1987 Airstream Manual Jack Retract

The 1987 Airstream Manual Jack Retract system is designed for safely lowering and stabilizing Airstream travel trailers. This manual covers operation, maintenance, and troubleshooting for the manual retractable jack system, including proper positioning, weight capacity guidelines, safety precautions, and routine care procedures to ensure long-term reliability and safe operation.

1. System Overview 2. Installation Guidelines 3. Operation Procedures 4. Technical Specifications 5. Controls and Components 6. Weight Distribution 7. Maintenance Schedule 8. Safety Features 9. Cleaning & Storage 10. Warranty Information 11. Troubleshooting Guide

System Overview

Key components: Manual crank handle, retractable jack legs, stabilizing feet, mounting brackets, locking mechanisms.

ComponentDescription
Manual Crank HandleFor extending and retracting jack legs
Jack LegsFour retractable legs with adjustable height
Stabilizing FeetRubberized feet for ground contact and stability
Mounting BracketsSteel brackets for secure trailer attachment
Locking PinsSafety pins to secure legs in position
Weight Capacity IndicatorVisual gauge for load monitoring
Extension MarkingsGraduated markings for consistent height adjustment
Protective CoversWeather protection for mechanical components
Lubrication PointsDesignated areas for regular maintenance
Safety LockPrevents accidental retraction during use

Installation Guidelines

Proper installation ensures optimal performance and safety.

  1. Position trailer on level ground before jack deployment
  2. Verify mounting bracket alignment with trailer frame
  3. Secure all bolts to manufacturer specifications (45-55 ft-lbs)
  4. Test full extension and retraction cycle before loading
  5. Confirm locking mechanisms engage properly

WARNING! Maximum weight capacity 8,000 lbs distributed evenly. Exceeding capacity may cause system failure.

Operation Procedures

Follow these steps for safe jack operation.

  1. Park trailer on firm, level surface away from traffic
  2. Engage parking brake and chock wheels
  3. Insert crank handle and turn clockwise to extend legs
  4. Lower until stabilizing feet contact ground firmly
  5. Continue cranking until trailer lifts slightly off suspension
  6. Insert locking pins at desired height
  7. Verify stability before entering trailer

CAUTION! Never place body parts under trailer during jack operation. Always use wheel chocks.

Technical Specifications

Controls and Components

Familiarize yourself with all system components for proper operation.

Primary Controls: Manual crank handle, height adjustment lock, safety pin releases, leg extension indicators.

Operation: Insert crank into receiver, turn clockwise to extend/raise, counterclockwise to retract/lower. Monitoring: Check weight distribution gauge regularly. Safety: Verify all locks engaged before loading. Maintenance: Lubricate moving parts every 3 months or 50 operations.

Weight Distribution

Proper weight distribution is critical for system longevity.

  1. Ensure trailer is level before extending jacks
  2. Distribute weight evenly across all four jack points
  3. Monitor weight gauge during extension
  4. Adjust individual legs to maintain level position
  5. Never exceed 2,000 lbs per corner jack

Tip: Use bubble level on trailer frame to verify level position during setup.

Maintenance Schedule

Regular maintenance ensures reliable performance.

  1. Monthly: Inspect for damage, corrosion, or wear
  2. Quarterly: Lubricate all moving parts with lithium grease
  3. Bi-annually: Check bolt torque and mounting security
  4. Annually: Complete system inspection and function test
  5. As needed: Replace worn stabilizing feet or damaged components
  6. Storage: Retract fully and cover when not in use
  7. Cleaning: Remove debris from mechanism regularly
  8. Inspection: Verify locking pin engagement before each use

WARNING! Never use damaged jacks. Replace worn components immediately.

Safety Features

Multiple safety systems protect users and equipment: Automatic load locks, secondary locking pins, overload protection, slip-resistant crank handle, weather-protected mechanisms.

Cleaning & Storage

Clean with mild soap and water; dry thoroughly. Store retracted with protective covers.

CAUTION! Do not use high-pressure washers; avoid chemical cleaners that may damage coatings.

Warranty Information

5-year limited warranty covering manufacturing defects. Does not cover damage from misuse, improper installation, or lack of maintenance. For warranty claims, contact Airstream Customer Service at 1-800- AIRSTREAM or visit www.airstream.com. Keep original purchase receipt for warranty validation.

Troubleshooting Guide

SymptomPossible CauseCorrective Action
Jack won't extendObstruction in mechanismClear debris; lubricate moving parts; check for binding
Uneven liftingGround surface unevenReposition on level surface; adjust individual legs
Difficulty crankingLack of lubricationApply lithium grease to all moving components
Jack slips under loadWorn locking mechanismInspect and replace locking pins if necessary
Corrosion visibleExposure to elementsClean and apply protective coating; store covered

Service: For professional service, contact authorized Airstream dealer. 1-800-AIRSTREAM; www.airstream.com

1987 Airstream Manual Jack Retract User Manual © - All Rights Reserved 2025