Let’s Dive into Stromberg Carlson LG-XS 5Th Wheel Landing Gear Telescoping Square x Shafts
RV living, especially the fifth-wheel variety, offers a fantastic blend of adventure and comfort. That said, the realities of maintaining a home on wheels can be a bit more gritty than the glossy brochures suggest. One of the most common culprits of RV headaches? Landing gear issues. The Stromberg Carlson LG-XS 5Th Wheel Landing Gear Telescoping Square x Shafts promise to be a solution to this very problem.
What steered me toward this product wasn’t a desire for fancy upgrades, but a genuine need. My trusty (or, at least, used to be trusty) fifth-wheel’s landing gear had started showing signs of serious wear. Specifically, the existing X-shaft had begun to bind and groan like a disgruntled ogre, making setup and takedown an exercise in frustration (and potential back injury). I needed a reliable replacement, and the Stromberg Carlson LG-XS 5Th Wheel Landing Gear Telescoping Square x Shafts appeared to fit the bill.
Upon unboxing, the first thing that struck me was the heft. The materials felt substantial, and the telescoping action, even before installation, was noticeably smoother than my original, worn-out shafts. The build quality seemed solid, definitely a step up from some of the cheaper aftermarket options I’d considered.
I briefly considered a similar product from Lippert Components, a name I recognize, but the Stromberg Carlson option offered a slightly wider telescoping range, which was important for my specific rig’s dimensions. Plus, the price point was a bit more palatable. My initial impression was cautiously optimistic. While I’m always wary of “too good to be true” scenarios, the Stromberg Carlson LG-XS 5Th Wheel Landing Gear Telescoping Square x Shafts seemed promising.
Real-World Testing: Putting Stromberg Carlson LG-XS 5Th Wheel Landing Gear Telescoping Square x Shafts to the Test
First Use Experience
The first real test came during a weekend camping trip to Big Bend National Park. The desert environment is beautiful, but it’s also unforgiving. I needed to get my fifth-wheel leveled and secure quickly. Installation of the Stromberg Carlson LG-XS 5Th Wheel Landing Gear Telescoping Square x Shafts was surprisingly straightforward, thanks to their standard sizing.
The difference was immediately noticeable. The landing gear operated smoothly and efficiently, even on slightly uneven terrain. No more grinding, no more struggling – just a clean, controlled lift. The desert heat didn’t seem to affect performance at all. I was pleased, to say the least.
Extended Use & Reliability
Now, several months and numerous camping trips later, the Stromberg Carlson LG-XS 5Th Wheel Landing Gear Telescoping Square x Shafts are still performing admirably. There are no signs of significant wear and tear, despite some truly rough campsite conditions. I’ve even subjected them to a few unexpected downpours; corrosion hasn’t been an issue.
Maintenance is a breeze. A quick spray with some lubricant every few trips keeps things running smoothly. Compared to my previous experience with the original landing gear, these are a revelation. They simply work, and they work reliably.
Breaking Down the Features of Stromberg Carlson LG-XS 5Th Wheel Landing Gear Telescoping Square x Shafts
Specifications
- The Stromberg Carlson LG-XS 5Th Wheel Landing Gear Telescoping Square x Shafts are replacement X-shafts designed for 5th wheel landing gear systems. They consist of 1 inch x 1 inch and 3/4 inch x 3/4 inch telescoping tubes.
- The tubes telescope from 40.5 inches to 68.5 inches wide, providing a considerable range of adjustability for various 5th wheel configurations. This adjustability is crucial for ensuring proper leveling and stability.
- The shafts are constructed from quality materials, promising optimal performance and reliability. This material selection is what separates a functional replacement from a short-lived headache.
Performance & Functionality
The Stromberg Carlson LG-XS 5Th Wheel Landing Gear Telescoping Square x Shafts perform their job exactly as intended: they provide a smooth, reliable, and adjustable connection between the landing gear legs. The increased range of the telescoping tubes, specifically, ensures the 5th wheel can be properly leveled in the greatest variety of situations. The only improvement that could be implemented may be to include a set of instructions to further aid the installation process.
The overall functionality is excellent. The shaft delivers what the description describes, exceeding my expectations given other similar products I have purchased in the past.
Design & Ergonomics
The design is simple but effective. The square tubing provides good torsional strength, preventing twisting or binding under load. The telescoping mechanism is smooth and easy to operate. While not glamorous, the design is entirely functional and appropriate for its intended purpose.
The weight is substantial, reflecting the quality of the materials used. The square tubes and telescoping action feel durable, even after several uses.
Durability & Maintenance
Based on my experience, these shafts are built to last. The quality materials and robust construction suggest a long lifespan. Maintenance is minimal, requiring only occasional lubrication to keep the telescoping mechanism working smoothly. Proper lubrication is key to preventing premature wear and corrosion.
Accessories and Customization Options
The Stromberg Carlson LG-XS 5Th Wheel Landing Gear Telescoping Square x Shafts are primarily a replacement part, so they don’t come with many accessories. They integrate seamlessly with existing Stromberg Carlson landing gear systems. However, they are compatible with a variety of standard 5th wheel landing gear configurations.
Pros and Cons of Stromberg Carlson LG-XS 5Th Wheel Landing Gear Telescoping Square x Shafts
Pros
- Smooth and reliable operation.
- Wide telescoping range (40.5 inches to 68.5 inches).
- Durable construction with quality materials.
- Easy installation and maintenance.
- Substantially better performance than old, worn parts.
Cons
- No installation instructions included.
- Primarily for replacing old or non-functioning parts and not considered an upgrade.
Who Should Buy Stromberg Carlson LG-XS 5Th Wheel Landing Gear Telescoping Square x Shafts?
The Stromberg Carlson LG-XS 5Th Wheel Landing Gear Telescoping Square x Shafts are perfect for RV owners with 5th wheels who are experiencing issues with their existing landing gear X-shafts. If your landing gear is binding, grinding, or simply not operating smoothly, this product is a must-have replacement. It is for any RV owner looking for a reliable and durable replacement part that will restore the functionality of their landing gear system.
However, if your landing gear is in perfect working order, this product is probably unnecessary. Additionally, if you’re looking for a complete landing gear upgrade with enhanced features, you might want to consider a more comprehensive system.
Must-have accessories? Just a good quality lubricant.
Conclusion on Stromberg Carlson LG-XS 5Th Wheel Landing Gear Telescoping Square x Shafts
Overall, the Stromberg Carlson LG-XS 5Th Wheel Landing Gear Telescoping Square x Shafts are a solid replacement part that delivers on its promises. The smooth operation, durable construction, and wide telescoping range make it a worthwhile investment for any RV owner struggling with landing gear issues.
At $81.99, the price is more than justified. I would personally recommend the Stromberg Carlson LG-XS 5Th Wheel Landing Gear Telescoping Square x Shafts without hesitation. If your 5th wheel landing gear is giving you grief, do yourself a favor and replace those worn-out shafts with this product. You won’t regret it. Get back to enjoying the open road and leave the landing gear struggles behind.