Procedure: Retract/Extend Valve Replacement

RVA Repair

Prior to working on the leveling system, verify the jacks are completely retracted. Also open the appropriate manual retract valve. While the retract valve (poppet) and extend valves (spool) look the same when installed in the manifold, they are completely different in design and operation. Both types of valves are susceptible to damage from foreign objects/debris and over-torque.

Before the retract or spool valve stems can be removed , the appropriate electric coil must be removed. Two styles of coils are in use. The first style is comprised of an electric coil, metal cover, and metal base for the cover. The second style is a single piece unit, with the metal cover and the base molded into the electric coil. In either style, a 3/8 inch nut is used to hold the coil on the retract or extend stem. The nuts are generally held in place by Loctite unless they have been removed previously.

-Remove the 3/8" nut, and 12 volt coil assembly. This will expose the hydraulic stem for cleaning and removal. Cleaning the area prior to removal is important to keep dirt and foreign objects out of the hydraulic unit. Use penetrating fluid and a brush to clean the area around the the valve. Once clean, then use compressed air to remove remaining debris prior to removal.

-Before installing a stem valve, clean all debris from the surface of the manifold. 

-Use a 7/8" deep socket to remove the stem from the manifold. When all the jacks are retracted, there will be no pressure behind the valves, so only drops of fluid will be lost.

-Lubricate the o-ring on the valve with Dexron ATF prior to installation. When installing the stem do not use more than 144 inch pounds (12 foot pounds) of torque. Since the stem is sealed with the o-ring, extra torque will serve no purpose and could damage the threads on the aluminum manifold.

-Install the coil on the stem and install the retaining nut with Loctite. Tighten the nut to 36 inch pounds (3 foot pounds). Again it is important not to over-tighten. Over-tightening this retaining nut can distort the stem valve and cause it to not function properly.