Are you planning a road trip with your dual axle travel trailer? Before hitting the road, it’s crucial to ensure that your trailer is in good condition. One important step is to properly jack up your dual axle travel trailer.
This will allow you to perform necessary maintenance, change a tire, or inspect the undercarriage. However, jacking up a trailer can be dangerous if not done correctly. In this step-by-step guide, we’ll show you how to jack up a dual axle travel trailer safely and effectively.
Step 1: Prepare for Jacking Up
Before jacking up your travel trailer, you must first ensure that you have the right tools and equipment. For a dual axle trailer, you’ll need two jacks, two sets of jack stands, and wheel chocks. You should also check that your jacks and jack stands are rated for the weight of your trailer.
Next, locate the proper jack points on your trailer frame. This will vary depending on your trailer’s make and model, so consult your owner’s manual.
Once you’ve located the jack points, park your trailer on level ground and engage the parking brake. Place wheel chocks on the opposite side of the tires that you’ll be jacking up to prevent the trailer from rolling.
Step 2: Jack Up One Side of the Trailer
Start by positioning the jack in the correct location under the trailer’s frame. Then, slowly begin cranking the jack to lift one side of the trailer at a time. Be sure to monitor the level of the trailer and adjust the jack’s height as needed.
Once the tire on one side of the trailer is off the ground, place a jack stand under the frame near the tire. Carefully lower the jack until the trailer is resting on the jack stand. Repeat this process on the other side of the trailer, making sure to use the same height on both jack stands.
Step 3: Lower the Trailer
Once you’re done with your maintenance, it’s time to lower the trailer. First, double-check that the trailer is level and stable on the jack stands. Then, carefully remove the jack stands from under the frame.
Use the jack to slowly lower the trailer until the tires are back on the ground. Once the trailer is lowered, remove the wheel chocks and stow your jacks and jack stands. Finally, test your trailer to ensure that it’s level and stable before heading out on your journey.
Tips and Safety Precautions
- Always use wheel chocks to prevent the trailer from rolling while you’re jacking it up.
- Never work under a trailer that’s supported by only a jack. Always use jack stands to support the weight of the trailer.
- Double check that the jack stands are secure and level before removing the jack.
- Follow the manufacturer’s guidelines when using jacks and jack stands.
- Keep your trailer level when jacking it up to avoid accidents.
Where do you put the jack on a dual axle trailer?
When jacking up a dual axle trailer, it’s important to locate the proper jack points on the trailer frame. These jack points will vary depending on the trailer’s make and model, so it’s essential to consult your owner’s manual for guidance.
In general, the jack points will be located near the axles, but it’s important to ensure that you’re using the correct points to avoid damaging the trailer’s frame.
Never jack up a trailer using the axle or suspension components, as this can cause serious damage.
What’s the best way to jack up a travel trailer?
The best way to jack up a travel trailer is to first ensure that you have the right tools and equipment, including two jacks, two sets of jack stands, and wheel chocks.
Once you have these items, locate the proper jack points on your trailer frame and park the trailer on level ground, engaging the parking brake. Place wheel chocks on the opposite side of the tires that you’ll be jacking up to prevent the trailer from rolling.
Then, position the jack in the correct location under the trailer’s frame and slowly begin cranking the jack to lift one side of the trailer at a time.
Use the jack to lift the trailer to the desired height and place the jack stands under the trailer for support. Repeat on the other side of the trailer, making sure to use the same height on both jack stands.
How do you raise a tandem axle trailer?
To raise a tandem axle trailer, follow the same steps as for a dual axle trailer. Start by locating the proper jack points on the trailer frame, then park the trailer on level ground and engage the parking brake.
Use two jacks to lift one side of the trailer at a time and adjust the jacks’ height to lift the trailer to the desired height.
Place the jack stands under the trailer for support and repeat the process on the other side of the trailer, making sure to use the same height on both jack stands.
Once you’re done with your maintenance, use the jacks to slowly lower the trailer until the tires are back on the ground.
How do you jack up a travel trailer to change tires?
To jack up a travel trailer to change tires, follow the same steps as for jacking up a travel trailer for maintenance or repairs. Start by locating the proper jack points on the trailer frame, then park the trailer on level ground and engage the parking brake.
Use two jacks to lift one side of the trailer at a time and adjust the jacks’ height to lift the trailer to the desired height. Once the tire on one side of the trailer is off the ground, place a jack stand under the frame near the tire. Carefully lower the jack until the trailer is resting on the jack stand.
Repeat this process on the other side of the trailer, making sure to use the same height on both jack stands. Once the trailer is properly supported, you can remove the tire and replace it with a spare tire.
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Conclusion
Jacking up a dual axle travel trailer is a necessary step for maintenance and repairs, but it can be dangerous if not done correctly. By following this step-by-step guide, you can safely jack up your trailer and keep it in good condition.
Remember to always use wheel chocks, jack stands, and the proper tools and equipment. By taking these steps, you can enjoy a worry-free trip with your travel trailer. Don’t forget to perform regular maintenance on your trailer to ensure that it’s always road-ready!