I had asked about this a couple years ago and was told there is no problem storing trailer in up position for extended periods of time. I assume the weight of the upper half is actually resting on the "stops" and not straining the cable system. Even though my Hi-Lo is old, (1990) I've never had any problems with the lift system. I service it properly every year. Because, basically I use my camper as a spare bedroom I'm not putting it up and down much anymore. It's in a covered enclosed carport. I'm just wondering if I should be running it up and down occasionally to keep the hydralic system lubricated ? It would be easy for me to set up support beams to support the upper half, but is that really necessary ?

Yes, I would "exercise" the lifting system now and then. Hydraulic seals tend to deteriorate if they don't get movement, and a little hydraulic fluid, past them.

The top is being supported by the cables when it's up. But, they are easily able to handle that load. I don't really see the need to support it with 2x4s, but others will probably disagree with me on this. Extra support will not hurt, but the boards need to be long enough to keep the top half up to the level where the bulb seal meets the lip on the lower half, to keep out bugs and cold air.

If the cables are not fraying, or rusting, they should last indefinitely.

- Jack

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Hi-Lo 1707T - Tire Minder TPMS on Tow Vehicle and Trailer, 300W Solar Battery Charger, Equal-i-zer WDH, Progressive Dynamics Converter, Fan-Tastic Fan, LiFePO4 battery 12V DC Electrical System
2014 F150 Platinum 4x4 3.5L EcoBoost SCrew