It appears that the load to the jacks is insufficient to be powered by the alternator at idle. You are probably right that the engine must be running, and maybe more than idle in order to take the shock of sudden load. It might also be a problem with the battery in that the battery should have been able to operate the jacks even without the engine/alternator.
Even after that, if the jacks are binding and presenting a much larger load than normal, then the current required is much too much.
Any chance that the jacks have been bent by contacting the ground?
First I would start the engine, then disconnect the battery. If the engine dies, then your alternator has failed. Assuming you have a standard lead-acid battery and you can check the electrolyte, replenish with DISTILLED WATER only. I find I have to check mine quite regularly and top them off. If your problem has been there for a while, and especially if the electrolyte is low, your battery may be damaged and in need of replacement. How many batteries do you have? Are your jacks powered by the chassis battery or the house battery?
MOTHER SHIP Winnebago View 24H (2007 Dodge Sprinter 3500 Chassis, 2008 Body)3.0 L M-B Diesel V6 bought used with 24K miles. Toad: ROCKY the Flying Squirrel.