Leveling Jack Questions

[jrsmustang]

I am still a rookie to RVing, and have a couple questions about leveling jacks. I have always used the auto-level button, but recently had an issue. Parked on somewhat non-level, blacktop spot (no other options).

Rear jacks picked the tires off the surface, and the coach slid sideways (bent one jack, but still retracts okay). I then put 2x4's (2 thicknesses) under right side tires and manually leveled to maintain tire contact. This worked okay.

Question: Is it normal to have to use boards for some non-level situations to prevent total tire lift? Was this the right approach for me to use?

Thoughts?

[Coaster1]

You should know the stroke of the leveler. Then make an educated guess at how much wood to use.

[Playtime III]

I have a carpenter level (from TT days) and an app on my phone to see how close to level we are not before leveling. If I am within halve a bubble then I allow the jacks to compensate. If not, then a use lumber under the appropriate wheel(s). I always use lumber under the jack pads (reduce the stroke required and disperse more footprint as I am 38,000lbs).

[CampDaven]

What I do if the site is too unlevel is use pads under the tires on the down-slope side and somewhat emulate auto level. Manual allows for less extension and a bit more weight left on the suspension/tires. Quite stable!
Front jacks first (less stress on windshield?) until rig comes up about 4 inches. Rear jacks until level fore and aft. Left or right as required.

[Gary RVRoamer]

I think you have a defect if the jack bent just because a wheel came off the ground. The jack should have been more than ample to carry the load - sounds to me like Coachman short-changed you on jack capacity.

With an automatic system you don't know when a wheel is going to lift off until it happens. Besides, it should be strong enough anyway!

I'm not recommending lifting wheels off the ground, but the system ought to be strong enough to handle it if it happens.

[CampDaven]

The coach sliding is what must have bent that leveler. Truely unfortunate.

I suggest you have a shop look at it before it damages the ram actuator.