Introduction
Leveling a tent trailer is essential for a comfortable camping experience. An uneven trailer can lead to uncomfortable sleeping arrangements and can cause appliances like refrigerators to operate inefficiently. Here’s a step-by-step guide to help you level your tent trailer smoothly.
Step 1: Find a Suitable Camping Spot
Before you start leveling, choose a relatively flat and stable spot to park your tent trailer. Look for an area that doesn’t have a significant slope and is free of rocks, roots, and large dips that could affect stability.
Step 2: Park Your Tent Trailer
Once you’ve found an ideal spot, park your tent trailer and assess the level. Use a bubble level on the floor inside the trailer or on the frame to check both the side-to-side and front-to-back level.
Step 3: Level Side to Side
If your trailer is not level from side to side, use plastic leveling blocks or wood planks under the tires. Drive the trailer up onto these blocks to raise the lower side. Recheck the level after each adjustment.
Step 4: Chock the Wheels
After achieving the desired level from side to side, make sure to chock the wheels to prevent the trailer from rolling. This is an important safety step and should not be overlooked.
Step 5: Level Front to Back
Now adjust the front-to-back level by using the trailer’s tongue jack. Extend or retract it to raise or lower the front end of the trailer. Check the level again and continue adjusting until it’s just right.
Step 6: Stabilize the Trailer
With the trailer level, it’s time to stabilize it to prevent it from rocking. Lower the stabilizing jacks found at the corners of the trailer until they make firm contact with the ground. Do not use these to lift the trailer, but just to stabilize it.
Tips:
- Always have a set of leveling blocks and wheel chocks handy.
- Make incremental adjustments to avoid over-extending any stabilizers or jacks.
- If your leveling blocks are not providing enough height, add more blocks or use larger pieces of wood, but make sure they are stable and secure.
- Never use stabilization jacks to level the trailer, as they are designed for stability, not lifting.
- Consider investing in a small, portable bubble level specifically for RVs or use a smartphone app designed for leveling.
Conclusion
Leveling a tent trailer might take a bit of patience and practice, but a properly leveled trailer can greatly enhance your camping experience. Follow these steps each time you set up camp to ensure a stable and comfortable stay in your home away from home.