Lubing Cables: Fleetwood E2 Pop-Up Camper Maintenance Guide

how to lube cable on fleetwood e2 pop up camper

Lubricating the cables of a pop-up camper is essential for ease of use and maintenance. While some sources recommend using WD-40 or motorcycle chain lube, others advise against these products, stating that they can attract dirt and dust, or run off with moisture. Silicone spray is a popular alternative, as it dries quickly and leaves a protective film on the cables. However, it's important to avoid spraying silicone on the canvas, as it can affect waterproofing. For the Goshen lift system, grease is recommended for the grease points, and a grease gun is needed. It's also important to level the camper and raise the roof before putting down the stabilizers to avoid binding the lift system.

Characteristics Values
Lube type Silicone spray, WD-40, Motorcycle chain lube, grease
Lube frequency Once a year, Every spring, Every 2 years, Before winter
Lube location Pulleys, Lift posts, Lift arms, Cables, Lift system, Lift springs

shunauto

Using silicone spray to lubricate the Goshen lift system

The Goshen lift system is a popular setup for pop-up tent campers, known for its ease of installation, maintenance, and repair. Lubricating the Goshen lift system is essential to ensure smooth operation and prolong its lifespan. Here's a detailed guide on using silicone spray for this purpose:

Understanding the Goshen Lift System:

The Goshen lift system is a spring push system operated by a single cable. It can be raised using a hand crank winch or an approved motorized winch. This system has been used in various trailer brands, including Coleman, Fleetwood, and Starcraft, among others.

Preparing the Silicone Spray:

Before starting, ensure you have a suitable silicone spray lubricant. Silicone spray is a dry lubricant that leaves a clear, non-staining film on surfaces. It resists water and protects metal and non-metal surfaces. Choose a silicone spray that is specifically designed for lubrication, such as the WD-40 Specialist Silicone Lubricant.

Inspecting the Lift System:

Begin by inspecting the entire Goshen lift system for any signs of wear or damage. Ensure that the cable is securely attached to the pulleys and follow the cable from the crank area to the posts. Make sure the cable is not frayed or damaged.

Cleaning and Lubricating the Pulleys:

Lower the top of the camper completely. Remove the whiffle tree cover, which is located near the crank, and clean away any dirt, grease, or debris that has accumulated. You can use a cloth or brush to remove any built-up grime. Once clean, apply a generous amount of silicone spray to the pulleys, ensuring that they are well-coated.

Lubricating the Cables and Lift Arms:

Spray the silicone lubricant onto the cables and lift arms of the Goshen lift system. Ensure that you coat them thoroughly. The silicone spray will help reduce friction and make raising and lowering the camper much smoother. Be careful not to spray the silicone on the canvas, as it may affect its waterproofing abilities. Use a piece of cardboard to protect the canvas during lubrication.

Greasing the Whiffle Tree:

After cleaning and lubricating the pulleys, it is essential to grease the whiffle tree. Apply a heavy grease of your choice to the whiffle tree, ensuring that it is well-coated. The grease will help reduce friction and wear on this critical component.

Additional Lubrication Points:

The Goshen lift system may have specific grease points, so refer to the manufacturer's instructions or a Goshen lift system manual for detailed grease points. Typically, there are grease zerk fittings located on the main assembly tube. Using a grease gun, attach it to these fittings and pump a generous amount of general-purpose or high-temp axle grease until it appears around the cable.

Maintaining the Goshen Lift System:

To maintain the Goshen lift system, it is recommended to lubricate it at least once a season or before extended use. Wipe away any excess silicone spray after application and ensure that the camper is level before raising the roof. Additionally, remember to lubricate the whiffle tree every two years and spread grease on the cover to facilitate smooth sliding.

shunauto

Using WD-40 to lubricate the support posts

Lubricating the support posts of your Fleetwood E2 pop-up camper is crucial for smooth operation and preventing corrosion. While some sources recommend using silicone spray or grease, others suggest WD-40 as an effective alternative. Here's a step-by-step guide on using WD-40 to lubricate the support posts:

Step 1: Gather Materials

Before you begin, ensure you have the necessary materials. You will need a can of WD-40 Multi-Use Product and a clean, non-woven cloth. Avoid using fibrous tissues as they may disintegrate and cause issues.

Step 2: Prepare the WD-40

Shake the can of WD-40 Multi-Use Product thoroughly to ensure the lubricant is evenly distributed. This step is crucial for achieving the best results.

Step 3: Apply WD-40 to the Cloth

Spray the WD-40 onto the cloth. Ensure the cloth is dampened with WD-40 but not soaked. You want to avoid excessive application, as it may drip onto other surfaces.

Step 4: Apply to the Support Posts

Gently wipe the WD-40-dampened cloth onto the support posts of your Fleetwood E2 pop-up camper. Ensure you cover all areas of the posts, including the pulleys and cables. Pay close attention to the areas where the cables connect to the posts and pulleys, as these are critical points for lubrication.

Step 5: Distribute Evenly

After applying WD-40 to the support posts, use the crank to raise and lower the roof of your pop-up camper. This action will help distribute the lubricant evenly across all moving parts, ensuring smooth operation.

Step 6: Clean Excess

Finally, use a clean, non-woven cloth to wipe away any excess WD-40 from the support posts and surrounding areas. Be cautious not to wipe away all the lubricant, but rather focus on removing any visible drips or buildup.

By following these steps, you can effectively use WD-40 to lubricate the support posts of your Fleetwood E2 pop-up camper. This will help ensure the longevity of your camper's lifting mechanism and make raising and lowering the roof a smoother and less strenuous task. Remember to perform regular maintenance and lubrication to keep your camper in top condition.

shunauto

Using a grease gun to lubricate the cable guide mechanism

Lubricating the cable guide mechanism of your Fleetwood E2 pop-up camper is essential for maintaining smooth and efficient operation. Here's a step-by-step guide on using a grease gun to get the job done right:

Step 1: Prepare the Grease Gun

Start by selecting a suitable grease product. Silicone-based grease or a dry lubricant is recommended for pop-up campers. Avoid using grease or oil, as these can attract dirt and dust, leading to potential clogging issues. Ensure the grease gun is clean and free from any old lubricant residue. Wipe it down with a clean cloth, and if necessary, use a degreaser or solvent to remove any built-up grime.

Step 2: Load the Grease

Remove the head cap or fitting and attach the grease cartridge, ensuring all connections are secure. Prime the pump by slowly operating the lever until you see fresh grease coming out of the nozzle. This ensures a steady flow when applying it to the cable guide mechanism.

Step 3: Apply Grease to the Cable Guide Mechanism

Firmly attach the nozzle of the grease gun onto the fittings of the cable guide mechanism. Slowly pump the handle until you feel resistance, indicating that pressure has built up. Move along each fitting while continuously pumping to ensure even distribution of the lubricant.

Step 4: Clean and Maintain

After lubricating the cable guide mechanism, it's important to clean any excess grease from the exterior of the grease gun and the pop-up camper. Use a rag or brush to wipe away any residue. Regular cleaning and maintenance will help prevent clogging and ensure the longevity of your equipment.

Step 5: Safety Considerations

Always prioritize safety when using a grease gun. Wear protective gloves and eyewear to prevent any accidents from grease splatters or debris. Ensure you are using the grease gun correctly, following the manufacturer's instructions, and never point the nozzle towards yourself or others.

By following these steps, you'll be able to efficiently lubricate the cable guide mechanism of your Fleetwood E2 pop-up camper, ensuring smooth and effortless operation for your camping adventures.

shunauto

Using a dry lubricant on the pulleys and wiffle trees

Lubricating the pulleys and wiffle trees of your Fleetwood E2 pop-up camper is a crucial step in maintaining the smooth operation of the lifting system. Here's a detailed guide on using a dry lubricant for this task:

Step 1: Understanding the System

Before you begin, it's important to understand the components of your pop-up camper's lifting mechanism. The wiffle tree is the threaded rod mounted at the bottom of the pop-up camper. It works in tandem with the lift cables and the pulley system to raise and lower the roof.

Step 2: Gather the Right Lubricant

For the pulleys and wiffle trees, it is recommended to use a dry lubricant. Silicone spray is a popular choice among pop-up camper owners. It is essential to avoid using grease or oil in these areas, as they can attract dirt and dust, leading to increased friction and potential binding of the system.

Step 3: Lubricating the Pulleys

Start by locating all the pulleys in the system. You will find some near the crank area and others in the lift posts. Apply the dry lubricant of your choice to each pulley, ensuring that you follow the manufacturer's instructions for proper application. Spray or wipe the lubricant onto the pulleys, being careful not to get it on the canvas.

Step 4: Lubricating the Wiffle Trees

The wiffle trees should also be lubricated with a dry lubricant. Remove the wiffle tree cover, which is typically located near the crank. Clean any old dirt or grease from the wiffle tree and the surrounding area. Once clean, apply a generous amount of your chosen dry lubricant to the wiffle tree, ensuring that all moving parts are well-coated.

Step 5: Maintenance and Prevention

It is recommended to lubricate the pulleys and wiffle trees at regular intervals. The wiffle tree may only need lubrication every two years, while the pulleys should be lubed more frequently, such as at the beginning of each camping season. Regular maintenance will ensure the longevity of your pop-up camper's lifting system and make it easier to raise and lower the roof.

shunauto

Using a silicone-based grease product with a spray applicator

Lubricating the cables of a Fleetwood E2 pop-up camper is essential for smooth and effortless cranking. Using a silicone-based grease product with a spray applicator is an effective method for achieving this. Here's a step-by-step guide:

Prepare the Camper:

Before beginning, ensure your Fleetwood E2 pop-up camper is levelled and stabilised. Lower the top completely and locate the whiffle tree cover near the crank. This cover needs to be removed to access the internal mechanisms. It's important to never operate the lift with the cover off, so take caution during this process.

Clean and Inspect:

Once the whiffle tree cover is removed, clean all the old dirt, grease, and debris from the internal mechanisms. Use a cloth or brush to wipe down the area, ensuring no dirt remains. Inspect the cables, pulleys, and lift arms for any signs of fraying, corrosion, or damage. If any issues are identified, address them accordingly before proceeding.

Apply Silicone Spray:

Using your chosen silicone-based grease product with a spray applicator, start by spraying the pulleys and lift arms. Ensure you use a dry lubricant silicone spray, as this will prevent dirt and dust from sticking to the cables. Spray a generous amount onto each pulley and lift arm, coating them evenly. You can also use a piece of cardboard to protect the canvas from any overspray.

Lubricate the Whiffle Tree:

After addressing the pulleys and lift arms, it's time to lubricate the whiffle tree. Apply a generous amount of grease of your choice to the whiffle tree, ensuring it is well-coated. The whiffle tree functions as a slide, so adequate lubrication is crucial. Don't forget to spread grease on the cover as well to facilitate smooth movement.

Additional Steps:

Check the wood inside the camper to ensure the cable connection is not digging into the floor. If necessary, make adjustments to prevent any damage. Additionally, locate the grease fittings underneath the camper and use a grease gun to lubricate the main cable. This step ensures smooth operation and protects against corrosion.

Final Steps:

Before operating the camper, remember to raise the roof first and then put the stabilisers down. Putting the stabilisers down first could potentially bind the lift system. Once everything is lubricated and assembled, test the crank mechanism to ensure smooth and effortless operation. Your Fleetwood E2 pop-up camper is now ready for use!

By following these steps and using a silicone-based grease product with a spray applicator, you can effectively lubricate the cables of your Fleetwood E2 pop-up camper, making the cranking process much easier and prolonging the life of your camper's mechanisms.

Frequently asked questions

You can use a silicone-based grease product with a spray applicator, ensuring you don't spray the canvas.

Avoid using grease or oil as dirt will stick to the cable.

You should lube the cable once a year.

The lubrication points are located underneath the camper.

You can apply lubricant to a cable by spraying it onto a lint-free cloth and then wiping it on.

Written by
Reviewed by
Share this post
Print
Did this article help you?

Leave a comment