The Ultimate Guide to Jacking Up a Dual Axle Travel Trailer: Your Step-by-Step Tutorial
What To Know
- Use jack stands to support the trailer once it’s lifted, never rely solely on the jack.
- Once the trailer is lifted high enough for your task, immediately position the jack stands under the trailer’s frame, directly below the jack points.
- These are convenient for lifting and lowering the trailer with the push of a button.
Whether you’re preparing for maintenance, tire changes, or simply need to access the underbelly of your dual axle travel trailer, knowing how to safely jack it up is crucial. This guide will walk you through the process step-by-step, ensuring you have the confidence and knowledge to tackle this task with ease.
Understanding the Basics
Before we delve into the specifics, let’s cover some fundamental concepts:
- Jack Type: The most common jack types for travel trailers are hydraulic jacks, scissor jacks, and electric jacks. Each has its own advantages and disadvantages.
- Weight Distribution: A dual axle trailer distributes its weight across both axles. It’s essential to understand where the weight is concentrated to ensure proper jacking.
- Stability: Always prioritize stability when jacking up a trailer. Use jack stands to support the trailer once it’s lifted, never rely solely on the jack.
Essential Equipment and Safety Precautions
- Jack: Choose a jack rated for the weight of your trailer.
- Jack Stands: These are absolutely crucial for safety. Get a set that can handle the trailer’s weight.
- Chocks: Use wheel chocks to prevent the trailer from rolling while you work.
- Leveling Blocks: For added stability, use leveling blocks to ensure the trailer is level before jacking.
- Gloves: Protect your hands from scrapes and grime.
- Safety Glasses: Shield your eyes from debris.
- Work Area: Choose a level, solid surface to park your trailer.
Step-by-Step Guide: How to Jack Up a Dual Axle Travel Trailer
1. Preparation:
- Park your trailer on a level, solid surface.
- Engage the parking brake.
- Chock the wheels on both axles to prevent movement.
- Ensure the area around the trailer is clear of obstacles.
2. Locate the Jack Points:
- Refer to your trailer’s owner’s manual to identify the designated jack points. These are usually located near the axles, often marked with a small circle or square.
3. Position the Jack:
- Place the jack directly under the designated jack point.
- Ensure the jack is positioned securely and stable.
4. Begin Lifting:
- Slowly and carefully start to raise the trailer using the jack.
- Important: Always lift the trailer in small increments, checking for stability after each lift.
5. Use Jack Stands:
- Once the trailer is lifted high enough for your task, immediately position the jack stands under the trailer’s frame, directly below the jack points.
- Make sure the jack stands are firmly secured and can support the trailer’s weight.
6. Lower the Jack:
- Carefully lower the jack, transferring the weight to the jack stands.
- Once the jack is completely lowered, double-check the stability of the jack stands.
7. Complete Your Task:
- With the trailer securely supported, you can now safely perform your maintenance or repairs.
8. Lower the Trailer:
- To lower the trailer, reverse the process.
- Carefully raise the trailer using the jack, ensuring the jack stands remain in place.
- Once the trailer is at the desired height, remove the jack stands.
- Lower the trailer to the ground.
Tips for Success
- Check your jack’s capacity: Ensure your jack can handle the weight of your trailer.
- Read your owner’s manual: Consult the manual for specific jacking instructions and locations.
- Go slow and steady: Avoid sudden movements or lifting the trailer too high.
- Use proper lifting technique: Keep your back straight and use your legs to lift.
- Inspect the jack regularly: Check for damage or wear and tear.
Beyond the Basics: Understanding Different Jack Types
- Hydraulic Jacks: These offer powerful lifting capacity and are often found on larger trailers.
- Scissor Jacks: These are common on smaller trailers and are relatively lightweight.
- Electric Jacks: These are convenient for lifting and lowering the trailer with the push of a button.
Final Thoughts: The Importance of Safety
Remember, safety should always be your top priority when working with heavy equipment. Never attempt to jack up a trailer alone, and always use proper safety precautions. By following these steps and tips, you can confidently jack up your dual axle travel trailer for any maintenance or repair needs.
Questions You May Have
Q: How often should I inspect my jack?
A: It’s a good idea to inspect your jack before each use, looking for any signs of damage, wear, or corrosion.
Q: What if my trailer is not level?
A: It’s crucial to level your trailer before jacking it up. Use leveling blocks or wedges to correct any unevenness.
Q: Can I use a car jack to jack up my travel trailer?
A: No, car jacks are not designed to handle the weight of a travel trailer and could fail, leading to a dangerous situation.
Q: How do I know if my jack stands are rated for my trailer?
A: Always check the weight capacity of your jack stands. They should be rated for at least the weight of your trailer.
Q: What should I do if my jack fails while lifting the trailer?
A: If your jack fails, immediately stop lifting and try to stabilize the trailer using other means. If possible, use a second jack or other support to lower the trailer safely. Contact a qualified mechanic or trailer repair shop for assistance.