What causes a travel trailer to rock? A travel trailer rocks due to several factors, including uneven ground, the trailer’s suspension system, movement inside the trailer, and even wind. This article provides a comprehensive guide to travel trailer stabilization and various RV rocking solutions. We will explore how to stabilize travel trailer effectively, reduce travel trailer movement, and eliminate trailer sway for a more enjoyable camping experience.
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The Problem: Why Does My Travel Trailer Rock?
The rocking motion in a travel trailer can quickly turn a relaxing getaway into an exercise in frustration. Here’s a look at the primary causes of this annoying wobble:
- Uneven Ground: Campsites are rarely perfectly level. Even minor variations in the ground can create a significant rocking motion.
- Suspension System: The trailer’s suspension is designed to absorb bumps on the road, but it can also contribute to rocking when parked, especially with movement inside.
- Movement Inside the Trailer: Walking, shifting weight, or even a pet moving around inside the trailer can cause noticeable rocking.
- Wind: Strong winds can exert force on the trailer, leading to sway and rocking, particularly in lighter travel trailers.
- Inadequate Stabilization: Lack of proper stabilization equipment exacerbates the problem, allowing the trailer to move more freely.
Travel Trailer Leveling: The First Line of Defense
Before diving into stabilizers, it’s crucial to achieve proper travel trailer leveling. This is the foundation for a stable setup.
Why Leveling Matters
Leveling your travel trailer is not just about comfort; it’s also essential for the proper functioning of appliances like refrigerators. An unlevel trailer can cause these appliances to malfunction.
Leveling Equipment
- Leveling Blocks: These are stackable blocks made of durable plastic that you drive your trailer tires onto to raise them to the desired height.
- Leveling Ramps: Similar to blocks, ramps provide a gradual incline for easy leveling.
- Bubble Level: A simple tool used to check the level of your trailer. Place it inside the trailer on a flat surface or use one that attaches to the outside.
- Digital Level: Offers more precise readings than a bubble level. Some can be mounted permanently inside your RV.
The Leveling Process
- Choose Your Spot: Select a campsite that appears as level as possible.
- Assess the Situation: Use a bubble level or digital level to determine how much leveling is needed. Place the level inside the trailer, both front-to-back and side-to-side.
- Position Leveling Blocks/Ramps: Place the blocks or ramps in front of the tires that need to be raised.
- Drive Onto the Blocks/Ramps: Slowly drive the trailer onto the blocks or ramps until the bubble level indicates that the trailer is level.
- Secure the Trailer: Once level, chock the tires to prevent movement.
- Double-Check: Re-check the level to ensure accuracy. Adjust as needed.
Travel Trailer Stabilization: Taming the Rock and Roll
Once your travel trailer is level, it’s time to focus on stabilization. This involves using devices to minimize movement and create a more solid feel.
RV Stabilizer Jacks: The Basics
RV stabilizer jacks are designed to provide support and prevent rocking. They are not intended for lifting the trailer but rather for stabilizing it once it is level.
Types of Stabilizer Jacks
- Scissor Jacks: These are common and affordable. They extend vertically using a scissor-like mechanism.
- Electric Stabilizer Jacks: These offer the convenience of push-button operation.
- Manual Stabilizer Jacks: These require manual cranking to extend and retract.
Proper Use of Stabilizer Jacks
- Positioning: Place the stabilizer jacks under the trailer frame at designated points. Consult your trailer’s manual for the recommended locations.
- Extension: Extend the jacks until they make firm contact with the ground. Do not over-extend them, as this can damage the frame.
- Even Distribution: Distribute the weight evenly among the jacks to prevent stress on any single point.
- Additional Support: Consider using jack pads under the jacks, especially on soft ground. These pads provide a wider base and prevent the jacks from sinking into the soil.
Anti-Rocking Devices for RVs: Advanced Stabilization
For enhanced stability, consider using anti-rocking devices. These are designed to minimize movement between the trailer frame and the ground.
Types of Anti-Rocking Devices
- X-Chocks: These fit between the trailer’s tires and lock them together, preventing them from rotating independently. This significantly reduces rocking.
- Wheel Chocks: Basic wheel chocks prevent rolling, but heavier-duty models with ratcheting mechanisms offer improved stability.
- Stabilizer Bars/Tripods: These connect to the trailer’s hitch and extend to the ground, providing additional support and preventing front-to-back rocking.
- King Pin Stabilizers: For fifth-wheel trailers, these stabilizers attach to the kingpin and the ground, minimizing movement.
Benefits of Anti-Rocking Devices
- Reduced Motion: Significantly minimizes rocking and swaying.
- Increased Stability: Creates a more solid and stable feel inside the trailer.
- Enhanced Comfort: Improves the overall camping experience by reducing distractions and discomfort caused by movement.
Improving Stability: Tips and Tricks
Here are some additional tips and tricks to enhance the stability of your travel trailer:
- Use Jack Pads: Jack pads distribute the weight of the stabilizer jacks over a larger area, preventing them from sinking into soft ground.
- Leveling First: Always level your trailer before deploying stabilizers. Trying to stabilize an unlevel trailer can put undue stress on the frame and stabilizers.
- Tighten Wheel Lug Nuts: Ensure that your trailer’s wheel lug nuts are properly tightened. Loose lug nuts can contribute to instability.
- Minimize Movement Inside: Be mindful of your movements inside the trailer. Avoid sudden or jerky motions that can cause rocking.
- Consider Upgrading Suspension: If you frequently experience rocking, consider upgrading your trailer’s suspension system. Aftermarket suspension components can improve stability and ride quality.
- Reduce Weight: Reducing the overall weight of your travel trailer can also improve stability. Avoid carrying unnecessary items and distribute the weight evenly throughout the trailer.
- Tire Pressure: Maintain proper tire pressure. Overinflated or underinflated tires can affect stability.
Fathoming Travel Trailer Sway and Its Solutions
Travel trailer sway, also known as “fishtailing,” is a dangerous phenomenon where the trailer swings from side to side behind the tow vehicle. While stabilization focuses on preventing rocking at the campsite, sway control is crucial for safe towing.
Causes of Travel Trailer Sway
- Improper Weight Distribution: This is the most common cause of sway. If too much weight is concentrated at the rear of the trailer, it can become unstable.
- Crosswinds: Strong crosswinds can exert force on the trailer, causing it to sway.
- Passing Vehicles: The turbulence created by passing vehicles can also induce sway.
- Downhill Driving: Driving downhill can exacerbate sway, especially if the trailer is not properly balanced.
- High Speed: Excessive speed can increase the risk of sway.
How to Eliminate Trailer Sway
- Weight Distribution Hitch: A weight distribution hitch transfers some of the trailer’s weight to the front axle of the tow vehicle, improving stability and control.
- Sway Control Devices: These devices work in conjunction with a weight distribution hitch to dampen sway. There are two main types:
- Friction Sway Control: Uses friction to resist sway.
- Electronic Sway Control: Uses sensors and electronics to detect and counteract sway.
- Proper Loading: Load your trailer with 60% of the weight in the front half and 40% in the rear half. This helps to maintain stability.
- Tire Pressure: Ensure that both the tow vehicle and the trailer tires are properly inflated.
- Reduce Speed: Lowering your speed can significantly reduce the risk of sway.
- Regular Maintenance: Keep your tow vehicle and trailer in good condition. Check the tires, brakes, and suspension regularly.
Best RV Stabilizers: A Buying Guide
Choosing the right RV stabilizers can make a significant difference in the stability of your travel trailer. Here’s a look at some of the best options on the market:
| Stabilizer Type | Features | Pros | Cons |
|---|---|---|---|
| Scissor Jacks | Adjustable height, easy to install | Affordable, widely available | Can be time-consuming to crank manually, may require additional support |
| Electric Stabilizer Jacks | Push-button operation, convenient | Easy to use, saves time and effort | More expensive than manual jacks, requires electrical power |
| X-Chocks | Fits between tires, locks them together | Highly effective at preventing rocking, easy to install | Only works with tandem-axle trailers |
| Stabilizer Bars/Tripods | Connects to hitch, extends to the ground | Provides additional support, reduces front-to-back rocking | Can be bulky and take up storage space |
| Weight Distribution Hitch | Transfers weight to front axle of tow vehicle, improves towing stability | Improves towing stability, reduces sway | Can be expensive, requires careful adjustment |
| Sway Control Devices | Dampens sway, enhances towing safety | Significantly reduces the risk of sway, improves handling | Requires a weight distribution hitch, can be complex to install |
When choosing RV stabilizers, consider the following factors:
- Type of Trailer: Different stabilizers are designed for different types of trailers. Ensure that the stabilizers you choose are compatible with your trailer.
- Weight Capacity: Select stabilizers with a weight capacity that meets or exceeds the weight of your trailer.
- Ease of Use: Choose stabilizers that are easy to install and operate.
- Durability: Look for stabilizers made from high-quality materials that can withstand the rigors of travel.
- Price: Stabilizers range in price from affordable to expensive. Set a budget and choose stabilizers that offer the best value for your money.
Reducing Travel Trailer Movement: A Holistic Approach
Ultimately, reducing travel trailer movement requires a comprehensive approach that includes proper leveling, stabilization, sway control, and attention to detail. By addressing all of these factors, you can create a more stable and enjoyable camping experience.
Travel Trailer Shaking Fix: Troubleshooting
If you’ve implemented the above solutions and are still experiencing excessive shaking, consider these troubleshooting steps:
- Check Stabilizer Jack Placement: Ensure that the stabilizer jacks are properly positioned and making solid contact with the ground.
- Inspect Suspension Components: Check the trailer’s suspension components for signs of wear or damage.
- Verify Tire Pressure: Ensure that the tires are properly inflated.
- Re-Level the Trailer: Re-check the level of the trailer and make any necessary adjustments.
- Consult a Professional: If you’re unable to resolve the shaking issue, consult a qualified RV technician.
FAQ Section
Q: What is the difference between stabilizer jacks and leveling jacks?
A: Leveling jacks are designed to lift the trailer to achieve a level position, while stabilizer jacks are intended to provide support and prevent rocking once the trailer is already level. Stabilizer jacks are not designed for lifting the trailer.
Q: Can I use stabilizer jacks to lift my travel trailer for tire changes?
A: No, stabilizer jacks are not designed for lifting the trailer. Using them for this purpose can damage the jacks and the trailer frame. Use a proper jack designed for lifting.
Q: What is the best way to level a travel trailer on a sloped campsite?
A: Use leveling blocks or ramps to raise the low side of the trailer. You may need to use multiple blocks or ramps to achieve the desired height.
Q: How often should I check the lug nuts on my travel trailer wheels?
A: Check the lug nuts before each trip and after the first 50 miles of a trip. Re-torque them as needed according to the manufacturer’s specifications.
Q: Is it necessary to use a weight distribution hitch with a small travel trailer?
A: It depends on the weight of the trailer and the tow vehicle. Consult your tow vehicle’s owner’s manual and a qualified hitch installer to determine if a weight distribution hitch is necessary. As a general rule, it’s recommended for trailers exceeding 50% of the tow vehicle’s weight.
Q: Can I over-stabilize my travel trailer?
A: Yes, over-stabilizing can put undue stress on the trailer frame. Avoid over-extending the stabilizer jacks or using excessive force.
Hi, I’m Candace Wafford, a travel and food blogger based in Lexington, Kentucky. As a corporate traveler, I’ve had the chance to explore a lot of places, but now I’m on a mission to travel full-time. My goal? To figure out how to take my cat along for the adventure! Here at destinationdorworth.com, I share my experiences and tips on outdoor activities, travel, and of course, the best food spots I come across. I hope my blog inspires you to explore more and eat well on your journeys!