There
are several reasons to make sure your RV is level, including proper
refrigerator operation and safe slide out extension (if you have them).
You'll also want to stabilize your rig so that it doesn't sway when you
move about inside or in windy conditions.
Many
luxury motorhomes and trailers come equipped with exotic self-leveling
systems, with hydraulic or electric rams that extend at the touch of a
button and level the coach automatically. For rigs without this nicety,
leveling blocks or ramps and a small bubble level are required.
Leveling
blocks or ramps don't have to be expensive. They can be as simple as a
stack of 2x10-inch boards. Or, you can step up to interlocking RV
leveling blocks. Made of high-strength plastic, these blocks are touted
as being able to bear the weight of even the largest motorhomes and
trailers.
1)
With your RV positioned in the site where you want it, place the bubble
level on the floor to determine if the unit is level both front-to back
and side-to-side. If you have slide outs, extend them now to see which
way your trailer or motorhome leans. Then retract them for safety.
2) Next, mark some lines in the dirt in front or back of the tires on the side that needs to be leveled.
3)
Now pull your rig forward (or back it up) so that the tires are clear
of the lines. Place your boards or blocks in position. If you determine
that you'll need several layers of boards or blocks to get your rig
level, build them in a ramp configuration.
Don't try to force your RV to climb up more than 2 inches at a time.
4)
Move your motorhome or trailer up onto the levelers, making sure to
keep the tire footprint completely on the boards or blocks. Don't let
your tires overhang any edge as this can cause damage.
5)
Now check the bubble level again and adjust the height of the boards or
blocks as needed so that your rig is level side-to-side. When all looks
good, place wheel chocks in front or behind the tires (depending which
way the site slopes) to keep the trailer from moving. You can then
disconnect your trailer from your tow vehicle and use the trailer's
hitch jack (or a fifth-wheel's "landing gear") to fine-tune the
front-to-rear level.
For motorhomes, put the transmission in "park" and set the parking brake.
