Let’s Dive into Stromberg Carlson Dual Power Landing Gear Conversion Kit 29.5in. Legs 5500 Lb. Motor
As a seasoned outdoor and tactical gear specialist, I’ve seen my share of equipment designed to make life easier on the road. The Stromberg Carlson Dual Power Landing Gear Conversion Kit 29.5in. Legs 5500 Lb. Motor promises to do just that – converting manual landing gear to a powered system for effortless operation. It boasts a robust 5500 lb. motor and 29.5-inch lead legs, making it seem like the perfect solution for RV owners seeking convenience and efficiency.
My aging fifth-wheel camper’s manual landing gear was starting to take a toll on my back, especially after long trips. I needed a reliable, powered solution to simplify setup and breakdown at campsites. The promise of a dual-power system, allowing for both electric and manual operation, also piqued my interest.
The kit arrived in a sturdy box, well-protected with ample packaging. The components felt substantial, with a reassuring heft to the motor and gearbox. The legs appeared well-constructed, showing no obvious signs of poor workmanship. My initial impression was definitely positive; this seemed like a well-made product ready to tackle the job.
I considered other conversion kits from Lippert and Venture, but the Stromberg Carlson kit’s higher weight rating (5500 lbs vs. the others at 4000-5000 lbs) and seemingly more robust motor swayed my decision. The dual power option also provided peace of mind in case of electrical issues. This kit felt like it offered the best blend of power, reliability, and backup functionality.
I was excited and a little apprehensive. Would the installation be straightforward, and would it truly deliver the effortless operation I was hoping for? Only time and testing would tell.
Real-World Testing: Putting Stromberg Carlson Dual Power Landing Gear Conversion Kit 29.5in. Legs 5500 Lb. Motor to the Test
First Use Experience
My first opportunity to put the Stromberg Carlson Dual Power Landing Gear Conversion Kit 29.5in. Legs 5500 Lb. Motor to the test came during a weekend camping trip in the Ozark National Forest. I installed the kit in my driveway prior to the trip to avoid the frustration of installation at the campsite. Installation took around 4 hours but was relatively straightforward and required only basic tools.
The performance was immediately noticeable. Raising and lowering the camper was now a breeze, even on slightly uneven ground. The 5500 lb. motor handled the weight with ease, and the IP-rated switch provided smooth and reliable operation. I set up and leveled the camper in a fraction of the time it used to take.
There was a slight humming noise from the motor, but it wasn’t excessive or concerning. The only surprise was the initial current draw; it was a bit higher than expected, requiring me to ensure my battery was fully charged.
Extended Use & Reliability
After three months of regular use, the Stromberg Carlson Dual Power Landing Gear Conversion Kit continues to perform admirably. It has endured several camping trips, including one particularly wet weekend in the Smoky Mountains. The IP-rated switch and gearbox have held up well, showing no signs of water intrusion or corrosion.
The legs still extend and retract smoothly, and the motor hasn’t shown any signs of strain. I regularly lubricate the legs with a dry silicone spray to keep them operating smoothly. The kit has exceeded my expectations, providing a significant improvement in convenience and ease of use compared to my previous manual system.
Compared to my previous experiences with manual landing gear, this kit is a game-changer. It saves me time, effort, and back pain, making the entire camping experience more enjoyable. I used to dread the setup and breakdown process, but now it’s a simple and relatively quick task.
Breaking Down the Features of Stromberg Carlson Dual Power Landing Gear Conversion Kit 29.5in. Legs 5500 Lb. Motor
Specifications
- Lead Leg Length: 29.5 inches. This length provides a substantial range of adjustment for leveling the RV on varied terrain.
- Motor Capacity: 5500 lbs. The powerful motor ensures smooth and reliable operation, even with heavier RVs.
- IP Rated Switch: This weather-resistant switch protects against water and dust, ensuring reliable operation in various environmental conditions.
- Gear Box: The robust gearbox transfers power efficiently from the motor to the landing gear legs. It is built to withstand the rigors of repeated use.
- Mounting Hardware: The kit includes all necessary mounting hardware for a straightforward installation. This simplifies the installation process and ensures a secure attachment to the RV frame.
These specifications matter because they directly impact the kit’s performance and reliability. The higher weight capacity of the motor ensures it won’t be strained, while the IP-rated components offer protection against the elements. The correct leg length guarantees sufficient extension for leveling on uneven campsites.
Performance & Functionality
The Stromberg Carlson Dual Power Landing Gear Conversion Kit 29.5in. Legs 5500 Lb. Motor excels at its primary function: effortlessly raising and lowering the RV landing gear. The motor is powerful enough to handle the weight of my fifth-wheel, even when loaded with gear. The dual power option provides a crucial backup in case of electrical issues, allowing me to manually operate the gear if necessary.
The strength lies in its simplicity and robust construction. The only area for improvement would be clearer instructions for initial lubrication and maintenance. Overall, the kit meets and exceeds my expectations, delivering a significant improvement in convenience and ease of use.
Design & Ergonomics
The kit is designed for functionality and durability. The components are made from heavy-duty steel, and the motor housing is weather-resistant. The weight reflects the robust construction, providing confidence in its longevity.
The design is user-friendly, and the installation is relatively straightforward, even for someone with moderate mechanical skills. The IP-rated switch is easy to operate, and the dual power option offers added peace of mind.
Durability & Maintenance
Based on my experience, this kit is built to last. The heavy-duty construction and weather-resistant components inspire confidence in its long-term durability. Regular lubrication of the legs is recommended to ensure smooth operation.
The motor itself is sealed, requiring no specialized maintenance. The overall design prioritizes longevity and ease of care.
Accessories and Customization Options
The kit includes all necessary mounting hardware. There are no specific customization options offered by Stromberg Carlson. However, the standard landing gear leg attachment points should be compatible with aftermarket feet or leveling pads.
The IP rated switch can be replaced with an aftermarket switch if necessary. However, its weather-resistant design minimizes the need for replacement.
Pros and Cons of Stromberg Carlson Dual Power Landing Gear Conversion Kit 29.5in. Legs 5500 Lb. Motor
Pros
- Powerful 5500 lb. Motor: Effortlessly handles the weight of even larger RVs.
- Dual Power Functionality: Provides a reliable backup in case of electrical issues.
- IP Rated Switch and Gearbox: Ensures reliable operation in various weather conditions.
- Durable Construction: Built to last with heavy-duty steel components.
- Relatively Easy Installation: Straightforward installation process for DIY enthusiasts.
Cons
- Slightly Higher Current Draw: May require a fully charged battery for optimal performance.
- Motor Humming Noise: Produces a noticeable humming noise during operation (though not excessive).
Who Should Buy Stromberg Carlson Dual Power Landing Gear Conversion Kit 29.5in. Legs 5500 Lb. Motor?
This kit is perfect for RV owners, especially those with larger fifth-wheel or travel trailers, who are looking for a convenient and reliable way to automate their landing gear. It is also ideal for those who experience back pain or have difficulty operating manual landing gear.
Those who should skip this product are individuals with very small, lightweight trailers where manual operation is already easy, or those who are extremely budget-conscious and willing to endure the inconvenience of manual landing gear.
A must-have accessory would be a high-quality RV battery to ensure sufficient power for the motor. Leveling pads for the landing gear feet can also be beneficial, especially when camping on soft ground.
Conclusion on Stromberg Carlson Dual Power Landing Gear Conversion Kit 29.5in. Legs 5500 Lb. Motor
The Stromberg Carlson Dual Power Landing Gear Conversion Kit 29.5in. Legs 5500 Lb. Motor is a worthwhile investment for RV owners seeking convenience and ease of use. The powerful motor, dual power functionality, and durable construction make it a reliable and long-lasting solution. The value proposition is justified, considering the time, effort, and back pain it saves.
I would personally recommend this kit to anyone looking to upgrade their RV landing gear system. It has made my camping experiences significantly more enjoyable. Take the strain out of setting up camp and invest in the Stromberg Carlson Dual Power Landing Gear Conversion Kit today!