Complete Guide on How to Jack Up a Travel Trailer in 4 Steps
Often, jacking up the travel trailer is necessary to look at specific areas or troubleshoot issues with it. For example, I had to jack up mine last week to change its flat tires and it only took me about fifteen minutes to do it on my own.
So how do you jack up a travel trailer so quickly? I found Jacking up the trailer at its backing plate using a hydraulic bottle jack to be the best approach from my research online and some hands-on experience. However, additional factors should be taken into account as well.
If you need to jack up a travel trailer but have never done it before, here’s a simple step-by-step guide based on my own experience.
Why Jacking Up at the Backing Plate Instead of the Axle?
The backing plate is where the travel trailer’s brakes are located. It’s also where the jacks for the tongue of the trailer are typically located.
You’ll want to jack up your trailer at the backing plate for several reasons. For one, it helps distribute the weight more evenly and takes some pressure off the axle.
Source: https://www.forestriverforums.com/forums/f88/how-to-jack-up-trailer-17027.html
It’s also helpful to jack up the trailer at the backing plate for making adjustments to the brakes or attach/detach the tongue. Besides, it helps to have the trailer consistently level when working on it, and jacking it up at the backing plate will help achieve this.
This also makes it safer than jacking it up at the axle, which some prefer. Taking one example, one of my camping buddies once tried the axle to change a tire and ended up shattering the beams, which wasn’t fun at all.
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How to Jack Up a Travel Trailer in Four Steps
As mentioned, a bottle jack is going to be your best friend for this task because of its excellent weight distribution capabilities. Apart from that, there are a few more tools you’ll need.
Tools Needed
- A set of wheel chocks: Using these will help keep your trailer from rolling while you’re jacking it up. You can find them at any hardware or automotive store.
- A jack stand: You’ll need this to support the trailer once it’s jacked up. You may want to use a few wood blocks instead, but that may slip and cause the trailer to fall.
- Extensions: Travel trailers are usually 15-25 inches above the ground, so you may need an extension for the bottle jack to reach it for achieving the correct height.
- Jack pads: You may also want to use a flat or round jack pad when levitating your trailer’s suspension or gripping the frame beneath the trailer for preventing any damage.
Once you have all these tools, jacking up a travel trailer is a four-step process. For the following procedure, I used a 22-inch hydraulic bottle jack for my travel trailer, which is about 19 feet long. However, you can use a smaller one if your trailer is closer to the ground.
Read Also: How Much Can A Chevy Suburban 2500 Tow? (Capacity Chart)
Step One: Park Your Trailer on a Flat Surface
This one is pretty self-explanatory. If your trailer isn’t parked on a level surface, it may topple over while jacking, which could cause serious injury. Also, use the wheel chocks on both sides of the trailer’s wheels to keep it from moving after parking it well.
Source: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=Tfn-m9WHeRM
Step Two: Place the Bottle Jack Under the Backing Plate
We now place the bottle jack under the backing plate of the trailer. You’ll want to make sure that it’s centered and as close to the axle as possible. As I figured out the hard way, if it’s too close to the edge, the trailer may tip over.
Source: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=Tfn-m9WHeRM
After securing it to the jack stand, tighten the extension plugs to fix the jack height. A flat or round jack pad should be placed on the jack’s top.
Step Three: Jack Up the Trailer
Once the bottle jack is in place, start jacking up the trailer until the desired height is achieved. You can now place the other jack stands under the frame or suspension to support it.
If you’re only jacking up one side of the trailer, make sure to jack it up high enough so that the other side is also lifted off the ground. This will help distribute the weight more evenly and prevent any damage to the frame.
Step Four: Lower the Trailer
Once you’re finished working on the trailer, it’s time to lower it back down. Start by removing the jack stands from under the frame or suspension. After that, slowly lower the trailer back down to the ground by releasing the pressure on the bottle jack.
And that’s it! You’ve now successfully jacked up your travel trailer.
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Frequently Asked Questions
Below, I have answered a few frequently asked questions regarding jacking up a travel trailer.
Why use a bottle jack to jack up a travel trailer?
A bottle jack is more stable than a floor jack and it can distribute the weight more evenly. Plus, it can reach higher heights and can be placed closer to the axle, where the trailer’s weight is concentrated, contributing to its ease of use. Besides, hydraulic bottle jacks require much less energy.
What size jack should I use for my travel trailer?
The size of the jack will depend on the length and weight of your trailer. For example, I used a 22-inch bottle jack for my travel trailer, which is about 19 feet long and weighs around 5,000 pounds. In general, you’ll want to use a bottle jack that can lift at least half of the trailer’s weight.
Can I use a floor jack to jack up my travel trailer?
You can. Just make sure that the jack is rated for the weight of your trailer and that it can reach the height you need. Besides, take note that a floor jack is not as stable as a bottle jack , so you’ll need to be extra careful and use additional support when using it.
Can I use a scissor jack to jack up my travel trailer?
Yes, but I don’t recommend it. Scissor jacks are far less stable because of their smaller base. Plus, they can’t reach as high as bottle jacks, which means you won’t be able to place jack stands under the frame or suspension.
Is it safe to jack up a travel trailer by its axle?
Mostly not. The axle is not as strong as the frame, so jacking up a travel trailer by its axle can cause it to bend. Or worse, it can crack the beams and tip the trailer over. If you must jack up the axle, use multiple jack pads to distribute the weight evenly and prevent any damage.
Read Also: What Is Fullway Termination Valve: And Where Is It Located?
As you can see, jacking up a travel trailer is easier than it may seem. Anyone can do it with the right tools and a little know-how.
And hopefully, this quick guide will stand you in good stead should you ever need to do something similar to your own travel trailer.
On a final note, remember to always use caution when working with tools and heavy machinery, and always have someone around to help you in case something goes wrong.
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Zayan is an accomplished author and a go-to expert for all things RV and camper-related. With a passion for adventure and a knack for problem-solving, he has spent years exploring the open road and fine-tuning his knowledge of recreational vehicles.
Zayan’s writing is a testament to his expertise, offering readers practical solutions to common RV dilemmas. Whether it’s troubleshooting mechanical issues, optimizing space, or planning the perfect road trip, Zayan’s insightful advice and engaging storytelling make him an invaluable resource for both seasoned travelers and newcomers to the world of RVing.
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How to Lubricate RV Stabilizer Jacks: 4 Main Types Of Leveling Jacks
Are you wondering how to lubricate RV stabilizer jacks the right way? RV jacks are a necessary part of keeping your RV safe and secure while you’re out on the road. However, if they aren’t properly cared for, they won’t be able to do their job.
That’s why it’s important to know how to lubricate your RV jacks correctly. In this article, we’ll show you how to properly lubricate RV jacks so that they can continue to perform at their best.
Table of Contents
Preventative Maintenance
Managing your RV is an important step in ensuring a safe and enjoyable journey. While lubricating the jacks on your RV is a key part of preventative maintenance that shouldn’t be overlooked.
Not lubricating your jacks can lead to issues such as squeaky landing legs or difficulty in leveling the RV. To avoid these issues, it’s important to lubricate them regularly and consistently.
Note : Different types of jacks may require different types of lubricant, so make sure you know what kind of lubricant is appropriate for your jacks before you begin.
Where to Start
When it comes to lubricating RV jacks, you should take initiative by using the best product like Boeshield T-9 . This product is superior in terms of penetration, moisture displacement, and long-lasting rust protection.
It also prevents further corrosion by displacing any moisture that could cause rusting and ensures that your jacks are well-lubricated and functioning properly.
RV Lubrication Routine
It is important to follow a regular lubrication routine for your RV. This should be done every 3-6 months depending on the amount of use. Apply a spray or lube like T-9 to remove dirt from areas such as:
- Lock cylinders
- Hinge points on steps
- Stabilizer jacks
- 5th wheel landing gear
- Door hinges
- Window tracks
Attention: Before applying T-9, make sure to wipe off the areas with a rag. After applying the lube, be sure to exercise the area to ensure the lube is dispersed properly. This works great and will also help to extend the life of your RV parts a bit.
Types Of RV Leveling Jacks
1. manual jacks.
Manual jacks are the most basic type of RV leveling jacks and come in a few different varieties. The most common type of manual jacks are:
- Scissor jacks
- A-frame jacks
- Aluminum stack jacks.
They are easy to maintain because they have no motor or hydraulic fluid to inspect. In addition, manual jacks are cost-effective and easy to install.
For their protection:
- It is important to inspect contact points and pivot points for damage.
- Arms should also be checked for stripped threads or loose bolts.
- Manual jacks should be lubricated a few times per year.
Lubrication
We suggest using a spray lubricant like silicone spray with built-in rust inhibitors, such as Fluid Film. This helps to reduce friction, which can prevent wear and tear over time.
Safety Measures
- Be sure to use the correct size jack for your RV’s weight so that you don’t put too much strain on the system.
- If possible, try to find a model that has adjustable arms, which allows you to easily adjust the height and angle of your vehicle.
- Also look for models with rubber feet or plastic bases, which will help protect your RV’s flooring.
- Finally, if you want to maximize ease and convenience, consider investing in an electric jack that can be operated via remote control.
2. Electric Jacks
Electric jacks are the most popular choice for RV leveling, offering ease and convenience. However, they do require regular maintenance to ensure smooth and safe operation.
Electric RV jacks are a great way to lift and level your recreational vehicle. To ensure they remain functioning properly, they must be regularly lubricated. This process involves:
- removing the jack from the vehicle
- cleaning it with a degreaser
- then applying lightweight grease to the jack’s moving parts like brake cleaner .
Note: After lubrication, the jack should be reattached and tested for proper operation.
- These jacks should be washed with warm, soapy water and any rust should be sanded off.
- Additionally, a protectant spray should be used to help prevent damage to the jack’s components.
- Electric jacks’ wire should not be hanging down at any point as this can create a potential safety hazard. All connections should be examined and cleaned using an electrical cleaner spray.
Warning : Before operating the electric jacks, make sure the batteries are fully charged. With proper care and maintenance, electric jacks will ensure that your RV remains level, safe, and comfortable for years to come.
3. Hydraulic Jacks
Hydraulic jacks require more maintenance than electric jacks as each manufacturer will have different suggestions and recommendations for maintenance. Cleaning the leveler cylinder with warm, soapy water and spraying a lubricant, such as WD-40 , is one way to maintain hydraulic jacks.
Consider the following steps to ensure their safety:
- It’s important to check the hydraulic fluid levels periodically and to ensure they are red.
- Some types of hydraulic jacks do not operate well in extremely cold temperatures and may require a synthetic or winter-weight hydraulic fluid.
- Additionally, it is important to check all electrical connections and clean them with an electrical spray.
- Lastly, mounting bolts should be checked to ensure they are secure.
Suggestion: Properly maintained hydraulic jacks can help you to keep your RV in top shape and avoid any potential problems while leveling your RV.
4. Repair Jacks
RV owners must never use damaged leveling jacks. Electric or hydraulic jacks should be taken to a professional for inspection and repair if necessary. Manual jacks may need to be replaced if they are damaged, so it is important to inspect them often.
If you take your RV out more than a few times per year or camp in areas outside of campgrounds, it may be worth considering upgrading your leveling jacks. Upgrading jacks can be a worthy investment and can save RV owners time and headaches. Look for jacks with better safety features and durability than the standard jack you may currently have.
Why Manual Jacks Are Ideal to Repair?
The manual jacks are ideal to repair because the electric and hydraulic jacks offer quick setup but do require electricity and/or oil power supplies. They will also typically require more maintenance and repair than manual jacks.
Note: Manual jacks are much less expensive than electric or hydraulic models but will require more effort from the user as all work must be done manually.
How To Lubricate RV Stabilizer Jacks
The jacks are a vital component of your RV, as they are subjected to attract dirt so they need maintenance. An essential component of maintenance is keeping them lubricated and clean.
A step-by-step guide is mentioned below:
- Care lengthens their lifespan. Therefore, inspect them before and after each journey, and clean them at least twice to four times per season.
- Start by cleaning them off with a cloth, and then rotate them 180 degrees to lubricate the jack completely.
- Grease lubricants make the surface sticky and draw dirt, thus dry lubricants like Graphite, Molybdenum disulfide, Hexagonal boron nitride, or Tungsten disulfide are ideal.
- If you’ve used grease lubrication and the dirt has accumulated, use a power washer and degreasers like Solvent-Based, Water-Based, Biodegradable, Fast-Drying, and Multi-Purpose to remove it before starting anew.
- Apply the dry lubricant to them after they are clean and dry, and then do it several more times throughout the season, especially before and after camping trips.
Tips For Proper RV Lubrication By Using A Dry Lube
Let’s take a look at some tips to lubricate your RV properly.
- Proper lubrication is an essential part of maintaining your RV and keeping it in top condition.
- Before you begin to lubricate any surfaces on your RV, it is important to make sure that they are clean and free of stuff like dust.
- When lubricating, make sure to pay special attention to all moving parts such as hinges, screws, 5th wheel, locks, and latches. It’s because they will attract dirt very easily.
- It is important to re-lube the parts of your RV regularly with dry lube to keep them functioning at their best.
Preventing Rust Through RV Stabilizer
RV stabilizers are essential components of any RV, but the metal parts of these jacks can rust if they aren’t taken care of. To ensure that your RV jacks remain in good condition, it is important to take the following steps:
- Clean and inspect your jacks regularly
- Apply a protective coating
- Store jacks indoors
- Keep them dry
What Do You Use To Lubricate RV Leveling Jacks?
RV leveling jacks can be lubricated with a variety of products, including white lithium grease, silicone-based lubricants, and motor oil.
What Is The Best Lubricant For RV Jacks?
The best lubricant for RV jacks is a multi-purpose grease specifically designed for use in wet conditions, such as Boeshield T-9.
How Do You Lubricate An RV Electric Jack?
For an electric jack, the best lubricant to use is a silicone-based long-bed lubricant like WD-40. Before lubrication, ensure that all connections and bolts are tightened properly, and then apply the lubricant along the entire length of the jack’s shaft.
What Grease To Use On A Hydraulic Jack?
When lubing hydraulic jacks, use a waterproof grease that is designed specifically for marine or automotive applications. Grease or dry graphite spray-like iso grade 32 grease with a high-quality NLGI 2 rating is recommended.
How Do I Add Oil To My RV Jack?
Add oil to the lubed RV jack by removing the plug located at the base of the jack, then pouring the recommended oil into the opening. Make sure to check your RV manual for the specific oil type and amount to use.
How Do You Maintain Jacks?
Regularly inspect, lube and lubricate your jacks to keep them in good condition. Make sure to use the correct lubricant and clean away any dirt, gunk or debris before lubrication.
Maintaining the proper lubrication of your RV stabilizer jacks are essential for ensuring the smooth and safe operation of your vehicle. Depending on the type of jack you have, you may need to use a specific kind of lubricant, such as silicone or petroleum-based lubricants.
Have you ever lubricated your RV jacks? What kind of lubricant did you use? Let us know in the comments!
Asen is the owner and main contributor of Camper Life. He is a full-time RV traveler since 2018. He loves camping in nature, fishing, and spending time with his family.
Striving to provide the most valuable information about campers and RVs, he shares everything he learned over the years.
That’s why Camper Life is one of the best sources to find information about RV traveling and living.
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How To Jack Up A Travel Trailer To Change A Tire
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No matter how many ways you attempt to avoid a flat tire, eventually, you will end up with one. Knowing how to jack up a travel trailer and safely change the flat can keep you traveling with minimal interruptions.
However, many travel trailer owners are not prepared to fix a flat on their trailer. In this article we will take a look at the ins and outs of how to jack up a travel trailer, making the task of changing a tire hassle-free.
Do Travel Trailers Have Spare Tires?
One of the first things you need to know before you have a flat tire is if your travel trailer has a spare tire. It does no good to know how to jack up your travel trailer if you do not have a spare tire.
When you are shopping for a travel trailer, you need to be aware that not all travel trailers come with a spare tire as a standard feature. This can be a surprise for many new owners, and sometimes a very inconvenient realization.
When shopping for a new travel trailer, make sure that you check for a spare tire on the model that you want. If there is not one, ensure you have one added before you drive off the lot.
If you already own your travel trailer, or if you are purchasing a used travel trailer, you may need to purchase a spare tire. Make sure that you purchase one that matches the tires and wheels on your travel trailer. This ensures a seamless transition to your spare tire.
Another bit of helpful information about spare tires – make sure that they are properly inflated. There is nothing more disappointing than successfully changing your tire only to find out your spare tire is flat as well.
We find that most camper trailer owners forget to inflate the spare tire when they inflate their active tires which leaves them with a flat or low spare when they need it most!
Do Travel Trailers Come With Jacks?
Jacks for travel trailers are one of those must-have accessories that owners need to purchase on their own. You will rarely find a travel trailer that comes with jacks, even if it has a spare tire.
If you are shopping for a jack for your travel trailer, you will need to carefully research the proper size for your trailer. Jacks are rated based on the amount of weight they can lift.
You will need to know the GVWR of your travel trailer when considering a proper jack. The GVWR includes the weight of the trailer plus the weight of your gear.
The other feature of a jack that you need to consider when selecting one for your travel trailer is the height. Look for a jack that extends high enough to lift your travel trailer. This may mean that you will need to use lifting blocks, particularly if you have a larger travel trailer.
It is usually not a good idea to try and use the jack that comes with your tow vehicle. It may work in a pinch, but typically, these jacks are not made to hold up a travel trailer. They may have enough weight capacity, but they may not be sturdy enough for your travel trailer.
Can You Change A Tire On A Camper Trailer Yourself?
One of the most important things you can do as a travel trailer owner is to know how to do basic and important maintenance and repair tasks. One of the first things you should do as a travel trailer owner is learn how to change the tires on your trailer.
You should never learn how to do this task on the road. Learning how to change a tire on your camper before you hit the road is safe and low-pressure. Take time to practice at home. This will allow you to work out the kinks so that when you are on the side of the road you are prepared.
If this is something that you have never done before, ask for help. A skilled mechanic or the repair staff at your local RV dealership can help you learn how to change a tire.
Improperly changing the tires on your travel trailer can be very dangerous. Even if you are in a challenging location, you need to work carefully and ensure that you are taking the time to do the process correctly.
Rushing through changing a flat tire can be dangerous and result in an accident, or damage to your camper or tow vehicle.
What Tools D o You Need To Jack Up A Travel Trailer ?
If you are new to jacking up your travel trailer to change a tire, it is helpful to know the basic steps before you practice. Jacking up your travel trailer is not a difficult task if done properly. Before you start traveling, you should be familiar with the steps below, and make sure you have the right tools.
- Spare tire – Make sure that your spare tire is the right size and is properly inflated before traveling.
- Trailer jack – Properly sized for your travel trailer. A jack that is a bit larger than necessary is better than a jack that is too small.
- Jack blocks – these are helpful if you are on a slope or need to have a little extra lift.
- Lug wrench – Before traveling, confirm that the lug wrench you have fits the lugs on your travel trailer wheels.
- Torque Wrench – Find the manufacturer’s torque spec. Torque each nut following the star tightening pattern.
- Wheel chocks – You should have wheel chocks as part of your normal safety equipment.
- Reflective triangles or cones – These are particularly helpful if you have to pull off the side of the road. These will tell other drivers to slow down and use caution when passing your travel trailer. In some states, not using these sorts of safety equipment can land you a traffic ticket.
- Gloves – Gloves will give you extra grip. This is helpful if it is raining or cold outside. They also keep you from getting road grime all over your hands.
- Flashlight – It never fails that a flat tire happens at night. A flashlight will allow you to see what you are doing so you do not have to struggle with a relatively simple task.
Now that you have the proper tools, you can easily jack up your travel trailer and change a flat tire. Here are the steps that you will take to properly jack up your travel trailer when changing a tire.
How To Properly Jack A Travel Trailer To Change A Tire
This is the normal process for jacking up a travel trailer to change a tire. This process works great for both single and double-axle trailers.
For those with double-axle trailers, there is a cool new product, called an EZ Jack , that allows you to jack up your travel trailer without the jack. These are good alternatives, just make sure that you know how to do the full process, just in case you are in a spot where you cannot use the EZ Jack.
- Get off the road – Pull off the side of the road, as far off the shoulder as possible. If possible, make sure that your stopping point is flat and smooth.
- Hazard Lights – Turn on your hazard or 4-way flashers before you exit your tow vehicle. This will alert other drivers that you are having trouble.
- Make yourself visible – Set a safe work zone using cones or reflective triangles. Many travel trailer owners do not carry cones or triangles. These are essential in our opinion. Having four or five cones or triangles allows you to set a long, safety zone and allow drivers to slow down and avoid you.
- Secure your trailer – Use wheel chocks on the opposite side of the trailer. Some people will tell you to do this after you break the lug nuts. Do this before you start. It will help you avoid “forgetting” these important safety tools.
- Break the lug nuts loose – You will want to do this before you jack up the trailer. The ground will hold the wheel in place. If you are having a difficult time breaking the lug nut loose, a helpful hint is to carefully jump on the lug wrench handle.
- Set the jack – Place the jack on a flat surface and the jack below the frame of the trailer. You may need to use jack blocks if the ground is uneven or if you have to work on a slope.
- Begin jacking – Carefully begin working the jack so that it connects with the frame of the travel trailer. Continue raising the jack until the tire is just slightly elevated off the ground.
- Remove lug nuts – You should be able to do this process with just your hands. However, the lug wrench may make the process faster. Set the lug nuts in a safe yet convenient location. You don’t want to lose them but putting them far out of the way is not helpful.
- Remove the flat/damaged tire – Carefully slide the wheel off the lugs away from the axle. Set the flat tire away from your working area.
- Install the spare tire – Carefully slide the wheel over the lugs. You may need to increase the height of the jack if you did not raise the trailer enough for the inflated spare tire.
- Replace the lug nuts – Tighten each one until they are snugged up against the wheel. Tighten in a star pattern.
- Lower the jack – Slowly release the jack returning the tires to the ground.
- Torque the wheels – Using your torque wrench tighten the lug nuts to the proper torque value.
- Clean up – Pack up all your tools and remove the jack and chock blocks from under the trailer. The last things you should return to your travel trailer or tow vehicle are the cones or reflective triangles.
- Hit the road – Turn off your hazard lights, and pull back onto the road, watching for other drivers.
- Double-check – At your first stop double-check the wheel and tire to make sure everything is as it should be.
Do You Need To Torque Travel Trailer Wheels?
When you are changing a tire, whether, on your travel trailer or your tow vehicle, you will want to torque the lug nuts. Torquing the lugs will ensure that the nuts are tightened appropriately.
The torque value will depend on the type of wheels that are on your travel trailer. Steel and alloy wheels, which are the most common on travel trailers will have different torque values.
Over-torquing lug nuts may seem like an OK idea. However, you can damage the wheels by over-torquing. This also makes it more difficult to remove the lug nuts the next time you need to change a tire.
Under torquing can cause the wheel to loosen while traveling. This can create a dangerous condition that may cause an accident or damage the travel trailer or your tow vehicle.
A good routine to add to your pre-travel maintenance is to check the torque of all the lug nuts on the wheels of your travel trailer. Properly torqued wheels can also reduce the likelihood of uneven wear on the tires.
Why Do Camper Trailers Have Tire Blowouts So Often?
So, you might be wondering why it is so important to know how to jack up your travel trailer and change a tire. Well, campers and travel trailers tend to have blowouts more often than tow vehicles or motorhomes.
Some of the reasons for this higher incidence of flats and blowouts have to do with the tires. Others are related to how you care for your travel trailer.
To avoid blowouts here are some hints for caring for your travel trailer tires:
- Make sure you equip your travel trailer with good-quality tires. With tires, you get what you pay for. Cheap tires will not handle the side wall stress as well as better quality tires.
- Know the proper inflation value for your tires. Do not over or under-inflate tires. This also leads to wear issues and reduces the life of the tire.
- Replace your tires when they start showing signs of wear. Old tires are more likely to be dry, brittle, and weak. This increases the risk of blowouts.
- Finally, traveling at a reduced speed will greatly decrease your risk of a blowout. Even just a few miles per hour below the speed limit will be easier on your tires than if you exceed the speed limit.
Final Thoughts About Jacking Up A Travel Trailer
Knowing how to jack up a travel trailer is an essential skill for any owner of a travel trailer. When you are on the road and have the unfortunate luck of a flat tire, knowing what to do will save you time and money.
While the task may seem daunting at first, with a bit of practice, jacking up your travel trailer and changing a tire becomes a quick and easy task.
Being stranded on the side of the road as your long weekend passes by is no fun. Neither is paying for an emergency roadside repair. That being said, having a roadside assistance membership can eliminate the on-the-spot cost and the work of changing a tire.
Your options for help may be limited so having the skills to do it yourself is important. Just as important is knowing when to call for help. If your trailer is on uneven ground or you are in a high-traffic area and will be at risk changing a tire, call the pros.
Just like running out of propane or forgetting a wheelchock, flat tires on travel trailers are going to happen. When you’re prepared, the process can be quick and painless and you’ll be back on the road in no time.
Related Reading:
– Do RVs Have Spare Tires? – How Often Should Travel Trailer Tires Be Replaced? – Can You Use Truck Tires On A Travel Trailer? – 10 Best RV Tire Pressure Monitoring Systems
About the Author:
Jason Gass is a full-time freelance writer and part-time RVer whose goal is to share great stories around a campfire with good friends.
When he’s not working, he spends most of his time camping, searching for the best breweries, and road-tripping in his teardrop trailer with his wife, daughter, and two dogs.
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How To Jack Up Rv Trailer
If you own an RV trailer, it’s important to know how to safely and properly jack it up for maintenance, repairs, or even just to change a flat tire. Jacking up an RV trailer is slightly different from jacking up a regular vehicle due to its size and weight. In this guide, we’ll walk you through the step-by-step process of safely jacking up your RV trailer.
Step 1: Gather the Necessary Equipment
Before attempting to jack up your RV trailer, make sure you have the following equipment:
- RV-specific hydraulic jack or high-quality RV jack stands
- Wheel chocks or blocks
- Tire iron or lug wrench
- Leveling blocks (if needed)
Step 2: Find a Suitable Location
Look for a firm, level surface to park your RV trailer before attempting to jack it up. Ensure that the ground is stable and won’t sink or shift while you’re working on the trailer.
Once you’ve found a suitable location, place wheel chocks or blocks on the opposite side of the trailer’s wheels to prevent it from rolling or shifting while jacking it up.
Step 3: Prepare the Trailer
Before jacking up your RV trailer, make sure it’s properly prepared:
- Turn off the engine and set the parking brake.
- If possible, unload any excess weight from the trailer to reduce strain.
- Remove hub caps or lug nut covers.
Step 4: Locate the Jacking Points
Refer to your RV trailer’s owner’s manual to determine the specific jacking points for your make and model. Common jacking points include the frame or axle.
You may need to use a spotter or another person to help guide you in locating the correct jacking points.
Step 5: Jack Up the Trailer
Once you’ve located the jacking points, carefully position the hydraulic jack or RV jack stands underneath the designated spots.
Slowly and steadily raise the trailer using the jack, taking care to ensure that it remains level and stable. If using jack stands, place them securely in position and lower the trailer onto them.
Step 6: Stabilize the Trailer
To further stabilize the RV trailer, consider using leveling blocks. These can help distribute weight evenly and prevent the trailer from shifting or tilting during maintenance or repairs.
Step 7: Perform Necessary Maintenance
With the trailer safely and securely jacked up, you can now perform the necessary maintenance or repairs. This could include changing a flat tire, inspecting the undercarriage, or accessing any mechanical or electrical components.
Make sure to follow proper safety precautions and consult the appropriate guides or manuals for specific tasks.
Step 8: Lower the Trailer
Once you’ve completed your maintenance work, it’s time to lower the RV trailer back to the ground.
If using a hydraulic jack, slowly release the pressure and lower the trailer back down. If using RV jack stands, carefully remove them and lower the trailer onto the ground.
Step 9: Perform a Safety Check
After lowering the trailer, perform a final safety check to ensure everything is in proper working order. Double-check that all lug nuts are tightened and the trailer is level.
Frequently Asked Questions On How To Jack Up Rv Trailer
How do i safely jack up my rv trailer.
To safely jack up your RV trailer, make sure you use a floor jack and jack stands. Place the jack under the frame and use jack stands to support the weight.
What Is The Maximum Weight An Rv Trailer Jack Can Handle?
The maximum weight an RV trailer jack can handle varies, but most jacks can handle up to 5,000 pounds. Check the specifications of your jack to be sure.
Can I Use A Regular Car Jack To Lift My Rv Trailer?
No, it is not recommended to use a regular car jack to lift your RV trailer. The weight of an RV trailer is much greater than a regular car, and a car jack may not be able to support the weight.
How Many Jack Points Does My Rv Trailer Have?
Most RV trailers have between two and four jack points. These are usually located near the corners of the trailer and are designed to provide stability and support when jacking up the trailer.
Jacking up an RV trailer requires caution and attention to detail, but it is an essential skill for any RV owner. By following these step-by-step instructions and taking all necessary safety precautions, you can safely and effectively lift your RV trailer for maintenance, repairs, or tire changes. Remember to always consult your RV trailer’s owner’s manual and refer to specific guides if needed.
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Home » Guides » How To Jack Up A Dual Axle Travel Trailer
How To Jack Up A Dual Axle Travel Trailer
- Last Updated: Mar 18, 2024
When it comes to trailers, there are two main types: single axle and dual axle. A single-axle trailer is typically lighter and can be towed by smaller vehicles. Dual axle trailers are heavier and require a larger vehicle to tow them. If you have a dual-axle travel trailer and need to raise it for any reason, In this blog post, we’ll teach you how to jack up a dual-axle travel trailer.
Travel Trailers Jacks
Travel trailers are a popular choice for camping and road trips. They come in a variety of sizes and styles and offer several features that make them ideal for travel. However, one of the most important features of a travel trailer is the jack system . Jacks are used to level the trailer and provide stability while it is parked. There are a variety of different types of jacks , but the most common are scissor jacks and stabilizer jacks.
Scissor jacks are typically located at the corners of the trailer and are used to lift the trailer off the ground. Stabilizer jacks are located at the midpoint of the trailer and are used to keep it level while parked. Both types of jacks must be properly secured before use, so be sure to read the owner’s manual for your trailer before setting up camp.
Step By Step Process To Jack Up A Dual Axle Travel Trailer
Park your trailer on a flat surface.
Jacking up a dual axle travel trailer is a necessary evil when it comes to performing maintenance on the trailer or your tow vehicle. Most people don’t enjoy doing it, but it’s essential to do it correctly to avoid damaging your trailer. The first step is to find a flat surface to park your trailer on. Once you’ve found a suitable spot, set the parking brake on your trailer. This will help to prevent the trailer from moving while you’re jacking it up.
Chock The Wheels On The Opposite Side Of The Trailer
If you’re working on a trailer, it’s important to chock the wheels on the opposite side from where you’ll be working. This will prevent the trailer from rolling while you’re working on it. To do this, simply place a block or object under the wheel on the opposite side from where you’ll be working. This will help to keep the trailer in place and prevent any accidents.
Place Jack Stands Under The Frame Of The Trailer
Once you have found a level spot, you will need to place Jack stands under the frame of the trailer. The best way to do this is to put the Jack stand under the frame in the middle of the axle. Once you have placed the Jack stand under the frame in the middle of the axle, you will need to place the Jack in the correct position. The correct position for Jack is under the tongue of the trailer.
Use A Hydraulic Jack To Slowly Lift The Trailer
Before you begin, it’s important to understand how a hydraulic jack works. The hydraulic jack uses a lever and piston arrangement to create a large amount of force from a small amount of input. This allows you to lift heavy objects with relatively little effort. When using a hydraulic jack, always be careful not to overload the stands. Slowly lift the trailer off the ground, being sure to evenly distribute the weight. Once the trailer is lifted, place the stands under the frame and lower the trailer onto them.
Remove The Wheel Chocks
Once the trailer is high enough off the ground, remove the wheel chocks and drive the trailer onto them. This will help to prevent the trailer from rolling while you are attaching it to your vehicle. When lowering the tongue of the trailer, be sure to use caution and go slowly to avoid damaging the jack or injuring yourself. Once the tongue is lowered all the way, place the wheel chocks in front of and behind the trailer wheels to keep it from moving.
Lower The Jack Until The Trailer Is Resting On The Jack Stands
The final step in hitching your trailer is to lower the jack until the trailer is resting on the jack stands. This will help to prevent the trailer from tipping over while you are working on it. Once the trailer is securely supported, you can begin your repairs. Keep in mind that the trailer will be heavier than usual while it is on the jack stands, so be careful when moving around it. When you are finished working on the trailer, simply raise the jack and remove the stands.
Safety Precaution For Jacking Up Your Travel Trailer
If you’re planning on jacking up your travel trailer, there are a few safety precautions you should take. First, it’s always best to have someone else around to help you with the process. That way, if something goes wrong, there’s someone there to lend a hand. Second, keep pets and children away from the area where you’ll be working.
Jacking up a trailer can be dangerous, and you don’t want anyone getting hurt. Third, make sure to wear safety glasses while you work. This will help protect your eyes from flying debris. Finally, before you start jacking up the trailer, apply the handbrake. This will help prevent the trailer from rolling while you’re working on it. By following these simple safety tips, you can help ensure a successful and safe experience when jacking up your travel trailer.
So, there you have it – a comprehensive guide on how to jack up a dual axle travel trailer. We hope that this article was helpful and that you are now able to safely and effectively raise your trailer when needed. If you’re looking to do some traveling and want to take your home with you, a dual axle travel trailer just might be the right choice for you. With a little bit of know-how, you can have it up and running in no time.
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Jacks Maintenance for Your RV
Like so many things in RV life, I stumbled into the fact that electric RV jacks need to be maintained. The’re so simple—press a button they go up, they go down—that I never gave them much consideration. It never occurred to me there might be one or two things I could do along the way to keep them in good working order. Now I know different and want to share what I’ve learned.
The jacks system on my Oliver is electric and what I’ve learned focuses on electric jacks. But some of what I’ve learned applies to all types of jacks so whether you have an electric, hydraulic or manual jack, I think you’ll find something of value. If you have additional tips, please add them to the comments.
Definitions
An electric jack means that the raising and lowing of the RV jacks is done by pushing a button. It’s done without much physical effort on your part. The electricity needed for this task is pulled from your RV’s battery.
A hydraulic jack raises and lowers the rig too. They use hydraulics, pressure created by forcing liquid (such as water or oil) through a tube. I’m not sure if it uses electricity but I’m guessing it does.
A manual jack is one where you physically use a crank to raise and lower the RV jack. Crafty people create a setup where a power drill aids them in spinning the crank. It’s similar to the jack used to raise your car when changing a flat tire.
The tongue jack is found on trailers, not on motorized rigs (Class A, B or C). The tongue is the front part of the trailer including the hitch. A tongue jack will come with information about how much weight it can hold and how far it can lift the trailer. In the case of my Oliver, the tongue jack can raise 18 inches and lift 3,000 pounds.
Stabilizing RV jacks , as you might guess, stabilize the rig. When they are not down you feel a lot more rocking and rolling getting in and out of the rig, as well as when you move around inside the rig. They are not meant to lift the rig, say for maintenance or to change a tire.
The ram is defined as “any of various guided pieces for exerting pressure or for driving or forcing something by impact.” I learned this term recently, previously calling it the “silver post thing.” On electric and hydraulic RV jacks, the ram is the post that comes down to support the rig.
I read my own jacks manual in preparation for this post. The one instruction that stood out to me was that jacks should not be used for leveling. I don’t think I’d heard that before.
When I get to a new location, I get as level as possible before doing anything with the RV jacks. That means looking at the terrain and pulling the trailer to the most level spot in the site. Though I balance that with making sure I’m close enough to the hookups (power, sewer, water). Next, if needed, I pull out the leveling blocks for further side-to-side leveling. With a Class A, B or C, leveling blocks also work for front-to-back leveling.
After the rig is as level as possible and after unhooking, I use the RV jacks to finish the job and to stabilize the rig. Some rigs come with a leveler. Mine did. But I don’t like it and don’t find it accurate. (However, I recently learned that it most likely only needs calibrated because it wasn’t done at Oliver before I picked up the trailer. It’s easy to do but now I’m so used to my own process that I haven’t bothered.)
Many people attach a small t-level to their rig. I may do that because I like the compactness of that solution but, for now, I left sticks-and-bricks with a 12-inch leveler in my tool box. And it works fine. I store it in the rig’s closet and set it on the dining room table during set up. Setting it on the tongue also works.
After a few days or a couple weeks, it may be necessary to tweak the level of your RV jacks. Recently I parked in desert sand. I got the trailer level on the first day but the level blocks sunk into the sand on one side of the rig. I used the jack to raise that side of the trailer an inch (or less) to even out again.
And, one final note: even if you can put up with a rig that’s not level, you shouldn’t. In addition to comfort, a level rig is an important part of RV refrigerator maintenance. I don’t know the mechanics but a refrigerator not kept mostly level will soon become a damaged or broken refrigerator. Refrigerators are pricey to replace (just like in a house), so don’t chance it.
And one more final final note: you always want to have the base of your ram on something–a leveling block, a piece of wood or a heavy-duty pad. You don’t want the ram directly on the ground. It will sink in soft ground and can damage a paved surface.
May or May Not Be True
I talked to another Oliver owner who told me that someone told her that when it comes to RV jacks everyone should follow the four inch rule . It means, put enough blocks under the jack that you lower the RV jack no more than four inches. I only heard this from one person so it may or may not be true.
I get the logic. Think about the physics. You have more stability when you are being held up by, say, a square foot block than a three inch diameter tube. Plus, you disperse the weight over more area.
The two most common blocks I see are wood (either 4×4 blocks or 2×4 planks) or the Lego-like leveling blocks . Or a combination of both. What’s nice about the Lego-like ones is they fit together, giving a snug even fit.
I use the Lego-like ones for the two stabilizer jacks at the back of my trailer. Then two 4×4 blocks covered by heavy-duty hard rubber pad for the tongue jack.
Cleaning and Lubricating RV Jacks
When the ram has been exposed the elements while stabilizing your rig, it gets dirty. You don’t want all the dirt, sand, leaves, grass and other random bits retracting back into the jack stand. So, it’s important to both clean and lubricate the ram every time you use it. (I didn’t know this for the first year on the road so mine only recently started getting this treatment.)
No doubt there are many cleaning and lubricating options out there. Find the one you like best. What I use is WD-40 and WD-40 Dry Lubricant .
When I’m getting ready to leave, first I go to each ram, spray it with WD-40 and wipe clean with a microfiber soft cloth . I do both the ram and the base though you don’t have to do the base because it doesn’t go up in the stand. The next time around the rig, I spray WD-40 Dry Lubricant on each ram. Then I start the process of retracting the RV jacks.
Using the dry lubricant (as opposed to another spray of the original WD-40) prevents gunk build-up of a wet product. Plus there will be a few minutes between spraying and raising each jack. If you are hitching on a windy day, it’s plenty of time for particles to attach to a moist ram.
One of the reasons I like WD-40 is because it is a multiple-use item. When space is tight, a multiple-use item takes up a lot less space than many single-use items. On their website they call the blue and yellow original multi-use can, the one we are all familiar with, “the can with thousands of uses.” Plus, an added bonus is you never have trouble finding WD-40.
In preparation for writing this post, I looked at many RVs and their jack set up. One thing I noticed is that most Class A rams are a bit under the rig. So, having a towel nearby will come in handy as you will likely lie on the ground to reach the ram. Or at least have to get on your hands and knees to reach the ram. I use my yoga mat for sitting-on-the-ground hacks.
Maintaining the Stand on RV Jacks
I learned the word ram, but I’m not sure what the stand is called that the ram retracts into. Tube thing? Or, maybe casing?
Regardless, that stand does well with a little TLC too. The tube part of mine is metal while the top with the control button is plastic.
Plastic can crack with too much sun exposure. Not to mention, sun can fade the color. The good news is that the solution is super simple. Just keep the plastic away from direct sun exposure.
I knew I didn’t want to mess with a snug-fitting cover. So I purchased a loose bag-like cover, called a universal trailer RV electric tongue protective cover which included draw strings to pull it tight. So far, I haven’t once used the draw string. It’s long enough that big winds haven’t blown it off. And I’ve been in some really big winds. And rain slides right off.
Please note, I do not keep the cover in place on travel days. I store it in my van. Then, once I’m level and all set up at a new location, I put the bag over the stand and don’t think about it again until I’m getting ready to leave.
At the RV park in Portland, I saw a creative solution. A bucket. As I said, I love multi-use items in small spaces. He probably uses the bucket for cleaning and other projects. Also note in the photo, he used wood planks as blocks and that both the front and back jacks are manual.
Final Important Notes on RV Jacks
- Retract your jacks all the way or risk damage. Do a double and triple check on this. I’ve heard horror stories about RVers pulling forward before the jacks were retracted. Generally, that can be an expensive lesson and one you don’t want to have to learn the hard way.
- Read your manual.
- My electric jacks are also manually retractable. So, if I ever got into a situation where the electric part stopped working, I can still get them up. I suspect (though don’t know for sure) that this is true for all non-manual jacks. Be sure you know how to do this and that you have the proper tool (my trailer came with the crank I’d need) to do it. Hopefully you’ll never need it but knowing you are prepared brings peace of mind.
If you have experience with jacks or any tips for maintaining either manual, hydraulic or electric jacks, please share.
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Debbie LaFleiche
Content Creator. Pet Parent. Adventurer. Experience Seeker. Still cannot back up the trailer. See full biography in About Debbie, Solstice and Kitty in Connect Category.
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Debbie you did a very thorough job explaining the care and maintenance of the jacks and all that goes into leveling and setting up our Olivers!!!! I didn’t know about the WD-40 Dry Lubricant!! Good job, thanks!!!
Glad you found it useful. Two people in the Oliver Facebook group went out and cleaned and lubricated their rams today. I love that I can be a resource to fellow travelers.
From not knowing how to change a tire on your way to RV life to now, you have learned so very, very much. And you taught yourself so well that you are now able to teach others. Enjoy your week. Love, Marie
Hey, Oh I don’t know if any one has told you but you Do not use WD40 on Leveling Jacks it damages them. Silicon spray made for them and wipe them down first before taking them up and spray with silicon spray and wipe and then bring the jacks up. I do mine every time I have them down for a couple of days. both companies told me what to use 3 and 1 Silicon Dry Lube it works and doesn’t hurt the jacks.
Thank you for the information. I’d never heard that WD40 is damaging. I’ll check out the brand you recommended. I appreciate you taking the time to comment and let me know.
I do agree with the fact that WD-40 is the best lubricant so far, and it needs to be the must have in a safety toolkit. I used to rent the camper for my vacations and I like being on the safer side I purchased my own jacks. But these leveling blocks are something new to my me. Can you please write some leads where to purchase them online?
Great article. Bought and installed on my vintage 1972 Prowler that has been converted into a toy hauler. This jack handled that heavy beast loaded to 13,000 lbs. Groaned, kept going. Still in use today.
Wow, that’s amazing. I love vintage trailers. They are so cute. Hope you are enjoying yours, Zoe.
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The Basics of Travel Trailer Maintenance
Tom and Beth Boswell
Tom and Beth have been RVing for over 6 years. In 2018, they downsized their life and in 2020 they moved into their fifth wheel after Tom retired. Together they are on a journey to see, explore and experience the USA. They travel in a 2019 Keystone Alpine .
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Whether you live in an RV full-time, sometimes, or just call yourself a “weekend warrior,” your RV will require maintenance. Some types of maintenance need to be done regularly, and some need to be done before each trip. Other maintenance needs are less frequent, but no less important, because we all know it’s much easier and cheaper to keep something running smoothly than to fix it when it goes wrong.
I’ll walk you through some of the main things you’ll want to check as an RV owner, but these are by no means the end all, be all of rig maintenance. As you learn more about how to care for your unit, you’ll no doubt uncover other little ways to keep things running as they should on the road. And if you ever have questions, there are great dealers and communities of owners who can lend a helping hand, wherever you go. Let’s dive in.
Disclaimer: Make sure you know how to safely use all of the tools mentioned below. Every RV is unique and will require different safety checks and maintenance. If you need help, please be sure to consult a professional.
Before Each Trip
First off, do a full systems check. When you bought your RV, the seller should have demonstrated how every system is operated or used in your particular model. So for every journey you take, do a full systems check before you hit the road. This will help you become more familiar with your rig and help prevent possible problems, because you’ll have a frame of reference for how everything should work when it’s working well.
Make sure your rigs fuel tanks are filled and working. In the course of your systems check, ensure that your tanks are filled with the appropriate fuel, and that any appliances or elements that run on that fuel are working. For instance, if your kitchen appliances run on gas, top off the propane and make sure the appliances are connected and running correctly. You don’t want to be on a cold weather trip and find out your heater doesn't work or you can’t cook on the stove.
Don’t forget to check the generator. The next step in your full systems check is to test your generator, if you have one. Make sure it starts up easily and that its capacity can carry the load. Failure to do so could mean you might not have the ability to recharge your RV’s batteries or run any systems that require AC power. Your RV batteries run all the 12-volt DC-powered items, like the lights, vent fans, slide and leveling systems. They also provide power to the water heater and refrigerator ignitors when running on propane. If your RV has the standard deep-cycle lead-acid batteries, you should check the electrolyte level in your batteries, too.
Now that you are confident your RV’s systems are good to go, there are a few more items you need to check before you hit the road.
Always, always, always check your tires. Check the pressure in all your tires and visually inspect each one for signs of abnormal wear or damage before you leave for a trip. Every time. Tire failures are a common problem faced by RVers––maybe the most common, because more tires equals a greater chance something can go wrong. These failures can be caused by things like the age of your tires, overloading your RV with excess weight, under-inflation, over-inflation and damage from road hazards.
Make sure you check the tire pressure “cold,” meaning before you’ve driven them, and when they haven’t been sitting outside in the sun for several hours. Your tires should be inflated to the pressures listed on the tire sidewall, unless specifically instructed differently in your RV’s owner’s manual. Due to the size and weight of RVs, the damage can potentially be severe––so look for every opportunity to check your tires and avoid any preventable accidents.
Check your lug nuts. Next, while you’re giving attention to the tires anyway, check the lug nuts on your camper’s wheels. You want to ensure none of them are loose, and if they are, tighten them up. Check your owner’s manual about the correct torque to use on lug nuts, then use a torque wrench and the proper-sized socket to give them a twist.
Look for anything unusual. Sometimes, abnormal wear or damage on a tire can point to a system failure elsewhere. For example, earlier this year, we did a walk around and noticed a tire was wearing out oddly. It turned out a bushing in the suspension had gone bad, resulting in the unusual wear pattern on the tire. We should’ve been looking at our suspension springs and hangers more frequently, but because we were attuned to our tires and normal wear and tear, it alerted us to the fact that something was wrong. But finding that suspension issue earlier would have saved us the cost of replacing the tire.
Every 3-6 Months
Grease up your wet bolts. Our fifth wheel has wet bolts in the suspension and they need to be greased every couple of months. Greasing them regularly helps ensure your suspension keeps you going down the road smoothly. While you’re doing that maintenance anyway, check the nuts on the axle U-bolts and the wet bolts to make sure they are at the proper torque, too. Otherwise, an axle might move from its intended location, causing excessive tire wear or loss of control on the road.
Take a look at your hitch, too. Are all the pins and bolts in your hitch locked properly? Your hitch may also have some bolts that need to be torqued and areas that require grease. Give them a once over and consult your manual about regular hitch upkeep. And while many hitches come off the factory line using grease as a lubricant, lots of RVers install aftermarket lubrication pads that need to be regularly checked for wear and tear. When you inspect your hitch, make sure you look at all nuts, bolts, safety pins and hitch-related hardware.
Wipe down your leveling/stabilizing jacks and then test them. Before you operate your hydraulic jacks, wipe down the legs with a cloth to remove any debris that might get in the seals and cause leaks. Then ensure that the jacks are functioning properly by doing a test run leveling on an uneven surface.
Inspect your roof seams and seals. If leaks aren’t repaired immediately, they can lead to major issues like mold and mildew. So be proactive and inspect your seams and seals every 3-6 months. If any sealant is cracked, has any voids or is separating from the roof, repair or reseal it using the sealants recommended for use with your roof material.
As needed, check the propane lines for leaks. When you refill and reinstall the removable propane tanks, check the connections on the propane tank lines to make sure they don’t leak. You can do this with a soapy solution or a leak detector solution. Giving this system some attention when it comes time to swap out tanks is an easy way to prevent accidents.
Clean, test and maintain your slides. Before operating your slides, make sure the tops of the slides are clean. Then, when you’re operating your slides, take a look at the seals. A stick or a pine cone stuck in a seal, or a seal with a rip in it can cause water to leak in, so performing this check can prevent future water leaks.
Does the hydraulic reservoir have the correct amount of fluid in it? Checking this will ensure your slides extend and retract properly. In June, we noticed the level in our reservoir was less than it had been. With this as a starting point, we soon identified a slide hydraulic cylinder was leaking.
If you have a cable driven slide, are the cables in good condition? Or are they frayed? If they are frayed, get them replaced. If your slides are “rack and pinion,” make sure your gear packs are in good condition and not wearing abnormally.
There are other types of slide systems in addition to the ones I mentioned. If you have a slide system I left out, make sure you’re up to date on the manufacturer’s recommendations for maintenance around your model’s slide systems.
Every 12 Months
If appropriate, winterize your RV. If you live in a climate that gets cold in the winter, you’ll want to take a few extra steps for storing your RV in the off-season. In addition to the roof and slide seal inspections I’ve already mentioned, you’ll want to make sure to completely drain the water system and that you pour RV antifreeze in the sink and shower traps. This will help keep hardware and pipes from freezing and bursting or springing a leak. This is also a good time to flush your water heater and check the anode for wear, if applicable.
Repack the wheel bearings every 12 months or 12,000 miles. Our axle manufacturer recommends repacking the wheel bearings once a year or every 12,000 miles, whichever comes first. So if you travel a lot, you’ll need to do this more frequently. Skipping this check can lead to axle or brake failure. When we walked through this step this year, we realized it had been incorrectly performed for us last year, and we had been towing our rig with only three out of four brake assemblies working correctly. We were lucky we didn’t have an accident. But it was a good reminder that nothing can replace the knowledge you get from becoming familiar with all systems of your rig and doing your own inspections regularly.
With regular maintenance––all the things listed above, and any other steps specific to your RV’s particular features––your RV and its systems should function well and last for many years. A well-maintained RV can provide you with the opportunity to make new memories each time you use it.
Tom and Beth Boswell travel in a 2019 Keystone Alpine .
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Troubleshooting Your Power Tongue Jack
Most tongue jacks have a light that displays when there’s power to the unit. Ensure the switch is turned to the ON position and check that the light turns on. However, that small light only requires a small amount of power. The electric motor requires more power to operate the tongue jack.
So, if you turn the power tongue jack’s switch to the ON position and the light doesn’t come on, you potentially have two issues. Either the bulb has simply burnt out, or the unit isn’t getting enough power.
It’s easiest to check the status of the latter first. Do so by checking the operation of other 12-volt components, such as your interior lights or power awning. If those components aren’t working, there’s a good chance you have a dead battery.
If they are working, but your power tongue jack won’t extend or retract, it’s possible it’s simply not getting enough power. So you can move on to the next check to determine if a lack of power is your major issue.
Plug into your Tow Vehicle
Next, you can plug your trailer’s 7-pin connector into your tow vehicle and start its engine. This will pull power from the alternator through the charge feed line to power the tongue jack.
If this works, there are a few issues that could be present:
- The battery that powers the tongue jack isn’t being charged in transit.
- The converter isn’t charging the battery.
- The battery has been discharged so fully that it’s no longer taking charge.
If the power tongue jack works when connected to your tow vehicle but no longer operates once you disconnect, move on to the next check.
Check the Power Tongue Jack’s Fuse or Mini Breaker
Most power tongue jacks have a single power cord running from the head of the unit down and along the trailer frame to a mini breaker or fuse. There’s only a single cord because the unit is grounded through the bolts into the frame.
Follow that power cord down and back until you locate the fuse or mini breaker. If you find a fuse, pull it and check that it isn’t broken. If it is broken, replace the fuse with one of equal amperage.
Trace your power cord back. If you locate a mini breaker, you’ll need a multimeter for testing. With your multimeter in hand, here are your testing steps:
- Ensure the battery is fully charged or the trailer is connected to a running tow vehicle. A fully charged lead acid battery should read 12.6 volts DC, and a fully charged lithium battery should be around 14.4 volts DC.
- Set the multimeter to the Volts DC setting.
- Test by placing the negative lead on a known ground and the positive lead on the BAT side of the breaker to confirm power to the breaker.
- Test again by keeping the negative lead on a known ground and moving the positive lead to the AUX side of the breaker.
- Compare the readings to confirm power passes through the breaker with minimal drop. Most tongue jacks should work at voltages above 10.6 volts DC as measured while the jack is running.
- If testing properly and finding a significant power drop from the BAT side to the AUX side, you may need to replace the breaker.
Technician Tip: The BAT label designates the stud for your power connection. The AUX label designates the stud for connecting the auxiliary device the breaker will protect.
When It’s Time to Take your RV to a Service Center
If you’ve eliminated issues with your RV’s 12-volt system – battery charge, converter output, breaker output – you may be dealing with an electrical or mechanical issue inside the power tongue jack.
Some common examples include loose internal spade connections, faulty switches, or a failed motor.
Regardless of the exact cause of the problem, it’s time to bring your RV into a service center to have your tongue jack inspected.
Contact a Camping World service center to schedule an appointment.
How to Manually Operate a Power Tongue Jack
With your appointment time scheduled, you’ll still face the challenge of retracting your tongue jack to tow it safely. You’ll need your jack’s manual crank handle to accomplish this.
With that crank in hand, here are your next steps:
- Remove the rubber cover on top of the tongue jack. *Some jacks have the manual crank spur on the side.
- Insert the crank handle onto the top of the driveshaft and turn counterclockwise to retract the jack leg. Reverse direction if you need to extend the jack for any reason. *Some jacks crank counterclockwise to extend.
If you experience significant resistance or your tongue jack simply won’t move when attempting to operate it manually, you could have a more significant mechanical failure. Examples include a bent ram tube that prevents the jack from sliding into the housing tube or a bad thrust bearing or bevel gear inside the unit itself.
Technician Tip: When experiencing a failure to retract, soil, gravel, or asphalt may have compacted inside the tube if a jack foot was not used. This can be chiseled out with a hammer and a long screwdriver while the unit is elevated on a jack stand. If the jack is difficult to operate in either direction, you may be able to remove the top cover or cap to expose the main shaft. Applying lubricant may restore functionality.
Beyond lubricating to restore functionality, more significant mechanical issues aren’t repairable, and you’ll need to replace your trailer’s power tongue jack.
Here are a few more resources to help you troubleshoot other parts of your RV:
- Troubleshooting RV Circuit Breakers
- Troubleshooting RV Converters and Inverters
- Troubleshooting RV Batteries and Trailer Lights
S tumped with a power tongue jack issue? Drop us a comment and we’ll get back to your ASAP.
- Comment (13)
I have brand new power tongue jack lippert brand went to far up with it and won’t work electrically now can manual work it is there a fuse inside casing
Apologies for the delayed reply, as we were awaiting insights from our technical service team. Here are their thoughts:
Hope that helps, but let us know if you have any follow up questions!
From your experience, what damage can exposure to rain cause on a power tongue jack? Our trailer is new and we usually cover the jack with a waterproof cover. On a recent trip we got pretty heavy rain for two days and we forgot to put the cover on. When we went to pull out of camp, the power jack would not go up or down and the light doesn’t work. We were able to use the jack manually. What I know is that the 20amp resettable fuse was blown. I replaced it with a new one, turned the trailer battery on, and still the jack doesn’t seem to have any power. When the battery is on, I do hear the resettable fuse clicking, every 10 seconds or so. I turned the battery off so the fuse wouldn’t blow again. Could the rain in that short period of time shorted out the switch or circuit board in the jack? What would cause the fuse to keep trying to reset?
My apologies for the delay. I wanted to reach out to our technical service team to get their insights. Here’s their reply:
“In this case, it sounds as though water intrusion is a definite possibility. While not common, water and moisture intrusion can happen. The fuse or circuit breaker constantly trying to reset could be indicating a short in the system after the over current protection device (fuse / circuit breaker).”
Personally, I’d recommend contacting our service center to schedule an electrical diagnostic for your tongue jack: https://rv.campingworld.com/rv-service-maintenance
Let me know if you have any follow up questions!
I’ve tried it hooked to my truck and unhooked. It doesn’t change. I keep my camper plugged into a 50 amp service at home and it want work right then either.
I’ve got a 2019 coachmen 324rlds freedom express. It has a BAL SS 5.1 Stabilizing system tongue jack. When I flip the switch to extend it will only raise the tongue a few inches. If I wait a little bit and push the button again it goes up a few more inches. I’ve replaced the switch but it didn’t help.
Have you attempted to extend the jack manually? Have you attempted to extend the jack while connected to your tow vehicle? Or only while disconnected?
You can also contact your local CW Service Center to schedule a diagnosis before you attempt to replace any other parts. Here’s where you can find the location nearest you: https://rv.campingworld.com/rv-service-maintenance#js-anchor-locations
A friend raised my jack passed the white tape until it stopped. Now my jack won’t lower by power or by manual. Is it broken or is there a way to lower it?
Sorry for the delay, but I wanted to reach out to our technical service team to get their insight. Here’s their reply:
Hopefully, it has simply been jammed too tightly at the end of the stroke range. In this case, you may be able to break it free with the manual operation handle. After freeing it up, check the inline jack fuse since it may have blow when it got stuck.
Beyond that, you may need to schedule a service appointment to have it inspected: https://rv.campingworld.com/rv-service-maintenance
Let us know if you have any follow up questions!
Sure wish I had a manually operated jack. Only used the jack once when bring trailer to storage after buying it. Jack worked once, and I have to manually lower and raise it.
Hi Brandon,
Replacing your trailer’s power tongue jack with a manual jack is certainly an option!
Here’s our tongue jack inventory: https://www.campingworld.com/hitch-tow/jacks-leveling-chocks/tongue-jacks
And you can also contact our service department about the cost of this kind of service here: https://rv.campingworld.com/rv-service-maintenance
Hope that helps!
My jack rotates the nut on the top clockwise and counter-clockwise but the foot and shaft are free and can be moved with your hand up and down. There is a disconnect between the two. I do not have a power issue. It is a mechanical failure. Is there a nut that attaches the shaft to the gearbox.
There may be a sheared pin between the drive motor and the screw or gear, but tough to tell from the description. I’d recommend contacting a Camping World Service Center to have it inspected by a certified RV technician: https://rv.campingworld.com/rv-service-maintenance
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RV Leveling Jacks Inspection and Maintenance
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It’s important to regularly inspect RV leveling jacks to ensure your Lippert slide room is in proper condition for use on any kind of roadtrip, whether you’ll be drydocking for days at a time or making a quick pit stop for the night. If you know all the components of your hydraulic slide room system are fully functional and well maintained, you can rest easier and get more bang for your buck.
While there’s not much to do in the way of maintenance (Lippert sliders are less stressful to care for than most), there are certainly things you can look for prior to hitting the road. To help you complete a thorough inspection, expert Dave Solberg walks you through his checklist for a hydraulic slide room system. He explains why each item is essential, and tells you what you should do if you find an issue with any of the components. As always, know before you go; save yourself the headache!
Share tips, start a discussion or ask one of our experts or other students a question.
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7 Responses to “RV Leveling Jacks Inspection and Maintenance”
I have a 2005 fleetwood american tradition motor home i was getting ready for a short trip pushed the travel button on the panel jacks came up but then it started beeping and showing a fault and noticed one of my jack didn't retract all the way it is down about 3 inches would like to know what to look for to repair thanks mark
I have a 1987 itasca winnebago and the jack buttons the lights on the panel and the light on the dash have not worked since I drove it away I have charged both batteries and changed the fuse. No life. Is there a manual way to lower them?
My 2010 Fleetwood encounter hydraulic stabilizers don't work. The board shows low voltage
What’s the deal? I pay for membership and then you put an advertisement, which I am forced to watch, at the beginning???? Come on man!
I bought a 94 Gulfstream this summer. 34 feet. 3 levelers were working when I got it.. Now I have power to the solenoid, but I get no response from moving the levers under the driver seat. Any thoughts?
My Jacks don't work ,lights work on panel,I added a small amount of transmission fluid, still nothing.
My neighbor has a travel trailer and the leveling jacks on one side continues to shorten with time. Also the controls often don't do anything when buttons are pushed. Power is there to the controls. Video doesnt play but a few seconds at a time with a minute break between the few seconds.
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Routine Trailer Maintenance Plans
You depend on your trailer to work reliably and safely as you use it to transport goods. Without adequate trailer care, however, you’ll likely find yourself dealing with expensive and potentially dangerous issues. Understanding trailer maintenance practices and developing an effective upkeep plan will save you money, time and stress. Use these trailer servicing tips to keep your hauler in top condition for years of safe, reliable use.
Importance of Trailer Maintenance
Routine trailer maintenance is essential for ensuring your safety on the road. Trailers — whether used for cargo, travel or recreation — see extensive wear and tear during their life span. Neglecting to maintain them can lead to severe failures like tire blowouts, brake malfunction and structural damage. These issues jeopardize your safety and pose risks to other drivers.
Following a trailer maintenance plan can significantly extend your trailer’s life span. Trailers are an investment, and proper care can help protect that investment for the long term. By addressing minor issues before they become major problems, you’ll save money on costly repairs and be able to enjoy your trailer for many more years.
Benefits of Regular Trailer Care
Investing in regular trailer maintenance yields many benefits for those looking to get the most out of their haulers and stay safe on the road. Developing and sticking to a maintenance plan will allow you to realize the following advantages of responsible ownership.
Safety Benefits
One of the most significant trailer maintenance benefits is improved safety. Keeping your hauler in excellent shape promotes the following:
- Improved road safety: One of the most compelling reasons for routine trailer maintenance is safety. Your trailer is an extension of your vehicle, so its mechanical components must be in optimal condition to ensure safe road operation. Regular maintenance helps you identify and address potential issues before they become dangerous.
- Accident prevention: Neglecting maintenance can lead to accidents caused by mechanical failures — for example, a poorly maintained brake system may yield inadequate braking power, increasing your collision risk. Keeping your trailer properly maintained reduces the chances of accidents that result in injuries or fatalities.
- Protecting others: A malfunctioning trailer can pose risks to nearby vehicles, pedestrians and cyclists. Prioritizing safety through regular trailer care is a responsible choice that contributes to safer road environments for everyone.
Financial Benefits
You’ll also enjoy these financial benefits when you invest in your trailer’s maintenance:
- Cost-effective upkeep: Routine trailer maintenance is a wise financial investment. It’s far more cost-effective to conduct scheduled checks and address minor repairs than to deal with major issues stemming from neglect. Something as simple as regularly checking and maintaining proper tire pressure can significantly extend your tires’ life span, saving you from the expense of premature replacements.
- Prevent costly repairs: Components like brakes, axles and suspensions can be expensive to repair or replace. Regular maintenance, like brake adjustments and lubrication, can prevent these systems from deteriorating to the point of needing extensive overhauls, ultimately saving you money.
Longevity Benefits
You’ll extend your trailer’s service life with regular maintenance, along with seeing safety and financial benefits. Here’s how maintenance can increase your trailer’s longevity:
- Extended life span: Trailers are often exposed to harsh conditions, including heavy loads and environmental factors. Routine maintenance allows you to promptly identify and address minor issues so you can prevent them from escalating into major problems. Doing so extends your trailer’s life span, allowing it to serve you well for many years.
- Optimal performance: A well-maintained trailer operates at peak performance. When components like wheel bearings and suspension systems function as intended, they contribute to smoother and more efficient towing. A better ride enhances your trailer’s longevity and improves your overall towing experience.
Resale Value Benefits
Even if you have no current plans to resell your trailer, keeping it in good condition with regular maintenance can make doing so easier. Expect some of these resale benefits when you invest in routine trailer maintenance:
- Attractive to buyers: When the time comes to sell or trade in your trailer, a well-maintained unit is far more attractive to potential buyers or trade-in partners. It demonstrates responsible ownership and suggests that the trailer is in good condition.
- Higher resale value: Proper maintenance can even enhance your trailer’s resale value. Buyers are often willing to pay more for a trailer with a documented history of regular maintenance, making it a wise investment in the long run.
Trailer Maintenance Tools and Supplies
Before starting your trailer maintenance protocol, you need the right equipment. Trailer maintenance calls for a set of essential tools and supplies to effectively inspect, service and repair various components. These resources are vital for maintaining your trailer’s safety, longevity and performance. Here’s a closer look at what you need:
Essential Tools
These tools will help you get your maintenance done quickly and effectively:
- Socket set: A full socket set with various sizes lets you loosen and tighten nuts and bolts across your trailer.
- Wrenches: Combination and adjustable wrenches help with tightening and loosening fasteners.
- Jack and jack stands: Lifts and supports are indispensable for lifting your trailer to inspect or service tires, brakes or the undercarriage.
- Lug wrench: Used for removing and installing lug nuts when changing tires.
- Screwdrivers: Both flathead and Phillips-head screwdrivers are handy for working with smaller fasteners.
- Pliers: Pliers help with gripping and bending, and they’re especially useful for electrical work.
- Grease gun: Essential for greasing wheel bearings and other moving parts to prevent wear and friction.
Recommended Supplies
You’ll want these supplies on hand to help you complete your trailer maintenance routine:
- Grease: High-quality grease suitable for your trailer’s components is vital for lubrication.
- Cleaning supplies: Cleaning agents, brushes and rags will help you keep your trailer free from dirt, grime and rust.
- Brake fluid and hydraulic oil: If your trailer has hydraulic brakes, you’ll need the appropriate fluids on hand for maintenance.
- Tire repair kit: A tire repair kit with patches, plugs and a tire inflator can be a lifesaver in case of minor tire damage.
- Safety gear: Safety glasses and gloves are often essential while performing maintenance tasks. If you’re using loud tools, consider ear protection as well.
- Owner’s manual: Always have your trailer’s owner’s manual on hand for specific maintenance guidelines and specifications.
Having the right tools and supplies on hand ensures you can perform routine trailer maintenance efficiently and frequently, letting you reap the full benefits of having an established upkeep plan.
Routine Trailer Repairs and Maintenance Tips
Routine maintenance is essential to keep your trailer in top condition for optimal performance and safety. Here are some travel trailer maintenance tips to help you stay on top of trailer care:
- Washing and cleaning: Cleaning your trailer regularly will ensure you can keep an eye on its component health. Remove dirt, grime and road debris from the exterior, including the frame, body and undercarriage. Pay special attention to the underside, where dirt and debris can accumulate. Use a high-pressure washer to thoroughly clean the undercarriage, especially after off-road trips. After washing, inspect the trailer for signs of rust or damage. Treat any exposed metal surfaces with rust-resistant coatings or paint to prevent corrosion.
- Lubrication: Wheel bearings and moving parts like hinges, latches, ramps and jacks need regular lubrication. Lubrication minimizes wear and ensures smooth operation. Make sure to check seals and gaskets for damage or water as well. Replace damaged seals to prevent lubricant leakage and contamination.
- Bearing buddy: Bearing buddies help maintain proper grease levels in wheel bearings. They have a spring-loaded piston that keeps pressure on the grease, pushing it into the bearings when needed. With a bearing buddy in place, you can add grease without disassembling the hub, making the process more convenient. Regularly inspect the bearing buddies to ensure they maintain the correct pressure.
- Regular inspections: Regular visual reviews before and after your trips can help you catch issues early before they become dangerous. Look for visible damage like cracks, dents and rust. Check your tires, coupler, hitch and safety chains for issues. Make sure they’re all functioning correctly.
- Tire maintenance: Perform routine pressure checks — properly inflated tires improve fuel efficiency, towing stability and life span. Use your manufacturer’s guidelines to achieve the correct tire pressure. Additionally, check the treads for signs of wear. Uneven wear may indicate alignment or suspension issues. Rotate tires as recommended to ensure even tire wear and extended life span.
- Wheel bearings: Grease wheel bearings according to manufacturer instructions. You should also check for grease leakage around the wheel hubs, which may indicate a failing seal. Address leaks promptly to prevent bearing damage and potential wheel loss.
- Brake checks: Test your brakes regularly to ensure they engage as they should. If you notice issues like delayed or uneven braking, consult a professional for inspection and adjustment. You might also need to periodically adjust your brakes for optimal performance. Finally, inspect brake pads and drums for wear and damage and replace them as needed.
- Lights and wiring: You should make sure all trailer lights work correctly before each trip. Check your wiring harness for signs of wear, damage or loose connections. Any corroded or frayed wires need to be replaced.
- Safety chains and hitch: Examine safety chains for signs of wear, damage or rust. Look for any weak links, cracks or stretched sections. Replace any chains with issues promptly to maintain a secure connection between the trailer and the towing vehicle. Inspect the hitch and ensure it functions properly to prevent accidents.
- Floor and deck: Check out your trailer’s floor and deck for weak spots, cracks or rot. Walk across the surface to detect any soft or spongey areas, as damaged sections compromise load-bearing capacity and safety. If you find any issues, address them quickly by having a professional repair or replace the damaged areas.
- Coupler and locking mechanism: Make sure the coupler engages securely with the towing vehicle’s hitch ball. Verify that all locking mechanisms — including safety pins and locks — are in place and functioning correctly. Lubricate the coupler and locking mechanism to prevent corrosion and ensure smooth operation.
- Suspension: The suspension system plays a crucial role in trailer stability. Examine suspension components for signs of wear, damage or rust. Look for cracked or broken leaf springs, leaking shock absorbers or misaligned parts. If you identify any issues, consult a professional for proper diagnosis and replacement. A well-maintained suspension system enhances towing stability and safety.
- Rust prevention: Rust can weaken your trailer’s frame and components, leading to safety hazards. Identify trailer areas susceptible to rust, like exposed metal surfaces, welds and joints, and treat these areas with rust-resistant coatings or paint. Regular touch-ups can significantly expand your trailer’s life span.
- Load distribution: Proper load distribution is crucial for safe towing, as incorrectly distributed weight can lead to handling problems. Always place loads on the trailer accordingly and use appropriate tie-downs and securing methods to prevent shifting during transport. Be sure to adhere to weight limits specified by the manufacturer — overloading can strain the trailer’s components and lead to unsafe towing conditions.
Following these trailer maintenance tips will help ensure your trailer remains safe and capable of many years of use. Regular inspections and proactive maintenance practices contribute to trouble-free towing experiences while minimizing the risk of unexpected issues on the road.
Creating a Trailer Maintenance Schedule
Regular trailer maintenance is essential for ensuring your trailer’s safety, longevity and performance. While you should always consult your model’s owner’s manual for manufacturer-specific recommendations, you can use the following schedule as a general guide to help you get started with trailer maintenance.
Trip Maintenance
Before each trip, give everything a quick once-over to catch any issues before you hit the road:
- Conduct a visual inspection of your trailer.
- Check for any visible damage, loose fasteners or missing parts.
- Ensure all lights are working correctly.
Monthly Maintenance
You’ll want to perform these tasks every month. Monthly maintenance will keep your trailer in peak condition and make it as safe as possible to haul. Check these areas:
- Tire inspection: Check tire pressure and look for signs of wear or damage. Inflate tires to the recommended pressure and perform timely rotations as needed.
- Wheel bearings: Grease wheel bearings according to the manufacturer’s guidelines. Regular greasing prevents overheating and extends bearing life.
- Brake check: Test the trailer’s brake system to ensure it’s working correctly. Adjust brakes if necessary and inspect brake components for wear.
- Lubrication: Lubricate any door or gate hinges on your trailer.
Seasonal Maintenance
You’ll want to perform additional maintenance every season to ensure everything works. Additionally, seasonal checks will help you prep your trailer for the coming weather changes. Here are the maintenance tasks you should complete a few times a year:
- Suspension inspection: Examine leaf springs, shock absorbers and suspension components for signs of wear or damage. Replace worn parts as needed.
- Safety chains and hitch: Inspect the safety chains and hitch for wear, rust or damage. Lubricate moving parts to prevent corrosion.
- Coupler and hitch ball: Examine these components for cracks, flats or pits. Grease the locking device and check to make sure it locks correctly.
- Ring and pintle: Look over these for damage and wear. They also need locking and double-checks to ensure everything is working as intended.
- Electric brakes: Look for wear and test brake operation. Check their current draw, modulation and power output.
Annual Maintenance
There are also maintenance tasks that don’t need doing as often, but you should still perform them once a year:
- Electrical systems: Inspect the entire electrical system, including wiring, connectors and lights. Replace any damaged wires or bulbs and ensure proper grounding.
- Floor and deck: Check the trailer’s floor and deck for weak spots, cracks or rot. Repair or replace damaged sections promptly to maintain structural integrity.
- Rust prevention: Examine all metal components carefully to identify any flaws in the finish. Treat and paint any areas that are corroding or prone to rust. Rust can weaken the trailer’s frame and components, so preventing it is crucial.
- Frame inspection: Check the trailer’s frame for signs of bending or damage. Frame issues require immediate attention to ensure safe towing.
Trailer Repairs You Should Avoid Doing Yourself
While there are many trailer maintenance steps you can perform yourself, some tasks are best left to the professionals to ensure your hauler meets safety and performance standards. If you need these maintenance tasks performed, always request expert assistance:
- Welding: Welding is a specialized skill requiring extensive training and experience. Improper welding can weaken the trailer’s structural integrity, leading to safety hazards. If you need welding performed on your trailer, take it to a professional to ensure the welds’ strength and safety.
- Axle inspection and replacement: Have a professional inspect axles annually for wear, alignment issues or damage. Replacing axles involves heavy components and precise alignment. Incorrect installation can result in handling problems, posing a risk on the road.
- Suspension overhauls: Repairing or replacing suspension components requires extensive knowledge of this system. Mistakes can lead to imbalanced weight distribution and reduced stability.
- Electrical system rewiring: Rewiring a trailer’s electrical system is complex. Errors can lead to electrical problems, shorts or malfunctioning lights, compromising safety.
- Brake system repairs: Brake systems are critical for safety. Incorrect repairs may result in brake failure, endangering you and others on the road.
- Frame straightening: Attempting to straighten a bent frame without proper equipment and expertise can worsen the issue or compromise structural integrity.
- Roof repairs: Repairing leaks or trailer roof damage requires sealing and structural work. Improper repairs can lead to water damage and weakening of the trailer’s structure.
- Hitch modifications: Modifying the hitch or coupling system can impact towing stability and safety. Changes should be made by experts who understand trailer dynamics.
- Floor replacement: Replacing the trailer’s floor may involve structural work, and it demands the right expertise and equipment to be completed in a way that promotes proper weight distribution. You should allow professionals to perform any floor replacements to maintain floor safety and stability.
- Wheel bearing replacement: While greasing wheel bearings can be part of routine maintenance practices, full replacement is best left to professionals.
- Gas-related repairs: Repairs involving gas lines or propane systems are dangerous. Let certified technicians handle these tasks to prevent gas leaks or other hazards.
Get Expert Trailer Services From Big Tex Trailer World
You deserve the best when it comes to your trailer’s safety, reliability and longevity. At Big Tex Trailer World, we’re dedicated to providing expert trailer services that go above and beyond. Our team of skilled technicians understands trailers inside and out. From routine maintenance to complex repairs and high-quality part sales , we’re here to help.
Whether you need a few trailer maintenance tips to keep your hauler in shape between planned service appointments or an urgent repair to get you back on the road, our team is ready to provide top-notch service. You’ll enjoy peace of mind knowing your trailer is in capable hands. Reach out to Big Tex Trailer World today to let us know how we can assist you.
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Consider using two jacks, one in front and one rear of the axles, on larger trailers. Avoid lifting both sides of the trailer off the ground at the same time. For stability, raise one side, perform the required maintenance, then lower back to the ground. Then proceed to the other side. For added stability, leave the travel trailer attached to ...
Turn off the tow vehicle and remove keys; you never want a family member or friend to unknowingly start driving while you are under or behind the trailer performing maintenance. Next, chock the trailer wheels on the side opposite that which you intend to jack. Place the jack under the frame just behind the rear axle (never on the axle itself or ...
Step Four: Lower the Trailer. Once you're finished working on the trailer, it's time to lower it back down. Start by removing the jack stands from under the frame or suspension. After that, slowly lower the trailer back down to the ground by releasing the pressure on the bottle jack.
Here are the steps to follow: Place wheel chocks on both sides of the trailer's wheels. Position the jack underneath the frame of the trailer. If using a scissor jack, make sure that it is placed as close to the center of the trailer as possible. For an electric tongue jack, position it directly under the tongue.
Start by cleaning them off with a cloth, and then rotate them 180 degrees to lubricate the jack completely. Grease lubricants make the surface sticky and draw dirt, thus dry lubricants like Graphite, Molybdenum disulfide, Hexagonal boron nitride, or Tungsten disulfide are ideal.
Typically I have found that manufacturers recommend placing the jack point on the frame forward of the axles, as this is typically reinforced with the tongue. My preference is a floor jack, as it is more stable. However, it is much larger and harder to store. Plus, it depends on how much ground clearance there is between the frame and the ground.
Tighten in a star pattern. Lower the jack - Slowly release the jack returning the tires to the ground. Torque the wheels - Using your torque wrench tighten the lug nuts to the proper torque value. Clean up - Pack up all your tools and remove the jack and chock blocks from under the trailer.
Before attempting to jack up your RV trailer, make sure you have the following equipment: RV-specific hydraulic jack or high-quality RV jack stands; Wheel chocks or blocks; Tire iron or lug wrench; Leveling blocks (if needed) Step 2: Find a Suitable Location. Look for a firm, level surface to park your RV trailer before attempting to jack it up.
Lubing Stabilizer Jacks on RV's, Travel Trailers and Campers will keep them functioning properly for years. You can not use WD-40 for maintenance on this job...
Then simply repeat the process on the other side. For any RV being raised up with a floor jack, it's much safer to always have at least two tires (or one side) safely on the ground at all times. Remember, safety first - the time element, second! Read more from Gary Bunzer at the RVdoctor.com. See Gary's videos about RV repair and maintenance.
Care for standard stabilizer jacks. If you are getting water and grit while traveling, you could put a small mud flap in front that hangs down just below the 2" folded up jack and it would help. However, I believe you might be getting more "stuff" from the wind at the campground, at which point I might suggest designing some type of cover ...
Step By Step Process To Jack Up A Dual Axle Travel Trailer Park Your Trailer On A Flat Surface. Jacking up a dual axle travel trailer is a necessary evil when it comes to performing maintenance on the trailer or your tow vehicle. Most people don't enjoy doing it, but it's essential to do it correctly to avoid damaging your trailer.
The next time around the rig, I spray WD-40 Dry Lubricant on each ram. Then I start the process of retracting the RV jacks. Using the dry lubricant (as opposed to another spray of the original WD-40) prevents gunk build-up of a wet product. Plus there will be a few minutes between spraying and raising each jack.
Check with your jacks manufacturer, Lippert replied to my inquiry: The only maintenance to the jack is to make sure the exposed leg on jack raised up is free of dirt and lube with silicon spry only. All other parts are lubed internal from sealed unit. have a great day Pep Hartz Contact Center Technical Representative w: 574.537.8900 | f: 574. ...
In this free video lesson, RV expert Dave Solberg teaches you how to properly extend and retract stabilizing RV jacks so you know your vehicle is secure at the campground. This quick tip is time saving, and it will also ensure that your jacks remain in good condition. Whereas the classic crank-style jack might take you a minute or two to get ...
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Block the wheels on the opposite side from the tire you wish to change to prevent accidental movement. Position a hydraulic jack on the frame close to the spring hanger. (Never attempt to use a stabilizer jack to lift the RV.) Prior to raising the RV loosen the lug nuts ½ turn. Raise the RV until the tire clears the ground.
Repack the wheel bearings every 12 months or 12,000 miles. Our axle manufacturer recommends repacking the wheel bearings once a year or every 12,000 miles, whichever comes first. So if you travel a lot, you'll need to do this more frequently. Skipping this check can lead to axle or brake failure.
Back Thrusters. In this comprehensive guide to trailer jack replacement, we'll go over everything you need to know, from shopping for the best options to installation, to making the most of your new jack and keeping.
Ensure the switch is turned to the ON position and check that the light turns on. However, that small light only requires a small amount of power. The electric motor requires more power to operate the tongue jack. So, if you turn the power tongue jack's switch to the ON position and the light doesn't come on, you potentially have two issues.
7 Responses to "RV Leveling Jacks Inspection and Maintenance" . MARK PERRY July 25th, 2021 I have a 2005 fleetwood american tradition motor home i was getting ready for a short trip pushed the travel button on the panel jacks came up but then it started beeping and showing a fault and noticed one of my jack didn't retract all the way it is down about 3 inches would like to know what to ...
Socket set: A full socket set with various sizes lets you loosen and tighten nuts and bolts across your trailer. Wrenches: Combination and adjustable wrenches help with tightening and loosening fasteners. Jack and jack stands: Lifts and supports are indispensable for lifting your trailer to inspect or service tires, brakes or the undercarriage. Lug wrench: Used for removing and installing lug ...
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