Tech Tip Tuesday: Stuck Slides or Leveling Jacks? Meet the Rescue Tech

Tech Tip Tuesday: Stuck Slides or Leveling Jacks? Meet the Rescue Tech

Have you ever been stuck at a campground or rest stop because your RV’s slide or leveling system refused to move? You're not alone—and more importantly, you're not without options. Whether your jacks won’t retract or your slide-out is frozen in place, there’s a smart solution designed to get you back on the road without the wait.

Welcome to Tech Tip Tuesday, brought to you by the National RV Training Academy (NRVTA)—America’s largest hands-on RV training center.

Meet the Rescue Tech

Hi, I’m Chandler Cooper, the Exteriors and Hydraulics Instructor here at NRVTA, and I want to introduce you to a tool I personally developed after years of fielding calls from RV owners stuck in frustrating situations.

It’s called the Rescue Tech, and it’s built to do one thing: help you take back control when your slide or leveling system lets you down.


Why the Rescue Tech Exists

As a technician, I’ve heard it all—panicked calls from RVers whose slides won’t come in or jacks won’t retract, just when they’re ready to leave. In many cases, I’m the only tech within range, which means long delays for help. That’s why I designed the Rescue Tech: so you can override the failure and move your RV safely—without the stress, the tow truck, or the wait.


What Is the Rescue Tech?

The Rescue Tech is a compact, plug-and-play device that lets you bypass failed control systems and manually operate your slide-outs or leveling jacks. It’s designed for ease of use—whether you’re a seasoned RVer or a DIY newcomer.

Two Versions Available:

     - Gen 1: Supports basic hydraulic systems (not compatible with electric leveling).

     - Gen 2: Compatible with a wide range of systems, including:

            - Hydraulic systems

            - Electric leveling (like Lippert Level-Up)

            - Schwintek & Slim Rack slide systems

            - Motorhome platforms with Power Gear, Equalizer, and more


How It Works

The Rescue Tech gives you manual control by overriding your system’s controller, switch, or even a completely dead battery. Here’s what makes it powerful:

Key Features:

       - Mobile & Local Control: Operate it directly from the box or through a mobile app               for wireless access.

        - Standard Battery Support: Don’t rely on your RV’s battery. Plug in a drill battery              from DeWalt, Milwaukee, Makita, Ridgid, and others.

        - Quick Setup: Just unplug your system’s motor leads from the failed controller,                  plug them into the Rescue Tech, and you’re ready to go.

Note: This won’t fix mechanical issues like a burned-out motor or failed pump—but it’s perfect for controller malfunctions, bad switches, or total power loss.


A Real-World Example

Take a 2017 Grand Design Imagine, for example. The slide controller in this rig is tucked away under the rear bathroom sink—a surprisingly common location.

Here’s what to do:

  1. Unplug Motor 1 and Motor 2 from the failed controller.

  2. Plug those motor leads into the labeled ports on the Rescue Tech.

  3. Use the box or app to retract the slide manually.

Just like that—you’re mobile again. No waiting, no towing, no stress.


Who Needs the Rescue Tech?

This device is a must-have for:

        - RV owners who want emergency backup control

        - Full-timers who can't afford costly delays

        - DIYers who like to be self-sufficient

        - Anyone who’s ever been stranded—and never wants to be again


Final Thoughts

The Rescue Tech isn’t a replacement for full repairs, but it puts power back in your hands when your RV’s slide or leveling system fails at the worst time. It’s a smart addition to your emergency kit and a small investment in peace of mind.

✅ Learn more or order yours today at skillabove.com

And that’s your Tech Tip Tuesday!

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