Do You Use Centering Blocks/Devices?
My new truck (2015 RAM 3500 SRW) is a bit wider (the outside of the bed) than the old truck. When I placed the camper in the bed last weekend I was concerned that the space between the wheel wells an...
Forum Discussion
I wish I had 2" of clearance. I have about a half inch. I leave the camper on the truck and have only had to load it 4 times in over 6 years. I finally found a solution to loading. At least I tried something new last year and had instant success. I will soon be reloading again so I have my fingers crossed. Last year I used a $40 laser level from Lowes. The laser level is about 8" long and has a strong magnet on the based. I attach the laser to the wheel well and have a mark on the camper. As I back up I keep the laser aligned with the mark. I do have to stop a couple of times to point the laser higher. Of course, I also have to remove the laser level before I lower the camper into position. Last year I loaded exactly on the first try.
I have seen a description of V shaped blocks to guide the camper into position. I would think twice about using something like that. The jacks and brackets are not designed to have a strong force pushing sideways. I would be concerned about tearing the brackets from the camper or bending the brackets or jacks.
BTW, after loading I place boards on both sides between the camper and the wheel wells. This would prevent any sliding or shifting in the truck bed after loading.
My camper has a nylon or dense plastic bumper in the front that contacts the bed of the truck and prevents the camper from being positioned too far forward. I found I need a bit more clearance and used duct tape to attach an additional piece of 5/8" plywood. I should probably just permanently attach the plywood.
I have seen a description of V shaped blocks to guide the camper into position. I would think twice about using something like that. The jacks and brackets are not designed to have a strong force pushing sideways. I would be concerned about tearing the brackets from the camper or bending the brackets or jacks.
BTW, after loading I place boards on both sides between the camper and the wheel wells. This would prevent any sliding or shifting in the truck bed after loading.
My camper has a nylon or dense plastic bumper in the front that contacts the bed of the truck and prevents the camper from being positioned too far forward. I found I need a bit more clearance and used duct tape to attach an additional piece of 5/8" plywood. I should probably just permanently attach the plywood.
