Achieve Perfect Caravan Levelling With These Maintenance Tips

When embarking on a caravan adventure, ensuring a perfectly level surface for your caravan is crucial. Proper levelling not only enhances your overall camping experience but also contributes to the longevity and safety of your vehicle. A level caravan ensures that appliances and furniture within the caravan function optimally, avoiding unnecessary strain or imbalance. 

It also enhances your sleeping experience, as a levelled caravan prevents the discomfort of rolling out of bed due to uneven surfaces. Moreover, a well-levelled caravan promotes safe towing and reduces the risk of accidents on the road. In this article, we will explore the essential maintenance tips that will help you achieve perfect caravan levelling.

Methods For Levelling A Caravan

• Using blocks

Using blocks to level your caravan provides flexibility, especially when the ground surface is uneven or when levelling ramps are not available. However, always prioritise safety and stability by choosing appropriate blocks and securely positioning them to support the weight of your caravan.

 

• Using chocks

Chocks are wedge-shaped blocks placed beneath the wheels to prevent the caravan from rolling. Once your caravan is positioned on the levelling ramps, place chocks behind the wheels to ensure stability. This will prevent any accidental movement while you're inside or outside the caravan.

• Level gauge

A level gauge is a valuable tool for achieving accurate caravan levelling. By installing a level gauge and utilising its readings, you can ensure that your caravan is sitting level, providing stability, comfort, and safety throughout your camping journeys.

• Electronic systems

Electronic systems provide accurate measurements, automated adjustments, and enhanced convenience for caravan owners. Whether through electronic control units, remote control functionality, mobile app integration, or built-in systems, these technologies make levelling quicker and more efficient.

Tips And Tricks For Achieving A Perfectly Setup

Measure and adjust each corner of the caravan individually.

You ensure that all areas of the caravan are level and balanced. This method allows for precise levelling and provides a comfortable and stable living space during your travels. 

Use a level gauge or spirit level to ensure accuracy.

It allows you to precisely determine any imbalances and make necessary adjustments to ensure a level and stable setup. 

Place blocks or chocks under the caravan's wheels to adjust the height.

It provides flexibility and allows you to fine-tune the levelling process according to your specific needs.

Place a board under the caravan's wheels to spread the weight evenly.

By placing a board under the caravan's wheels, you distribute the weight more evenly, reducing the risk of excessive pressure on specific areas. This technique contributes to a stable and balanced setup, enhancing the overall safety and comfort of your caravan experience.

Use a levelling system with adjustable legs to fine-tune the level.

One effective method to fine-tune the level of your caravan is by using a levelling system with adjustable legs. These systems offer precise control over the height and levelling adjustments, allowing you to achieve an optimal level for your caravan.

Check for level both side-to-side and front-to-back.

Checking for level both side-to-side and front-to-back is essential for a properly set up caravan. It ensures stability, weight distribution, and a comfortable living environment. Remember to use a spirit level, make necessary adjustments using levelling ramps or corner steadies, and continuously check the level to achieve accurate levelling in both directions.

Use a tripod level or laser level for greater precision.

Using a tripod level or laser level enhances the accuracy and efficiency of your levelling process. These tools offer a visual guide and eliminate any potential human error in determining the levelness. 

Place shims under the blocks or chocks to achieve a perfectly level setup.

Shims are thin wedges or blocks that can be placed under the levelling blocks or chocks to achieve precise levelling. They can help you fine-tune the height and ensure a perfectly level setup. Using shims can be especially helpful when the ground is slightly uneven or when you require precise levelling for optimal comfort and stability.

Check the level frequently and make adjustments as needed.

By regularly checking the level and making adjustments as needed, you can maintain a stable and level caravan setup. This practice allows you to address any changes or shifts in the ground or caravan's weight distribution.

Consider using a levelling app or online tools to simplify the process.

Using levelling apps or online tools can simplify and streamline the levelling process, providing you with accurate measurements and real-time feedback. These tools are particularly useful if you don't have a spirit level or prefer a digital approach to levelling. Just make sure to choose reputable apps or tools and follow their instructions for optimal results.

Maintenance And Upkeep Of Levelling Systems

Regularly inspect the levelling system components for signs of wear and damage.

Perform regular inspections of your levelling system to identify any signs of wear, damage, or malfunction. Check the wiring, connectors, and mechanical components for any visible issues. Pay attention to hydraulic or electronic components, if applicable, as they may require additional maintenance.

Keep the levelling jacks and blocks clean and free of dirt and debris.

 Keep the levelling system clean by removing dirt, dust, and debris. Use a soft cloth or brush to wipe down the system and remove any accumulated grime. 

Lubricate the levelling jacks and gears as recommended by the manufacturer.

Regular lubrication helps prevent friction and ensures smooth operation.

Store the levelling blocks and jacks in a dry, protected area when not in use.

Proper storage of levelling blocks and jacks is crucial to maintain their functionality and prevent damage.

Check the levelling system before each trip and make any necessary adjustments.

Check the wiring, connectors, and mechanical components for any visible issues. Pay attention to hydraulic or electronic components, if applicable, as they may require additional maintenance.

Keep the levelling system components properly tightened to prevent wobbling or shifting.

Loose components can affect the stability and effectiveness of the system.

Replace any damaged or worn components as soon as possible to maintain the effectiveness of the levelling system.

By promptly replacing damaged or worn components, you can ensure that your levelling system remains in optimal working condition.

Consider purchasing a spare set of levelling blocks or jacks for emergency use.

These can be invaluable in case of emergencies or unexpected situations where your primary levelling equipment is damaged or lost.

Store the caravan level when not in use to prevent unnecessary wear and tear on the levelling system.

Storing the caravan on a level surface helps prevent unnecessary wear and tear on the levelling system and ensures the stability and integrity of the caravan.

Regularly check the alignment and balance of the caravan's wheels and tires to ensure stability.

Proper alignment and balance contribute to smoother handling and reduce the risk of tire-related issues.

Safety Precautions When Levelling A Caravan

• Always park the caravan on a level and stable surface.
• Use caution when adjusting the levelling blocks or jacks, as the caravan may become unstable.
• Make sure the caravan is properly secured before adjusting the levelling system.
• Avoid overloading the levelling jacks or blocks, as this can cause them to fail.
• Wear appropriate footwear and protective clothing when working with the levelling system.
• Keep children and pets away from the caravan while adjusting the levelling system.
• Use caution when working under the caravan, as it may be unstable or shift.
• Avoid using the levelling system in wet or slippery conditions.
• Check the stability of the caravan regularly while adjusting the levelling system.
• Consider using stabilising jacks or chocks to add additional support to the caravan.

DIY Techniques For Levelling A Caravan

• Measure the height of each corner of the caravan to determine how much adjustment is needed.
• Use wooden blocks, chocks or levelling jacks to adjust the height of each corner.
• Place a spirit level or gauge on top of the caravan to check for level.
• Adjust each corner until the spirit level indicates that the caravan is level.
• Use shims to fine-tune the level if necessary.
• Repeat the process until the caravan is levelled both side-to-side and front-to-back.
• Secure the caravan with stabilising jacks or chocks to prevent it from shifting or moving.
• Test the stability of the caravan by walking around inside and outside of it.
• Check the level frequently to make sure it remains stable.
• Consider using a levelling app or online tool to simplify the process and ensure accuracy.

Conclusion

Achieving perfect caravan levelling is crucial for a safe, comfortable, and enjoyable camping experience. By following the maintenance tips outlined in this article, you can ensure that your caravan is properly levelled every time you set up camp. Remember to check and maintain your levelling equipment regularly, distribute weight evenly inside the caravan, and consider the specific challenges of different terrains. 

Also, don't forget to have reliable levelling products with you while camping. Get it in the RV online shop, they offer quality levelling products for campers like you. So, with these tips in mind, you'll be well-prepared to enjoy a smooth and stable adventure in your caravan.