10 Equalizer System
Lippert Hydraulic Leveling
4 Point/3 Valve Sprinter
Introduction
Note: The hydraulic leveling system was designed for use only on a Sprinter chassis.
The four-point three-valve hydraulic leveling system is a hydraulic system which includes four points of contact utilizing jacks and a three-valve system. A 12V DC electric motor drives a hydraulic pump that moves fluid through a system of hoses, fittings and jacks to level and stabilize the coach. Mechanical portions of the hydraulic leveling system are replaceable. Contact Lippert Components, Inc. to obtain replacement parts. The hydraulic leveling system is primed and tested at the factory. However, the system is shipped dry to avoid hazardous material restrictions.
Additional information about this product can be obtained from lci1.com/support or by downloading the free LippertNOW app. The app is available on Apple App Store® for iPhone® and iPad® and also on Google Play™ for Android™ users. Apple App Store®, iPhone®, and iPad® are registered trademarks of Apple Inc. Google Play™ and Android™ are trademarks of Google Inc.
For information on the assembly or individual components of this product, please visit: https://support.lci1.com/hydraulic-l...4-point3-valve .
Note: Images used in this document are for reference only when assembling, installing and/or operating this product. Actual appearance of provided and/or purchased parts and assemblies may differ.
COMPONENT DESCRIPTION
1. Jacks
- A. Rated at a lifting capacity of 8,000 lbs each.
- B. Standard 9" diameter(63.5 sq in) foot pad on a ball swivel for maximum surface contact on all surfaces.
- C. System operation is powered by a 12V DC motor/pump assembly.
2. Motor/Pump Assembly
- A. 12V DC motor
- B. Hydraulic fluid reservoir tank, 1.2 gal
- C. Control valve manifold
- D. Solenoid valve for directing control
3. System Controls
- A. Controlled electronically from the touchpad
- B. Touchpad can be operated in manual mode or fully automatic mode
4. Fittings and Hoses
- A. Fittings - High pressure O-Ring Face or JIC - Size 4
- B. Hose - 1/4" I.D., 3000 psi - W.P. Rated
Safety
Please read and study the operating manual before operating the leveling system.
THE "WARNING" SYMBOL ABOVE IS A SIGN THAT AN INSTALLATION PROCEDURE HAS A SAFETY RISK INVOLVED AND MAY CAUSE DEATH OR SERIOUS INJURY IF NOT PERFORMED SAFELY WITHIN THE PARAMETERS SET FORTH IN THIS MANUAL.
THE "CAUTION" SYMBOL ABOVE IS A SIGN THAT A PROCEDURE HAS RISK INVOLVED THAT MAY CAUSE PERSONAL INJURY AND/OR PRODUCT DAMAGE IF NOT PERFORMED SAFELY AND WITHIN PARAMETERS SET FORTH WITHIN THIS MANUAL.
DURING SERVICING MAKE SURE THAT THE COACH IS SUPPORTED ACCORDING TO THE MANUFACTURER'S RECOMMENDATION. LIFT THE COACH BY THE FRAME AND NEVER THE AXLE OR SUSPENSION. DO NOT GO UNDER THE COACH UNLESS IT IS PROPERLY SUPPORTED. UNSUPPORTED COACHES CAN FALL CAUSING DEATH OR PERSONAL INJURY OR PRODUCT OR PROPERTY. USE PROPER PERSONAL PROTECTIVE EQUIPMENT DAMAGE.
FAILURE TO ACT IN ACCORDANCE WITH THE FOLLOWING INSTRUCTIONS MAY RESULT IN SERIOUS PERSONAL INJURY OR DEATH.
MOVING PARTS CAN PINCH, CRUSH, OR CUT. KEEP CLEAR AND USE CAUTION
The use of the Lippert Components, Inc. Hydraulic Leveling System to support the coach for any reason other than which it is intended, is prohibited by the Lippert Limited Warranty. The Hydraulic Leveling System is designed as a leveling system only and should not be used for any reason to provide service under the coach, e.g. changing tires or servicing the leveling system. Lippert Components, Inc. recommends that a trained professional be employed to change the tires on the coach. Any attempts to change tires or perform other service while the coach is supported by the hydraulic leveling system could result in damage to the coach and/or cause serious injury or death.
Operation
Note: It is recommended to have the engine running to maintain the minimum required voltage of 12.75V DC. The leveling system should only be operated under the following conditions:
4. The coach is parked on a reasonably level surface.
5. The coach “PARKING BRAKE” is engaged.
6. The coach transmission should be in the park position.
7. Make sure all persons, pets and property are clear of the coach while LCI4A3LCD Hydraulic Leveling system is in operation.
AFTER STARTING THE AUTOMATIC LEVELING CYCLE, IT IS IMPORTANT TO AVOID MOVEMENT IN THE COACH UNTIL THE COACH IS LEVEL AND THE GREEN LED LIGHT ILLUMINATES IN THE CENTER OF THE TOUCHPAD. FAILURE TO REMAIN STILL DURING THE LEVELING CYCLE COULD HAVE AN EFFECT ON THE PERFORMANCE OF THE LEVELING SYSTEM.
SELECTING A CAMPSITE
When the coach is parked on an excessive slope, the leveling requirements may exceed the jack lift stroke capability. If the coach is parked on an excessive slope, the coach should be moved to a more level surface before the leveling system is deployed. "Excess Angle" will appear on the LCD screen if the coach is 3.5 degrees or more out of level front-to-rear, or side-to-side.
WHILE UTILIZING LEVELING BLOCKS AND JACK PADS, ALL COACH WHEELS MUST NOT LEAVE THE GROUND DURING LEVELING. LIFTING ALL THE WHEELS OFF THE GROUND CREATES A CONDITION WHERE SEVERE PROPERTY DAMAGE, SERIOUS PERSONAL INJURY OR POSSIBLE DEATH MAY OCCUR.
ZERO POINT CALIBRATION
Note: Zero Point Calibration may have been pre-set by the OEM. Verify if Zero Point has already been set.
If not, then recalibration for Zero Point must be performed. Before auto-leveling features are available, the Zero Point MUSt be set. This is the reference point that the system will return to when an auto-leveling cycle is initiated.
To set the Zero Point, first run a manual leveling sequence to get the coach to the desired level point. Then activate the Zero Point configuration mode. This mode is enabled by performing the following sequence:
1. Turn the touchpad off.
2. With the touchpad off, perform the following:
- A. Press Front (Fig. 1G) five times.
- B. Press Rear (Fig. 1J) five times.
3. At this point, an alarm will sound and the display willread "**ZERO POINT CALIBRATION** ENTER to Set, POWER to Exit."
4. Press ENTER (Fig. 1C) to set the Zero Point. 5. The screen will then display "PLEASE WAIT."
6. An alarm will sound and the screen will display "ZERO POINT SUCCESSFUL."
7. The touchpad will then turn off.
AUTOMATIC LEVELING PROCEDURE
Note: Coach requires 12.75V DC to commence auto-leveling function.
Note: Refer to Component Description listing in the System Information section for questions regarding component locations and functions of the four-point three-valve hydraulic leveling system.
Note: The engine MUSt be running and the parking brake MUSt be engaged for the four-point three- valve hydraulic leveling system to operate.
Note: Pressing any button during an automatic sequence will stop the sequence and a "Function Aborted" error code will occur. Press ENTER to clear the code and then continue the operation or start a new function.
1. Press the Power Button (Fig. 1K) to turn system on. The green light will illuminate.
2. Press Auto Level (Fig. 1F). LCD Screen will display "Remain Still."
3. The coach will level automatically and indicate "Auto Level - Success" in the LCD display (Fig. 1E).
Note: Display will then read "Level - Jacks: Down." Do not press any buttons until this message appears or a "Function Aborted" error will be displayed.
AUTOMATIC LEVELING DESCRIPTIVE LOGIC
AFTER STARTING THE AUTOMATIC LEVELING CYCLE IT IS VERY IMPORTANT TO AVOID MOVEMENT IN THE COACH UNTIL THE COACH IS LEVEL AND THE GREEN LED LIGHT ILLUMINATES IN THE CENTER OF THE TOUCH PAD. FAILURE TO REMAIN STILL DURING THE LEVELING CYCLE COULD HAVE AN EFFECT ON THE PERFORMANCE OF THE LEVELING SYSTEM.
GROUNDING
The following steps describe the process of how the auto leveling sequence extends the jacks to the ground.
1. Depending on which end of the coach is lowest to the ground the level sensor in the controller will activate the jacks, the lowest end first, either front orrear. A. If the rear of the coach is the lowest end, ground the lowest rear jack first. B. If the front end is the lowest end, ground the front jack closest to the power unit.
2. Ground the remaining lowest end jack, front or rear. 3. Lift lowest jacks together until level.
4. The leveling system will then ground remaining jacks. A. If the rear of the coach is the remaining end, ground lowest jack first. B. If the front of the coach is the remaining end, ground the front jack closest to the power unit.
5. Ground the remaining front or rear remaining end jack
6. Liftremaining end jacks together until level.
LEVELING
The following steps describe the process of how the auto leveling sequence levels the coach once the jacks have been grounded.
Note: This process may repeat several times until level.
1. Front-to-Rear
2. Side-to-Side
3. Individually
4. Minor adjustments to confirm grounding.
MANUAL LEVELING PROCEDURE
Note: When leveling the coach, level from front-to-rear first. When the coach is level from front-torear, then level the coach from side-to-side.
Note: The engine MUSt be running and the parking brake MUSt be engaged for the four-point three-valve hydraulic leveling system to operate.
Note: Coach requires a minimum of 9.5V DC to perform manual leveling.
1. Press the Power Button (Fig. 1K) to turn system on.
2. Press the Up Arrow (UP) orthe Down Arrow (DOWN) (Fig. 1A or Fig. 1B) to scroll through control features until “MANUAL MODE” is displayed.
3. Press ENTER (Fig. 1C).
4. Press FRONT (Fig. 1G) to extend front jacks to the ground.
5. Press REAR (Fig. J) to extend rear jacks to ground, then level the coach front-to-back.
6. Press appropriate LEFT or RIGHT, to level the coach side-to-side.
Note: The front jacks will work in pairs, i.e., FRONT operates both front jacks.
Note: The right and left rear jacks are used to level the coach side-to-side. Pressing LEFT (Fig. 1H) on the touch pad will extend the left rear jack. Pressing RIGHT (Fig. 1I) on the touch pad will extend the right rear jack.
7. Repeat steps 4-6 as needed.
8. Press Power Button (Fig. 1K) to turn system off.
ALL COACH WHEELS MUST NOT LEAVE THE GROUND DURING LEVELING. LIFTING ALL THE WHEELS OFF OF THE GROUND CREATES A CONDITION WHERE SEVERE PROPERTY DAMAGE, SERIOUS PERSONAL INJURY OR POSSIBLE DEATH MAY OCCUR.
9. Visually inspect all jacks to make sure all footpads are touching the ground. If either of the rear jack footpads is not touching the ground, press LEFT or RIGHT (Fig. 1H or Fig. 1I) to lower the non-compliant jack to the ground.
CHECK TO MAKE SURE ALL JACKS ARE FULLY RETRACTED BEFORE TRAVEL.
AUTO JACK RETRACT PROCEDURES
Note: Pressing any button during an automatic sequence will stop the sequence and a "Function Aborted" error code will occur. Press ENTER to clear the code and then continue the operation or start a new function.
1. Turn on the system by pressing the Power Button (Fig. 1K) on control panel. The LCD screen will display "READY Jacks: Down".
2. Press Up Arrow or Down Arrow (Fig. 1A or Fig. 1B) to display "Auto Retract All" on the touchpad.
3. Press ENTER (Fig. 1C) to begin.
Note: “AUTO RETRACT” can also be commenced by pressing and holding RETRACT (Fig. D) for one second.
Note: To stop the jacks from retracting, turn the system off and back on again by pressing the Power Button (Fig. 1K) twice. The coach can then be manually leveled by following steps 1- 9 in the Manual Leveling Procedure section. Press ENTER to acknowledge.
4. The jacks will retract and shut off automatically.
5. The display willread "READY - Jacks: Up".
6. Press Power Button (Fig. 1K) on the touchpad to turn off the system.
7. Perform a brief visual inspection around the coach to verify the jacks are fully retracted.
MANUAL JACK RETRACT PROCEDURES
1. To retract in the manual mode, press the RETRACT button (Fig. 1D) until it lights. Pressing the FRONT or REAR jack buttons will operate front or rear jacks in pairs. Pressing the RIGHT or LEFT jack buttons will operate the right or left rear jacks individually.
Troubleshooting
Note: To enter the manual mode, refer to Manual Leveling Procedure section.
MANUAL OVERRIDE OF POWER SYSTEM AND JACKS
In the event that the jacks do not retract, the cartridge valves can be manually overridden.
Note: Cartridge valves should be opened prior to operating with any auxiliary power device.
The hydraulic leveling system can be operated in conjunction with auxiliary power devices, like cordless or power drills. In the event of electrical or system failure, the manual method of retracting the jacks can be used. A standard handheld drill is all that is required.
DO NOT OVER TIGHTEN OVERRIDE SET SCREWS, AS THIS CAN DAMAGE THE VALVES.
1. Use a 5/32" hex key to turn the manual override clockwise (Fig. 2) on each of the three cartridge valves (See Plumbing Diagram) to open the valves.
2. Disconnect or shield power cables on the motor.
3. Remove plastic cap (Fig. 3A) from motor coupler.
4. Unplug the wire harness from the directional valve. See Wiring Diagram.
5. Using a 1/2” socket and auxiliary drive device, e.g. cordless or power drill, insert the 1/2” socket onto coupler (Fig. 4A).
6. Run drill in reverse, or counterclockwise direction, to simultaneously retract all jacks.
7. After all jacks have been retracted, turn all manual overrides counterclockwise (Fig. 5).
8. Reinsert previously-removed protective plastic motor coupler cap. 9. Re-attach previously unplugged wire harness to directional valve.
AUTOMATIC SAFETY SHUTOFF
The touchpad will automatically turn off after four minutes, if left inactive. To reset the system, turn the coach ignition off, then back on. Press the touchpad's Power Button (Fig. 1K) again.
DRIVE AWAY PROTECTION SYSTEM
If the ignition is in the “RUN” position, the jacks are extended and the operator releases the parking brake, all indicator lights will flash and the alarm beeper will activate. The leveling system will automatically fully retract the jacks to clear the alarm, or, if the operator resets the parking brake, the alarm will shut off.
JACKS UP VERIFICATION
If the coach ignition is in the "RUN" position, the parking brake is released and the vehicle is in motion; the leveling system may activate the power unit to ensure retract pressure is high enough to keep jacks fully retracted. The LCD screen will say "JACKS UP VERIFICATION" until the retract pressure returns to normal level. The touchpad will then turn off. No beeping will occur and the "JACKS DOWN" dash light will not illuminate.
LOW VOLTAGE SIGNAL
1. The vehicle requires 12.75V DC to operate in the AUTO mode. If the voltage is too low, the screen will display "Low Voltage."
2. Minimum Voltage - If voltage drops below 9.5V DC during AUTO or MANUAL operation, "Low Voltage" will appear in the screen and the system will cease operating.
Note: Coach will operate in manual mode between 9.5V DC and 12.75V DC.
ERROR MODE
1. If an error occurs before or during operation, the error will be displayed in the touchpad's LCD screen (Fig. 1E) and an alarm will sound. To reset common ERROR displays, press ENTER (Fig. 1C).
Note: To reset "Return for Service" errors, press ENTER (Fig. 1C) and RETRACT (Fig. 1D) simultaneously. Refer to Error Code Chart for additional error codes.
2. All normal functions will be disabled while the system is in Error Mode.
EXCESS SLOPE
1. The control will not operate at extreme slopes, i.e. 3.5 degrees front and rear and 3.5 degrees side-to- side.
2. If the coach's display indicates “Excess Angle” or “Out of Stroke “ during an auto-level cycle, move the coach to a level spot.
USER ALARM MODE
If the alarm system detects that the park brake has been disengaged while at least one jack is not fully retracted, the touchpad will buzz and the LED will signal a park break error to the user. The system will then perform an automatic retract sequence. No other features are available in this mode.
MISCELLANEOUS
1. A "Re-Level" feature is programmed into the controller. If the jacks are extended and the user presses AUTO LEVEL (Fig.1F), the system will re-level from that point. The system will not retract before performing the re-level.
2. System willrefuse any operation when a low voltage condition is present.
TROUBLESHOOTING TABLE
Maintenance
FLUID RECOMMENDATION
Automatic transmission fluid (ATF) with Dexron®III or Mercon®V or a blend of both is recommended by Lippert Components, Inc. For a list of approved fluid specifications, see TI-188. To obtain this Technical Information sheet on-line, go to http://www.lci1.com/support-hydrauli...eling-lcd-br4- point3-valve. Then click on the Technical Information Sheets tab. Look for TI-188: Hydraulic Operation Fluid Recommendation within the listing.
Note: In colder temperatures (less than 10° F) the jacks may extend and retract slowly due to the fluid’s molecular nature. For cold weather operation, fluid specially formulated for low temperatures may be desirable.
PURGING THE HYDRAULIC SYSTEM
Note: Make sure jacks are fully retracted prior to filling reservoir to prevent over-filling
1. Zip-tie any loose wiring or hydraulic lines.
Note: The basic purge procedure to bleed the LCI Hydraulic Systems can be performed without the use of any tools. The hydraulic system will purge the air from the hydraulic lines and cylinders by simply running the pump.
Note: It is recommended to perform a minimum of three complete cycles (steps 2-7) to ensure both proper function and adequate fluid level of the system.
2. Start with all hydraulic components in the fully retracted position, meaning all jacks and slide-outs are brought back inside the coach as if the coach were ready for travel.
3. Find the hydraulic pump location and note the amount of fluid currently in the reservoir. The fluid level should be about 1/4” from the top of the reservoir and no more than 1/2” from the top.
Note: When checking the fluid level after ensuring all hydraulic components are retracted, note if there are any bubbles, froth or foam on top of the fluid. This is an indication that air has been pushed back to the reservoir when the hydraulic components were retracted in the last cycle. Wait 15-20 minutes for the foam to dissipate before beginning the purge process.
4. If there is no froth orfoam in the reservoir and the fluid is not within 1/2” of the top, fill the reservoir to within the level described in step 3.
5. With the fluid level full and no foam in the reservoir, begin cycling the hydraulic system.
6. Extend jacks fully, taking the coach off the tires. Ifthe coach has hydraulic slide-outs, extend all slide- outs. Once all jacks and slide-outs are extended, immediately retract all slide-outs and then jacks.
7. Check the reservoir foam. If foam is present, see NOTE following step 3 and then repeat steps 4-6. Repeat these steps until no foam is present in the reservoir. If no foam is present, the system is purged of air
PREVENTATIVE MAINTENANCE
1. Check hydraulic fluid in reservoir every 12 months. If fluid is a clear, red color, do not change. If fluid is milky, pink and murky, and not clearred in color, drain reservoir and add new fluid. Hydraulic fluid in reservoir should be changed a minimum of every five years.
Note: Check the hydraulic fluid only when all the jacks are fully retracted.
Note: When checking the hydraulic fluid level, fill reservoir to within 1/4" to 1/2" of fill spout.
2. Inspect and clean all power unit electrical connections every 12 months. If corrosion is evident, spray connections with electrical contact cleaner.
3. Remove dirt and road debris from jacks as needed.
THE COACH SHOULD BE SUPPORTED AT BOTH FRONT AND REAR AXLES WITH JACK STANDS BEFORE WORKING UNDERNEATH. FAILURE TO DO SO MAY RESULT IN DEATH, SERIOUS PERSONAL INJURY OR SEVERE PRODUCT AND/OR PROPERTY DAMAGE.
4. If jacks are extended for long periods of time, it is recommended to spray exposed jack rods with a dry silicone lubricant every three months for protection. If the coach is located in a salty environment, it is recommended to spray the rods every 4 - 6 weeks.
Wiring Diagram - Overall System
Wiring Diagram - Controller and Touchpad
Hydraulic Plumbing Diagram
