ServiceNomad RV · Knowledge
Lippert Leveling System Won't Extend
When Lippert leveling jacks refuse to extend at all—no movement, no sound, or only partial extension—the issue is typically related to power supply, hydraulic pressure, or control board communication. Unlike Error 29 (which indicates movement that doesn't complete properly), a complete failure to extend means the system either can't receive the command or can't generate hydraulic pressure.
12V Power Supply Verification
Lippert leveling systems run on 12V DC power from your RV's house batteries. The hydraulic pump is a high-draw motor that requires substantial amperage to run. If your house batteries are low (below 12.2V), the system may not attempt to extend the jacks at all, or the pump may run weakly and fail to generate pressure. Check your battery voltage with a multimeter before attempting to level. If voltage is low, charge the batteries or start the engine (if you have a motorhome with a battery combiner). Also check the fuse or circuit breaker dedicated to the leveling system—these are often 40-60 amp fuses that can blow if the pump stalls or overheats.
Hydraulic Pump and Motor Function
If you have good 12V power but hear no pump noise when you press the extend button, the hydraulic pump motor may have failed or seized. Lippert pumps are robust but can fail from overheating (often caused by low fluid), contamination, or worn brushes in the DC motor. A technician will test for voltage at the pump motor terminals when the extend command is given. If voltage is present but the motor doesn't run, the pump needs replacement. If no voltage reaches the motor, the problem lies upstream in the control board or wiring.
Control Board and Touchpad Issues
The touchpad (control panel) communicates with the main leveling control board via a low-voltage signal wire. If this connection is interrupted—due to corrosion, loose connectors, or a failed touchpad—the control board never receives the 'extend' command and nothing happens. You may see lights on the touchpad but pressing buttons has no effect. A technician will test continuity between the touchpad and control board, inspect for corrosion on the plug connectors, and verify the touchpad is receiving power. In some cases, the touchpad itself fails and needs replacement.
Solenoid Valve Failures
Lippert systems use solenoid valves to direct hydraulic fluid to the jacks. If a solenoid valve sticks closed or fails electrically, fluid cannot flow to the jacks even if the pump is running. You might hear the pump running but see no jack movement—this is a classic solenoid failure symptom. A technician can test the solenoids by applying 12V directly to the coil terminals and listening for the characteristic 'click' as the valve opens. If no click occurs, the solenoid needs replacement. If the solenoid clicks but no fluid flows, there may be a blockage in the hydraulic manifold.
⚠️ Safety Notes
- Never work under the RV when the leveling system is in a failure state—jacks could release unexpectedly.
- Hydraulic fluid is under high pressure—do not attempt to disconnect lines without proper training and tools.
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