Servicing Caravan Screw Jacks (Corner Steadies) – A Simple DIY Guide

Your caravan’s corner steadies (often called screw jacks) aren’t for lifting — they’re there to stabilise your van once it’s level. Keeping them clean and lubricated stops stiffness, noise, and premature wear, and helps avoid that horrible grinding sound on site.

🧰 What You’ll Need

• Stiff brush (old washing-up brush works well)

• Cloths or paper towel

• Mild degreaser or soapy water

• Spray lubricant (dry PTFE or silicone-based) Ideally a Lithium Based Spray Grease

• Rust inhibitor spray (optional)

• Protective gloves

• Kneeling Pad and work Mat

Avoid: Thick grease on the screw thread — it attracts grit and turns into grinding paste.

⏱ How Often Should You Service Them?

• Light users: At least once per season

• Regular tourers: Every few trips

• After winter storage or wet trips: Definitely check them

🔧 Step-by-Step Servicing

1️⃣ Wind Them Fully Down (Safely)

On level ground with the caravan secure, lower each steady fully so you can access the screw mechanism. Don’t use them to lift the van — just extend them.

2️⃣ Remove Dirt & Road Grime

Use a brush to remove:

• Mud

• Sand

• Grass

• Road salt residue

Pay attention to the screw thread and pivot points.

3️⃣ Clean the Mechanism

Wipe down with:

• Soapy water or

• A light degreaser

This removes old lubricant mixed with dirt — a common cause of stiffness.

Let everything dry before lubricating.

4️⃣ Lubricate Properly

Apply a light spray of:

✔ PTFE dry lubricant

✔ Silicone spray

Focus on:

• The screw thread

• Moving joints

• Winding pivot

Do not flood it — a thin coat is best.

5️⃣ Check for Damage

Look for:

• Bent legs

• Excessive rust

• Loose mounting bolts

• Worn screw threads

If the steady is twisted or doesn’t wind smoothly after cleaning, it may need replacing.

6️⃣ Wind Back Up & Test

Wind each steady fully up, then down again to spread the lubricant. They should move smoothly and quietly.

🚫 Common Mistakes to Avoid

❌ Using corner steadies to lift the caravan

❌ Over-greasing the thread

❌ Ignoring rust build-up

❌ Winding with a drill at high speed (strips gears)

💡 Pro Tip

A quick spray after very wet trips or coastal touring helps prevent corrosion.

🏕 Final Thought

Well-maintained corner steadies make setup quicker, reduce strain on the mechanism, and help keep your caravan stable and secure on pitch. A 10-minute service can add years to their life.