Learn How To Stabilize A Parked Travel Trailer

By Ruth Robinson


Traveling is a great way to spend time, but it can also be costly if you have to fly and pay for hotels. One way to avoid that is to drive, and tow a travel trailer with you to stay in. Seeing the country this way means you get to do things at your own pace, and it makes things so much more affordable. But you do have to make sure you know how to stabilize a parked travel trailer to keep you and your travel companions safer.

Not everyone who travels with a trailer stabilizes. If you are only going ot be somewhere one night, it is not really necessary. But more than one night, or in a place that does not have the most stable ground, and it is something you really should do. It ensures that the vehicle does not rock back and forth.

Trailers come in a wide variety of sizes, and the larger ones tend to be much more stable overall, all on their own. The smaller ones are less stable, so if you are using one of those, then you definitely want to get stabilization tools before you start traveling. Thankfully, they are not very big or cumbersome to carry or store.

Finding a good parking spot is the essential first step to successfully stabilizing your rig. You can find good ones at camp sites or RV parks, as they specialize in being a great place to park this type of vehicle. They also may have water and sewer hookups so you can cook and bathe. Even if you do not use a campground, look for a space that has a concrete pad if you can find one. Muddy or grassy areas can cause sinkage.

The most important tool in your stabilization arsenal is jacks. These are easy to find in any auto parts or big box superstore, and most have them in stock and ready to go. They are also usually very affordable.

Blocks are another way to go. Most people use 2x6 blocks that are anywhere from six to eight inches in length. The length of these blocks, which are usually made of wood, largely depends upon the size of the trailer you are trying to stabilize.

If you really want to go for the utmost in stabilization, think about using both jacks and blocks. They are great for any surface, but you should especially use them if you decide to park in a rainy area or where the ground is soft.

Though wood is the most common materials for blocks, there are also plastic ones available. These are light but very sturdy and thick, and are easy to stack to keep them in a compact space while driving.

Once you have the tools, you can place the blocks first, then the jacks right on top. Then just follow the instructions for the jack and you are done. There are many jack types, from specialty stabilizing ones, to scissor jacks and more. Each one has different methods of operation, so follow the instructions and you will see how easy it is to make your rig more stable.




About the Author:



No comments:

Post a Comment