Leveling a 5th wheel trailer is achieved by adjusting the trailer’s height and side-to-side position until it is perfectly horizontal and vertical, using a combination of leveling blocks, leveling jacks, and possibly an electronic level. Ensuring a level 5th wheel is crucial for proper appliance operation, comfort, and overall stability during your RV adventures.
Why Leveling Matters: More Than Just Comfort
Think of your 5th wheel as a miniature home on wheels. Just like any house, a solid, level foundation is paramount. But with a 5th wheel, this foundation is temporary and requires careful attention. Beyond the obvious comfort benefits of sleeping on a level bed and preventing things from rolling off counters, there are critical functional reasons for precise leveling:
- Appliance Performance: Refrigerators, particularly absorption-type models, rely on gravity for proper cooling. Being off-level can drastically reduce their efficiency or even damage them. Similarly, stove burners may not distribute heat evenly.
- Water Drainage: Leveling ensures proper drainage from sinks, showers, and toilets. A tilted trailer can lead to stagnant water and potential clogs.
- Structural Integrity: Over time, uneven weight distribution caused by an unlevel trailer can stress the frame and suspension system, potentially leading to costly repairs.
- Door and Window Functionality: Doors and windows may bind or not close properly if the trailer is significantly unlevel.
In short, leveling your 5th wheel is not just about convenience; it’s about protecting your investment and ensuring a safe and enjoyable RV experience.
Step-by-Step Leveling Process: A Comprehensive Guide
Before you even unhitch, a little planning goes a long way. Here’s a detailed breakdown of the leveling process:
Step 1: Site Assessment and Preparation
- Choose Your Spot Wisely: Select a campsite that appears relatively level to begin with. Avoid sites with large dips or slopes.
- Initial Visual Inspection: Use a spirit level (or a leveling app on your smartphone) to get a preliminary assessment of how unlevel your 5th wheel is. Check both side-to-side and front-to-back.
- Positioning for Success: Position your 5th wheel in the desired location, keeping in mind the location of utilities and any obstacles. If possible, try to orient the trailer with the driver’s side facing the higher ground.
Step 2: Side-to-Side Leveling
This is typically the first and most critical step.
- Leveling Blocks: Determine the amount of height needed to achieve level. Place leveling blocks in front of the tires on the lower side. These blocks are designed to provide a stable and even surface. You can use commercially available leveling blocks (like those from Andersen or Camco) or build your own using pressure-treated lumber.
- Driving Onto the Blocks: Slowly and carefully drive the 5th wheel onto the leveling blocks until it’s close to level. Have a spotter guide you and stop immediately when you’re close. Re-check the level.
- Fine-Tuning: Make small adjustments, adding or removing blocks as needed, until the side-to-side level is perfect. Use a level placed inside the trailer on the floor or a countertop.
Step 3: Unhitching and Front-to-Back Leveling
Once the side-to-side level is achieved, you can unhitch from your tow vehicle.
- Unhitch with Caution: Follow the manufacturer’s instructions for unhitching your 5th wheel. Make sure the landing gear is properly deployed before releasing the hitch.
- Adjusting the Landing Gear: Use the landing gear (also known as front jacks) to raise or lower the front of the 5th wheel until it’s level from front to back. Again, use a level to check your progress.
- Stabilizing the Rear: If your 5th wheel has rear stabilizers, deploy them according to the manufacturer’s instructions. These stabilizers provide additional support and prevent rocking.
Step 4: Final Checks and Adjustments
- Double-Check Everything: Walk around the 5th wheel and visually inspect the leveling. Re-check the level in multiple locations inside the trailer.
- Fine-Tune if Necessary: Make any final adjustments to the landing gear or rear stabilizers to achieve perfect level.
- Chock the Wheels: Always chock the wheels securely to prevent the 5th wheel from rolling.
Essential Tools and Equipment
Investing in the right tools will make the leveling process much easier and more efficient. Here’s a list of essentials:
- Leveling Blocks: Various sizes and styles are available. Consider adjustable leveling blocks for greater precision.
- Spirit Level or Electronic Level: A spirit level is a simple and reliable option. Electronic levels offer greater accuracy and often include digital displays.
- Wheel Chocks: Essential for safety.
- Gloves: To protect your hands.
- Socket Wrench or Drill with Socket Adapter: For operating the landing gear and stabilizers.
- Leveling App (Optional): Many smartphone apps can help you determine how unlevel your RV is.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
FAQ 1: What is the best type of leveling blocks to use?
There’s no single “best” type, as it depends on your needs and preferences. Plastic interlocking blocks are lightweight and easy to use. Wooden blocks are durable and can be custom-made. Adjustable leveling blocks, like the Andersen levelers, provide the most precise leveling. Consider the weight of your 5th wheel and the typical terrain you’ll be camping on when making your choice.
FAQ 2: How do I level my 5th wheel on a very uneven surface?
On highly uneven surfaces, you may need to combine different leveling techniques. Use a combination of leveling blocks and raising the low side as much as possible. You might also need to reposition your 5th wheel to find a slightly less uneven spot.
FAQ 3: Can I use the auto-leveling system on my 5th wheel if the ground is very uneven?
While auto-leveling systems are convenient, they have their limitations. Extremely uneven ground can overextend the jacks and potentially damage the system. It’s always best to pre-level as much as possible with blocks before engaging the auto-leveling system. Check your owner’s manual for specific recommendations.
FAQ 4: What if my landing gear runs out of travel before I get level?
If your landing gear reaches its maximum extension, you’ll need to place blocks underneath the landing gear feet. These blocks provide additional height and allow you to achieve the necessary lift. Make sure the blocks are stable and can support the weight of the 5th wheel.
FAQ 5: How often should I check the level of my 5th wheel?
It’s a good practice to check the level periodically, especially after heavy rain or strong winds. Ground settling can cause the 5th wheel to shift over time. A quick check every few days can prevent minor issues from becoming major problems.
FAQ 6: Are there any dangers to being significantly unlevel for an extended period?
Yes. As mentioned earlier, being significantly unlevel can damage appliances, stress the frame, and compromise the functionality of doors and windows. Prolonged unleveling can lead to costly repairs and shorten the lifespan of your 5th wheel.
FAQ 7: Can I use the slide-outs to help level my 5th wheel?
Never use slide-outs to level your 5th wheel. Slide-outs are designed for extending and retracting, not for supporting the weight of the trailer. Using them for leveling can damage the slide-out mechanisms and the trailer’s structure.
FAQ 8: How do I level a 5th wheel with a sloped driveway at home?
Leveling a 5th wheel on a sloped driveway requires careful planning. You may need to use a combination of leveling blocks and ramps to compensate for the slope. Consider investing in heavy-duty ramps specifically designed for RVs. Alternatively, you could consider having the driveway leveled professionally.
FAQ 9: What is the best way to level a 5th wheel on soft ground?
Soft ground can present challenges, as leveling blocks can sink. To prevent this, use large, wide leveling blocks or boards to distribute the weight more evenly. You might also consider using ground mats under the blocks for added stability.
FAQ 10: My 5th wheel has a built-in leveling system. Should I still use blocks?
Even with a built-in leveling system, using blocks under the tires on the low side can reduce the strain on the jacks and minimize their extension distance. This can improve stability and prolong the life of the leveling system.
FAQ 11: How do I ensure the leveling blocks are stable and won’t slip?
Choose leveling blocks with a non-slip surface or add non-slip pads underneath. Ensure the ground beneath the blocks is firm and level. Avoid placing blocks on loose gravel or sand.
FAQ 12: What should I do if I can’t get my 5th wheel perfectly level?
While striving for perfection is ideal, a slightly unlevel 5th wheel is often unavoidable. Prioritize leveling the refrigerator side and ensuring that doors and windows operate smoothly. A small degree of unlevelness is usually acceptable, but avoid extremes that could damage appliances or create discomfort.
By following these steps and taking the time to level your 5th wheel properly, you’ll ensure a comfortable, safe, and enjoyable RV experience.