Let’s Talk About Lippert 285318 Tongue Jack
The Lippert 285318 Tongue Jack promises to eliminate the back-breaking labor of raising and lowering your trailer tongue. Offered by Lippert, a well-known name in RV components, this electric tongue jack boasts a 3500 lbs. capacity, LED lighting, and push-button operation. It’s designed to make hitching and unhitching your trailer a breeze, saving you time and energy at the campsite.
My own need for this product stemmed from a growing frustration with manual jacks. After years of cranking, especially on uneven ground or after a long day, the appeal of an electric jack became undeniable. I was tired of struggling and wanted a solution that would simplify the setup process.
The unboxing experience was straightforward; the jack felt solid and well-built. Its weight suggested quality components, and the black UV-protected finish looked durable. The included crank handle, for emergency use, was a welcome addition.
I considered the Bulldog BD500160 and the Stromberg Carlson JET3500 before settling on the Lippert 285318 Tongue Jack. While the Bulldog had a slightly higher weight capacity, the Lippert‘s integrated LED lighting and positive user reviews swayed my decision. The Stromberg Carlson seemed comparable, but Lippert‘s reputation for customer service was a deciding factor.
My first impression was one of cautious optimism. I was eager to see if the Lippert 285318 Tongue Jack would live up to its promise of effortless operation and finally relegate my manual cranking days to the past.
Real-World Testing: Putting Lippert 285318 Tongue Jack to the Test
First Use Experience
I tested the Lippert 285318 Tongue Jack during a weekend camping trip at a site with a slightly sloped gravel pad. Installation was relatively simple, requiring basic tools and about 30 minutes of my time. The initial setup involved connecting the jack to my trailer’s 12V power system.
The performance was impressive right from the start. The push-button operation made raising and lowering the trailer tongue effortless. Even on the uneven gravel, the jack handled the weight smoothly and steadily. The LED lights were surprisingly bright and provided excellent visibility during the evening setup.
My only initial concern was the speed of the jack; it felt a little slow compared to some competitor models I’ve seen in action. However, the smooth and controlled movement more than made up for the slight lack of speed. There were no other issues or surprises during this first use.
Extended Use & Reliability
After several months of use, the Lippert 285318 Tongue Jack continues to perform reliably. There are no signs of wear and tear on the finish, and the motor operates smoothly without any unusual noises. The UV-protected finish is holding up well.
Maintenance has been minimal. I occasionally wipe down the jack with a damp cloth to remove dirt and grime, and I’ve greased the moving parts once to ensure smooth operation. The simplicity of maintenance is a major plus.
Compared to my previous experience with manual jacks, the Lippert 285318 Tongue Jack is a game-changer. It has significantly reduced the time and effort required to set up and break down camp. It outperforms my old manual jack in every aspect, and it’s a worthwhile investment for any RV owner looking for convenience and ease of use.
Breaking Down the Features of Lippert 285318 Tongue Jack
Specifications
Weight Capacity: The Lippert 285318 Tongue Jack boasts a 3500 lbs. weight capacity, making it suitable for a wide range of trailers. This is sufficient for most single-axle and smaller dual-axle trailers.
Stroke Length: It offers an 18″ stroke, providing ample vertical movement for leveling and hitching/unhitching. This stroke length allows for adjustments on varying terrains.
Power: The jack operates on 12V DC power, drawing 30 amps. This is a standard voltage for RVs, making it easy to integrate.
Lighting: Four LED lights illuminate the area around the jack. This enhances visibility during nighttime or low-light conditions.
Gearing: Helical cut gears reduce noise and improve operating efficiency. This results in quieter and smoother operation.
Emergency Override: Features an emergency crank-through socket and included crank handle. This is for manual operation in case of power failure.
Finish: A UV-protected finish protects the jack from the elements. This enhances durability and longevity.
These specifications are important because they directly impact the jack’s performance and usability. The weight capacity determines the types of trailers the jack can handle. The stroke length dictates the range of vertical adjustment. The LED lights enhance safety and convenience, and the helical cut gears contribute to quieter and more efficient operation.
Performance & Functionality
The Lippert 285318 Tongue Jack excels at its primary function: effortlessly raising and lowering the trailer tongue. Its smooth and controlled movement inspires confidence.
The jack’s strengths lie in its ease of use and reliability. The push-button operation is simple and intuitive, and the jack consistently performs as expected. One weakness is its slower speed compared to some competitor models.
It meets and exceeds my expectations for an electric tongue jack. It has simplified the hitching and unhitching process and eliminated the physical strain of manual cranking.
Design & Ergonomics
The Lippert 285318 Tongue Jack features a robust design with a black, UV-protected finish. The materials used appear durable and well-suited for outdoor use.
The jack is relatively heavy, which contributes to its stability and perceived quality. The design is user-friendly, and there is no significant learning curve.
Durability & Maintenance
The Lippert 285318 Tongue Jack appears to be built to last. Its sturdy construction and UV-protected finish suggest good long-term durability.
Maintenance is simple, requiring only occasional cleaning and lubrication. This simplicity is a major advantage.
Accessories and Customization Options
The Lippert 285318 Tongue Jack comes with a removable footpad and an emergency crank handle. These accessories enhance its functionality and versatility.
There are limited customization options available directly from Lippert. However, the jack is compatible with standard 12V power systems and can be used with various trailer accessories.
Pros and Cons of Lippert 285318 Tongue Jack
Pros
- Effortless Operation: Push-button control eliminates manual cranking.
- Integrated LED Lighting: Provides excellent visibility in low-light conditions.
- Reliable Performance: Consistently raises and lowers the trailer tongue smoothly.
- Durable Construction: Built to withstand outdoor use.
- Easy Maintenance: Simple cleaning and lubrication are all that’s required.
Cons
- Slower Speed: Raises and lowers the trailer tongue slightly slower than some competitor models.
- Limited Customization: Few aftermarket accessories are available specifically for this jack.
Who Should Buy Lippert 285318 Tongue Jack?
The Lippert 285318 Tongue Jack is perfect for RV owners who value convenience and ease of use. Anyone who is tired of manual cranking or who has physical limitations will appreciate this product. It is also ideal for frequent campers who want to simplify and speed up the setup process.
Those who prioritize speed above all else might want to consider other options. Those on a very tight budget may prefer a manual jack.
A must-have accessory is a quality 12V battery and wiring harness for reliable power. Consider a leveling app for your smartphone to aid in perfect leveling.
Conclusion on Lippert 285318 Tongue Jack
The Lippert 285318 Tongue Jack is a solid and reliable electric tongue jack that delivers on its promise of effortless operation. Its features, such as the LED lighting and helical cut gears, enhance its functionality and value.
The price is justified by the convenience, time-saving, and reduced physical strain it offers. I wholeheartedly recommend it to any RV owner looking to upgrade from a manual jack.
Say goodbye to back-breaking cranking and hello to effortless leveling with the Lippert 285318 Tongue Jack! Invest in your comfort and convenience today.