Camco Stack Jack Review

First Impressions of Camco Stack Jack

The Camco Stack Jack promises to deliver secure RV stabilization in a lightweight and compact package. As an avid outdoorsman who often relies on an RV as a mobile base camp, I’m always on the lookout for gear that enhances stability and leveling. Camco, a trusted name in RV accessories, claims that each cast aluminum jack supports up to 6000 pounds and extends to 17 inches. My initial thoughts were cautiously optimistic.

My primary motivation for seeking out these jacks stemmed from a recurring problem: uneven ground causing significant rocking and instability within my RV. The built-in leveling jacks often proved inadequate in rugged terrain, leading to discomfort and even potential damage to appliances. I was specifically looking for a solution that offered both height adjustability and a broad, stable base.

Upon unboxing, the Camco Stack Jack felt surprisingly lightweight, thanks to the cast aluminum construction. The build quality seemed decent, though the aluminum didn’t exude the same robust feel as steel jacks I’ve used previously. The compact design was definitely appealing, promising easy storage in my already crowded RV compartments.

I briefly considered a few other options before settling on the Camco Stack Jack. There were the heavy-duty steel scissor jacks, but their weight and bulk were a significant drawback for someone who values efficient packing. Another option was the interlocking leveling blocks, but those offered limited height adjustment, making them unsuitable for severely uneven surfaces. I chose the Camco Stack Jack because it appeared to strike a good balance between weight, adjustability, and stability.

Initially, I was cautiously excited. I’m always wary of lightweight aluminum solutions, hoping these jacks will hold up to the demands of real-world RVing. I looked forward to putting these to the test in some challenging environments.

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Real-World Testing: Putting Camco Stack Jack to the Test

First Use Experience

I tested the Camco Stack Jack during a recent fishing trip to a remote reservoir with notoriously uneven campsites. The ground was a mix of loose gravel and compacted dirt, providing a decent challenge for any leveling system. After parking my RV, I placed the Camco Stack Jack under the frame near the rear stabilizer points.

The jacks were relatively easy to position and adjust, although the lack of a built-in level made fine-tuning a bit tricky. I found myself using a separate bubble level to ensure proper leveling, which added an extra step to the setup process. The performance was acceptable, significantly reducing the wobble I had experienced during previous trips to the same location.

Initially, there were no major issues beyond the need for a separate level. I was surprised by how much the jacks compressed into the soft ground, indicating that the aluminum feet could benefit from a wider base. A bit more careful positioning was key to keeping the jacks from sinking.

Extended Use & Reliability

After using the Camco Stack Jack for several months across various camping trips, I have a better understanding of its long-term performance. While they continue to provide a decent amount of stabilization, some wear and tear is becoming apparent. The aluminum feet have accumulated several scratches and dents, indicating a vulnerability to rough surfaces.

The threads on the adjustment screws are starting to show signs of corrosion, despite my attempts to keep them clean and lubricated. The overall durability is acceptable for lightweight aluminum jacks, but I wouldn’t expect them to last as long as heavier steel options. Maintenance involves regular cleaning with a brush and applying a silicone-based lubricant to the threads.

Compared to my previous experiences with steel scissor jacks, the Camco Stack Jack offers a significant weight advantage but falls short in terms of overall robustness and longevity. The scissor jacks are much harder to adjust, though, so everything is a compromise. For anyone prioritizing a light-weight jack that can be easily placed in an RV storage compartment, the Camco Stack Jack is acceptable.

Breaking Down the Features of Camco Stack Jack

Specifications

The Camco Stack Jack is constructed from cast aluminum, prioritizing lightweight portability. Each jack weighs a mere 9.67 ounces (0.6 pounds), making them easy to handle and store. This is a significant advantage for RVers who are conscious of weight restrictions.

The dimensions are compact, with a length of 13 mm (approximately 0.5 inches), a width of 6.7 inches, and a height of 6.6 inches. These dimensions allow the jacks to be easily stowed away in RV compartments. The jack extends to a maximum height of 17 inches, providing ample adjustability for most leveling situations.

Each jack is rated to support up to 6000 pounds. This is an important consideration for ensuring the stability of your RV. The Manufacturer (Camco) does not list any additional features, focusing solely on the jack’s primary function of providing stable support.

Performance & Functionality

The Camco Stack Jack performs adequately in its role of providing RV stabilization, reducing wobble and movement caused by uneven ground. Its effectiveness is most noticeable on slightly to moderately uneven surfaces. However, on extremely uneven terrain, the jacks may require additional support or leveling blocks to achieve optimal stability.

The primary strength lies in its lightweight design and ease of use. The adjustment screw allows for precise height adjustments. A major weakness is the relatively small footprint of the aluminum feet, which can sink into soft ground, reducing stability.

The Camco Stack Jack meets expectations for a lightweight, portable RV jack, but it doesn’t exceed them in terms of durability or overall stability. If ground conditions are generally good, the Camco Stack Jack should be a satisfactory solution.

Design & Ergonomics

The Camco Stack Jack’s design is simple and functional. The cast aluminum construction keeps the weight down without sacrificing too much strength. The weight makes them easy to position under the RV frame.

The jack is relatively easy to use, with a simple screw-type adjustment mechanism. There is no significant learning curve involved. However, the lack of a built-in level requires the use of a separate leveling tool for precise adjustments.

Durability & Maintenance

The Camco Stack Jack’s lifespan will depend heavily on the frequency and intensity of use. Regular exposure to harsh weather and rough terrain will inevitably accelerate wear and tear. The aluminum construction is susceptible to scratches, dents, and corrosion, particularly in coastal environments.

Maintenance involves regular cleaning with a brush to remove dirt and debris. Applying a silicone-based lubricant to the adjustment screw will help prevent corrosion and ensure smooth operation. The relatively simple design makes repairs fairly straightforward.

Accessories and Customization Options

The Camco Stack Jack comes as a standalone product without any included accessories. There are no official customization options offered by Camco. However, users can enhance the jack’s performance by using it in conjunction with leveling blocks or pads to increase the footprint and prevent sinking into soft ground.

The jack is generally compatible with universal RV accessories. Aftermarket leveling bubbles can be easily attached. In addition, larger foot pads can be added for a more stable foundation.

Pros and Cons of Camco Stack Jack

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Who Should Buy Camco Stack Jack?

The Camco Stack Jack is perfect for casual campers and RVers who prioritize lightweight portability and ease of use. If you are always on the move, the Camco Stack Jack is a good solution. It suits those who typically camp on relatively level sites and want a simple solution for minor adjustments.

This product is not ideal for full-time RVers or those who frequently camp on extremely uneven or rocky terrain. For this type of camping, a steel alternative would provide a more stable and durable solution. Also, those who demand precise leveling without the hassle of using a separate bubble level should consider a different jack that offers this built-in feature.

Must-have accessories include leveling blocks or pads to increase the footprint and prevent sinking, as well as a bubble level for accurate adjustments. These would add to the overall cost. Consider this when comparing to other options.

Conclusion on Camco Stack Jack

The Camco Stack Jack offers a reasonable balance of lightweight portability and adequate stabilization for RVs. Its simplicity and ease of use make it a convenient option for casual campers. However, its aluminum construction and small footprint limit its durability and performance in challenging conditions.

At $80.99, the price is justified for those who value weight savings and ease of handling. However, those seeking a more robust and long-lasting solution may want to invest in heavier steel jacks. Given my experience, I would recommend the Camco Stack Jack to RVers who understand its limitations and prioritize portability over ultimate durability.

Consider your camping style before purchasing. If you’re looking for a lightweight and affordable solution for occasional use on relatively level ground, the Camco Stack Jack could be a worthwhile addition to your RV gear.