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Make line on driveway for camper loading?

Ramblin__Ralph
Explorer
Explorer
Although I've done it for years, I'm trying to simplify loading my camper by myself in my old age. Recently I laid a string along the tires before offloading and that definitely helped when loading again. However, the string didn't last in wet weather. So, I'm thinking about a long "thingee" (plastic/wood/tape??) I could attach to the asphalt with glue or screws. Distance between tires is about 14 ft. BTW, don't want to paint the line or install a laser system.

Thanks for any ideas.
Ralph
2006 GMC 2500HD, XCab, SB, 6.0L w/2001 Lance 845
Bilstein Shocks, TorkLift Stable Loads, 100 Ah LiFePo4, 225 watt solar
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20 REPLIES 20

StirCrazy
Moderator
Moderator
I don't use any lines or marks; I just go by how far the camper is off the drivers' box rail... that may or may not work for different camper, with mine I have tanks on that side and lots of room on the blind side so if I just watch as I go by the grey water tank and keep it about 1" off the inside of the box rail when I sit it down, I'm pretty much perfect.

I do use a line on my 5th wheel parking though, but that's just to position it so I have the proper space on both sides when it's parked for putting slides out and such.

Steve
2014 F350 6.7 Platinum
2016 Cougar 330RBK
1991 Slumberqueen WS100

JimK-NY
Explorer II
Explorer II
You already have a simple way of putting strings on the ground to help with alignment while backing up.

Tie a long string to the back jack. I use one about 30' long. Stretch it forward until it just touches the forward jack. You can then tape it to the ground temporarily. Do the same on the other side. Just back up keeping the wheels of the truck centered between the strings. This works well but you do need to stop occasionally and check the truck's position.

I have tried numerous other methods including using a laser pointer but none have worked as well as the strings. Unfortunately I have an older camper and a newer truck (with a narrow tailgate opening). I only have about 1/4" of clearance so loading is a real challenge.

deltabravo
Nomad
Nomad
This is my method.
2009 Silverado 3500HD Dually, D/A, CCLB 4x4 (bought new 8/30/09)
2018 Arctic Fox 992 with an Onan 2500i "quiet" model generator

JRscooby
Explorer II
Explorer II
If a string worked other than short lifespan, the EZ idea would be wire. Could chose what color insulation you want.
Another idea would be set a pin at each end. When ready to unload, snap a chalk line between pins. Back along the line, unload. To load, snap the line.

MFL
Nomad II
Nomad II
I use a quality (scotch or 3M) orange duct tape on my cement FW pad, so I can easily see a line from my pass side mirror for my FW tires to follow, when backing in at home. Sweep off cement first, then stick it down. Mine will last a couple years, with rain, snow, and hot/cold temps. I cut pieces, rather than a solid strip.

Jerry

notsobigjoe
Nomad III
Nomad III
Ramblin Ralph, It's not like I have the experience or travel you have under your belt but I've been loading and unloading my camper the same way for some time.

I use spray paint, I simply out line the dually tires and the front tires. I use a strait line of paint from the outside of the dually set to the outside of the front set. It works very well. My driveway is gravel so it only holds up for so long but that's a good thing cause I don't always park in the same place. I'm talking about one of those upside down spray-paint cans you see used on the highway some times.
Good luck, joe