Listen, we get it. Caravan life is an adventure and any seasoned caravanner will tell you that neglecting caravan levelling is like trying to salsa dance on a tightrope while juggling flaming pineapples. It's a recipe for disaster.
So, before your caravan turns into a chaotic circus act, take heed. Invest some quality time upfront in mastering the art of caravan levelling. Not only will your nights be cosier, but you'll also spare your precious appliances from going berserk.
That’s why caravan jacks and levelling devices are essential tools for any caravan owner, ensuring that your mobile home is stable, secure, and level at your chosen campsite.
In this comprehensive Everything Caravan & Camping guide, we will dive into the world of caravan jacks and levelling devices, exploring their types, usage, and benefits, so you can enjoy a hassle-free and comfortable camping experience.
So, whether you're a seasoned caravanner or just getting started, check out Everything Caravan & Camping to discover everything you need to know about caravan jacks and levelling devices.
What Are Caravan Jacks And Levelling Devices
Caravan jacks and levelling devices are designed to stabilise and level your caravan, creating a safe and comfortable environment while parked. These devices are crucial for ensuring that your caravan is level, preventing unwanted rocking, and making it easier to set up your living space.
Why Caravan Levelling Matters
Before we delve into the specifics of caravan jacks and levelling devices, it's crucial to understand why levelling your caravan is so important:
1. Safety: A level caravan is more stable and less likely to sway or tip over, reducing the risk of accidents.
2. Comfort: Caravanning is all about comfort and relaxation. A level caravan ensures that your appliances, like your fridge and cooker, work efficiently.
3. Damage Prevention: Uneven weight distribution can lead to structural damage to your caravan over time.
4. Better Sleep: A level caravan means a more comfortable night's sleep, as you won't be rolling from side to side.
Now that we understand the importance of levelling a caravan, let's delve into the tools that make this task easier: caravan jacks and levelling devices.
Caravan Jacks: Lifting Your Caravan
Caravan jacks are essential tools for lifting your caravan off the ground. They are used during setup and maintenance to ensure that the caravan is level and stable.
There are various types of caravan jacks available, each with its own set of advantages and suitable use cases.
Types Of Caravan Jacks
1. Scissor Jacks:
Scissor jacks are the most common type of caravan jack. They are typically mounted on the chassis of the caravan and are operated manually or with a power drill. Scissor jacks are known for their stability and ease of use. They are primarily used for levelling the caravan on a horizontal plane.
Best for: Levelling your caravan on flat surfaces.
2. Winding Handle Jacks:
Winding handle jacks are similar to scissor jacks, but come with a built-in winding handle, making them easier to operate manually. They are a cost-effective option and can be used for both levelling and raising the caravan.
Best for: Budget-conscious caravanners who need a versatile jack.
3. Hydraulic Jockey Wheel Jack:
Hydraulic jacks are powered by hydraulic fluid, making them capable of lifting heavier caravans. They excel in various applications like caravanning, horse floats, trailers, food vans, and motor homes. Its hydraulic mechanism ensures effortless operation, meeting Australian safety standards.
Best for: Large caravans and motorhomes.
4. Stabiliser Jacks:
Stabiliser jacks are designed to reduce movement and sway while your caravan is parked. While they are not used for levelling, they play a crucial role in ensuring a comfortable and secure stay inside your caravan.
Best for: Minimising caravan movement when parked.
5. Camco Stack Jacks:
Camco stack jacks are perfect for caravan stabilisation. They are easy to set up and adjust, with jacks that come complete with fully adjustable handles. These stackable units take up minimal storage space, making them a convenient choice for caravanners looking for stability and ease of use.
Best for: Effortless caravan stabilisation with minimal storage requirements.
6. Electric Caravan Jacks:
Electric caravan jacks represent the latest innovation in caravan levelling and lifting technology. These jacks are equipped with electric motors, eliminating the need for manual effort. With just a push of a button, you can effortlessly raise or lower your caravan to the desired height. Electric caravan jacks are known for their speed and convenience, making them a popular choice among modern caravanners.
Best for: Caravanners seeking effortless levelling and lifting with the convenience of electric operation.
Additionally, for added stability and versatility, consider incorporating a Drop Down Corner Leg into your caravan setup.
This drop-down corner leg is constructed from heavy-duty steel with electrophoresis, a process that equips it with superior rust, corrosion, scratch, and impact resistance. This ensures its durability over the long term.
The leg's base provides a firm foundation for your caravan, even on uneven ground. The rotating plate can also be adjusted to different angles, providing steady, yet flexible support.
With the included hex drive, raising and lowering the leg becomes more convenient.
This device is ideal for trailers, caravans, camper trailers, boat trailers, motorcycle trailers, and more. Don't miss out on this valuable addition to your caravan equipment!
Now that you know about the different types of caravan jacks, you can choose the one that best suits your caravan's size and your specific needs.
Caravan Levelling Devices: Achieving A Perfectly Balanced Caravan
Caravan levelling devices are essential tools for achieving a balanced and level caravan. These devices complement caravan jacks by helping you determine whether your caravan is level from front to back and side to side.
Let's explore the various types of levelling devices and how to use them effectively.
Types Of Caravan Levelling Devices
1. Spirit Levels:
Spirit levels are the most basic and cost-effective levelling devices. They are easy to use and can be placed on a flat surface inside your caravan or on the caravan's exterior. By observing the bubble within the spirit level, you can determine whether your caravan is level.
Best for: Caravanners on a budget looking for a simple solution.
2. Wheel Chocks:
Wheel chocks are placed under the caravan's wheels to prevent movement. They come in various shapes and sizes and are particularly useful for achieving side-to-side levelness. To use wheel chocks effectively, place them under the wheels on the low side of the caravan until it is level.
Best for: Achieving side-to-side levelness.
3. Digital Levels:
Digital levels use technology to provide precise level readings. They are easy to read and often come with a digital display, making the levelling process quick and accurate. Some digital levels can even connect to your smartphone for added convenience.
Best for: Caravanners who prioritise accuracy and convenience.
4. Levelling Ramps:
Levelling ramps are designed to help you achieve both side-to-side and front-to-back levelness for your caravan. Simply drive your caravan onto these ramps until it reaches the desired level. They provide a sturdy and reliable solution for levelling your caravan.
Best for: Caravanners who prioritise a hassle-free and comprehensive levelling solution for their caravan.
5. Red Foot Levelling Mega Chock:
The red foot levelling mega chock is engineered to thrive in the harshest environments. Its rugged design resists dirt, dust, mud, and even oil. Cleaning is easy – just rinse it under water and wipe it down with a dry cloth. Ensure your caravan stays level with this durable chock.
Best for: Caravans and motorhomes in harsh environments.
6. Dual Axle Heavy Duty Levelling Ramps:
Specifically designed for dual axle caravans in heavy-duty applications, these levelling ramps offer a shorter length to ensure perfect balance. Quit worrying about uneven surfaces, and easily achieve the right level for your caravan.
Best for: Dual axle caravans in heavy-duty applications.
7. Multi Stage Levelling Ramps:
Caravans and motorhomes seeking a broader footprint on various terrains will appreciate these multi stage levelling ramps. They increase better contact with wider tires and help reduce sinking on soft ground, providing stability and peace of mind during your travels.
Best for: Caravans and motorhomes needing a broader footprint on various terrains.
How To Level A Caravan Front And Back
Now that you're familiar with the types of levelling devices, let's talk about how to use them effectively to level your caravan both front to back and side to side.
1. Front-To-Back Levelling:
Step 1: Using a spirit level inside the caravan is a good method to determine whether it's level from front to back. Make sure the surface where you place the spirit level is truly flat and stable
Step 2: When using the caravan jack to adjust the height, do so gradually and in small increments. It's important not to overextend the jack, and always follow the manufacturer's recommendations for safe usage.
It's important to note that maintaining proper weight distribution within your caravan is crucial for safe and efficient levelling. Consider having a caravan weight controller in your toolkit.
By ensuring that your caravan's weight is evenly distributed from front to back, you not only facilitate the levelling process, but also enhance the overall stability and handling of your caravan during your travels.
2. Side-To-Side Levelling:
Step 1: Placing a spirit level inside the caravan is an accurate way to check for side-to-side levelling. Again, ensure the surface is flat and stable.
Step 2: When using wheel chocks, place them on the low side of the caravan's wheels. Start with one chock and add or remove chocks as needed to achieve levelness. Make sure the chocks are properly positioned and securely in place to prevent any movement.
By following these steps and using the appropriate levelling devices, you can achieve a perfectly balanced caravan for a safe and comfortable journey.
In a word, caravan jacks and levelling devices play a crucial role in ensuring your safety, comfort, and the longevity of your caravan.
Incorporating these tools into your caravanning routine not only enhances your overall experience, but also ensures that you're well-prepared for the road ahead!
Ready to take the plunge and make your caravanning adventures even better? Visit Everything Caravan & Camping today and discover a wide range of high-quality caravan jacks and levelling devices to take your journey to the next level! Your road to adventure starts here!
