Bearshrum,
We have owned HiLo's [our third one] and 5th Wheels and there is little difference in the maintenance required by one over the other. We have never had any problems with the lift system and up until the last HiLo we bought, a 2406 T, I never had anything but normal maintenance to do on it. There was a failure, in my estimation, in the last few years of production that the company used a cheaper less durable end cap and also failed to ensure the quality of production was followed by its workers. Some of the units have experienced problems with the roof and also the end caps. There are a few on the forum who have experienced these problems and have shared in their remedial actions for the benefit of others who may experience the same problem.
When you consider the versatility of the HiLo and the savings an owner must incur insofar as the towing weight allowing for more flexibility in choosing a tow vehicle, plus the fuel savings in pulling a lower weight trailer, it more than compensates for the few exceptions that have had problems.
A member of the forum, RCReyes made a check list for items to check when you are considering buying a HiLo [or any trailer for that matter]; you may see it here:
http://www.hilotrailerforum.com/f17/...ite-hi-lo-434/
Good luck on your selection and welcome to the forum.
Jerry Curtis
2406T 2000 F250 ext. cab 7.3 L diesel