Jacking up a travel trailer is an important skill for maintenance tasks like changing tires, inspecting the undercarriage, or leveling the trailer. Here's a step-by-step guide to safely jack up a travel trailer.
First, ensure you are on level ground. Park the trailer on a firm, stable surface to prevent it from rolling or shifting while you work. Engage the trailer's parking brake and consider placing wheel chocks behind the wheels for added safety.
Next, locate the appropriate lifting points on your trailer. Usually, this will be near the axles or designated jacking spots indicated in the owner's manual. Avoid lifting from the frame or body, as this can damage the trailer.
Now, gather your tools. You will need a jack rated for the weight of your travel trailer. A hydraulic floor jack is commonly used, but you may also consider using a bottle jack or a scissor jack, depending on accessibility and the height needed. Ensure you also have jack stands on hand to support the trailer once lifted.
Position the jack under the trailer at the identified lifting point. Make sure the jack is stable and that the area around it is clear. Slowly pump or raise the jack, lifting the trailer to the desired height. Keep a close eye on the stability of the trailer as it lifts, ensuring it remains balanced.
Once the trailer is at the desired height, immediately place jack stands under the frame or the designated support points. Lower the jack slightly to rest the weight of the trailer onto the jack stands. This is a crucial safety step, as it provides additional support and prevents the trailer from falling in case the jack fails.
Before performing any task under the trailer, give a gentle tug on the trailer to ensure it is stable and secure. If everything is safe, you can proceed with your maintenance work.
When finished, reverse the process. First, remove any tools or equipment from under the trailer. Then, raise the jack slightly to remove the jack stands, and lower the trailer gradually back to the ground. Once it's back on the ground, remove the jack and store it appropriately.
Safety is paramount, so always use caution and ensure you're properly equipped. If you're unsure about any step, consult a professional mechanic or an experienced RV technician for assistance.