Lippert 352338 Electric Stabilizer Motor Review

The Lippert 352338 Electric Stabilizer Motor: Review from Real Use

For anyone who has spent time setting up a recreational vehicle (RV), the familiar ache of manually cranking down scissor jacks is a memory that often lingers. The Lippert 352338 Electric Stabilizer Motor promises to alleviate this exact pain point. This component is designed to power RV stabilizers, transforming a laborious chore into a simple press of a button. My journey to this particular electric stabilizer motor began during a particularly grueling camping trip where the uneven terrain amplified the time and effort required to get our trailer level and secure. It felt like a disproportionate amount of vacation time was being lost to this manual struggle.

Upon receiving this unit, my initial impression was one of practical engineering. It has a robust, black casing, and while I wasn’t expecting elaborate packaging for a replacement motor, it arrived protected and ready for integration. I briefly considered a universal electric jack system, but the appeal of a direct bolt-on replacement for an existing Lippert system was undeniable. My first reaction was one of practical relief; the prospect of eliminating manual cranking was a significant win.

Real-World Testing: Putting Lippert 352338 Electric Stabilizer Motor to the Test

My testing grounds for this electric stabilizer motor were my own driveway and a variety of campsites. It was installed on a mid-sized travel trailer, and the primary use case was the routine setup and takedown of the RV for weekend getaways and longer road trips. The motor was engaged repeatedly over several outings, experiencing everything from the dry, dusty conditions of a desert campground to the damp dew of a forested area.

The ease of use was immediate. Flipping the switch and watching the stabilizers extend or retract was a revelation compared to the manual crank. There was no significant learning curve; the operation is as intuitive as it gets.

First Use Experience

The first time I activated the Lippert 352338 Electric Stabilizer Motor, it was a moment of genuine satisfaction. The trailer, which typically took several minutes of strenuous cranking to stabilize, settled within a minute or two. The motor handled the load without any hesitation, even on slightly sloped ground.

The unit performed admirably under various conditions. I encountered light rain and dust, and the motor, encased in its protective boot, showed no signs of ingress or performance degradation. The speed of operation was noticeably faster than manual cranking, significantly reducing the time spent on campsite setup.

Extended Use & Reliability

After several months of regular use, this electric stabilizer motor has proven itself to be a reliable component. It has been deployed and retracted probably over 50 times, and the performance remains consistent. There are no visible signs of wear and tear on the motor itself, and the protective boot appears to be holding up well against UV exposure and the elements.

Maintenance has been minimal. A quick wipe down of the exterior when cleaning the trailer’s undercarriage is all that’s required. I haven’t experienced any stiffness or performance drop, which speaks to the quality of the internal gearing and motor. Compared to the previous manual jacks, which required lubrication and occasional adjustments, this powered unit has been refreshingly low-maintenance.

Breaking Down the Features of Lippert 352338 Electric Stabilizer Motor

Specifications

The Lippert 352338 Electric Stabilizer Motor is essentially a single, powerful electric motor designed to drive a pair of connected scissor jacks. It includes the motor unit itself and a protective boot or cover, which is crucial for its outdoor application. This design means one motor independently controls both legs of the stabilizer system, simplifying installation and operation. The color of the unit is a practical black, which helps it blend in and resist showing dirt.

The black color is a standard for RV components, offering a discreet look that doesn’t draw undue attention. The inclusion of a protective boot/cover is a critical design element, safeguarding the motor’s internal workings from dust, moisture, and road debris, thereby extending its lifespan and ensuring consistent operation. The singular motor controlling both legs simplifies the wiring and mechanical linkage compared to individual motors for each jack, potentially reducing points of failure and installation complexity.

Performance & Functionality

The primary job of this motor is to provide consistent, reliable power to stabilize an RV. In this regard, it excels. It smoothly and efficiently retracts and extends the stabilizer legs, transforming a previously arduous task into a user-friendly operation.

Its main strength lies in its convenience and speed. It drastically cuts down setup and breakdown time, which is invaluable after a long day of driving or before packing up to leave. A minor weakness, if one can call it that, is that it relies on the existing scissor jack mechanism; if the jacks themselves are worn or binding, the motor will still have to work harder, but it still performs the task without issue. It meets and generally exceeds expectations for its intended purpose.

Design & Ergonomics

The design of this stabilizer motor is focused on functionality and durability. The robust casing and included boot suggest it’s built to withstand the rigors of RV life. Its black finish is practical, and the overall unit feels solid and well-constructed.

Ergonomically, the design is excellent because it removes the need for any manual effort on the user’s part once installed. The control is entirely from a switch inside the RV. The connection points for wiring and the mechanical linkage to the jacks are straightforward, making installation manageable even for someone with moderate DIY experience.

Durability & Maintenance

From my experience, this motor is built for the long haul. RV components are often exposed to harsh environments, and Lippert seems to have accounted for this with its design. I anticipate it will last many years under normal usage.

Maintenance is commendably simple. Keeping the exterior clean and ensuring the protective boot is intact are the main tasks. There are no complex parts to lubricate or adjust. The primary point of concern for any outdoor electrical component is usually water intrusion, but the protective boot and well-sealed casing seem to mitigate this effectively.

Accessories and Customization Options

The Lippert 352338 Electric Stabilizer Motor is sold as the motor unit and its protective cover. It is designed to integrate with existing Lippert scissor jack systems, meaning it doesn’t typically come with new jacks. Some users might opt to upgrade their entire scissor jack assemblies to match the powered motor, but this specific unit is intended as a replacement motor.

The key “accessory” is the wiring harness and switch that the user will need to connect, which are usually part of the original power stabilizer kit or purchased separately. The motor is engineered to be compatible with Lippert’s specific high-speed power stabilizer models, ensuring a direct fit and seamless integration.

Pros and Cons of Lippert 352338 Electric Stabilizer Motor

Who Should Buy Lippert 352338 Electric Stabilizer Motor?

This electric stabilizer motor is ideal for RV owners who currently have manual scissor jacks and are tired of the physical effort and time involved in leveling their coach. It’s perfect for frequent campers, those with physical limitations that make manual cranking difficult, or anyone who simply values the convenience of powered operation. It’s a straightforward upgrade for those already invested in a Lippert stabilizer system.

Anyone looking for a complete jack system replacement or who has an RV with a non-Lippert stabilizer setup might need to consider alternative solutions or additional components. For those with manual jacks, it’s a worthwhile investment to enhance the camping experience.

Complementary items that enhance the experience include a good quality 12V power source and a robust switch panel for convenient operation inside the RV. Ensuring your existing scissor jacks are in good working order will also maximize the motor’s efficiency.

Conclusion on Lippert 352338 Electric Stabilizer Motor

The Lippert 352338 Electric Stabilizer Motor is a highly effective upgrade for any RV owner looking to simplify their setup and breakdown process. It delivers on its promise of effortless stabilization, significantly reducing the manual labor involved. The build quality appears robust, suggesting good long-term durability, and its straightforward integration with existing systems makes it an attractive option.

Considering the convenience and time saved, especially after a long day on the road, the price feels justified for the enhanced camping experience it provides. I would personally recommend this motor to anyone who frequently uses an RV and is looking to eliminate a common chore. If you value your time and comfort at the campsite, this upgrade is a solid investment that truly pays off.