The Right Way To Level Your Rv Using Electric Jacks

how to level rv with electric jacks

Electric levelling jacks are a convenient way to level your RV. They can be operated by a control panel, touchpad, or even a Bluetooth-compatible app on your smart device. However, it's important to note that electric levelling systems are designed for fine-tuning on flat surfaces and may not be suitable for compensating significantly uneven ground. Before using electric jacks, it is advisable to park on level ground and use levelling blocks to address any remaining unevenness. This process ensures stability and prevents potential damage to the RV and its electric levelling system.

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Use a cordless drill to tweak the leveling

Using a cordless drill is a convenient way to level your RV with electric jacks. It is faster and less strenuous than manual cranking. You can use any 18-volt or 24-volt cordless drill, but it's important to use the low-speed setting to prevent the jacks from descending too quickly.

When choosing a drill, consider the battery type and power. Some drills use “universal batteries” that can be used with multiple tools, which can be convenient if you already have other cordless tools. You can also find drills with 12-volt batteries, which match the voltage of most RV electrical systems, although you'll need an AC or DC charger. If you opt for an 18-volt drill, be aware that charging it with your RV's 12-volt system may damage the battery and reduce its lifespan.

You can purchase a drill bit adapter to fit your drill to the jacks. A 3/4" socket is standard for many jacks, and you can find these sockets at hardware stores or online.

Some popular drill brands for levelling RV jacks include DeWalt, Ryobi, Makita, and Harbor Freight. You can often find affordable options at pawn shops, Walmart, or on Amazon.

Remember, cordless drills are just one option for levelling your RV with electric jacks. You can also use the included control panel or a Bluetooth-compatible app, depending on your system.

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Stabilize the RV with blocks or pads

Stabilizing your RV is important for the comfort of everyone inside the rig. It helps to prevent the "seasick" motion that can occur when an RV is not level.

To stabilize your RV with blocks or pads, you need to level it first. This can be done using your tongue jack and blocking under your wheels. Once level, you can lower the stabilizers to prevent the wiggle.

If you have a motorhome, you can drive it up onto leveling blocks to get closer to level before extending the RV jacks. However, you should never extend the jacks so far that the tires come off the ground.

There are several types of blocks and pads available for stabilizing an RV. Utility Blocks are a popular choice due to their size, weight, strength, and cost. They are big enough to provide a good surface area to prevent jacks from sinking into soft or wet ground while being thick enough to provide good lift. They also have a circular recess at the top to support a travel trailer's tongue jack and a bright yellow cord for easy retrieval.

Another option is to use Camco Aluminum Stack Jacks, which can support up to 6,000 lb and extend from 11" to 17". These jacks are placed under your vehicle after levelling to adjust and stabilize it.

Some RVers also use X-Chocks on their 2-axle travel trailers, which provide more stability than tire chocks. They can be used in conjunction with leveling blocks for added stability.

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Use a bubble level to check the grade

Using a bubble level to check the grade of your RV is a crucial step in ensuring your vehicle is level. This is important not only for your comfort but also for the safety of your vehicle and its systems. An uneven RV is unstable, which can cause wear and tear and even warp parts of the RV.

To use a bubble level, start by placing it close to the rear axle of your RV, with the length of the bubble level positioned so it aligns with the side-to-side axis of your vehicle. Check the level vial for a centred bubble. If the bubble is only slightly off-centre, try moving forward or backward slightly to get the rig level. If this slight backward/forward movement isn’t sufficient, you can add levellers (levelling blocks or pads) under the lower side tyres and drive up onto them. Your goal is to get the bubble as close to the centre as possible.

Once your RV is level from side to side, you can begin the front-to-back levelling process. Using your bubble level, check the front-to-back level of your RV. If the bubble is off-centre, you'll need to raise one end of your RV using levelling blocks. Place the blocks on the low end and adjust until the bubble is centred.

It's important to note that there are also electronic alternatives to traditional bubble levels, such as smartphone apps or electronic levels, which can be used to check both front-to-back and side-to-side levelling.

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Avoid parking on uneven ground

To avoid parking on uneven ground, always park as close to level as possible. The more evenly you start, the less work it will take to get everything in place. Park with the front end of the RV facing downward, as your rear wheels are the ones that lock when you're in park, so you want to keep them on the ground.

If you do find yourself on uneven ground, there are a range of tools to help you level your RV. Levelling chocks are an affordable, easy-to-use solution. These tough, brightly coloured plastic wedges allow you to drive up onto them to level out your vehicle. If one wheel has ended up in a divot, or you're parked on a slope with one side of your camper sitting lower than the other, you can place the blocks on the ground, drive up the ramp until it levels out, and then park up as you usually would. It is important to remember that levelling chocks should be used with care. They're designed only for levelling, not for lifting the vehicle for maintenance or other work. You can also use anti-slip mats, which you can slide underneath your tires to give them something to grip if you find yourself stuck in mud, gravel, or sand.

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Use a leveling system app

Using a levelling system app is a great way to level your RV with minimal effort. There are several options available, including the LevelMatePRO and WoBLR™. These systems use Bluetooth to connect to your smartphone or tablet, allowing you to control and monitor the levelling process from the comfort of your device.

The LevelMatePRO is a wireless RV levelling system that is compatible with both iOS and Android devices. The system features a 3-axis digital accelerometer that accurately calculates angles and height requirements. The LevelMate app guides you through the setup process and shows you exactly where and by how much you need to adjust your RV.

The WoBLR™ is another popular option, known for its accuracy and ease of use. It eliminates the need for manual adjustments and provides an easy-to-read visual RV bubble level right on your device. The app includes two features: a leveler that helps you get your RV perfectly level, and a jack point feature that helps you quickly find the right height to reconnect your hitch.

To use these apps, you will need to install a module or device in your RV. The setup process is generally straightforward and only takes a few minutes. Once installed, you can calibrate the app to your RV and start levelling with ease.

By using a levelling system app, you can save time and effort in setting up your RV, ensuring a more comfortable and enjoyable camping experience.

Frequently asked questions

The first step is to uncouple your trailer from your tow vehicle.

You can use a bubble level, an old-school levelling block, or a smartphone app.

Use a power drill or a jack crank handle to raise and lower the jacks.

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