Scissor jacks may not get as much attention as the camper’s engine, tires, or electrical system, but they play a vital role in every trip. These compact lifting devices keep your camper level and stable when parked, preventing rocking and uneven weight distribution. Without them, cooking, sleeping, or even walking inside the camper becomes uncomfortable and unsafe.
The problem? They sit right under your camper, exposed to everything the road and weather throw at them. Rainwater, salty winter roads, mud, and even high humidity can all cause rust. Once corrosion begins, it eats away at the metal, weakening structural integrity and making it harder to crank the jack.
Neglected rust can lead to scissor jacks that jam, bend under pressure, or even fail entirely. This not only puts stress on your camper but also risks injury. That’s why learning how to prevent rust is just as important as knowing how to set up your jacks properly. And while Mobile Camper Repair Michigan experts can always step in if things get out of hand, prevention will save you time and money in the long run.
Common Signs of Rust and Early Corrosion:
Catching rust early makes all the difference. Once you know what to look for, spotting trouble before it spreads is straightforward. Here are the most common warning signs:
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Surface rust: The first stage shows up as orange or reddish patches on the jack arms.
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Pitting or scaling: Over time, rust eats deeper into the metal, creating rough or flaky spots.
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Stiff operation: If your jack crank feels harder to turn or squeaks loudly, rust may be building up on the screw threads.
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Hidden corrosion: Rust often forms inside pivot points and joints where water collects.
If you’re unsure whether your jacks are still safe, scheduling a check-up with a mobile RV repair service Michigan technician is a smart move. They can assess whether the damage is cosmetic or structural.
Preparing Scissor Jacks for Treatment:
Rust prevention starts with a clean foundation. Applying protective coatings without proper prep is like painting over peeling wallpaper — it won’t last. Here’s a step-by-step approach:
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Clean thoroughly: Spray down your scissor jacks with water and a degreaser to remove mud, grease, and road grime.
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Rust removal: Use a wire brush or sandpaper to scrape away surface rust. For stubborn areas, a drill with a wire wheel works well.
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Surface smoothing: Sand the metal lightly to remove sharp edges and ensure an even finish.
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Dry completely: Moisture left on the surface will prevent treatments from bonding properly.
If your jacks are heavily rusted, don’t panic. Professionals offering on-site camper repair Michigan often handle complete rust removal and resealing, saving you from replacing the entire set.
Popular Anti-Rust Treatments:
Once your scissor jacks are clean and prepped, you’re ready to apply protection. Here are the most effective treatments camper owners use:
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Rust converters: These chemical formulas transform existing rust into a stable, black coating. They’re perfect if your jacks already show signs of corrosion.
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Protective sprays: Oil- or silicone-based sprays repel moisture and create a temporary shield. They’re easy to apply but need seasonal reapplication.
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Galvanizing paint: Containing zinc, this paint provides a tough, corrosion-resistant layer that blocks moisture and oxygen. It’s ideal for long-term DIY protection.
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Powder coating: A professional-grade finish that’s baked onto the surface for maximum durability. It’s more expensive but provides one of the best defenses.
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Hydrophobic coatings: Newer products designed to repel water droplets, reducing the risk of rust in damp conditions.
Choosing the right option depends on your budget, your maintenance habits, and how often you camp in rough weather. Many owners combine treatments — for example, a base coat of galvanizing paint plus regular spray applications.
Best Practices for Long-Term Rust Prevention:
Applying a product once isn’t enough. Rust prevention is about ongoing care. Here are some practical habits that will help:
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Lubricate moving parts: Keep the screw threads and pivot points greased. This reduces friction and prevents moisture from clinging.
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Block ground contact: Place wooden pads or leveling blocks under the jack bases so they don’t sit directly on wet ground.
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Wash after trips: Road salt from Michigan winters is one of the worst rust culprits. Rinse your jacks after traveling on salted highways.
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Store smart: If your camper is parked for months, retract the jacks fully and cover them with protective sleeves.
By combining treatments with these habits, you’ll drastically extend the life of your jacks.
Maintenance Schedule:
Consistency is the secret to rust prevention. Here’s a simple maintenance plan:
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After every trip: Wipe down jacks, check for moisture, and apply lubricant if needed.
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Every season: Do a full clean, reapply protective spray, and inspect for scratches in the coating. Touch up with galvanizing paint if necessary.
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Yearly inspection: Once a year, remove any small rust spots, re-coat the entire jack, and test for smooth operation.
If you travel often or camp near the Great Lakes, you may want to do an extra inspection mid-season. For bigger jobs, relying on mobile trailer repair Michigan services ensures your jacks are treated with professional-grade coatings.
The Role of Professional Maintenance:
While routine cleaning, lubrication, and inspections go a long way in protecting your camper, there are times when calling in a professional makes sense. Rust on stabilizing components, for example, can be more than just surface deep. A technician can strip away corrosion, apply industrial-grade coatings, and ensure the hardware is structurally sound—something that’s difficult to guarantee with DIY fixes alone.
The same applies to water damage issues. Small drips may seem harmless, but roof leaks often start in places you can’t see, spreading under seams, around vents, or inside walls. Left untreated, they can weaken the structure and create costly repairs. Professional maintenance not only addresses these problems with the right tools and materials but also helps detect early warning signs that owners might miss. Partnering with skilled repair services keeps your camper safe, dry, and ready for the road, giving you peace of mind every time you set up camp.
Final Thoughts:
Rust is the silent enemy of camper scissor jacks, but it doesn’t have to shorten their lifespan. With the right combination of cleaning, anti-rust treatments, and preventative habits, you can keep them strong and reliable for years.
Whether you prefer to handle maintenance yourself or call in Mobile Camper Repair Michigan professionals when rust gets stubborn, the key is staying proactive. By making rust prevention part of your regular camper care routine, you’ll enjoy smoother setups, safer camping, and fewer repair bills down the road.