Leveler Storage
Dave:
I have given a lot of thought to the leveler question.
My conclusion is that storing the levelers extended should not harm the hydraulic system (as long as none of the four levelers are overextended).
Some weight lifted off of the tires should greatly help extend the life of the tires. (Minimize sidewall deformation and generaly reduce internal stress.)
I therefore extend the front levelers about 2" after initial contact, and the rears about 1" after contact. Some weight is left on the springs, and some is on the levelers. This allows the air bags on the tag axel to have the 180 degree turn on the bag element exposed at a different area than when running, and the shocks internal seals are stored at a level slightly higher level than when in normal operation, thereby hopefully eleminating a buildup of corrosion or other type of degradation in the areas of most stress when the bags or shocks are in operation when the unit is on the road. I have not experienced a problem with either corrosion or dirt buildup on the exposed areas of the leveler pistons.
I store the unit on a concrete pad, and place one or two 2 X 6's under each leveler base plate.
Anyone have any arguements or reasons as to not leave them extended?
__________________
Dennis
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