When it comes to RV camping, one of the most important steps in setting up your RV home is leveling your vehicle. Proper RV jack leveling ensures your RV is stable, comfortable, and safe for your family. However, many RV owners make some common mistakes during this process, which can lead to discomfort, equipment damage, and even safety hazards. In this article, we’ll explore these common RV jack leveling mistakes and provide tips for avoiding them.
1. Neglecting to check the ground
One of the most common mistakes RV owners make is not assessing the ground conditions before leveling their RV. Whether you’re parked at a campground or a friend’s driveway, the terrain can have a major impact on the leveling process. Always check the ground for slopes, soft spots, or uneven surfaces. If the ground is too soft, it can cause sinking, while steep slopes can make leveling nearly impossible. To avoid this mistake, take the time to walk around the area and choose a flat, stable surface to park on.
2. Skip using the leveling tool
Many RV owners underestimate the importance of using a leveling tool. While some may rely on intuition or eyeballing the position of their RV, this can lead to inaccuracies. Using a bubble level or a leveling app on your smartphone can help ensure that the RV is perfectly level. To avoid this mistake, always carry a leveling tool with you and check the position of the RV before deploying the jack.
3. Improper jack placement
Another common mistake is improper jack placement. Placing the jack on an unstable or uneven surface can cause damage or even jack failure. Additionally, failing to evenly distribute the weight on the jack can cause unnecessary stress on the RV’s frame. To avoid this, always place the jack on solid ground and use jack pads to evenly distribute the weight. This will not only protect your RV but also enhance stability.
4. Forgetting to fully extend the jack
Some RV owners make the mistake of not fully extending the jacks, thinking that partially extending them is enough. This can cause the RV to become unstable and potentially damage the jacks themselves. Always make sure the jacks are fully extended and locked in place before installing them. To avoid this mistake, take the time to double-check the position and extension of each jack before considering the height of the RV.
5. Ignoring the importance of stabilizers
While leveling jacks are essential to keeping your RV level, stabilizers play a vital role in preventing movement and swaying. Many RV owners overlook the importance of stabilizers, causing them discomfort during camping. To avoid this mistake, always deploy stabilizers after leveling your RV. This will provide additional support and enhance your overall camping experience.
6. Failure to recheck leveling after setup
Finally, one of the most overlooked aspects of RV jack leveling is the need to recheck the level after installation. As you move around inside your RV, the weight distribution can change, causing the RV to become uneven. To avoid this mistake, make it a habit to recheck the level of your RV after installation and moving. This simple step can save you discomfort and potential problems later on.
In summary, proper RV jack leveling is essential to a safe and enjoyable camping experience. By avoiding these common mistakes and following the tips provided, you can ensure your RV remains level, stable, and ready for your next adventure.
Post time: Dec-03-2024