As winter winds down and spring travel gets closer, many RV and marine owners take a hard look at their equipment. One question comes up every year: Is this jack worth fixing, or is it time to replace it?
It’s an easy call to put off. Repairs usually feel cheaper upfront, and if the jack still “kind of works,” replacing it can seem unnecessary. But that short-term thinking often leads to bigger problems once the season starts.
Here’s how to make the right decision before that first trip of the year.
Looking Beyond the Initial Cost
At first glance, repairs almost always look like the economical option. A replacement part or service visit can seem minor compared to buying a new jack. The issue is what happens after that first fix.
Jacks that have been through multiple seasons—especially harsh winters—often have more than one issue developing at the same time. Rust, moisture intrusion, worn gears, or fatigued metal don’t usually fail all at once. Fixing one problem doesn’t stop the next one from showing up.
Over time, repeated repairs, added labor, and downtime can easily cost more than replacing the jack outright. A new jack resets the clock with fresh components, predictable performance, and fewer surprises as the season goes on.
Safety Should Carry More Weight
Jacks are easy to overlook because they do their job quietly—until they don’t. When a jack fails, the results can range from frustrating to dangerous.
Slow operation, binding under load, uneven lifting, or visible corrosion aren’t just performance issues. They can affect stability and load support, especially when setting up on uneven ground. Structural damage, cracks, or bent components are strong indicators that a repair may not restore full strength or reliability.
If there’s any question about whether a jack can safely support the load it’s designed for, replacement is usually the safer and smarter move.
When Repairs Stop Making Sense
Not every jack needs to be replaced. Minor issues on newer equipment—such as switches, seals, or light surface corrosion—can often be addressed effectively.
Repairs start becoming a poor investment when:
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The jack has needed fixes in multiple recent seasons
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Performance continues to decline even after repairs
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Internal rust or water damage is present
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Replacement parts are difficult or expensive to source
At that point, repairs often turn into a cycle rather than a solution.
Make the Call Before the Season Starts
Spring is the best time to evaluate your jacks. You’re not under pressure, inventory is available, and there’s time to address issues before peak travel season begins.
Choosing to repair or replace comes down to long-term cost, safety, and reliability—not just the lowest immediate expense. Making the right decision now helps ensure a smoother, safer season ahead, with fewer interruptions once you’re back on the road or the water.