Leveling a camper trailer is an essential task to ensure your comfort and the longevity of your RV and being able to properly level your camper without a level can be a challenge. However, with the right techniques and tools, you can achieve a level camp without difficulty. In this comprehensive guide, we will provide you with step-by-step instructions, tips, and tricks to level your camper trailer effortlessly, even if you don’t have a level. By following our expert advice, you can enjoy a stable and comfortable camping experience every time you hit the road.
Before you begin leveling your camper trailer, it’s important to gather the necessary tools. These include a bubble level, wheel chocks, and leveling blocks or pads. A bubble level is essential for ensuring accuracy when leveling your camper. Wheel chocks are used to prevent your camper from rolling while you’re working on it. Leveling blocks or pads provide support and stability for your camper, preventing it from sinking into the ground.
Once you have gathered your tools, you can begin the process of leveling your camper trailer. First, park your camper on a relatively flat surface. If the ground is uneven, you may need to use leveling blocks or pads to create a level surface. Place the leveling blocks or pads under the tires of your camper, and then use the bubble level to check the level. Adjust the leveling blocks or pads as necessary until the bubble is centered in the level. Once the camper is level from side to side, use the bubble level to check the level from front to back. Again, adjust the leveling blocks or pads as necessary until the bubble is centered in the level.
Choosing a Leveling Kit
Selecting the right leveling kit for your camper trailer is crucial for ensuring a stable and comfortable camping experience. Here are key factors to consider when choosing a kit:
- Camper Trailer Weight: Choose a kit that can support the weight of your camper trailer. Overloading the kit can lead to instability and safety hazards.
- Leveling Range: Consider the terrain you’ll be camping on. Kits with a wider leveling range allow you to adjust for uneven surfaces and slopes.
- Number of Jacks: Kits with more jacks provide greater stability and weight distribution. For heavier trailers or uneven surfaces, consider kits with four or more jacks.
- Ease of Use: Look for kits that are easy to set up and adjust. Manual kits require more effort, while electric or hydraulic kits offer convenience.
- Materials: Opt for kits made from durable materials such as aluminum or steel. They can withstand harsh weather conditions and provide long-lasting performance.
Here’s a table summarizing the key features to consider when choosing a leveling kit:
| Feature | Description |
|---|---|
| Camper Trailer Weight | Support the weight of your camper trailer |
| Leveling Range | Adjust for uneven surfaces and slopes |
| Number of Jacks | Greater stability and weight distribution |
| Ease of Use | Easy setup and adjustment |
| Materials | Durable materials for harsh weather conditions |
Adjusting Stabilizers and Corner Jacks
4. Leveling the Camper Trailer with Corner Jacks
Corner jacks provide additional stability and leveling options for your camper trailer. To use corner jacks:
a) Position your camper trailer on the campsite and chock the wheels to prevent it from moving.
b) Extend the corner jacks until they make contact with the ground. Use a level to ensure the camper trailer is level side-to-side.
c) Use chocks or blocks to secure the corner jacks and prevent them from sinking into the ground.
d) Adjust the stabilizers as needed to ensure the camper trailer is level front-to-back.
e) Double-check the level of the camper trailer using a level or leveling app. Make any necessary adjustments to the corner jacks or stabilizers until the camper trailer is completely level.
f) Once the camper trailer is level, tighten the nuts or bolts on the corner jacks to secure them in place.
Tips for Using Corner Jacks
- Use a level to ensure accuracy when adjusting corner jacks.
- Place chocks or blocks under the corner jacks to prevent sinking.
- Tighten the nuts or bolts on the corner jacks securely to prevent movement.
- Consider using a leveling system to make the process easier and more precise.
Calibrating Your Refrigerator
Calibrating your refrigerator is important for ensuring its optimal performance and preventing the contents from spoiling. Here’s a step-by-step guide to help you calibrate your camper trailer refrigerator:
1. Empty the Refrigerator
To accurately calibrate your refrigerator, it’s best to empty it completely. This allows you to eliminate any potential interference from food and drinks.
2. Set the Refrigerator to “Off”
Turn the refrigerator off and wait for about 15 minutes. This allows the compressor to cool down and settle.
3. Place a Thermometer Inside the Refrigerator
Place an accurate thermometer in the center of the refrigerator compartment. Ensure the thermometer is not touching any food or the walls of the refrigerator.
4. Power on the Refrigerator
Turn the refrigerator back on and set the temperature to the desired level. Wait for at least 8 hours for the refrigerator to reach its target temperature.
5. Monitoring and Adjusting the Temperature
After 8 hours, check the temperature inside the refrigerator using the thermometer. Note the difference between the actual temperature and the set temperature:
| Actual Temperature | Adjustment |
|---|---|
| Lower than desired | Increase the temperature setting slightly |
| Higher than desired | Decrease the temperature setting slightly |
Repeat this process every 2-3 hours until the actual temperature matches the desired temperature. This ensures precise calibration of your camper trailer refrigerator.
Leveling Side-to-Side
To level your camper trailer side-to-side, follow these steps:
- Park your camper trailer on a relatively level surface.
- Place a level on the floor of your camper trailer.
- Identify which side of the camper trailer is higher.
- Use a jack or leveling block to raise the lower side of the camper trailer.
- Continue to adjust the jacks or leveling blocks until the level indicates that the camper trailer is level.
- Double-check the level to ensure accuracy.
- Once the camper trailer is level, tighten the jacks or leveling blocks to secure it in place.
Using Leveling Blocks
| Block Height (inches) | Angle of Slope |
|---|---|
| 2 | 1 degree |
| 4 | 2 degrees |
| 6 | 3 degrees |
| 8 | 4 degrees |
| 10 | 5 degrees |
Note: These values are approximate and may vary depending on the type of leveling blocks used.
Checking Leveling Accuracy
Once you’ve leveled your camper trailer, it’s essential to check its accuracy. Here’s how to do it:
1. Use a bubble level. Place a bubble level on the floor inside the camper. If the bubble is centered, your camper is level from side to side.
2. Use a leveling app. There are smartphone apps available that can help you level your camper. These apps use your phone’s accelerometer to measure the slope of your camper and provide you with instructions on how to level it.
3. Use a leveling chock. Place a leveling chock under one of the tires. The chock should have a small level attached to it. If the level is centered, your camper is level from front to back.
4. Check the door. Open and close the door. If the door opens and closes smoothly, without binding, your camper is level.
5. Check the refrigerator. Turn on the refrigerator and let it run for a few minutes. If the refrigerator is cooling properly, your camper is level.
6. Walk around inside the camper. Walk around inside the camper and see if you notice any unevenness. If the camper feels level as you walk around, it’s likely level.
7. Check the stovetop. Place a pot of water on the stovetop and turn on the burner. If the water boils evenly and doesn’t spill over the sides of the pot, your camper is level.
8. Use a laser level. A laser level is the most accurate way to check the level of your camper. Place the laser level on the floor inside the camper and turn it on. The laser will project a line onto the wall. If the line is level, your camper is level.
| Method | Accuracy | Ease of Use |
|---|---|---|
| Bubble Level | Fair | Easy |
| Leveling App | Good | Moderate |
| Leveling Chock | Good | Easy |
| Door Test | Fair | Easy |
| Refrigerator Test | Fair | Easy |
| Walk-Around Test | Poor | Easy |
| Stovetop Test | Fair | Easy |
| Laser Level | Excellent | Difficult |
Troubleshooting Common Leveling Issues
Wheel Wobble
Check if the wheels are properly inflated. Uneven tire pressure can cause the camper to rock or wobble.
Unstable Stabilizers
Ensure that the stabilizer jacks are extended and firmly planted on the ground. Uneven or weak jacks can lead to instability.
Unusually High Leveling Jacks
Inspect the leveling system for any obstructions or damage. Obstructed or malfunctioning jacks can cause excessive lift, resulting in uneven leveling.
Camper Leans Sideways
Try repositioning the camper slightly. If the issue persists, check for uneven ground or soft soil that might be causing the camper to tilt.
Camper Slides Out Unlevel
Ensure that the camper is fully leveled before extending the slides. Uneven leveling can cause the slides to bind or slide out unevenly.
Difficulty Extending Jacks
Check if there is any debris or obstacles preventing the jacks from extending. If the issue persists, inspect the jack mechanisms for any damage or corrosion.
Automatic Leveling System Errors
Refer to the manufacturer’s instructions for troubleshooting error codes or malfunctioning sensors. Resetting the system may resolve the issue.
Uneven Step Height
Adjust the leveling height on the opposite side of the uneven steps. By raising or lowering the camper slightly, you can level the steps.
Squeaking or Grinding Noises
Lubricate the leveling jacks and other moving parts regularly. Squeaks or grinding noises may indicate lack of lubrication or mechanical issues.
Maintaining Leveling Over Time
Once you’ve leveled your camper trailer, it’s important to maintain that level over time. Here are some tips to help you do just that:
1. Use Leveling Blocks
Leveling blocks are one of the easiest and most effective ways to keep your camper trailer level. Simply place them under the wheels of your camper until it is level. You can use a level to check your progress.
Here are some tips for using leveling blocks:
- Choose the right size. Leveling blocks come in different sizes, so make sure you choose the right size for your camper trailer.
- Use a level. Place a level on the floor of your camper trailer to check if it is level.
- Add blocks as needed. Add or remove leveling blocks as needed until your camper trailer is level.
10. Check Your Level Regularly
It’s a good idea to check your level regularly, especially if you’re traveling on rough roads. You can do this by placing a level on the floor of your camper trailer. If the level is not centered, adjust your leveling blocks accordingly.
Here are some of the benefits of checking your level regularly:
- Prevents damage to your camper trailer.
- Improves the comfort of your stay.
- Reduces the risk of accidents.
How to Level a Camper Trailer
Leveling a camper trailer is an important step to ensure a comfortable and safe camping experience. Here’s a step-by-step guide on how to level your camper trailer:
- Choose a level campsite. If possible, choose a campsite that is already level. This will make the leveling process much easier.
- Unhitch your camper trailer from your tow vehicle. This will give you more freedom to move around the trailer and make adjustments.
- Place leveling blocks under the low side of the trailer. Leveling blocks are available at most RV supply stores. Place them under the low side of the trailer, close to the wheels.
- Use a level to check the trailer’s position. Place a level on the floor of the trailer, both front to back and side to side. Adjust the leveling blocks until the trailer is level.
- Chock the wheels of the trailer. Once the trailer is level, chock the wheels to prevent it from rolling.
- Reconnect your camper trailer to your tow vehicle.
People Also Ask About How to Level a Camper Trailer
Can I use wood blocks to level my camper trailer?
Yes, you can use wood blocks to level your camper trailer. However, it is important to make sure that the wood blocks are strong enough to support the weight of the trailer. You should also make sure that the wood blocks are placed on a stable surface.
How do I know if my camper trailer is level?
You can use a level to check if your camper trailer is level. Place a level on the floor of the trailer, both front to back and side to side. The trailer is level when the bubble in the level is centered.
Why is it important to level my camper trailer?
Leveling your camper trailer is important for several reasons. First, it helps to ensure that the trailer is stable and will not roll or tip over. Second, it helps to distribute the weight of the trailer evenly, which can help to prevent damage to the trailer. Third, it helps to make the trailer more comfortable to live in.
