It is always a challenge to get a camper trailer level. Many people do not even bother trying, but it is important to level the camper for comfort and to ensure everything functions properly. The refrigerator is especially sensitive to incorrect angles when running on propane.
Find a Level Spot
Half the battle is finding a level spot for the camper. When visiting established campgrounds, the spots are mostly level, but minor adjustments will still need to be made.
Before situating the trailer, get out and examine the spot and look for any dips or depressions. Use a short, sturdy 2-by-6 inch board to help fill in minor depressions and lift one side of the trailer significantly.
Use Easy-to-View Levels
If the trailer is not already equipped with easy to read bubble levels, they are available at most retailers or RV stores. Get larger ones that you can read through the rear-view mirror. The most difficult leveling occurs when adjusting the sides of the trailer, not from front to back. With an easy to read level, much of the side to side hassle can be eliminated when backing in.
Where to Place the Levels
Two levels should be used, one at the front of the camper trailer and one on the side, just around the corner. This makes the levels easy to read when using the trailer jack. The levels come with adhesive backing and should be affixed to a clean, flat spot on the trailer. Line up the level with horizontal lines on the camper. Doing this is key to leveling the camper properly.
Use the Trailer Tongue Jack
The strongest jack on the trailer is the tongue jack, which is used to hitch up the trailer. Its placement makes it ideal for leveling. Hopefully, the side-to-side leveling will be mostly addressed. If not, minor adjustments are possible when doing the front-to-back leveling.
Lift the trailer off the hitch, then lower the trailer until it is just under level at the front of the trailer. Place the trailer jack stands in the back under the frame. If one side is slightly lower, snug up the lower jack stand as much as possible, but leave an inch or so free on the higher side. When the front of the trailer is raised, this will adjust the side at the same time.
Raise the tongue jack until the front is just above level. Place the other two jack stands at the front, using the same technique as above if one side is lower than the other. Lower the jack again and set the camper trailer on the front jack stands. The trailer should be level. Depending on the type of jack stands used, additional minor adjustments are possible.
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