Are Electric RV Stabilizers Better Than Scissor Jacks?

[@rvgearandfar]

🏘 *Join the RV Gear & Far Group Here:* www.rvgearandfar.com/rvgfyt ⭐🌟 *Check out ALL the products and gear we recommend here:* ⭐🌟   📦 www.amazon.com/shop/rvgearandfar 📦   ⭐⭐ *Examples of Products Used In This Video* ⭐⭐⠀ 🔷 5000 lb - 24 Inch - BAL 24002C Standard Leveling Scissors Jack - Set of (2): amzn.to/3OhhO7X Other Jack Options to Consider: 🔷 5000lb - 30 Inch - BAL 24003D Deluxe Leveling Scissor Jack - 30" amzn.to/47a1luX 🔷 7500lb - 24 Inch - BAL R.V. Products Group 24002D Deluxe Leveling Scissor Jack- Set of (2): amzn.to/458qlAR 🔷 5000lb -30 Inch -Camco 48830 Eaz-Lift 30" RV Stabilizing Scissor Jack| Supports Up to 5,000 lb.| 2-Pack: amzn.to/456Dt9z *_DISCLAIMER_*_ We participate in several affiliate programs that earn us a commission on purchases made through our links at no extra cost to you!_ _Some product links are affiliate links which means if you buy something we will receive a small commission. As an Amazon Associate I earn from qualifying purchases._

[@mommywero]

In my stabilization journey I’ve found that the scissor jacks that come stock usually have quite a bit of play in them. That is what causes them to be unstable. I remember our scissor jacks on our cougar would wobble a lot going up and down. The quality of the scissor jacks are a huge factor. The scissor jacks you used in this test are typically an upgrade to stock with little to no play, making a big difference in stabilization. In the end I decided to use the 2x4 and ratchet straps alongside the stock scissor jacks. With consideration of upgrading the scissor jacks at a future date. Love the video, by the way.

[@rvgearandfar]

Thanks for watching and taking the time to share your thoughts. Agreed - product quality can definitely play a role in performance and many times the cheapest option is used to outfit rigs. I'm glad you found a solution that works for you - the 2x4 stabilizers are far and away the best bang for buck solution that I'm aware of and use them as well. Happy trails!

[@jessenovotny4183]

Wow. I would have thought the design of the scissor jacks would make them less stable. Very interesting. Thanks for making this video

[@rvgearandfar]

Very welcome!

[@Kristin_Up_Close]

Just went on our first RV trip. "The Shake" is driving me crazy so I am devouring every inch of information I can find on it. This was very interesting and very helpful, thank you!

[@rvgearandfar]

Best bang for buck is the DIY version: The Best RV Stabilizers Are Actually The Cheapest! -DIY 2x4 Instructions- kzbin.info/www/bejne/qKDTqqZ_o812mMU

[@Kristin_Up_Close]

@@rvgearandfarThank you so much!

[@joe1071]

Being new to RVs, you are likely not adjusting the scissor jacks down hard enough into the ground or support on the ground. I babied mine at first too, and had lots of movement in the camper still. Now I really ram mine down hard and get a good solid connection with scissor jacks to ground at all 4 corners, and wow it made a difference

[@billmellinger1134]

Look up Steady Fast Stabilizer arms. I use scissor jacks in addition to the SF arms. My 33 ft camper is rock solid.

[@RVTIPSANDTRAVELS]

This is a great test, well done Josh!

[@rvgearandfar]

Glad you liked it!

[@billmellinger1134]

I have the lippert electric stabilizers. They really stink. I wish my camper had the crank down jacks. Last rig had crank down with Hanscome Stedifast stabilizer arms. That camper was rock solid,it hardly moved.

[@anthonyhall2854]

Bought the same 5000lbs jacks to replace my small ones.. HUGE DIFFERENCE love it!

[@rvgearandfar]

Seems like overkill on one hand - but absolutely worth it in practicality

[@ForgeAheadwithMike]

It's not just the design of the type of jacks, but the location where it is placed is really important.

[@rvgearandfar]

Placement definitely plays a role in performance.

[@Mikewhite9915]

Where should they be placed?

[@ForgeAheadwithMike]

@@Mikewhite9915 As close to the corners as possible. And for scissor jacks, if they can be mounted at 45 degree angle it helps stability a bit more. But the DIY stabilizers shown in this video are great to add for extra stability.

[@amyf.2090]

Thank you! That's the information I was looking for just yesterday and I couldn't find anything. Scissor jacks it is!

[@rvgearandfar]

Glad I could help!

[@andyk193]

A cordless impact is a great addon for them jacks.

[@rvgearandfar]

I actually prefer using a drill on my jacks - its significantly quiter.

[@DPowell-eu1ih]

I'm very shocked at this video. After watching a few of your videos I want to say thank you for the details and time you take into putting in these videos. I use the Eaz-Lift 30" jacks with the JT strong arm. I did the same test you just did and I can't get the bumble to move out of the two lines. When I got my trailer the kids just walking would wake me up. Now I don't feel them moving at all. Both Items I talk about are on amazon very cheap. However your 2x4 idea was amazing and what a deal on savings. Thank you again for your video and the others.

[@rvgearandfar]

adding in the diagonal braces - either 2x4 or JT strong arms - seems to be the ticket!

[@dustindesalvo]

Definitely both electric and scissor jacks. Great video bro. Big help thank you for the video

[@martinedaigle5226]

where did you fix the scissor jacks

[@rvgearandfar]

Should check out this DIY project- these are the best by far: kzbin.info/www/bejne/qKDTqqZ_o812mMUsi=kbiRBmZbx3cWJgMy

[@rvgearandfar]

Into the frame of the RV

[@VetforVets]

I just purchased a 2024 Geo Pro G20FBS and it has Lippert Quick-Drop Manual Stabilizer Jacks. My last E-Pro E19FD had Scissor Jacks. These new Quick Drop Jacks take a lot more time to setup and get right per Lippert than the old Scissors on my last unit. After seeing this video, I'm planning to remove the QD jacks and install Scissor Jacks.

[@rvgearandfar]

You might give these a try - I've found they perform even better than the scissor jacks and would be much less expensive than replacing all four quick drops: kzbin.info/www/bejne/qKDTqqZ_o812mMUsi=l7zrhjKpkv5Q4lt5

[@RX7LT1]

I would like to purchase a part of your Quick Drop Jacks - for now I am keeping mine but one corner failed me and can't find replacements.

[@robertbollenbach8534]

After a three week trip we noticed a lot movement side to side in our trailer and I attributed that to the stock scissor jacks. I have seen the automatic stablizers that you tested on other rigs. At first glance they looked like a big improvemt over our stock scissor jacks due to the added support from the additional bars, but after watching your video I'm no so sure. Your video was informative but in all our travels we have never parked on a concrete slap. It either gravel or sand. I'm sure that makes a difference but how much I don't know. After watching your video, I know won't be spending $1500 on a lippert PXS1 setup so thank you for that!

[@rvgearandfar]

Have you made these yet? By far the best Ive tested, cheapest too: The BEST RV Upgrade Installs in Less Than 5 Minutes! kzbin.info/www/bejne/qKDTqqZ_o812mMU

[@RetiredClay]

Thanks for the info. We are buying the Alliance Delta 292RL and it has the manual jacks . I may also add the electric jacks also. Delta gives you the drill attachment for the jacks. So I will be using my drill for awhile. Safe travels

[@rvgearandfar]

I’d skip the electric ones all together and go with the scissor jacks and these DIY versions: The Best RV Stabilizers Are Actually The Cheapest! -DIY 2x4 Instructions- kzbin.info/www/bejne/qKDTqqZ_o812mMU

[@StealthyCharger]

Great info! Just got my 1st camper and the old jacks were rusty and time to be replaced. Its a 30ft 5klb trailer but i decided to go with 9k lb jqck just cause they werent that expensive. Took out first outing in the camper this past week and shake was NOT an issue at all! I was thinking about doing the electric jacks for the convenience but after seeing this id rather have better stability than saving a few minutes during setup. Especially since i plan for it to be a stationary camper omce we get a seasonal spot

[@rvgearandfar]

Glad you found some value in it! I think these will improve the stability even more! kzbin.info/www/bejne/qKDTqqZ_o812mMU

[@gpenrod5221]

Can I just add a thought or two? First of all, I have always assumed by the design that the electric jack should be superior to stabilizing a shake than a scissor jack because of how the scissor jacks work. They have a pivot point on the top and the bottom that are vary narrow thus they would be more prone to the shaking. The electric jack has stabilizers built into it as it deploys. I'd like to rerun the test again because I'm not exactly convinced scissor jacks are more stable simply based on the design and implementation all things to be equal. (ie... same ratings for electric and scissor jacks). But! On that same subject. There are stabilizer arms you can add on to scissor jacks and with a fifth wheel on to the struts to help stabilize them too. How do they compare? Not only can you stabilize them east to west shaking but also north to south which is one approach yours tests haven't looked at. I don't think there's much of any question about your 2X4 and strap stabilizer solution. For one thing the stabilizing points are wider with the 2X4s than they are any of the other systems. Wider always provides for a more stabilized environment. That's a given. Only 2 flaws with the 2x4 solution that I see is the following: 1- they stick out and could tend to be a tripping point while walking by them. and 2. They are strictly manual, no automation or convenience with their setup.

[@rvgearandfar]

@@gpenrod5221 The stabilizers from MORryde or JT Strongarms would be fantastic to test against the 2x4s - maybe that's something we'll do in the future - as far as tripping hazards, its has never been an issue honestly - and therefore, because its not an issue I thin many folks will choose those simply because the price is SO low compared to the commercial options and they'll trade that for the manual installation. Love these thoughts - keepem coming!

[@AmandaOmelchuk-sm2ok]

Great video!!! Heading out to grab some scissor jacks and 2x4’s now!

[@rvgearandfar]

I'd definitely add the 2x4 stabilizers - but if I already had the electronic ones on a rig, I wouldn't replace them with scissors - just add in the DIY versions and call it good ◡̈ Save the money for more camping trips

[@kevinmoore1401]

That is an amazing difference for sure.

[@rvgearandfar]

Have you checked out the 2x4 stabilizers? These are BY FAR the best stabilizers I've used: kzbin.info/www/bejne/qKDTqqZ_o812mMUsi=wbL0NT8KAu_1Nh8r

[@billmellinger1134]

I have the same electric stabilizers on my current camper. They are junk I wouldnt have them again. The best set up I had was sissor jacks with Steady Fast Stabilizer arms. It was a rock solid set up. Add the x chocks between the tores it was like walking around in a house.

[@rvgearandfar]

adding these to the electric stabilizers will help a TON, and much cheaper than the stabilizer arms, although a bit more setup: kzbin.info/www/bejne/qKDTqqZ_o812mMU

[@powduck]

How much additional stabilization would X-chocks add?

[@jayt838]

I have the electric stabilizer jacks and actually thinkng of adding the scissor jacks but have them maybe raise from the front and the rear, as opposed to raising them from the side of the trailer. My thinking is this may add stability . Just a thought on that. I also use X_Chocks bretween the tires and this really helps a lot. Thanks for the video

[@rvgearandfar]

You're welcome!

[@65fstbk40]

I have the similar set up as you. I did purchase a pair is scissor jacks and I use then just in front of the wheels. I didn't mount them (yet??) and for now I just extend them against the frame. It does a bunch in respect to reducing the shake inside. Another think I did was put a step stabilizer on. I have the folding steps and when my adult kids come in the trailer they would often spill my coffee (or rum) if the cup was too full.

[@jeninesfelting4035]

I use an impact drill with the socket size for the scissor jacks to move them up and down instead of hand cranking. I just keep the impact drill right inside the trailer door. Make sure the socket is made for an impact drill, other sockets can shatter.

[@rvgearandfar]

Use a drill - its the right tool for the job - impacts can easily damage the screws on the jacks and are annoyingly loud

[@mikehernandez1654]

I know this was made some time ago but I wonder did you ever revisit this to see if the electroinc ones do better without the blocks to raise the ground or if there is a better angle they need to be at.

[@rvgearandfar]

Nothing officially revisited - my perspective is that if you have electric or scissor jacks - these DIY 2x4 beef them both up beyond recognition: kzbin.info/www/bejne/qKDTqqZ_o812mMU

[@D-OveRMinD]

Would have liked to see the electronic stabilizers with your homemade jacks for comparison. Just bought a trailer with the electronic type, and dont want to pay for scissors if I can just make the diy ones and it will work.

[@rvgearandfar]

Yes, just add the 2x4's and it'll be 1000% better - no need to replace the electric with scissors. This comparison was more to see if I'd pay the upcharge for the electric stabilizers from the factory. If you already have the electric - add the DIY 2x4s and spend your money on experiences! Happy camping. kzbin.info/www/bejne/qKDTqqZ_o812mMU

[@spiropsiharis1141]

could u use the rachet straps on the elecrtonic stabilizers ,instead of the 2x4 it serve the same purpose wouldnt it.

[@rvgearandfar]

Except the 2x4s are going to be wider on the frame than where the electronic ones attach.

[@jimbartlett1428]

Great video! Have you considered clocking the scissor jacks 45 degrees to the longitudinal and lateral lines of the trailer? My pumpkin brain tells me that it would add to the stability.

[@rvgearandfar]

I have and Ive seen some rigs with them installed at 45 degrees - I think the weak link is where and how they attach to the frame- I’d be interested to see if 45 degree mounting affects performance in any way

[@jimbartlett1428]

@@rvgearandfar I have seen several also. My theory support is, they studied horses and noticed that if given a choice, they would stand 45° to direction of movement. They could maintain their stability easier. My thought would be to have a circular steel plate on the frame and then mount the stabs to it. 😊

[@leffordfate2426]

How about the electronic with the diy stabilizers

[@rvgearandfar]

I don't think I'd ever add/swap from the electronic to scissor jacks if they're already installed (just made sense for me in order to do this comparison video), I'd just add the DIY 2x4's

[@KyleRichard-r2n]

I would like to see you remove the blocks under the electric stabilizer's and retry the test. The idea being the pivot point of the arms riding on the pinon screw would extend more naturally to the outside of the frame creating a triangle more supported near the frame, therefore be more stabile. I understand putting blocks makes it faster, but I think you are defeating the purpose.

[@rvgearandfar]

Sounds like a fantastic scenario to run. I'm also planning on putting the "don't extend your jacks more than 50%" adage to the test.

[@prestonharris42]

Was just thinking about switching my scissor jacks out for the others

[@rvgearandfar]

Not worth it in my opinion. Try adding these for the ultimate stability: kzbin.info/www/bejne/qKDTqqZ_o812mMU

[@fh9630]

strange... I had scissor jacks on my bumper pull trailer and on rear of my current 5th wheel, and they do not help much with side-to-side movement. I like your previous video with the home made stabilizers. there is also a manufactured stabilizer that fits in the rear hitch of the trailer, if equipped.

[@rvgearandfar]

Yes I've seen that hitch mounted stabilizer by MORryde - looks like it would work fantastic!!

[@65fstbk40]

You've likely ended the stabilizer series but I would have been curious to see how much wiggle occurs with both the scissor and electric jacks down. Similar to what you did with the DIY and scissor jack.

[@rvgearandfar]

Thanks for the suggestion! I debated doing that but felt that it would be really hard to get equal pressure on each jack to test using both. Experience wise though - we've used the electric, scissor and DIY 2x4's at the same time - didn't notice anything additional over just the scissors and the 2x4s.

[@billhillegass946]

Thank you for the video, I have a problem with my front electric stabilizer, they come down easy but when I hit retract one side comes up and ticks away nice, the other side is far from tucking away and hangs down about 4 inches. Is there some way to adjust or sync the two together? TYIA .

[@rvgearandfar]

Maybe try putting some blocks under the one that hangs down lower and then lower them all the way, then retract again and see if they balance out? That way the side that is giving you and issue "should" retract all the way first, before the "working" side gets all the way up? Not sure but worth a try.

[@alex71388]

Have you done any tests or reviews with the X-Brace?

[@rvgearandfar]

I haven't gotten to test those out yet no

[@btorr2945]

Being placed further apart was probably the bigger factor. Not sure how the electric ones are made, but unless the legs lock in place? There maybe some give in the motor when you are moving about. As for using both? Certainly wouldn’t hurt, but if the scissor jacks are that solid? Why bother, unless for added support if you are in a windy area.

[@rvgearandfar]

Personally I wouldn't spend the money for the electric ones if I was ordering a travel trailer. I still have both on because it'd be more of a hassle to remove them and sometimes, like a night at cracker barrel, the electric ones are easier. But typically we use the scissor jacks and the diy 2x4s: kzbin.info/www/bejne/qKDTqqZ_o812mMU

[@chucknSC]

That is difficult to believe. Do you know if you are lifting the trailer up higher with jacks vs stabilizers?

[@rvgearandfar]

How is it difficult to believe? Think about the physics of where on the RV the supports are connecting - the electric ones are more towards the centerline, the scissors are much wider. And you shouldn't be lifting the trailer in any appreciable manner with either one - they are stabilizers and not to be used as jacks as you can tweak the frame of the RV.

[@jamieevans871]

one is pivot from centre the other is on the chassis no movement there but what a pain in the ass to set up each time you move

[@BQN2010]

Lol, the dog at 1:46, tucking tail and scurrying off while dragging his leash behind. He did not like that trailer moving around like that.

[@rvgearandfar]

No she did not ◡̈

[@Morningdovecamp]

Thanks for useful info 👍

[@rvgearandfar]

Glad it was helpful!

[@Normal1855]

You have to factor in the size of the jacks. Your scissor jacks look like they're for a way bigger trailer. Most stock jacks are smaller.

[@rvgearandfar]

Definitely something to explore - then the recommendation would be to increase the stock sizes overall ◡̈

[@shawk904]

Well done... good video!

[@rvgearandfar]

Thanks!

[@GregDu4]

What App do you use to measure Gs?

[@rvgearandfar]

I just searched the app store for an accelerometer

[@Saintly2]

So, a year later, what did you end up going with?

[@rvgearandfar]

This setup is actually going on 3 years and my conclusion is still the same. The scissor jacks are better. We still have both on the rig because itd be more work and hassle to take the electric ones off - an we've used them at a cracker barrel overnight sometimes - but the scissor jacks along with the diy stabilizers is the key: kzbin.info/www/bejne/qKDTqqZ_o812mMU

[@robk5258]

If you use more blocks and not extend out the scissor jacks as much it will help also.

[@rvgearandfar]

Ive heard that too - its on my list of things to test out

[@suzibillball]

Which scissor jacks did you test?

[@rvgearandfar]

They are BAL 5000lb scissor jacks.

[@martinedaigle5226]

we can not see WHERE did you put the stabilizer

[@rvgearandfar]

As in where did the manual a scissor jack mount? If so, the mounting bracket goes right on the bottom of the I-bean and I used the holes that lined up the best to mount using 3 self tapping screws and one nyloc nut and bolt for added vibration security

[@bullboss7698]

Don't come knock'en when the camper is a rock'en.

[@rvgearandfar]

kzbin.info/www/bejne/eIGwgHVpj8erirM

[@jinchoe6354]

wonder what the neighbors are thinking? lol

[@rvgearandfar]

😂

[@farminginthehighlands1205]

you forgot to mention that the scissor jacks can actually take the whole weight of the rv, while the electronic stabilizer can only take around 750 to 1000 and are not meant to do anything beyond stabilizing the rig.

[@rvgearandfar]

Incorrect - the scissor jacks are still not meant to "lift" anything - still use them as stabilizers, not levelers.

[@farminginthehighlands1205]

@@rvgearandfar if you have scissor lifts that are rated around 5000 lbs on a hard point on your RV, you can definately adjust them to level your rv once you are close to level. A scissor lift is what is used to lift your car or truck if you have a flat tire, they definately have capacity to lift. That's their intended design. Check your truck/car spare tire kit, you wipo find one there...

[@rvgearandfar]

@@farminginthehighlands1205 Agreed that they CAN - but the manufactures manuals state that they are NOT to be used for leveling, but stabilization only. Obviously we can all do what we want with out our equipment right? But the recommendation is NOT to use them - Additionally HOW they are attached to the frame is SUPER important because movement left and right could totally bend them and knock the whole rig over - I've seen it with my own eyes - use them as stabilizers, not for leveling.

[@markbriggs2336]

Dude, your not using the stabilizer jacks properly. The short movable center bar needs to be out more, as close to 90* as possible. My camper came equipped with manual stablizers, it take a little longer to set up then the scissor jacks, but they are better when used properly.

[@rvgearandfar]

But you can't always do that based on the pitch of a campsite because the yellow bar isn't movable independently - its all attached and moves as one piece.

[@trumpwon8231]

Scissor Jacks are 10 times better and much more effective. Also I wont say their names because they are not a Good Company but add these onto the jack any complete. No power to ever brake down and you even have about an inch or so in actual leveling ability. We’ve own both, so we know. God Bless. USMC/USAF Ret.

[@rvgearandfar]

Ultimately its a trade of convenience and thats why the electric ones exist right?

[@kingpickle3712]

I don't use my stabilizer jacks. Probably because I'm retired from the Navy. 😏

[@rvgearandfar]

Enjoy reminiscing a bit with that sway?

[@kingpickle3712]

@@rvgearandfar I honestly don't feel it unless my fat ass is causing it to be major. 😂

[@walt4690]

I think the most important part is that the jack support furthest to the outside of the trailer will be the most stable, irregardless of style. The electric ones are mounted to the inner frame and allow the most movement

[@rvgearandfar]

Agreed. Which is why these have worked the best: kzbin.info/www/bejne/qKDTqqZ_o812mMU

[@TTAUSA]

Wished you had tested the DIY without scissor or electric stabilizer jacks. By the way, they are not ELECTRONIC. 🤔

[@rvgearandfar]

Here's some more stabilizer testing: kzbin.info/www/bejne/fIS3oGeHp9-JpdEsi=Y-DNj5JGHXugqL-C And a clear DIY walkthrough: kzbin.info/www/bejne/qKDTqqZ_o812mMUsi=94BCZ9uYECYMKXde

[@NNO639]

Video cut is miserable.

[@rvgearandfar]

Hey thanks for the engagement◡̈ I’d love you to check out a newer video- but hey I’m not for everyone- have a good day!

[@elmerfudd7674]

Electric, not electronic. Unless they have a computer in them somewhere??

[@rvgearandfar]

Good catch - sometimes the mouth says other than what the brain is thinking ◡̈

[@suzibillball]

It's not electronic. They're just electric. Electronic is something entirely different.

[@rvgearandfar]

The switch for the jacks would be electronic (controlling the electrons) and the jack motors would be electric (converting the electricity into movement) - and both are necessary for the stabilizers so - take your pick ◡̈

[@carlcrisp8700]

Mechanical stuff powered by electricity is "electric". Stuff that transmits and sends signals via an electric current / wave is "electronic." For instance, your "electronic" key fob causes an "electric" motor to open a garage door. Just saying.

[@rvgearandfar]

Heard.

[@joemcbride3564]

....don't come a knock'n cause that babies rock'n...

[@rvgearandfar]

Then you'll enjoy this one too: kzbin.info/www/bejne/eIGwgHVpj8erirM