The proper placement of levels on your travel trailer is crucial for accurate leveling, ensuring comfortable living, optimal appliance function, and preventing potential structural damage. Ideally, you should place levels inside the trailer on a stable, flat surface like the kitchen counter, refrigerator floor (if accessible), or the floor near the main entry door – these locations provide a representative reading of the entire trailer’s orientation.
Understanding the Importance of Leveling
Travel trailers are designed for comfortable living, but that comfort hinges on being level. An unlevel trailer can lead to a host of problems, from uncomfortable sleeping to malfunctioning appliances. Let’s delve into why leveling is so critical:
Comfort and Livability
Imagine trying to sleep on a sloping bed, or cooking on a stove that slants precariously. An unlevel trailer makes everyday tasks awkward and uncomfortable. Properly leveling your trailer eliminates these issues, providing a more enjoyable and relaxing camping experience.
Appliance Function
Many RV appliances, particularly refrigerators, are designed to operate within specific level tolerances. Operating them outside these parameters can lead to reduced efficiency, damage, or even complete failure. Leveling ensures your appliances function as intended.
Structural Integrity
Prolonged exposure to an unlevel position can stress the frame and body of your travel trailer. Over time, this can lead to warping, cracking, and other structural problems. Regular leveling helps prevent these issues, extending the life of your trailer.
Where to Place Your Levels
Choosing the right location for your levels is paramount for accurate leveling. As mentioned earlier, interior placement on a stable, flat surface offers the most representative reading. But let’s examine specific locations and their pros and cons:
Interior Placement: The Preferred Method
- Kitchen Counter: Often a central and relatively flat surface.
- Refrigerator Floor (if accessible): Provides a stable platform and is centrally located.
- Floor Near Entry Door: Easy access and good representation of the trailer’s overall level.
The key is to choose a location that is both flat and representative of the entire trailer. Avoid areas near walls or corners, as these may be subject to minor imperfections.
Exterior Placement: Alternative, but Less Precise
While interior placement is preferred, you can also use the exterior of your trailer as a reference point. However, this method is generally less accurate:
- Frame Members: Can provide a rough estimate of level, but may not account for body flex.
- Bumpers: Prone to damage and distortion, making them unreliable for accurate leveling.
- Hitch: Useful for initial leveling, but should be supplemented with interior checks.
If using exterior points, be sure to verify their accuracy with an interior level reading.
Types of Levels
Several types of levels are available for leveling travel trailers, each with its own advantages and disadvantages:
- Bubble Levels: Simple, inexpensive, and easy to use. Requires careful visual interpretation.
- Digital Levels: Offer precise readings and can be easier to read than bubble levels. May require batteries.
- Spirit Levels: Similar to bubble levels, but often longer for greater accuracy.
- App-Based Levels: Utilize your smartphone’s sensors. Convenient, but accuracy can vary.
Consider your budget, desired level of accuracy, and personal preferences when choosing a level. A combination of methods can also be effective.
Leveling Techniques
Once you’ve chosen your leveling method, you can begin the process. Here’s a step-by-step guide:
- Assess the Site: Before positioning your trailer, evaluate the terrain. Look for obvious dips or slopes.
- Position the Trailer: Try to position the trailer on the most level spot available.
- Initial Leveling: Use leveling blocks under the tires on the low side(s) to achieve a rough level.
- Fine-Tuning: Place your level inside the trailer and make adjustments as needed.
- Stabilize the Trailer: Use stabilizer jacks to prevent rocking and movement.
Remember to chock the wheels for safety before disconnecting from your tow vehicle.
FAQs: Common Leveling Questions Answered
FAQ 1: How often should I level my travel trailer?
It’s crucial to level your travel trailer every time you set up camp, regardless of how level the site appears to be. Even slight inclines can cause discomfort and appliance malfunction. Re-check the level after a day or two, as the ground can settle.
FAQ 2: What tools do I need to level my travel trailer?
Essential tools include leveling blocks, chocks, a level (bubble, digital, or app-based), and stabilizer jacks. A tongue jack or power tongue jack is also incredibly helpful for adjusting the hitch height.
FAQ 3: Can I use wood blocks instead of leveling blocks?
Yes, you can use wood blocks as a substitute for leveling blocks, but ensure they are sturdy and of sufficient size. Pressure-treated wood is preferable for durability. However, manufactured leveling blocks are often more convenient and easier to stack.
FAQ 4: What if I can’t get my trailer perfectly level?
Aim for the best possible level, but prioritize front-to-back leveling for refrigerator functionality. A slight side-to-side tilt is less critical. If you encounter extreme unevenness, consider finding a different campsite.
FAQ 5: How do I level my travel trailer on a sloped site?
On sloped sites, use multiple leveling blocks or specialized leveling ramps to build up the low side. Exercise caution when stacking blocks, ensuring they are stable and secure. Consider using a leveling jack on the high side for added support.
FAQ 6: What happens if I don’t level my travel trailer?
Failure to level your travel trailer can lead to discomfort, appliance malfunction, increased wear and tear, and potential structural damage. Refer to the earlier section “Understanding the Importance of Leveling” for detailed explanations.
FAQ 7: Are automatic leveling systems worth the investment?
Automatic leveling systems can significantly simplify the leveling process, especially for larger travel trailers. They are generally reliable and convenient, but they represent a significant upfront investment. Consider your budget and frequency of camping when deciding.
FAQ 8: How do I level a travel trailer without a tongue jack?
Leveling a travel trailer without a tongue jack is challenging but possible. You can use a small jack placed under the hitch to raise or lower it. Be extremely cautious and ensure the trailer is properly supported before working underneath it. This method is not recommended unless absolutely necessary.
FAQ 9: How do I know if my refrigerator needs to be leveled?
Most RV refrigerators require being level within 3 degrees side-to-side and 6 degrees front-to-back. Consult your refrigerator’s owner’s manual for specific requirements. Common signs of being unlevel include reduced cooling performance, unusual noises, and potential damage to the cooling system.
FAQ 10: Can I use a level app on my phone for leveling?
Level apps can be useful for a quick check, but their accuracy can vary depending on the quality of your phone’s sensors and calibration. It’s always best to verify the reading with a physical level for more precise leveling.
FAQ 11: How do stabilizer jacks help with leveling?
Stabilizer jacks do not lift the trailer; they are designed to prevent rocking and movement once the trailer is level. Over-extending them in an attempt to lift the trailer can damage the frame.
FAQ 12: What should I do if the ground is too soft for leveling blocks?
If the ground is too soft, use wider leveling blocks or place plywood under the blocks to distribute the weight and prevent them from sinking. Consider relocating to a firmer campsite if the ground is excessively soft.