Leveling your Airstream is essential for comfortable living, proper appliance function, and preventing structural damage. The key to achieving perfect Airstream leveling lies in systematically addressing both side-to-side and front-to-back discrepancies using leveling blocks, bubble levels, and a keen eye for detail.
Why Leveling Matters: Beyond Comfort
An unlevel Airstream isn’t just an inconvenience; it can lead to a cascade of problems. Imagine trying to cook on a tilted stove – your omelet ends up plastered against one side of the pan. Beyond culinary woes, unleveling can strain the frame of your beloved Airstream, potentially leading to costly repairs down the line.
A level Airstream ensures:
- Proper Appliance Function: Refrigerators, particularly those with absorption cooling systems, rely on gravity to circulate coolant. Being unlevel can drastically reduce their efficiency or even cause permanent damage.
- Comfortable Living: Nobody enjoys rolling out of bed in the middle of the night or feeling like they’re walking uphill in their own living room. Leveling eliminates these discomforts.
- Reduced Stress on the Frame: Constant stress from an uneven foundation can cause premature wear and tear on the trailer’s frame, potentially leading to structural issues and diminished resale value.
- Proper Drainage: Sinks and showers are designed to drain effectively on a level surface.
Step-by-Step Guide to Airstream Leveling
Here’s a detailed breakdown of the leveling process, ensuring a smooth and stress-free experience.
1. Assessing the Site: The Foundation for Success
Before you even unhitch, take the time to carefully inspect your campsite. Look for obvious slopes, dips, or uneven terrain. Consider the placement of utility hookups (water, sewer, electric) and try to orient your Airstream to minimize the amount of leveling required.
2. Gathering Your Tools: The Right Equipment for the Job
Having the right tools on hand will make the leveling process significantly easier. Essential items include:
- Leveling Blocks: These come in various materials (plastic, wood) and are used to raise the low side of the trailer. Consider purchasing interlocking blocks for added stability.
- Bubble Levels: A traditional bubble level is invaluable for visually confirming levelness. Consider two: one for side-to-side and one for front-to-back.
- Leveling App: While not strictly necessary, smartphone apps that utilize the phone’s accelerometer can be a helpful supplement to traditional bubble levels.
- Wheel Chocks: Safety first! Wheel chocks are essential to prevent the trailer from rolling during the leveling process.
- Jack Blocks (for stabilizer jacks): These provide a solid and stable base for your stabilizer jacks, especially on soft ground.
- Lug Wrench: In case you need to adjust tire pressure for minor leveling adjustments (use with extreme caution and always consult your Airstream manual).
3. Side-to-Side Leveling: Addressing Lateral Imbalance
This is typically the first leveling adjustment you’ll make.
- Positioning: Drive the Airstream onto leveling blocks placed in front of the tires on the low side. The goal is to raise that side until it’s level with the high side.
- Fine-Tuning: After driving onto the blocks, use a bubble level placed inside the Airstream (on the floor or a countertop) to check for levelness. If needed, adjust the blocks by adding or removing layers until the trailer is level side-to-side.
- Chocking the Wheels: Once level, securely chock the wheels on both sides of the trailer to prevent any movement.
4. Front-to-Back Leveling: Achieving Longitudinal Equilibrium
Once you’ve tackled side-to-side leveling, it’s time to address any front-to-back discrepancies.
- Uncoupling: Carefully unhitch the Airstream from your tow vehicle.
- Adjusting the Tongue Jack: Use the Airstream’s tongue jack to raise or lower the front of the trailer until it’s level front-to-back. Again, use a bubble level to confirm.
- Secure the Tongue Jack: Once level, ensure the tongue jack is securely positioned and won’t slip.
5. Stabilizing: The Final Touch
Airstreams typically have stabilizer jacks at each corner. These are designed to provide stability, not to lift or level the trailer.
- Lowering the Jacks: Extend the stabilizer jacks until they make contact with the ground or jack blocks.
- Gentle Pressure: Apply just enough pressure to stabilize the trailer, but avoid lifting it. Overextending the jacks can damage the frame.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
Here are some common questions about leveling an Airstream:
FAQ 1: What’s the best type of leveling block?
The “best” leveling block depends on your personal preference and the type of terrain you typically encounter. Plastic leveling blocks are durable, lightweight, and easy to clean. Wooden blocks are a more sustainable option but can be prone to rotting if not properly treated. Consider interlocking blocks for added stability.
FAQ 2: Can I use my stabilizer jacks to level the Airstream?
No, you should never use stabilizer jacks to level your Airstream. These jacks are designed for stability, not for lifting. Using them for leveling can damage the frame.
FAQ 3: How accurate do I need to be when leveling?
While perfection isn’t always achievable (especially on uneven terrain), strive to get your Airstream as close to level as possible. A slight incline won’t typically cause problems, but significant unleveling should be avoided. Aim for within a degree or two.
FAQ 4: My campsite is extremely unlevel. What should I do?
If your campsite is severely unlevel, consider finding a different spot. If that’s not possible, you may need to use larger leveling blocks or even build a temporary ramp with sturdy wood planks. Extreme unleveling can compromise the stability and safety of your Airstream.
FAQ 5: How often should I check the level of my Airstream?
It’s a good idea to check the level of your Airstream after the first day or two, as the ground may settle. Also, check after heavy rain or wind.
FAQ 6: Can I use automatic leveling systems on an Airstream?
While some RVs have automatic leveling systems, they’re not commonly installed on Airstreams. Aftermarket systems exist, but their installation can be complex and may void your warranty. Research thoroughly before considering an automatic leveling system.
FAQ 7: What if my tongue jack isn’t long enough to level the front-to-back?
You can purchase a tongue jack extension to increase the reach of your tongue jack. Make sure to choose an extension that’s compatible with your jack and rated for the weight of your Airstream.
FAQ 8: Is it okay to park my Airstream on a slight slope for a short period?
For short periods (a few hours), a slight slope is generally acceptable, provided your appliances aren’t overly affected and you feel comfortable. However, avoid parking on slopes for extended periods to prevent potential frame stress.
FAQ 9: How do I level my Airstream on soft ground?
Soft ground can cause leveling blocks and stabilizer jacks to sink. Use larger, wider jack blocks or leveling blocks to distribute the weight more evenly. You can also place boards underneath the blocks for added support.
FAQ 10: Do I need to remove my leveling blocks before leaving the campsite?
Yes, always remove your leveling blocks and wheel chocks before driving away. Double-check your surroundings to ensure you haven’t left anything behind.
FAQ 11: What’s the best way to store my leveling blocks when not in use?
Store your leveling blocks in a dry, accessible location. Many RVers use dedicated storage bins in their Airstream’s exterior compartments.
FAQ 12: Can tire pressure affect leveling?
Yes, in very minor instances adjusting tire pressure can provide a slight level adjustment. Reduce the air pressure of the tire(s) on the higher side of the trailer. This should only be done minimally and cautiously, never below the tire’s minimum allowable pressure. Always consult your Airstream and tire manufacturer manuals beforehand. Over or under inflating your tires can cause serious safety issues and damage.