Tips for Installing Lippert Replacement Hydraulic Power Unit with 2-Quart Pump Reservoir

Updated 10/06/2026 | Published 10/05/2026

Question:

Part LC141111…I plan to install this unit myself. Any tips? Can I expect a lot of fluid to escape from the hyd lines when disconnecting?

asked by: Rick S

Expert Reply:

Hey Rick, welcome back! The # LC141111 is pretty straightforward to replace yourself if you're comfortable with basic 12V wiring and hydraulic fittings.

As far as the hydraulic lines, you should expect some fluid loss when you disconnect them, but normally not a huge amount. With the slide-outs/landing gear fully retracted and the system off, you're primarily dealing with the fluid trapped around the fittings rather than having the whole system drain out.

Retract all slides and hydraulic landing gear completely first. This also puts the reservoir at the proper condition for checking the final fluid level.

Disconnect shore power and the RV battery before touching the pump wiring.

Photograph and label every wire and hydraulic hose before disconnecting anything. This is probably the most important step.

Clean around the hydraulic connections before opening them so dirt can't enter the system.

Have rags and a small catch pan ready and cap the lines immediately after removal.

Don't overtighten the hydraulic fittings. The female connections on LC141111 use 1/4" JIC male fittings. etrailer
Once installed, refill/check the reservoir with the slides and landing gear retracted. Lippert's system uses ATF; Dexron III or Mercon V are appropriate choices. The reservoir should be approximately 1" below the top with everything retracted.

After installation, operate the system through several complete extend/retract cycles. Lippert hydraulic systems are self-purging, and cycling the system helps move trapped air back to the reservoir. etrailer recommends about 5 cycles when purging air from these systems.