How to Check the Fluid Reservoir for the HWH Leveling System in a Motor Home

by Gus Stephens

Digital Vision/Digital Vision/Getty Images

The quality of life in motor homes and RVs is substantially enhanced when owners can park or store them level. Life on a slant for any length of time quickly becomes annoying and inconvenient. Many models include hydraulic leveling systems manufactured by HWH and available as OEM options or aftermarket installations. As in all high-pressure hydraulic systems, maintaining the proper oil level in the reservoir of the HWH 200 prevents air from entering the system. Failure of the jacks to fully extend is the primary symptom of insufficient hydraulic oil and air in the system.

Step 1

Retract all four jacks fully.

Step 2

Locate the hydraulic power unit including the pump and reservoir tank. Depending on the model of motor home, the pump will be located behind the axle of one of the front wheels and accessible from beneath the vehicle. The reservoir is a rectangular box with a chrome breather cap on top containing an integrated dipstick.

Step 3

Wipe off any dirt from around the breather cap. Unscrew the breather cap and remove it from the reservoir, then wipe the dipstick clean and reinsert into the tank. Remove the dipstick again and read the oil level. Proper oil level should appear in the range between the two scribed lines on the dipstick.

Step 4

Add HWH Specialty hydraulic oil or Dexron-style automatic transmission fluid to the reservoir if necessary. Bring the oil level up to approximately 1 inch below the top of the reservoir.