Anyone install an aftermarket auto-leveling system on a pre-availability Reflection?

**Second Chance** · 10-06-2018, 03:44 PM

As the title implies, I'm looking to see if anyone has installed an aftermarket auto-leveling system on a Reflection fifth wheel built before this option was available (or do you know of anyone who has). From my research, the main options seem to be the Bigfoot hydraulic system (four- or six-point) and the Lippert 3.0 electric system (also available in four or six point). The simplest solution from an installation point of view would be the Lippert four-point system as it would most closely resemble the 2.0 stabilizers that are on our 2016 337 and wouldn't have the additional hydraulic components.

For those of you who have 2016-1/2 models or later that came with the Lippert systems, how do you like them? Have you had any issues?

For everyone: What doth thee bethink?

Rob

**Cate&Rob** · 10-06-2018, 04:03 PM

When GDRV came out with auto levelling shortly after we got our 303RLS . . . I thought, Gee I wish we had that

. Then, I read about all the problems that come and go with these systems. Then I though about how simple our Andersen levellers are for side-to-side level and how simple fore-aft is with the power landing gear after we unhitch. I know that we can be set-up and level just as fast as auto-level. A lot to be said for KISS.

(another) Rob

**Matt&Dana** · 10-06-2018, 04:46 PM

So far my auto level has worked flawlessly. I love it. We do use the Anderson levelers for side to side but it is very nice to push one button and move on to another part of setting up camp.

**Rapid1** · 10-06-2018, 05:29 PM

Originally Posted by Matt&Dana

So far my auto level has worked flawlessly. I love it. We do use the Anderson levelers for side to side but it is very nice to push one button and move on to another part of setting up camp.

As Matt said, the best part about it is being able to go do something else while the coach does it's thing. No back and forth looking at levels or cranking or extra tools. Mine has worked every time since I learned how it is suppose to work. Rob, I hope you can find a system that will work for you that doesn't break the bank. Can't be near the money the brakes and suspension upgrades you added cost.

I am very happy mine came with them. I wouldn't likely sink thousands into something that depreciates like an RV. I learned my lesson in my boating days. But then again, who but you can put a price on your own safety and convenience...and happiness

**minnow101** · 10-06-2018, 05:45 PM

From the number of reports from burst hydraulic lines and seals, system malfunctions lifting the rig completly off the tires or not at all, I’m glad to stick to the electric rear stabilizers and front jacks.

**SouthTX** · 10-06-2018, 06:16 PM

Originally Posted by Second Chance

As the title implies, I'm looking to see if anyone has installed an aftermarket auto-leveling system on a Reflection fifth wheel built before this option was available (or do you know of anyone who has). From my research, the main options seem to be the Bigfoot hydraulic system (four- or six-point) and the Lippert 3.0 electric system (also available in four or six point). The simplest solution from an installation point of view would be the Lippert four-point system as it would most closely resemble the 2.0 stabilizers that are on our 2016 337 and wouldn't have the additional hydraulic components.

For those of you who have 2016-1/2 models or later that came with the Lippert systems, how do you like them? Have you had any issues?

For everyone: What doth thee bethink?

Rob

I don't know anything about an aftermarket system, but based on my experience with the GC 3.0 system I would sure be investigating some sort of system if I didn't already have it.

I'm probably jinxing myself, but after using the sytem for just over one year I haven't had the first bit of problem with it. Once I get the truck out of the way, I just hit the autolevel button and it does its thing while I do mine.

The worst I can say about the system is that the menus are not real intuitive (nor have I spent any time learning them). That's pretty picky.

Since I haven't been forced to learn the system, I can't tell you much about how it works, but I'll be glad to send photos of the various bits if you need them.

**Country Campers** · 10-06-2018, 06:28 PM

Rob
No problem with our either. I did get the remote , I like it but a little pricey. I think when you buy the system after market it comes with the remote.
The 3.0 is not hydraulic and I am glad about that. Not sure if I would add it if I did not have it, but nice that it is there.
Should not be hard to add, running the wires to the back wwould be the hard part, also welding the mounting bracket on the frame will need to be done as well.
Maybe just get a new camper and all will be done(haha).

Brian

**bertschb** · 10-06-2018, 06:31 PM

Originally Posted by Second Chance

For those of you who have 2016-1/2 models or later that came with the Lippert systems, how do you like them? Have you had any issues?

We had the Lippert electric 3.0 auto level system on our 2016 Reflection. We had zero issues with ours and I wouldn't own an RV without auto level. One of the coolest features available (along with an auto-aiming sat dish). I know others who don't have auto-level disagree but that's my $.02

**GeoffnCheri** · 10-07-2018, 11:00 AM

Originally Posted by Second Chance

As the title implies, I'm looking to see if anyone has installed an aftermarket auto-leveling system on a Reflection fifth wheel built before this option was available (or do you know of anyone who has). From my research, the main options seem to be the Bigfoot hydraulic system (four- or six-point) and the Lippert 3.0 electric system (also available in four or six point). The simplest solution from an installation point of view would be the Lippert four-point system as it would most closely resemble the 2.0 stabilizers that are on our 2016 337 and wouldn't have the additional hydraulic components.

For those of you who have 2016-1/2 models or later that came with the Lippert systems, how do you like them? Have you had any issues?

For everyone: What doth thee bethink?

Rob

I have had no issues (knock on wood) with our 2018 303. We have had it a year and have done about 10 trips. The only issue we had was at a site which was sloped back to front to the point where the rear stroke was not sufficient to level the unit and we received an auto level fail/error message. I realized this was not a system failure, but user error. I currently carry six wooden 4"x6" blocks to put under the stabilizers (as needed) and have never experienced the issue again.

Very easy to use and would not consider owning another unit without it. When ready to pack up, the auto re-connect feature is fantastic as well.

Our routine is pull in, drop front jacks, un hitch and move truck, connect electric, auto level, open slides.... Done

Good luck on your decision

Geoff