Leveling your travel trailer is paramount for comfortable camping and the proper functioning of appliances; leveling blocks provide a simple and effective solution to achieve this equilibrium. Using them correctly ensures your refrigerator works efficiently, doors swing correctly, and you avoid the unsettling feeling of sleeping on a slant.
Why Leveling Matters
Before diving into the how, let’s underscore the why. An unlevel travel trailer isn’t just an inconvenience; it can cause real problems:
- Appliance Malfunction: Refrigerators, particularly older absorption models, rely on gravity to circulate coolant. Being significantly off-level can lead to them not cooling properly and potentially damaging the system.
- Door and Drawer Issues: Uneven settling can warp the frame, making doors and drawers difficult to open and close.
- Water Drainage Problems: Showers, sinks, and toilets might not drain correctly, leading to standing water and potential mold growth.
- Structural Stress: Prolonged unlevel conditions can put undue stress on the trailer’s frame, leading to long-term damage.
- Comfort Concerns: A sloped sleeping surface is simply uncomfortable and can disrupt sleep.
Choosing the Right Leveling Blocks
Several types of leveling blocks are available, each with its own set of advantages and disadvantages. Understanding these differences is crucial for making the right choice for your travel trailer and camping style.
- Plastic Leveling Blocks: These are the most common and affordable option. They are lightweight, durable, and stackable, allowing you to achieve the necessary height easily. Look for high-density polyethylene (HDPE) for the best durability.
- Wooden Blocks: While a traditional option, wooden blocks can be susceptible to rot and splintering, especially in wet conditions. They also lack the interlocking features of plastic blocks. They can be used effectively but require more maintenance and aren’t generally recommended for long-term use.
- Ramps: Ramps are designed to gradually lift the trailer tires onto a leveled surface. They are easy to use, but may require more maneuvering space than blocks. They are often adjustable, allowing for precise leveling.
- Automatic Leveling Systems: These are electronic systems that use hydraulics or electric motors to automatically level the trailer. While expensive, they offer unparalleled convenience.
Consider the weight of your travel trailer, the type of terrain you typically camp on, and your budget when selecting leveling blocks. For larger trailers, heavier-duty blocks are essential.
Step-by-Step Guide to Using Leveling Blocks
Here’s a detailed breakdown of how to effectively use leveling blocks for your travel trailer:
- Assess the Site: Before positioning your trailer, walk around your campsite and identify the low side. Place a level on the floor inside the trailer to confirm your assessment. Use a bubble level or a smartphone app.
- Position the Leveling Blocks: Place the leveling blocks in front of the tires on the low side of the trailer. Ensure the blocks are aligned with the tire’s path. For double-axle trailers, ensure both tires on the same side will be on the blocks.
- Pull the Trailer onto the Blocks: Slowly and carefully drive the trailer onto the leveling blocks. Have a spotter guide you to ensure the tires are properly aligned. Stop when the trailer is close to level. Use your level to check your progress.
- Final Adjustments: Fine-tune the leveling by adding or removing blocks as needed. It’s often better to slightly over-level initially, as the trailer will settle slightly once disconnected from the tow vehicle.
- Secure the Trailer: Once the trailer is level, engage the parking brake and place wheel chocks behind the tires on both sides of the trailer. This prevents the trailer from rolling off the blocks.
- Disconnect and Re-level: Disconnect the trailer from the tow vehicle. Check the level again. Sometimes, the act of disconnecting shifts the trailer slightly. Make any necessary adjustments at this point.
- Stabilize: Lower your stabilizer jacks to provide additional support and prevent excessive movement within the trailer. Stabilizer jacks are not designed for leveling and should only be used after the trailer is properly leveled with blocks.
Tips for Successful Leveling
- Carry a Variety of Block Heights: Different campsites require different amounts of leveling. Having a range of block heights will ensure you’re prepared for any situation.
- Use a Leveling App: Smartphone apps can provide accurate leveling readings and simplify the process.
- Chock the Wheels Properly: Wheel chocks are essential for safety. Place them securely behind the tires on both sides of the trailer.
- Protect Your Tires: Place a small piece of wood or rubber between the tire and the leveling block to prevent damage to the tire sidewall.
- Practice Makes Perfect: Don’t be discouraged if you don’t get it right the first time. With practice, you’ll become proficient at leveling your travel trailer quickly and efficiently.
- Consider a Tongue Jack Pad: A wide tongue jack pad helps distribute the weight of the trailer tongue and prevents it from sinking into soft ground.
FAQs: Leveling Blocks and Travel Trailers
1. What is the best type of leveling block for a heavy travel trailer?
For heavier travel trailers, high-density polyethylene (HDPE) leveling blocks are generally the best choice. These blocks are strong, durable, and can withstand significant weight without cracking or deforming. Look for blocks specifically rated for the weight of your trailer.
2. Can I use leveling blocks on soft ground?
Yes, but you need to take precautions. Soft ground can cause the leveling blocks to sink, negating their effectiveness. Use large, flat pieces of wood or rubber mats under the blocks to distribute the weight and prevent sinking.
3. How many leveling blocks should I carry?
It’s best to carry at least 4-6 leveling blocks, preferably of varying heights. This allows you to handle a range of leveling situations. Having extra blocks is always preferable to not having enough.
4. Can I use leveling blocks instead of stabilizer jacks?
No, leveling blocks should never be used in place of stabilizer jacks. Leveling blocks are designed to raise the tires and level the trailer, while stabilizer jacks are designed to provide stability and prevent excessive movement. Using leveling blocks as stabilizer jacks can damage the trailer’s frame.
5. How do I level a travel trailer with tandem axles?
Leveling a tandem axle trailer requires ensuring both tires on the low side are raised evenly. Use wider leveling blocks or place blocks side-by-side to provide sufficient surface area. Pay close attention to keeping the axles balanced as you raise the trailer.
6. What is the maximum height I should lift my travel trailer with leveling blocks?
As a general rule, avoid lifting your travel trailer more than 4-6 inches with leveling blocks. Exceeding this height can compromise stability and potentially damage the tires or suspension. If you need to lift the trailer higher, consider using a more sophisticated leveling system.
7. Can I use rocks or bricks as leveling blocks?
While rocks or bricks might seem like a convenient option, they are not recommended. They can be unstable, uneven, and prone to crumbling under the weight of the trailer. Invest in proper leveling blocks for safety and reliability.
8. How do I know if my travel trailer is perfectly level?
Use a bubble level placed inside the trailer, ideally on a flat surface like a countertop or the floor. Check the level both lengthwise and widthwise. Alternatively, use a leveling app on your smartphone, which often provides more precise readings.
9. What should I do if my leveling blocks crack or break?
Replace them immediately. Cracked or broken leveling blocks are a safety hazard and can cause the trailer to shift or collapse. Inspect your leveling blocks regularly for signs of wear and tear.
10. Are there any alternatives to leveling blocks?
Yes, alternatives include automatic leveling systems (which are expensive but convenient) and manually operated scissor jacks placed under the frame (which require more effort but offer precise leveling).
11. Do I need to level my travel trailer even if it’s just for a short stay?
Yes, even for short stays, leveling is important. While the discomfort of a slight incline might be tolerable for a night or two, the potential for appliance malfunction and structural stress remains.
12. How often should I check the level of my travel trailer?
Check the level after you initially set up and then re-check it after the first day or two as the trailer settles. Ground conditions can change due to weather or settling, so periodic checks are always a good idea.
By following these guidelines and FAQs, you can confidently and effectively use leveling blocks to ensure a comfortable and safe camping experience in your travel trailer. Remember, a level trailer is a happy trailer!