At some point, you’ll need to jack up your dual axle travel trailer, whether it’s to change a flat tire, inspect the undercarriage, or perform maintenance. That's why you need to know how to jack up a dual axle travel trailer!
While the process is straightforward, it requires the right tools and safety precautions to prevent accidents or damage to your trailer.
In this guide, we’ll walk you through the tools you’ll need, preparation steps, and a step-by-step process to safely jack up your dual axle trailer. You can do it!
HOW TO JACK UP A DUAL AXLE TRAVEL TRAILER
Tools and Equipment You’ll Need
- Trailer Jack: A bottle jack or scissor jack rated for the weight of your trailer.
- Wheel Chocks: To prevent the trailer from rolling.
- Lug Wrench: To remove and tighten wheel lug nuts.
- Jack Stand(s): For added safety—never rely solely on the jack to support the trailer.
- Wood Blocks (Optional): To provide a stable base on uneven or soft ground.
- Torque Wrench: To properly tighten the lug nuts after replacing the tire.
HOW TO JACK UP A DUAL AXLE TRAVEL TRAILER
Important Safety Precautions
- Park on Level Ground: Make sure your trailer is on a flat, solid surface before jacking it up. If the ground is soft, use wood blocks under the jack to prevent it from sinking.
- Set the Parking Brake: Engage the tow vehicle’s parking brake for extra security.
- Chock the Wheels: Use wheel chocks on the opposite side of the trailer to prevent any movement.
Inspect the Jack: Ensure your jack is rated for your trailer's weight and is in good working condition.
HOW TO JACK UP A DUAL AXLE TRAVEL TRAILER
Step-by-Step Process to Jack Up a Dual Axle Travel Trailer
1. Prepare the Trailer and Tools
Place wheel chocks on the tires opposite the side you are jacking up to prevent movement.
Make sure your tow vehicle is attached to the trailer, as this provides stability and prevents the trailer from shifting during the process.
2. Loosen the Lug Nuts
Use a lug wrench to slightly loosen the lug nuts on the wheel you are removing. Do not fully remove them yet—just loosen them enough so they’ll be easier to remove once the wheel is off the ground.
3. Position the Jack
Place the jack on a stable, flat surface under a solid part of the trailer frame (not under the axle). Avoid placing the jack under the axles or leaf springs, as this can damage your suspension system.
For uneven or soft ground, place a wood block beneath the jack to create a stable base.
4. Lift the Trailer
Slowly pump the jack to lift the trailer until the tire is about 2 inches off the ground.
If your dual axle trailer has independent suspension, you’ll only need to lift the affected tire. If not, you may need to lift both tires on one side by jacking up the frame between the two axles.
5. Place a Jack Stand for Safety
Once the trailer is at the desired height, place a jack stand under the frame near the jack for additional support. Never rely on the jack alone to hold the trailer, as it can fail.
6. Remove the Tire
Finish removing the lug nuts and take off the wheel. If you are changing a flat tire, install the spare now.
7. Lower the Trailer
After you’ve completed your work, slowly lower the trailer using the jack. Remove the jack stand first, then carefully lower the trailer back onto the ground.
8. Tighten the Lug Nuts
Tighten the lug nuts by hand, then use a torque wrench to ensure they are tightened to the manufacturer’s recommended torque specification.
9. Remove Wheel Chocks and Clean Up
Once everything is secured and the trailer is back on the ground, remove the wheel chocks and clean up your tools.
HOW TO JACK UP A DUAL AXLE TRAVEL TRAILER
Additional Tips for Dual Axle Trailers
- Use a Ramp Alternative: If you need to lift only one tire for a quick change, a tire ramp (also called a tire leveler) can be placed under one of the good tires. Simply drive the good tire up onto the ramp to lift the flat tire off the ground.
- Carry a Portable Air Compressor: This is useful for inflating tires, especially if you’re in a remote area.
Inspect Tires Regularly: Regular inspections can help you catch issues before you’re stranded with a flat tire.
HOW TO JACK UP A DUAL AXLE TRAVEL TRAILER
In Conclusion
Jacking up a dual axle travel trailer is an essential skill that every RV owner should know. With the right tools and precautions, you can safely lift your trailer to change a tire or perform maintenance. Always prioritize safety by using jack stands and wheel chocks, and ensure your tools are rated for the weight of your trailer.
Keep your tools and equipment organized in your RV, and practice jacking up your trailer at home so you’re prepared if you ever need to do it on the road. A little preparation goes a long way toward ensuring a safe and smooth adventure!