Is it hard to replace a lift cable? Starcraft

[uchwear]

I recently bought a 1999 starcraft 2107.  I noticed that the cable is frayed on the winch near where the cable is attached to the winch.  Only one or two strands of the cable are broken and they are wound well onto the spool before the lifting starts to get heavy.  It doesn't seem to be affecting the difficulty of the lifting and it doesn't seem to be stretching.

My question is should I replace this cable?  If I replace the cable; how difficult is it to replace?  

Thanks

[tknick]

Should you replace the cable?  Yes.  Is it absolutely necessary.  No.  You could just leave it alone and see how long it lasts.  The problem there is it will fail on the first day of your four day vacation you've been planning for months.

How difficult it is to replace will depend on what type of lift system you have.  I'm not sure what's on the Starcrafts.  If you can find the manual (which someone here will post if you let us know the right one) it shouldn't be too difficult.  It is usualy a matter of removing the old cable and rethreading the new one in it's place.  That's the part that would be really hard without the manual.  You can buy the replacement cables from the dealer but they are usually pretty pricey.  Or you can make your own with cable from the local home center.  If you make your own, just make sure the length is EXACT.  Use the old one as a guide.

If you do end up doing it yourself, take pictures and share your experience with the rest of us.  You never know when someone else will have the exact same problem.

good luck
travis

[aerohead34]

I have a 2003 1701L. My frame is made by Goshen Stamping CO. Inc. The frame has a nameplate with their logo. Their website lists instructions for changing out the cables. goshen

[ScouterMom]

I just replaced the entire cable lift system on my 73 starcraft, without the old cables as a guide ( they had been chopped up by the previous owner to avoid trailing lines while towing)  

Replacing cables is not rocket science, but it does take some patience.  Actually, the main cable is the easiest one to replace, as it doesn't involve getting into walls, etc.  you should be able to replace it with parts from your local hardware / home improvement store - you don't even have to order from starcraft. (although they are extrememly helpful people, if you need them!)

This site will help with basic info on lift systems


http://www.customcylindersintinc.com/camper_trailer_roof_lift_system.htm


This site may have the actual instructions for your winch & system - it had mine - exactly!

http://www.rvworkshop.com/pop_up_camper_parts.html

the red highlights are links to the instructions, so click on them for your year and make of camper.  

also - check out my photo links in my signature.  I tried to take lots of photos of our work in order to remember what I had to do, and to help the next person.  This is a very common repair in older campers - so don't be afraid of it!

If I can do it, (actually twice - this is my 2nd older starcraft) anyone can!

Laura