I'm the proud new owner of a 2014 Coachmen Class A motorhome with incredibly low mileage - just 9,200 miles! It's been a fantastic purchase and still has warranty coverage through January 2026. However, I've noticed that one of the hydraulic leveling jacks seems to slowly drift downward when it's in the retracted position. All four jacks also have a thin coating of hydraulic fluid on them, which has me a bit concerned. I went ahead and extended the leveling system today to take some careful measurements of each jack's extension and the distance from each corner to the ground. I'm wondering what amount of drift or sag should be considered normal versus something that needs immediate attention under warranty?
Hydraulic leveling jacks should have minimal drift when properly functioning - typically less than 1/4 inch over several hours. Any visible fluid coating and noticeable sagging indicates seal wear that should be addressed under warranty.
Minimal hydraulic jack drift is normal, but noticeable sagging combined with fluid coating on the rams typically indicates developing seal issues that should be addressed under warranty.
You're absolutely right to be paying attention to your hydraulic leveling system, especially with a relatively new coach like yours. Hydraulic leveling jacks are designed to hold their position with minimal movement once retracted, so any noticeable drift is worth investigating further.
Under normal circumstances, a properly functioning hydraulic jack should experience minimal drift when the system is not under load, though acceptable tolerances vary by manufacturer. Check your owner's manual for specific tolerance limits. The fact that you're seeing one jack consistently sagging from its retracted position, combined with fluid coating on all four jacks, suggests you've got some seal issues developing.
That light film of hydraulic fluid you're seeing on all four rams is actually quite telling. While a tiny amount of fluid on hydraulic cylinders can be normal (seals need some lubrication), a noticeable coating usually indicates that the seals are starting to weep. This is particularly common as hydraulic systems age, but on a 2014 coach with such low mileage, I'd definitely want this addressed under warranty.
The fluid is likely automatic transmission fluid (ATF), which is commonly used in RV hydraulic systems, though fluid types can vary by manufacturer. Check your owner's manual to verify the correct fluid type for your system. This fluid serves both as the power transfer medium and as a lubricant for all the internal components.
Since you've already started taking measurements, here's what I'd recommend tracking: Record the extended length of each jack and the ground clearance at each corner when the coach is level. Then, check these same measurements after the coach has been sitting level for 24 hours. Any jack that has drifted beyond manufacturer specifications is showing signs of internal seal failure. Consult your owner's manual for acceptable drift tolerances.
You'll also want to monitor your hydraulic fluid reservoir level. Most systems have a sight gauge or dipstick that allows you to check fluid levels. If you're losing fluid due to leaking seals, you'll notice the level dropping over time.
Hydraulic seal deterioration can occur for several reasons, even on low-mileage coaches. Extended periods of non-use can actually be harder on seals than regular operation, as the seals can dry out and lose their flexibility. Temperature fluctuations, especially if the coach has been stored in varying climates, can also accelerate seal degradation.
The bigger concern isn't just the annoyance of a sagging jack - it's what happens if a seal fails completely while you're relying on the system. A jack that suddenly loses pressure could potentially cause the coach to shift unexpectedly, which creates both safety and structural risks.
Given that you have active warranty coverage, I'd strongly recommend getting this issue documented and addressed sooner rather than later. Hydraulic system repairs can be expensive once you're paying out of pocket - seal kits and labor costs can vary significantly depending on your coach model and location - consult your service center for estimates.
When you contact your warranty provider, be sure to document everything you've observed: the specific jack that's sagging, the fluid coating on all jacks, and your measurement data. Take photos if possible, as visual documentation can be helpful when dealing with warranty claims.
Many owners report that hydraulic systems on motorhomes benefit from regular exercise, even during storage periods. If the coach sat unused for extended periods before you purchased it, that could explain why you're seeing these issues despite the low mileage.
While you're doing a great job monitoring the situation, I'd suggest having a qualified RV service center perform a complete hydraulic system inspection. They can pressure-test the system, check fluid quality, and identify exactly which seals need replacement. This professional assessment will also provide the documentation you need for warranty coverage.
Caution: Hydraulic systems operate under high pressure. Never attempt to disassemble or service pressurized components without proper training and equipment.
In the meantime, avoid putting unnecessary stress on the system. Don't use the leveling jacks to lift wheels off the ground unless absolutely necessary, and always retract them completely when traveling to prevent road damage to the extended cylinders.
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