Electronic Jack install problem

Tross2023 · July 2023

2018 T@B 320S

Just installed Lippert e-tongue jack.

Previously I tried to install a look-alike model, cheaper, it did not work, it was supposed to be self grounding, even after I grounded it as per instructions by grinding off the paint under the nut.) So I bought the Lippert.

The Lippert says to install by putting the lead from the jack onto the grounded battery.

Below: The Large red wire from the jack attached to the battery on top of the lead for the camper

We switch the Jack on and nothing happens.

1) The battery is new and fully charged, the T@B is home on 30Amp shore power

2) If I pull the plug on the shore power the DC components (and the ceiling fan continues to work)

3) The Positive post has the Green wire from the junction box which I added at the terminus some red tape for clarity.

Below is the box where the battery leads go

Here is the junction box w/ the wiring for the battery to the camper

How to make the jack think it is grounded?

Grumpy_G · July 2023

The trailer frame may not have connection to 12V ground. If you have jumper cables connect the battery negative to a shiny bolt on the frame and see if it works then.

Tross2023 · July 2023

Yes, I am moving toward making a separate ground. thanks
Tom

Tross2023 · July 2023

Well, I added a separate ground, from the battery to the frame (steel, not aluminum, i checked) still no up and down for the jack, i deburred the seat under and on top of the frame where the jack meets the A-Frame, no luck from the e-jack. Checked all 12 volt fuses, all good to go.

Grumpy_G · July 2023

Hmm that certainly becomes interesting... I think the likelihood that you got two defective jacks is very small. Can you bench test the jack with a jumper pack or similar power source ? These things are dead simple, an electric motor and a power reversing switch.

Tross2023 · July 2023

I am going to swap out the battery…the grounds are solid…i have a new spare battery…very strange

Grumpy_G · July 2023

In the world of automotive repair this is called the "parts cannon". With the trailer hooked up to shore power the condition of the battery is irrelevant, if you haven't done so yet connect the trailer to 120V and see if it makes a difference. Or, put a voltmeter on the battery and check the voltage drop when trying to move the jack.

Marceline · July 2023

Too soon?

Tross2023 · July 2023

I am in expert mode

Tross2023 · July 2023

The ceiling fan has more rpms when i plug shore power back in, so then my multimeter died…trying your other suggestions…thanks

tabiphile · July 2023

If you have a spare charged 12 volt battery available, try running the jack directly from it. If that works, then you can engage in installation trouble shooting.
Troubleshooting is a step by step process. Always start at the beginning. Rule out everything step by step. Never assume anything is "OK" unless you verify it. Do not skip any steps. There is a reason why phone support staff are trained to ask you, is it plugged in?
You will figure it out.

Tross2023 · July 2023

Well, it works if i use the portable jumpstart battery thing…good enough for now!

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Electronic Jack install problem

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