The bane of every travel trailer owner’s existence is that unsettling rocking motion, especially when trying to sleep or relax. Eliminating this sway involves a multi-pronged approach, focusing on stabilizing the trailer from the ground up using a combination of leveling, stabilizing jacks, wheel chocks, and strategically placed supplementary supports.
Understanding the Rocking Problem
Travel trailers, by their nature, are susceptible to rocking. They are essentially boxes on wheels, sitting on a suspension system designed for travel, not stationary living. This suspension, combined with the trailer’s inherent height and lightweight construction, contributes to movement caused by wind, uneven ground, or even just people walking inside. The key to minimizing this rocking is understanding the factors at play and addressing each accordingly.
Factors Contributing to Trailer Rocking
- Suspension: The trailer’s suspension, designed to absorb bumps on the road, also acts as a spring while stationary, allowing for rocking motion.
- Unlevel Ground: Even slight inclines can exacerbate rocking, shifting the center of gravity and making the trailer unstable.
- Tire Flex: Inflatable tires, even when properly inflated, will still flex and contribute to minor movement.
- Wind: Strong winds can exert considerable force on the large surface area of a travel trailer, causing significant rocking.
- Internal Movement: Walking, cooking, or even shifting weight inside the trailer can trigger rocking.
Essential Steps for Rock-Solid Stability
Achieving a truly stable travel trailer requires a systematic approach. Start with the basics and then add supplementary stabilization based on your specific needs and the terrain you are camping on.
Leveling Your Trailer: The Foundation of Stability
Before anything else, ensure your trailer is perfectly level. This is the single most important step in preventing rocking.
- Using Leveling Blocks: Invest in high-quality leveling blocks. Drive the trailer onto the blocks until it is level from side to side. Use a level placed inside the trailer or on the exterior for accurate readings.
- Front-to-Back Leveling: Use the trailer’s tongue jack to adjust the front-to-back level. Again, rely on a level to ensure accuracy.
- Power Leveling Systems: Consider upgrading to a power leveling system for push-button leveling. These systems are more expensive but significantly simplify the process.
Deploying Stabilizing Jacks: The Second Line of Defense
Once the trailer is level, deploy the stabilizing jacks. These jacks are not designed to lift the trailer. Their sole purpose is to provide support and reduce movement.
- Proper Extension: Extend the jacks until they make firm contact with the ground. Avoid over-extending them, as this can damage the frame.
- Using Jack Pads: Place jack pads under the jacks to prevent them from sinking into soft ground. Wide pads distribute the weight more evenly.
- X-Chock Stabilizers: These stabilizers fit between the tires and provide additional support, significantly reducing side-to-side rocking. They are particularly effective.
Chocking the Wheels: Preventing Movement
Wheel chocks are crucial for preventing the trailer from rolling and also contribute to overall stability.
- Placement is Key: Place chocks snugly behind and in front of the tires on both sides of the trailer.
- Heavy-Duty Chocks: Use heavy-duty chocks made from durable materials like rubber or plastic.
- Tire Locking Chocks: Consider using tire locking chocks, which clamp onto the tires for even greater stability.
Advanced Stabilization Techniques
For those who demand the ultimate in stability, or who frequently camp in windy locations, these advanced techniques can make a significant difference.
Adding Support to the Frame
Frame supports provide additional contact points with the ground, further reducing rocking.
- Under-Trailer Stabilizers: These stabilizers attach to the frame and extend down to the ground, providing extra support. They are particularly effective at reducing bounce.
- DIY Solutions: Some campers create their own frame supports using wood or metal. Ensure any DIY solution is structurally sound and won’t damage the trailer’s frame.
Isolating the Suspension
Minimizing the movement of the suspension system can dramatically reduce rocking.
- Tire Wedges: Place wedges under the tires to limit tire flex. These wedges provide a more solid base.
- Suspension Locks: These devices lock the suspension system in place, preventing it from moving. They are highly effective but can be more expensive.
Dealing with Wind
Wind is a significant contributor to trailer rocking.
- Parking Strategy: Park the trailer with the narrowest side facing into the wind to minimize the surface area exposed to the wind.
- Wind Breaks: Use natural windbreaks, such as trees or shrubs, or create artificial windbreaks using tarps or screens.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
1. Are Stabilizing Jacks Enough to Prevent Rocking?
No. While stabilizing jacks are an essential component of a stable travel trailer, they are not sufficient on their own. They work best in conjunction with leveling blocks, wheel chocks, and potentially additional frame supports. Consider them one piece of the puzzle, not the entire solution.
2. Can I Use My Stabilizing Jacks to Lift the Trailer for Changing a Tire?
Absolutely not! Stabilizing jacks are not designed for lifting. Using them for this purpose can damage the jacks and potentially the trailer frame. Use a dedicated trailer jack designed for lifting.
3. How Important is it to Level My Trailer?
Leveling is crucial. An unlevel trailer not only contributes to rocking but can also cause problems with appliances like refrigerators and can lead to uneven wear on tires and suspension components.
4. What are the Best Type of Leveling Blocks to Use?
High-density plastic leveling blocks are generally preferred for their durability and ease of use. Avoid using wood, as it can rot and splinter. Look for blocks with interlocking features for added stability.
5. How Often Should I Check the Level of My Trailer?
Check the level of your trailer every time you set up camp. Over time, the ground can settle, causing the trailer to become unlevel. It’s also a good idea to re-check after a heavy rain.
6. Will Tire Pressure Affect Trailer Rocking?
Yes, tire pressure can affect trailer rocking. Overinflated tires can make the trailer bounce more, while underinflated tires can increase tire flex and contribute to sway. Maintain the recommended tire pressure as specified by the tire manufacturer.
7. What are X-Chocks and How Do They Work?
X-Chocks are stabilizers that fit between the tires of a tandem-axle trailer. They expand to fill the gap between the tires, providing a solid connection and preventing the tires from rotating independently. This significantly reduces side-to-side rocking.
8. Are There Any Apps That Can Help Me Level My Trailer?
Yes, several apps are available for smartphones that use the phone’s sensors to measure the level of the trailer. These apps can be a helpful tool for ensuring accurate leveling.
9. Can I Use a Hydraulic Jack Instead of Stabilizing Jacks?
While hydraulic jacks can provide strong support, they are typically not recommended for long-term stabilization. They are better suited for lifting and leveling. Stabilizing jacks are designed for continuous support.
10. My Trailer Still Rocks Even After Leveling and Using Stabilizing Jacks. What Else Can I Do?
Consider adding frame supports or suspension locks. Ensure your tires are properly inflated. Also, try parking the trailer in a different location, as the ground may be uneven even if it appears level.
11. How Much Weight Can Stabilizing Jacks Support?
Stabilizing jacks are designed to support the weight of the trailer after it has been leveled. They are not designed to lift the entire weight of the trailer. Refer to the manufacturer’s specifications for the maximum weight capacity of your jacks.
12. Are There Any Long-Term Effects of Continuous Trailer Rocking?
Yes, continuous trailer rocking can cause stress on the frame, suspension, and appliances. It can also lead to loose connections, squeaks, and rattles. Properly stabilizing your trailer helps prevent these issues and extends the lifespan of your RV.