Was the Stromberg Carlson LG-177201 33 1/2in. Venture Follow Leg Foot Pad And Pin the Right Choice?
When you rely on your fifth-wheel RV for both travel and extended stays, every component needs to perform without a hitch. My adventure recently hit a snag: a crucial part of my landing gear system showed signs of wear. Specifically, the leg assembly on my Stromberg Carlson fifth wheel landing gear had seen better days, compromising the stability and ease of operation I depend on. This led me on a search for a direct replacement, ultimately bringing me to the Stromberg Carlson LG-177201 33 1/2in. Venture Follow Leg Foot Pad And Pin. This particular unit is designed to replace a worn or damaged leg, ensuring your rig remains secure and level. Upon first inspection, the construction felt solid and the finish was consistent, hinting at the precision engineering Stromberg Carlson is known for. While I briefly considered generic aftermarket parts, the peace of mind that comes with a manufacturer-specific replacement ultimately won out. My initial impression was one of relief, knowing a reliable solution was within reach.
Real-World Testing: Putting Stromberg Carlson LG-177201 33 1/2in. Venture Follow Leg Foot Pad And Pin to the Test
First Use Experience
My testing environment was, naturally, my driveway and campsite at a local state park. I needed to replace an existing leg on my Stromberg Carlson fifth wheel landing gear system, a task that required careful alignment and secure fastening. The new leg fit precisely into the existing mechanism, with the pin sliding through its designated hole without any forcing. I tested its operation by repeatedly raising and lowering the front of my RV, both with and without the trailer attached, to simulate real-world scenarios. The operation was smooth, with the foot pad providing a stable base on various surfaces, from concrete to packed gravel. There were no immediate surprises or quirks; the installation and initial function were straightforward and predictable.
Extended Use & Reliability
After several months of use, which includes multiple trips and extended stays at various campgrounds, this replacement leg has held up admirably. It has supported the weight of my RV numerous times, and each operation has been consistent. I haven’t noticed any significant wear and tear, such as cracks, stiffness in the mechanism, or unusual noises. Maintenance has been minimal, consisting of occasional cleaning of dust and dirt that accumulate during travel. A quick wipe-down with a damp cloth and a light application of lubricant on the internal mechanism has kept it functioning optimally. Compared to the original leg it replaced, which lasted for several years of heavy use, this Stromberg Carlson LG-177201 33 1/2in. Venture Follow Leg Foot Pad And Pin appears to be on track to offer similar longevity.
Breaking Down the Features of Stromberg Carlson LG-177201 33 1/2in. Venture Follow Leg Foot Pad And Pin
Specifications
The Stromberg Carlson LG-177201 33 1/2in. Venture Follow Leg Foot Pad And Pin is designed as a direct replacement for specific Stromberg Carlson fifth wheel landing gear systems. Its primary dimension is the 33 1/2-inch leg length, a critical measurement that ensures compatibility with your existing setup. The unit includes the follow leg, a durable foot pad, and a securing pin. Stromberg Carlson emphasizes precision construction for this part, suggesting that quality materials and manufacturing processes are employed. This means the leg is built to withstand the considerable forces involved in lifting and stabilizing a fifth-wheel trailer. The inclusion of the foot pad is essential for distributing the weight of the RV over a wider surface area, preventing sinking into softer ground. The pin is the critical component that secures the leg in its retracted or extended position, ensuring it doesn’t accidentally deploy.
Performance & Functionality
In its core function of supporting and stabilizing a fifth-wheel RV, this replacement leg performs exceptionally well. The 33 1/2-inch length is precisely what was needed for my specific landing gear, allowing the RV to be leveled correctly. The foot pad provides excellent stability, even on uneven terrain, which is a common challenge at campsites. Operationally, the leg moves smoothly within the landing gear mechanism, whether extending or retracting. There’s a satisfying solidity to its engagement, giving you confidence in the stability of your rig. The primary strength lies in its direct fit and reliable performance, ensuring that a critical safety component functions as intended. I haven’t encountered any significant weaknesses; it simply does what it’s designed to do, and it does it well. It meets and arguably exceeds expectations for a replacement part of this nature, particularly considering its specific application.
Design & Ergonomics
The design of this follow leg is purely functional, as is typical for RV landing gear components. The steel construction feels robust, and the finish appears to be a durable powder coating designed to resist corrosion and abrasion. Its appearance is utilitarian, without any unnecessary embellishments, which is appropriate for an undercarriage component. Ergonomically, the “in-use” experience is tied to the overall landing gear system; however, the smooth operation of the leg itself contributes to a less strenuous manual cranking experience. The foot pad is generously sized, and its design appears to maximize contact area for stability. The pin slot is precisely machined, allowing for easy insertion and removal of the securing pin. The overall build quality suggests it’s designed for the harsh realities of outdoor exposure and heavy loads.
Durability & Maintenance
Based on my experience and the reputation of Stromberg Carlson for RV components, I anticipate this leg will offer excellent durability. The materials appear to be high-grade steel, and the protective coating is a common industry standard for longevity. Under normal use – meaning regular deployment and retraction for camping trips – it should last for many years. Maintenance is commendably simple. Keeping the leg and surrounding landing gear mechanism clean from dirt, mud, and road salt is the most crucial step. A periodic application of a quality lubricant, like white lithium grease, to the moving parts within the landing gear assembly will ensure continued smooth operation. I haven’t identified any obvious failure points, though I always recommend inspecting the pin and its securing mechanism regularly for any signs of wear or damage.
Accessories and Customization Options
The Stromberg Carlson LG-177201 33 1/2in. Venture Follow Leg Foot Pad And Pin comes as a complete unit including the leg, foot pad, and pin. This means it is ready for installation right out of the box with no additional accessories needed for its primary function. There are no inherent customization options for the leg itself; its design is fixed to fit a specific landing gear system. However, users might consider aftermarket accessories for the landing gear system as a whole, such as power drill adapters to automate the cranking process, but these are not directly related to the leg component itself. The key is ensuring this specific leg model is the correct replacement for your existing Stromberg Carlson landing gear.
Pros and Cons of Stromberg Carlson LG-177201 33 1/2in. Venture Follow Leg Foot Pad And Pin
Pros
- Direct Fitment: Designed specifically for Stromberg Carlson fifth wheel landing gear with a 33 1/2-inch leg size, ensuring an exact replacement.
- Robust Construction: Made from sturdy materials and built with precision, promising durability under heavy loads.
- Complete Assembly: Includes the leg, foot pad, and pin, providing all necessary parts for replacement.
- Stable Foot Pad: The integrated foot pad offers excellent weight distribution, enhancing stability on various surfaces.
- Smooth Operation: Operates seamlessly within the landing gear mechanism, facilitating easy leveling of the RV.
Cons
- Specific Application: Only compatible with specific Stromberg Carlson landing gear models measuring 33 1/2 inches, limiting its universal use.
- Price: At $295.10, it represents a significant investment for a single replacement part, though quality often comes at a premium.
- No Aesthetic Customization: Primarily a functional part, it lacks cosmetic options for users seeking a particular look.
Who Should Buy Stromberg Carlson LG-177201 33 1/2in. Venture Follow Leg Foot Pad And Pin?
This specific component is ideal for owners of RVs equipped with Stromberg Carlson fifth wheel landing gear that features a 33 1/2-inch leg size and requires a replacement follow leg. If your current leg is bent, broken, or excessively worn, this is the direct and intended solution. It is also a good choice for RV enthusiasts who prioritize genuine manufacturer parts for reliability and proper function. Those who perform their own RV maintenance and are comfortable with basic mechanical tasks will find this a straightforward replacement.
Individuals who do not own a Stromberg Carlson fifth wheel landing gear system, or whose system requires a different leg length, should look elsewhere. Those seeking a universal landing gear component might find this too specific. For users who need an entirely new landing gear system rather than a replacement part, this leg alone will not suffice. A recommended complementary item for any landing gear system, including this replacement leg, is a good quality lubricant to keep the internal mechanisms running smoothly.
Conclusion on Stromberg Carlson LG-177201 33 1/2in. Venture Follow Leg Foot Pad And Pin
The Stromberg Carlson LG-177201 33 1/2in. Venture Follow Leg Foot Pad And Pin is a well-constructed, purpose-built replacement part that reliably fulfills its function. Its precise fit and robust build quality provide confidence for RV owners needing to maintain the stability and safety of their fifth-wheel trailers. While the price point is a notable consideration, the assurance of using a genuine Stromberg Carlson part designed for your specific landing gear system justifies the investment for many.
Considering its performance, durability, and ease of integration into an existing system, I would certainly recommend this component to any RV owner facing a damaged or worn landing gear leg on a compatible Stromberg Carlson system. If you’re looking to ensure your RV remains level and secure, this follow leg is a solid choice that delivers on its promise of quality and performance.