Leveling your motorhome is essential for comfort and functionality. An uneven motorhome can cause issues with appliances, plumbing, and overall stability. Hydraulic jacks make the leveling process easier and more efficient. Here’s a step-by-step guide on how to level your motorhome using hydraulic jacks.
1. Choose a Level Spot
Before you start the leveling process, find the most level spot available:
- Inspect the Ground: Look for a flat and stable surface. Avoid areas with significant slopes or soft ground that could cause the jacks to sink.
- Position the Motorhome: Park your motorhome in the chosen spot, ensuring it is as level as possible before using the jacks.
2. Prepare the Motorhome
Before activating the hydraulic jacks, prepare your motorhome:
- Turn Off the Engine: Ensure the motorhome engine is turned off and the parking brake is engaged.
- Extend the Slides: If your motorhome has slide-outs, extend them before leveling to avoid putting stress on the jacks.
3. Activate the Hydraulic Jacks
Follow these steps to use the hydraulic jacks:
- Turn On the System: Locate the control panel for the hydraulic jacks and turn on the system.
- Select Auto or Manual Mode: Most hydraulic jack systems have an automatic leveling mode. If available, select this option for the easiest leveling process. If not, use the manual mode to adjust each jack individually.
4. Level the Motorhome
If using manual mode, follow these steps to level your motorhome:
- Lower the Front Jacks: Start by lowering the front jacks until they make contact with the ground. Raise the front of the motorhome slightly.
- Lower the Rear Jacks: Next, lower the rear jacks until they make contact with the ground. Adjust the rear jacks to level the motorhome from front to back.
- Adjust Side-to-Side: Finally, adjust the side jacks to level the motorhome from side to side. Use a bubble level inside the motorhome to check for accuracy.
5. Check Stability
Once the motorhome is level, ensure it is stable:
- Inspect the Jacks: Check that all jacks are firmly in contact with the ground and are supporting the motorhome evenly.
- Test Stability: Walk around inside the motorhome to ensure it feels stable and secure.
6. Retract the Jacks
When you’re ready to move your motorhome, follow these steps to retract the hydraulic jacks:
- Turn On the System: Turn on the hydraulic jack system from the control panel.
- Retract the Jacks: Use the control panel to retract all jacks. Ensure they are fully retracted before driving.
- Check for Obstructions: Walk around the motorhome to ensure no jacks or other components are left extended.
Leveling your motorhome with hydraulic jacks is a straightforward process that enhances your comfort and safety. By following these steps, you can ensure your motorhome is properly leveled and stable, allowing you to enjoy your travels with peace of mind. Whether you’re a seasoned RV enthusiast or new to motorhome living, mastering the use of hydraulic jacks is an essential skill.