Let’s Dive into Stromberg Carlson 3501 lb. Electric Tongue Jack with Light
Tired of cranking that manual tongue jack after a long day on the road? The Stromberg Carlson 3501 lb. Electric Tongue Jack with Light promises to alleviate that back-breaking chore. Boasting a 3,500 lb. capacity and an integrated light, it’s designed for ease of use and convenience, turning trailer hook-ups and unhook-ups from a struggle into a breeze. I was looking for a reliable and convenient solution to streamline my RV setup, and this jack seemed to offer just that.
The initial unboxing revealed a solid, well-built piece of equipment. The Stromberg Carlson jack felt sturdy and the black finish gave it a professional look. It’s certainly heavier than my old manual jack, but that weight inspires confidence in its ability to handle the advertised load.
I considered a couple of other electric tongue jacks before settling on the Stromberg Carlson. One competitor had a slightly lower price point, but lacked the integrated light. Another had a higher weight capacity, but was overkill for my relatively small travel trailer. The built-in light and reputation of Stromberg Carlson swayed my decision.
My first impression was one of excitement tempered with a bit of apprehension. Would it live up to the hype? Or would I be dealing with another piece of RV gear destined for the shelf of forgotten gadgets? Time, and a few camping trips, would tell.
Real-World Testing: Putting Stromberg Carlson 3501 lb. Electric Tongue Jack with Light to the Test
First Use Experience
My first real-world test came during a weekend camping trip to a secluded spot by a lake. I needed to unhitch my trailer on a slightly uneven gravel surface. The Stromberg Carlson 3501 lb. Electric Tongue Jack with Light was easy to install, replacing my old manual jack within minutes.
The electric motor effortlessly lifted the trailer tongue, making leveling a simple task. The integrated light was particularly useful as dusk approached, illuminating the area around the hitch. I experienced no issues with the jack struggling or overheating, even when raising the trailer to its maximum height.
The only minor annoyance was the noise of the motor, which is louder than I anticipated, but well worth the trade-off in convenience.
Extended Use & Reliability
After several months and numerous camping trips, the Stromberg Carlson 3501 lb. Electric Tongue Jack with Light continues to perform admirably. There are no signs of wear and tear beyond a few minor scratches on the finish. The jack operates smoothly and reliably every time.
I make sure to lubricate the moving parts periodically with a silicone-based lubricant to keep it running smoothly. Cleaning is simple: a quick wipe down with a damp cloth after each trip is all it takes. Compared to the struggle of manually cranking my old jack, this Stromberg Carlson unit is a game-changer.
It significantly outperforms my previous experience and makes setting up and breaking down camp much less of a chore.
Breaking Down the Features of Stromberg Carlson 3501 lb. Electric Tongue Jack with Light
Specifications
The Stromberg Carlson 3501 lb. Electric Tongue Jack with Light boasts a 3,500 lb. lift capacity, making it suitable for a wide range of travel trailers and campers. It provides 18 inches of travel, plus an additional 5-inch drop-down leg for added flexibility on uneven terrain. The outer tube is constructed from heavy-wall 2-3/16″ steel, providing strength and stability.
These specifications are important because they directly impact the jack’s ability to safely and reliably lift your trailer tongue. The high lift capacity ensures it can handle the weight, while the ample travel range allows for easy leveling in various camping scenarios. The durable construction provides peace of mind knowing it can withstand the rigors of travel.
Performance & Functionality
The Stromberg Carlson 3501 lb. Electric Tongue Jack with Light excels at its primary function: lifting and lowering the trailer tongue. The electric motor operates smoothly and efficiently. This provides ample power to lift even heavily loaded trailers.
The integrated light is a welcome addition, especially when setting up or breaking down camp in low-light conditions. One potential improvement would be a slightly quieter motor, although the noise is a minor inconvenience compared to the overall convenience it provides. It more than meets my expectations.
Design & Ergonomics
The jack features a simple, functional design that is easy to use. The black finish looks clean and professional. The weight of the jack is substantial, which reflects its robust construction.
There is minimal learning curve involved in operating the jack. The controls are intuitive and straightforward. The integrated light is well-positioned and provides ample illumination.
Durability & Maintenance
The Stromberg Carlson 3501 lb. Electric Tongue Jack with Light appears to be built to last. The heavy-wall steel construction suggests it can withstand years of use. With proper care and maintenance, I expect this jack to last for many years.
Maintenance is minimal, requiring only occasional lubrication of the moving parts and a quick wipe-down to remove dirt and grime.
Accessories and Customization Options
The Stromberg Carlson 3501 lb. Electric Tongue Jack with Light comes with the jack itself. No other accessories are included in the box. I use it with a standard RV leveling block under the footplate for added stability on soft ground.
While there are no specific customization options offered by Stromberg Carlson, the jack is compatible with a variety of aftermarket accessories, such as foot pads and jack covers.
Pros and Cons of Stromberg Carlson 3501 lb. Electric Tongue Jack with Light
Pros
- Effortless Operation: Electric motor eliminates manual cranking.
- Integrated Light: Provides ample illumination in low-light conditions.
- High Lift Capacity: 3,500 lb. capacity handles most travel trailers.
- Durable Construction: Heavy-wall steel tubing ensures longevity.
- Easy Installation: Simple replacement for existing manual jacks.
Cons
- Motor is somewhat noisy.
- No included accessories.
Who Should Buy Stromberg Carlson 3501 lb. Electric Tongue Jack with Light?
This electric tongue jack is perfect for RV owners and camping enthusiasts who are looking for a convenient and reliable way to lift and level their trailers. It’s especially beneficial for those with limited mobility or who simply want to avoid the hassle of manual cranking. Campers who frequently arrive at their campsites after dark will appreciate the integrated light.
This product might not be necessary for those who only camp occasionally or who prefer a more minimalist approach. Also, individuals with very small, lightweight trailers might find the higher lift capacity unnecessary.
A must-have accessory would be a set of leveling blocks to provide a stable base for the jack on uneven terrain.
Conclusion on Stromberg Carlson 3501 lb. Electric Tongue Jack with Light
The Stromberg Carlson 3501 lb. Electric Tongue Jack with Light is a worthwhile investment for anyone seeking a more convenient and enjoyable camping experience. It eliminates the back-breaking labor of manual cranking. The integrated light is a lifesaver when setting up camp in the dark.
The price of $247.75 is justified by the convenience, reliability, and durability it offers. I would wholeheartedly recommend it to any RV owner looking to upgrade their setup. If you’re tired of struggling with your old manual jack, the Stromberg Carlson 3501 lb. Electric Tongue Jack with Light is the solution you’ve been waiting for. Upgrade your camping game and say goodbye to manual cranking!