Modified Jacks

[Beach]

We had a large pickup camper when I was a kid and the jacks would swivel 90 degrees to horizontal when stored on the camper. Same jack setup as in the picture(not our camper), loosen one mount bolt, the jack swivels up and cranks out(extends) a little to insert into the storage loop at camper middle. I'm thinking of converting my current FWC factory jacks to the same setup. Maybe a adapter plate made with a borrowed swivel mechanism from a H.D boat trailer jack that mounts between the jack and mounting bracket. Any ideas out there?

http://www.thediyworld.com/blog/wp-content/uploads/2011/10/1975-Coachmen-Truck-Camper.jpg

 

[Bosque Bill]

Not sure why you'd want to do this and carry the extra weight around unless you are frequently taking the camper on and off the truck.

In those old, heavy campers you could jack it up, drive away to go fishing and the camper would still be usable, but in our lightweight FWC campers they strongly recommend against entering the camper when not on the truck or a platform dolly of some kind that supports the floor.

 

[LuckyDan]

What you are describing and illustrate with the Coachman photo are the old Rieco Tripod jacks. If you want to do something similar I'd suggest taking your photo and a Rieco brochure, (http://riecotitan.com/flyers/tripodflyer.pdf) to a good metal fab shop. I'd get four new custom swivel mounting plates built if the length of your current jacks will allow them to swivel.

Your idea, while not common on FWC's, is not unheard of. I see Grandby's and the occasional Keystone come through Eastern Oregon set up with Rieco's as you describe. Do remember as Bosque Bill wrote above about supporting the floor if you use the camper off the truck.

Best Wishes with your decision.

 

[Beach]

Thanks for the replies. I have a friend with a fab shop, I can fab the brackets, just need him to weld out. I carry the jacks all the time, stored inside under the couch, always think I might want/need to use them while on the road, as I use the rig more and see that I don't use them I'll probably leave them at home.