Automatic Leveling System Add-On

[kjcurtis]

First time poster!

I'm looking at purchasing a 1982 310 Airstream Motorhome that does not come with an automatic leveling system. I have tried to search this forum for information regarding this topic but have come up empty handed.

Is it possible to add-on automatic levelers? If not, how do you level one? I have a TT and have no experience with motor homes.

Thank You!
KJ

[Waipio Rim]

Our 310 came to us with non-operational A&E levelers. One of the rear ones won't retract, and the wiring harness for one of the front ones was worn through by rubbing on a front tire. I thought about fixing them just because they are there, but eventually I will probably just remove them and be happy to be rid of the weight. We have not missed having them in our travels. The coach rarely sits level, but it is usually level enough and more than stable enough for us.

[Smartstream]

It is possible to add a hydraulic leveling system. I found a used HWH system and installed them on my 280. I think it's a great addition to the coach. Of course that's just my opinion and others feel differently. Another thing I have the original refrigerator and it is more sensitive to being level then the newer units.

[Isuzusweet]

This is the system I hope to install on my 83 310 turbo diesel. The good thing about this system is the hydraulic return instead of springs used on HWH systems. Also each leveller has its own hydraulic reservoir and pump so you're not running hydraulic lines everywhere, just electrical. Quadra will easily adapt their brackets to the P30 chassis.

Cheers
Tony

[mayco]

Its a high dollar addition for sure. We use the yellow plastic leveling ramps plus 2x8 treated boards, kind of a pain. The ramps and boards take up a lot of space in the large basement storage also. But........it works....every time and it sounds to me that people have a good deal of trouble with the hydro leveling systems over time.

The HWH system for the 310 is probably $3500 to 4500 said and done for parts???
May be able to find a used set but thats a crap shoot. They sure would be nice though when functioning properly.

We've gotten pretty good at setting the ramps and boards up and getting it right on the first try. But, after a day of driving, its not much fun setting up the very first thing, even before you shut the rig down.

[PeterH-350LE]

Welcome aboard, KJ!!
I had 2 Airstream Motorhomes without and 1 with Hydraulic Levelers. It was not an auto leveling system on the 345. I found them to be extremely helpful to change a tire, which of course is not the intended use.
Besides that I do not miss the extra trouble, weight and maintenance they require. In many cases you have to get a wooden block under the foot, which takes about as much time and trouble as it takes to get my Legos out.
Instead, I would rather spend my money on some real improvements, like Fuel delivery, banks system, or trans upgrade.

[tdk51]

I installed a Firestone 4 way remote level system in my 79 airstream motorhome works good so far.

[Isuzusweet]

Sorry I forgot to post a link to Quadra's Bigfoot system......

Home Page

It will depend on how you see yourself using the coach. If you travel a lot and find yourself pulling into campsites or boon docking late the afternoon or evening, a leveller system is for you, especially an automatic one. If you spend more days at the site than travelling then the extra cost, complexity, and added weight may not be worth it.

Cheers
Tony

[Kota]

Both mine have HWH levelers. No maintenance issues and they work really well. I seldom have to put blocks under the pads except in storage to protect the floor. I use them to unload the tires and suspension when stored. Cool option IMOP.

[PeterH-350LE]

Originally Posted by Kota

Both mine have HWH levelers. No maintenance issues and they work really well. I seldom have to put blocks under the pads except in storage to protect the floor. I use them to unload the tires and suspension when stored. Cool option IMOP.

Yes, Kota, no doubt that is very handy, but your babys are still young . Once those mid 80's hydraulic systems start leaking, you may as well do a complete rebuilt. I like Tony's suggestion with the individual reservoirs.

[bkahler]

I figure for a 20' Argosy motorhome like mine any sort of leveling system would be a waste of money and weight. A couple of sections of 2"x8" lumber should do nicely to raise a corner or two to a reasonable facsimile of level.

Brad

[Kota]

Stability is another consideration of hydraulic jacks.

[kjcurtis]

Thank you everyone for your input! I think we will camp in it for a while (if we get it) before we decide what to do, if anything. I hope to join the ranks of Airstream ownership soon