Post vacation report

[tracyclifton]

We just got back from a two week trip to the Smoky Mountains. Everything went relatively smooth as far as the Monty goes. We did encounter one setback that could have been a lot worse and I wanted to mention it. I guess when we left Sevierville, when I cranked up the landing gear, the little bolt that holds the square tube onto the passenger side gear must have sheared off. So when we got to the next stop and I pushed the button to lower the gear, I heard a loud banging in the front storage. I opened it and the square tube was disconnected from the gear. The driver's side was still working. So, I didn't have a bolt to replace it and get both gears to work. Luckily, the single landing gear would lift the trailer enough to let the other landing gear down and pin it to hold the weight. We got unhooked and both legs were holding it up.Then we had to find a bolt. We located an auto parts a few miles away and got a bolt. Then we put the hitch back under the trailer and got the weight off the legs. After that we had to retract the drivers side until we got both legs even again and replaced the bolt with the new one and double-nutted it. After that, I let the gear down and it worked great the rest of the trip. So, If you have electric front landing gear like mine, you may want to take a look at the bolt that holds it together and get a spare to keep on hand. If we had been out in the boonies, it could have been a lot worse.

[jcurtis934]

Indeed it could have been worse. We have the leveling system instead as that was on the unit we bought. I wouldn't have thought that one electric leg would lift the unit! Might want to have a good size bottle jack available should more issues arise. Glad you overcame the issue, good work. John

[tracyclifton]

I do have a 4 ton bottle jack I keep in the toolbox of the 5er in case I have a flat tire. When the one jack lifted it enough to let the other leg out and pin it so I could let the good leg back down and support the weight on both legs I decided I didn't need it. Crazy how a $.30 bolt can cause so much trouble.

[CORattler]

I carry 3 spares of this shear bolt. Never have used them... not looking for an opportunity to need them.
Good thinking to get your self up & running again.

[timandsusan]

Yes, I have "been there-done that" with the shear bolt. I "borrowed" a bolt from a helpful KOA staff member in Utah the last time I sheared the bolt or it just wore out. Looks like you are a PRO and did a great job! Keep up the good work and enjoy your travels.