If you own a caravan then you should have a set of axle stands to go with it. When your caravan is stationary for long periods of time, axle stands allow the weight of the trailer to be taken off the suspension. They should also always be used whenever changing wheels or when working underneath the chassis. You should get used to the procedure of placing axle stands correctly, as it is a common chore that unfortunately goes hand in hand with the ownership of a caravan.
Before you begin, you are going to need the following: a trolley jack axle stands kit (single trolley jack, and 2 to 4 stands), a concrete slab, and maybe some wheel wedges.
1. Put on the parking brake. If your caravan is of the single axle type it is best to use wheel wedges to stop the trailer from moving.
2. Place a concrete slab or thick grade plywood underneath where the axle stands will go. This is to prevent the caravan stands from sinking into soft ground. For the best type of grip on the material, get a caravan axle stand that has feet at the bottom or, even better, a continuous surface one.
3. Using a side or trolley jack, locate the jack points and raise the chassis of the caravan just enough so that the weight is taken off the suspension.
4. Place the stands under the axle, and then slowly lower them until the stands take all the weight.
5. Place your hands on the front of the caravan and give a gentle push – make sure that there’s no movement, and that it is sitting solidly on the stands.
Tip: Any model of axle stand should do the job, but try to get some with a ratchet mechanism, such as draper axle stands, since they give more control over the elevation.
Stopping wear and tear on your caravan will save you a lot of money further down the road, so be sure to use caravan axle stands whenever possible. When doing repairs on the underbelly of a caravan, stands are absolutely essential. Once you have seen a caravan slip off a trolley jack you will see why they are a must! Remember – safety first – use axle stands!
