Hi-Lo travel trailers have earned a dedicated following among camping enthusiasts for their unique telescoping design. These trailers offer the best of both worlds: the low profile and aerodynamic benefits of a pop-up camper combined with the sturdy, hard-sided protection of a traditional travel trailer. Because the top half of the trailer lowers over the bottom half during travel, owners enjoy significantly reduced wind resistance and improved fuel economy. However, since the original Hi-Lo Trailer Company ceased operations in 2010, finding these trailers, securing replacement parts, and locating manuals requires a bit of specialized knowledge.
The Unique Appeal of Telescoping Trailers
The primary draw of a Hi-Lo trailer is its hydraulic lifting system. When you are on the road, the trailer sits low, often hiding behind the profile of the towing vehicle. This makes it much safer to drive in high winds and allows many models to be stored in a standard residential garage. Once you arrive at your campsite, a flip of a switch raises the roof to full height in about 15 seconds.
Inside, these trailers provide all the amenities of a standard RV, including kitchens, bathrooms, and comfortable sleeping quarters. Because the walls are solid rather than canvas, they provide better insulation against temperature extremes and outside noise. This combination of convenience and comfort is why many people continue to seek out used models decades after they were manufactured.
Where to Find Hi-Lo Trailers for Sale
Since new Hi-Lo trailers are no longer in mass production by the original company, the used market is the primary place to find them. Finding a well-maintained unit requires checking several different sources regularly. Because these trailers have a cult following, they often sell quickly when they are priced fairly and in good condition.
Online RV Marketplaces
General RV listing sites are a great place to start your search. Use filters to search for “Hi-Lo” under the manufacturer category. Be sure to check sites like RV Trader and National Vehicle. It is often helpful to expand your search radius, as these specific trailers are rare enough that you may need to travel a few states over to find the right model.
Social Media and Local Classifieds
Facebook Marketplace and Craigslist remain popular hubs for private sellers. On Facebook, look for specific “Hi-Lo Trailer Owners” groups. Members often post their trailers for sale within these communities before listing them elsewhere, giving enthusiasts the first opportunity to buy. These groups are also excellent for asking questions about a specific year or model before you commit to a purchase.
Essential Maintenance for Your Trailer
Owning a telescoping trailer involves specific maintenance tasks that differ from standard campers. To keep the lift system functioning smoothly, you must be proactive about inspections. Regular care ensures that you aren’t stranded at a campsite with a trailer that won’t go up or down.
- Hydraulic Fluid Levels: Check the reservoir for the hydraulic pump regularly. Use the specific fluid recommended in the manual (usually Dexron II or III automatic transmission fluid) to ensure the pump operates without strain.
- Cable Inspections: Hi-Lo trailers use a system of four steel cables to lift the upper half. Inspect these cables for fraying or rust. If a cable snaps, the trailer may become stuck or lift unevenly.
- Guide Block Lubrication: The upper and lower sections move along guide blocks. Keeping these tracks clean and lightly lubricated reduces friction and prevents the motor from overworking.
- Seal Integrity: The large bulb seal that runs between the two halves is critical. It keeps moisture out while the trailer is lowered. Check for cracks or compression sets and treat the rubber with a UV protectant.
Finding Replacement Parts
One of the biggest concerns for owners is finding parts for a discontinued brand. Fortunately, several specialized businesses have stepped in to support the Hi-Lo community. Some companies were started by former factory employees who have intimate knowledge of the trailer’s construction.
Specialized Parts Dealers
Companies like J&R Repair in Ohio and Kerola’s Campers in Pennsylvania are well-known in the community for stocking Hi-Lo specific parts. They often carry the unique window seals, lift cables, and hydraulic components that you cannot find at a general RV supply store. They can also provide expert advice over the phone regarding complex repairs.
Generic RV Components
It is important to remember that while the shell and lift system are unique, many other components are standard. The axles, brakes, water heaters, refrigerators, and furnaces were typically manufactured by third parties like Dometic, Norcold, or Suburban. You can find replacements for these items at almost any RV dealership or online parts retailer.
Locating Owners Manuals and Wiring Diagrams
If you purchase a used trailer, it may not come with the original paperwork. Having a manual is vital for understanding the electrical schematics and the plumbing layout. Fortunately, the Hi-Lo community has done a fantastic job of digitizing these resources for public use.
The Hi-Lo Trailer Forum is the most comprehensive resource for documentation. They host a library of scanned manuals covering various decades, from the 1970s through the final 2010 models. These manuals include instructions on how to manually lower the trailer if the battery dies, which is essential safety information for every owner.
Understanding the Lift System Manual
If you can only find one document, make sure it is the guide for the hydraulic lift system. This document explains how to adjust the cable tension. If your trailer is sitting crooked or one corner is lower than the others, the manual will provide the step-by-step procedure for tightening the turnbuckles to level the top.
Common Issues to Watch For
When inspecting a Hi-Lo trailer for purchase, or when performing your annual check-up, keep an eye out for these common issues. Identifying these early can save you thousands of dollars in repair costs.
- Water Damage in the Lower Walls: Because the top slides over the bottom, water can sometimes get trapped if the seals are bad. Check the bottom of the interior walls for soft spots or staining.
- Slow Lift Operation: If the trailer takes a long time to rise, it may indicate a weak battery or a failing hydraulic pump. Always ensure your battery is fully charged, as the lift system pulls significant amperage.
- Out-of-Sync Lifting: If one side of the trailer rises faster than the other, the cables likely need adjustment. This is a common maintenance task but should be addressed immediately to avoid binding the sections.
Conclusion
Hi-Lo trailers remain a smart choice for travelers who value easy towing and solid-wall protection. While the original manufacturer is no longer in business, a robust network of parts suppliers and owner communities makes it entirely possible to keep these classic campers on the road for years to come. By focusing on regular cable maintenance and seal care, you can enjoy a reliable, fuel-efficient RV experience. If you are looking for more tips on maintaining your recreational vehicle or finding rare parts, explore our other guides on specialized towing equipment and RV restoration.