hydrolic squealing

[Cate-HILO]

We just bought a 1998 Towlight and went camping. No problems until we got home and raised it and half way up it made a terrible squealing sound.
Made some noise on the way down too.
Any idea what's wrong?

 

[piperjim]

Welcome to the forum!

I would guess that the lift system is in need of lubrication. Have you done that? Do you have an owner's manual? If so, that info will be in the manual. If you need a manual, you can probably find a copy in the resource library here on the forum.

Check this series of videos for info:

This video is just one of many, excellent, instructional videos in this series.

You probably need to lube the guide rod, the cables/pulleys and the slides on the exterior of the trailer. This is a normal maintenance item on Hi-Lo's. The lift system should be checked and serviced annually.

Was the Hi-Lo level when you raised it at home?

Good luck!

 

[Cate-HILO]

Fairly level but not perfect. We will try the lube and level it better. Thanks very much. Will also watch the videos. Just needed to know where to start ��

 

[piperjim]

You bet! The videos are really excellent!

Happy camping!

 

[RichR]

We just bought a 1998 Towlight and went camping. No problems until we got home and raised it and half way up it made a terrible squealing sound.
Made some noise on the way down too.

If there is a squeal on the way down its not all coming from the pump because it doesn't run on the way down. Do the lube thing as suggested.

 

[hilltool]

Squealing at the very top on the way up is normal and lets you know you've gone as far as you can go. Though, I cant remember why it does that. I agree lubricate it and lets us know.

Rick

 

[Cate-HILO]

Thanks so much everyone! My hubby will give it a go and I'll let you know. Nice not being alone on this. Thanks

 

[sam-HILO]

Welcome to the forum.

Welcome from Niagara Falls,NY. I will have to look up where you are located. You certainly have joined a very friendly,helpful group. Keep the question coming and we will answer them.

 

[Cate-HILO]

A friendly and helpful group indeed!! Problem solved! Good old lube and level wins the day! Thanks all! We LOVE our trailer!

 

[Cate-HILO]

Hello!! Me again. We are towing with a 1998 Ford F150 4.2 litre 6 cylinder truck. Do we need both a weight distribution hitch and a stabilizer bar for the sway? We are confused to say the least.
Thanks

 

[renoites]

To tow safely and relaxed I would say YES to both.
You balance the trlr(f to back) with the WDH for safe travel. The Sway keeps it straight.
Never use a tightened sway on slippery roads.

When you get the wdh read the instructions. The spring bars will make your life easier.
Also will need a brake controller!

I put many miles on my 6 cyl toy t-100 towing my hi-lo

 

[Cate-HILO]

Thanks. We will get it right with all of you helping. Really appreciate it.

 

[Treeclimber]

Cate, Amazon has a complete WDH system for about $200
Treeclimber

 

[Cate-HILO]

Oh boy!!! Thanks so much! I'm on it!