IDS Leveling System Jack Leak

[Karl Welhart]

I just noticed hydraulic fluid leaking from both front jacks on my IDS leveling system.  The rear jacks do not appear to be leaking. The fluid appears to be coming from the cylinder where the piston comes out. The hose connections do not appear to leaking.  Any thoughts on fixing this issue?

[James Kim]

I just had the same issue.  I took my coach to a very reputable truck repair shop where all four jacks(?) had to be removed and sent out to a hydraulic shop.  The hydraulic shop had to cut open the jacks to replace the seals then weld the opening back up.  I was told that IDS leveling system can not be opened up like other leveling systems...the only way is to cut it open.  Each jack costs just over $500 for repair, plus labor for removal and re-installation, so approx $2,500 repair job.

[LaMonte Monnell]

Hi James, I am having the same issue with my 2001 IDS jacks.

I have decided to have an air system tied into my airbags and remove the jacks and cap the lines off. The only thing I will need the hydraulics for then will be the L/R slideout operation.

This system has been a pain ever since I purchased this coach. I will be glad to see it gone.

[Karl Welhart]

LeMonte,

Can you share the company's information that is going to convert your coach to air leveling?

James,

Can you share the company's information that repaired your jacks

Thanks to both, Karl

[James Kim]

Hi Karl,

The shop info is:

Colton Truck Terminal
863 E. Valley Blvd.
Colton, CA 92324
(909)825-4080

Service advisor: Rich Doltar

If you are too far from Colton, CA, I'm sure Rich will be happy to give you info that you need.

Good luck,

James

[LaMonte Monnell]

Hi Karl,
I am taking the coach to :

HWH Corporation
2196 Moscow Road
Moscow, Iowa   52760

1-800-321-3494
ask for Jeff Wallick in Sales[/size]

[Karl Welhart]

Thanks James and LaMonte for the contact information.  I called HWH and spoke to Jeff at length about the air leveling system that you are getting installed on your coach.  I was very disappointed in the answers Jeff gave me.  Anyway, I am talking with Quadra/Bigfoot about a replacement jacks for our application.  I will keep everyone informed of my progress.  Additionally, I think my jacks are repairable without cutting the cylinder.  My understanding is that jacks installed after a certain time were in fact repairable.

[LaMonte Monnell]

You are welcome Karl. I was stationed at Eglinn for 7 years during my AF career, love the area!
Good luck with your endeavors!