janegowest wrote:
We don't know much about the leveling systems in the 5ers. How many types are there? And how do they operate? we know that the auto-levels are just that, but the others, we don't know much about.
What should we look for in terms of the leveling system, if it does not have auto-leveling? What is the best type?
Thanks for your help in advance!
Jane, there are 3 basic ways to level a trailer.
1) Landing jacks (can be manual or powered) and boards under the wheels, supplemented by rear manual or powered stabilizer jacks in the rear.
2) Electric leveling systems. They use the front landing jacks and either jacks behind the rear axle (4 point system) or landing jacks and jacks in front and behind the axles (6 point system). Crudest are completely manual, but I don't think you'll find a manual system on anything built in the past few years; all are automatic.
3) Hydraulic leveling system. Same as electric, but uses hydraulic jacks instead of electric jacks.
For long-term parking, like a full season, jacking and cribbing the frame would be the best way to go, and most stable.
Personally, my next FW will have at least a 4 point system. :-)
Lyle
