Comparing the Reese # RP500708 and Ultra-Fab Deluxe # UF17-943010 Landing Gear

Question:

Hello! We own a 2017 Heartland Torque 321 model with front electric landing gear, which powers both sides with one motor. We have installed 4 6V batteries in the front compartment, so now the jacks REALLY struggle to lift. We would like to replace them with a dual motor landing gear system if there is room for two motors on this model of RV! Anyway, we are looking at either the Reese 8K capacity, or the Ultra Fab 12K capacity. Our fifth wheel sits pretty high, so we need some that extend far enough too. Could you recommend one for our particular RV? Also, I read the Ultra Fab has a build in clutch to prevent damage from over extension. Does the Reese have this also? I like the speed of the Reese model, but the extra couple inches of the Ultra Fab, as we need all the lift we can get. Your help is much appreciated. Thank you!

asked by: Jody H

Expert Reply:

Aside from the weight capacity of the jacks and their speed, they also have different mounting bracket locations. If you don't mind potentially having someone do some cutting and welding on your trailer then either one will work great for you. If you prefer to have a system that mounts directly to your 2017 Heartland Torque 321 then you will want to see what your mounting points are.

The Reese # RP500708 that you referenced has the traditional inside and outside weld stop measurements of 15-1/2" and 17-1/2" respectively. The Ultra-Fab Deluxe # UF17-943010 that you referenced has 3 different mounting points that measure 14-1/2" to the inside point and 20-1/4" to the outside point. I have attached photos for each system that you can check out to help you determine what you have.

The Bulldog option is about twice as fast, but is does not have a built-in clutch to prevent it from overextending. I reached out to my contact at Bulldog who says that when you hit the end of the travel and try to keep going there is a breaker that will trip, but it is not necessarily a safeguard against overextension as you will want to stop the landing gear before it reaches that point.

Both systems are great options so I recommend going with whichever one will mount directly to your trailer without having to do any modifications.

I have attached s review video and installation instructions for you to check out as well.

expert reply by: Jon G