Cribbing a trailer

wing_zealot wrote:
Jack up the trailer slightly at each corner, one at a time, stack lumber under each corner, make sure each corner is level with the others, set the trailer down on the stacked lumber. Doesn't have to be exactly at the corner, can be in a couple of feet, whatever works out best for supporting the trailer. Personally, i would but cribbing under the axles also to keep pressure on the axles where the load was originally intended. But be careful where you crib the axles at, you don't want to bend them.

Don't do it this way unless it's a really small trailer or overbuilt frame.

Your typical trailer will flex and seams will open up if you jack up the corners and lift the trailer. If you read the directions on stabilizers, they always state not to be used to lift the trailer for this reason.

To the original question:
- Unless it's for some strange reason mandatory, you don't have to put it up on blocks. The suspension will be just fine.
- If you want to get it more stable by using concrete blocks under the corners, you can but it's to stabilize not life. Once you level it side to side, get it level front to back...then drop it a half inch or so and put blocks under the back snug. Then lift the front to put some pressure on the blocks in the back and give it just a bit more (again, you don't want to be lifting the corners with the blocks). Now put blocks under the front...again, snug. Finish by dropping the front just a bit to put a little pressure on the front blocks without unloading the rear blocks...you may have to do some adjusting after a week or two if the ground is soft.
- There will often still be some movement towards the center of the rig...don't block the tires or axles. I can cause damage and since the springs are still in play, it won't remove the movement. You can add some blocks (or jack stands) near the axles on the frame but again, don't try to lift the frame where it's not intended.