheel or tongue jack, and it excels at this task. Its Mom-On/Off/Mom-On operation provides intuitive control: press one way to extend, the other to retract, and it returns to center off. This is the standard and most functional configuration for jack operation, offering excellent responsiveness and clear directional feedback. During testing, the switch actuated the jack motor with a satisfying click, and there was no perceptible lag or hesitancy, even with significant electrical load.

Its main strength lies in its robust electrical handling capabilities and the reliability of its momentary action. The unit consistently delivered power as expected, without any signs of stuttering or power drop. A potential area for improvement, though not a deal-breaker for its intended use, is the lack of a “stay-on” function, which is typical for jack switches and not a design flaw for this specific product. It meets, and in terms of build quality and electrical handling, exceeds the expectations for a component in this price range.

Design & Ergonomics

The design of this switch is functional and no-nonsense, befitting its purpose. It’s constructed with durable plastic housing and the switch mechanism itself feels solid and well-protected. The tactile feedback from the rocker is firm and precise, giving you confidence with each press. The physical dimensions, as noted, are designed for common panel cutouts, facilitating easy installation.

Ergonomically, it’s straightforward. The rocker action is easy to operate, even with gloves on, which is a practical consideration for anyone working with RVs or trailers. The clear directional markings (though subtle) are effective. The overall feel is one of a component built for frequent use in less-than-ideal conditions. There’s no learning curve; it functions exactly as one would expect.

Durability & Maintenance

Given its IP55 rating, the JR Products 13635 5Th Wheel/Tongue Jack Switch is designed to resist dust ingress and low-pressure water jets, which is excellent for its outdoor application on RVs. I anticipate it will last for many years under typical use. The robust internal components and quality materials suggest good long-term durability.

Maintenance is minimal. Keeping the mounting area clean and ensuring the terminals are free from excessive debris is about all that’s required. There are no user-serviceable parts within the switch itself; it’s designed as a sealed unit. Potential failure points for any switch like this would typically involve internal contact wear over extreme numbers of cycles, or physical damage from impact, neither of which has been an issue in my testing.

Accessories and Customization Options

The JR Products 13635 5Th Wheel/Tongue Jack Switch is typically sold as a standalone component. It does not come with any specific accessories, nor are there extensive customization options beyond its basic function. Its design is meant to be integrated into existing RV wiring harnesses.

However, its compatibility with standard RV electrical systems means it can easily be paired with various tongue jack motors and wiring configurations. The simple terminal connections allow for straightforward integration with most common RV electrical setups. There are no particular “must-have” accessories for the switch itself, but ensuring proper gauge wire and secure connections during installation are paramount for optimal performance and safety.

Pros and Cons of JR Products 13635 5Th Wheel/Tongue Jack Switch

Who Should Buy JR Products 13635 5Th Wheel/Tongue Jack Switch?

The JR Products 13635 5Th Wheel/Tongue Jack Switch is an excellent choice for RV owners, particularly those with fifth-wheel trailers or larger tongue-jack-equipped travel trailers. It’s ideal for anyone whose existing jack switch has failed, is acting erratically, or simply needs a more robust replacement that can handle higher electrical demands. This unit is also a good consideration for DIY enthusiasts looking to upgrade the reliability of their RV’s leveling system.

Anyone looking for a decorative or illuminated switch might want to look elsewhere, as this model prioritizes function over form. Those working with very low-draw 12V accessories might find its higher amperage ratings overkill, though it will still function perfectly. For an RV owner who values dependable, no-nonsense performance for their critical jack system, this switch is a solid bet. Ensuring you have the correct wire gauge and connectors for the installation is recommended for optimal safety and longevity.

Conclusion on JR Products 13635 5Th Wheel/Tongue Jack Switch

The JR Products 13635 5Th Wheel/Tongue Jack Switch is a well-built, highly functional component that delivers on its promise of reliable operation for RV leveling systems. Its robust electrical ratings and certifications provide confidence that it can handle the demands of tongue and fifth-wheel jacks without issue. The Mom-On/Off/Mom-On design is precisely what is needed for intuitive control, and the switch’s performance has been consistently excellent throughout my testing period.

Considering its price point of $28.89, the value proposition is strong. It offers superior electrical handling and build quality compared to many cheaper, generic alternatives, making it a worthwhile investment for the longevity and dependability of your RV’s leveling mechanism. I would absolutely recommend this switch to RV owners seeking a reliable, durable, and appropriately rated replacement part for their jack system. It’s a component that simply works, allowing you to focus on setting up camp without worrying about electrical gremlins.