Levelling with Scissor Jacks

batman99 wrote:
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Expect to get flamed???

If a task or something can be done, it doesn't mean that it's a good thing to do.. For example, using scissor jacks to lift the trailer wheels off the ground - to make the trailer level. Yes, it can be done (if using HD scissor jacks and if many jacks "for evenly distributed point loads" are used), but in really, doing this task is over stressing the jack and/or the frame. In this state, its like an accident or damage waiting to happen.

As stated by others, I would simply "pull" the trailer wheels onto spacer blocks. Some folks use short 2x6" boards and others use fancy looking RV plastic spacer blocks. Always best to get the trailer "near level" by using spacers under its wheels first. Once the trailer is "near level" while sitting on its rubber wheels, then use scissor jacks to lift the TT's chassis less than 2". This removes the chassis weight from its leaf spring packs and its soft rubber wheels. Thus, taking the "natural bounce" out of the trailer idle suspension - while still keeping its wheels on blocks. As one person stated, "scissor jacks are to stabilize - NOT to lift". And, for long length trailers (trailers longer than 20+ ft), it's always best to install another set of HD scissor jacks in the middle of the trailer as well. When using 6 x scissor jacks, it removes even more natural bounce (to stabilize even more) - by given middle of frame more solid support. re: Creating 6 "point loads" instead of factory 4 points.

When being lifted (under 2") by HD scissor jacks, the trailer now has more sideways wiggles. To remove sideways wiggles, simply install 6 x telescopic stabilizer STRUT bars to the base of each scissor jack. If into welding, one can make their own telescopic pipe / strut bars. Or, simply buy "store bought" from Camping World, and get welder to attach them to your trailer's underside. For example: - Click Here -

Remember…. Just because someone can do a task (like driving 120 MPH on a busy hi-way), it doesn't mean that one should do it. Slow down and stay within normal hi-way speeds. And when it comes to lifting trailer's with scissor jacks, stay within 2" MAX lift limits using 6 x HD jacks with telescopic stabilizer bars as well. This is the much safer method.

Hope this helps…

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I was only lifting to see the results, I level within the 2" lift you describe after levelling with wood under the tires. I did install (6) scissor jacks rather then (4).

I just wanted to find out how strong and stiff the trailer frame actually is. When on one campsite, I had a neighbour chatting while I levelled my trailer, he freaked-out when he noticed me lift the trailer just slightly with the jack. Apparantly, he only lowers his stabilizers to the ground and does not put any pressure on them. I am not convinced that a travel trailer is so delicate that the slightest lift would damage the frame. I set out to prove that if needed, a trailer frame can be lifted without damage. Would I regularly lift my trailer with the jacks, no. Can I lift it with the jacks safely, likely.

BTW, I was talking in kph, not mph.... 120 mph with a 30 foot travel trailer, that sounds scary.