Electric levelling jacks for motorhomes - Basics

Definition - What are electric jacks for motorhomes?

Electric jacks are a system used to stabilise and level the vehicle when parking or camping. They are extremely useful on uneven ground or when the motorhome is parked in one place for a long period of time.

Lifting jacks are usually fitted to the four corners of the motorhome and can be operated at the touch of a button or by remote control. They raise and lower the vehicle electrically until it is in the desired or required position. This prevents the motorhome from rocking, making the interior more comfortable and reducing stress on the tyres and other parts of the vehicle.

Electric stabilisers are a convenient and time-saving alternative to manual stabilisers. They are also a cheaper and more environmentally friendly alternative to hydraulic stabilisers.

How does an electric stabiliser system for motorhome work?

An electric stabiliser system consists of extendable support legs that can stabilise and level the vehicle. Here is a simple explanation of how it works:

• Drive: The principle of operation is similar to that of traditional jack stands, except for the drive. Electric jacks contains a motor and a simple gearbox that turns the threaded rod and ensures that the jack extends and retracts.
• Control: The system is operated by a control panel in the vehicle or by a wireless remote control. Modern systems often have app control via smartphones or tablets.
• Automatic levelling: Many power assist systems have sensors that detect the vehicle's tilt. At the touch of a button, the vehicle is automatically levelled by extending each support to a different degree until a horizontal position is reached.
• Manual mode: If a more precise adjustment is required, or if the automatic function is not to be used, the user can also control the legs manually and adjust them individually.
• Safety features: Integrated safety mechanisms prevent damage to the suspension system. These include an overload cut-off and automatic stabiliser retraction when the vehicle is started.
• Construction: The stabilisers themselves are usually robustly built to support the weight of the vehicle and ensure stability on various surfaces. They are often made from heavy metal such as steel and can be compactly folded away when not in use.

Benefits of electric stabilisers for motorhomes

Electric stabilisers are becoming increasingly popular. They offer a compromise between expensive and complicated hydraulic systems and cheaper, but definitely less convenient, manually operated mechanical cranks. A complete set of 4 electric stabilisers costs between 2,100 EUR and 3000 EUR, manual stabilisers are available from 300 EUR and the price range for hydraulic stabilisers is between 3000 EUR and 5,000 EUR, depending on the manufacturer.

Price is an important consideration when choosing a stabiliser system for motorhome. However, it is not the only one. Electric stabilisers have many advantages over hydraulic systems. The most important, apart from price, are simplicity of installation and maintenance-free operation.

A detailed comparison of mechanical, electric and hydraulic systems can be found in another article on our blog.

Electric stabiliser system for vehicles manufacturers in Europe

Despite the large number of brands producing electric stabilisers for motorhomes, most of these products come from only a few manufacturers. Within Europe, two are particularly prominent: ALKO and TESA.

HY4 from ALKO

AL-KO, known for its innovative HY4 lifting system, primarily serves the caravan and motorhome market. The HY4 is characterised by a low installation height, achieved by a folding design. This offers several advantages, but limits the system to a maximum total weight of 2500 kg, making it ideal for lighter caravans and motorhomes.

Autolift from TESA

TESA, an Italian specialist in electric lifting support systems called AUTOLIFT, supplies various distributors and accessory manufacturers. Although companies such as Linnepe and Carbest offer these systems under their own brand labels, AUTOLIFT remains TESA's original product. In X-CAMPING, where we focus on equipping motorhomes, we concentrate exclusively on the AUTOLIFT system, as this is designed to be used on almost all classes of motorhome.

Autolift - fully automatic electric lifting jacks for motorhomes with waterproof motors

The AUTOLIFT fully automatic levelling system for motorhome is available in different versions to suit different vehicle types. A key factor is the number of support legs, with customers able to choose between a two-leg or four-leg configuration.

Autolift2

The Autolift2 system consists of two electric lift legs and a central control unit. The supports are mounted on either the front or rear axle of the motorhome, depending on specific requirements and vehicle design.

Autolift4

Autolift4 is a system consisting of four electrically extendable legs and a control unit. The support jacks are mounted on the corners of the motorhome to ensure optimum levelling.

Fitting of Autolift stabilisation kits

The design of the support legs is the same for both Autolift2 and Autolift4. They are universal and can be fitted to the front, rear, left or right of the vehicle. Each support leg is a hermetically sealed and waterproof unit suitable for use in all weather conditions and on any terrain.

The stands are also designed to fit a wide variety of vehicle types. Differences between vehicle models are covered by specially designed mounting kits that allow the stands to be fitted correctly and securely to each vehicle.

Installation and mounting kits

In order to install a fully automatic support system such as TESA's AUTOLIFT, special mounting kits are required in addition to the support legs and control unit. These mounting kits create a solid connection between the vehicle frame and the individual support legs. They are designed specifically for each vehicle and cover a wide range of B-class motorhomes, including:

• Fiat Ducato 230/244 2000-2006
• Fiat Ducato 230/244 with ALKO chassis
• Fiat Ducato X250/290 2006-2014
• Fiat Ducato X250/290 2006-2014 with ALKO chassis
• Fiat Ducato X250/X290 2015-
• Fiat Ducato X250/X290 with ALKO frame 2015-
• Ford Transit Euro4 1996-2013
• Ford Transit Euro6 2014-
• Renault Master
• ...and many others!

If your specific vehicle model is not on the list of available vehicle-specific mounting kits, there is the option of universal kits, which are available for purchase as well. These universal brackets are often used on Coachbulits, Coachbulits with overcab bed and A-class motorhomes fitted with either an ALKO frame or a chassis extension. This allows for flexible and adaptable installation to suit different requirements and vehicle configurations.

Retrofitting the Autolift lifting system

The Autolift system can be installed independently. Here are detailed instructions for the complete mounting process:

1. Fitting the jacks:

The support legs must be attached to the vehicle frame using the mounting kits supplied. These steps require precision to ensure a secure fit.

2. Central unit installation and cabling:

The central unit is pre-assembled and pre-wired. It is important that it is installed parallel to the vehicle floor and in the centre of the vehicle. The correct alignment of the Central Unit is crucial for the subsequent operation of the support system. The wiring harnesses must be run from the central unit to the respective support legs.

3. Connect the wiring harnesses:

A suitable set of cables must be connected from the central unit to each leg. The cables are colour coded and have different thickness terminals to avoid confusion. The system is controlled by a remote control and a control unit, usually installed with the other equipment in the living area. An RJ45 connector connects the control unit to the central unit, simplifying installation.

4. Adjusting the length of the support legs for motorhomes:

For optimum alignment of the vehicle, it is necessary to adjust the length of the support legs for motorhome. Once the lengths are set correctly, the system can calibrate itself and is ready for use.

Installing an electric levelling gear fo motorhomes is generally easier than a hydraulic system. Electric systems are less susceptible to typical problems such as leaks or air bubbles in the system that can occur with hydraulic systems.

Safety features of an electric stabiliser system for motorhomes

TESA electric stabilisers are equipped with a number of safety mechanisms designed to protect both the vehicle and the system from damage. Here are some of the main safety functions:

• Warning tone when starting the engine:

An audible signal warns the user if the vehicle is started with the supports still extended. This serves as a reminder to retract the jacks before moving the vehicle to prevent damage.

• Manual emergency mode:

In the event of a power failure, the supports have a manual emergency function that allows them to be retracted safely even without power. This ensures that the legs can be operated even in the event of a technical failure.

• Easy assembly and disassembly:

The lifting legs are not only easy to install, but also easy to dismantle. This makes them particularly attractive to the second-hand market, as they can be easily removed from one vehicle and installed in another.

• Compatibility with different vehicles:

Thanks to the universal design of TESA jacks, there is no problem with their use in different types of vehicles. This is supported by X-CAMPING, which offers a range of mounting kits to ensure compatibility with different vehicle models.

These safety features help to minimise the risk of accidents or damage when using the levelling system and increase user-friendliness and flexibility in handling the vehicle supports.

Electric jacks for motorhomes - get one set with X-Camping!

Electric jacks are revolutionising the camping experience for motorhome owners by providing a quick, efficient and user-friendly solution for stabilising and levelling the vehicle. They are particularly helpful on uneven terrain, where they position the vehicle safely and securely, significantly increasing comfort and minimising stress on the vehicle.

With automatic levelling and easy operation via control panels or mobile apps, these systems offer a significant gain in comfort compared to manual or hydraulic systems. They are also more cost effective and more environmentally friendly than their hydraulic counterparts, as they do not require the use of hydraulic fluids and have low maintenance requirements.

The investment in electric lifts is particularly worthwhile for those who are frequently on the move and who value comfort and safety. Systems from leading manufacturers such as ALKO and TESA provide sophisticated solutions tailored to a wide range of vehicle types, from light campers to heavy motorhomes. You can retrofit it to A-Class, B-Class, C-class and Coachbulit motorhomes.

Adding to the appeal of stabilising systems for motorhomes is the fact that retrofitting a lift is a perfectly feasible task for the experienced DIY enthusiast. The safety features offered, such as warning signals and emergency modes, ensure that the jacks are safe to use at all times.

Electric jacks are a great choice for every motorhome owner looking for a reliable, safe and easy-to-use vehicle stabilisation solution.