How to jack up a Class C motorhome?
In this article, we will answer the following question: How to jack up a Class C motorhome? We will explain what a motorhome jack is and how to properly use one to change your RV wheel or to make small repairs underneath the frame.
How to jack up a Class C motorhome?
Follow these steps to jack up a Class C motorhome:
- Place the jack underneath the motorhome axle;
- The jack should always be placed near the area where you need to work, only on the frame or on the axles of the motorhome;
- Jack up the motorhome once all the weight is off the tire!
What is a motorhome jack?
A jack is a machine that is used to lift heavy loads – in this case, Class C motorhomes – by operating a lever or crank, to carry out tasks such as changing a wheel or making small repairs underneath the motorhome.
Jacks can be mechanical, which are those whose operation is similar to that of levers or lathes; or hydraulic, which are based on Pascal’s principle, according to which the pressure exerted on a fluid contained in a closed container is transmitted with equal intensity in all directions and at all points of the fluid.
That is, by placing the hydraulic jack under the motorhome and moving the lever up and down, it transmits the force exerted through the fluid -generally oil-, generating a movement of the small piston plunger that results in a movement of the piston. of travel thus raising the vehicle.
It may sound simple, but to avoid problems, it is important to know where to place the hydraulic jack and how to use it. If you put the jack in another place not designed for it, you can cause damage to the frame of the vehicle or, worse still, cause the jack to come off.
How to use a motorhome jack safely
We tell you the steps you must follow to make the operation of a motorhome jack a success:
- Put the vehicle in a safe place. Park the vehicle on a flat and firm surface, without gravel or similar, so that the lifting point is level with the ground, thus preventing the jack from moving during use and causing an accident.
Set the parking brake to prevent the motorhome from rolling while you change the wheel.
- Make sure the jack has adequate capacity. The hydraulic jack must be able to support the weight to be lifted. The lifting capacity is indicated on each jack. If what you need is to change a wheel, you do not need to lift the whole load, but half with a single anchor point. Therefore, if your vehicle weighs two tons, you need a jack with a capacity of at least one ton.
- Where to place the hydraulic jack? The normal thing is that there are two support points under the motorhome. You will easily identify them because they are two flat metal bars that run down both sides of the motorhome, running parallel to the side panels (the metal or plastic strips under the doors). Long they occupy the space between the front and rear wheels.
In some cases, there may be two more points of support, located just behind the front and rear bumpers.
However, the location of these support points is described in the motorhome manual, so it should be consulted there previously. Also, some vehicles come with a small notch or plastic block that indicates where the hydraulic jack should be placed.
- Operate the hydraulic jack. Once the main point is located, slide the jack under it until it touches the motorhome, move the crank or lever to pump the fluid, and continue until you feel the corner of the motorhome lift up enough to comfortably change the wheel or do the intended repairs.
How to change a motorhome wheel using a jack
Once we have put the hydraulic jack under the motorhome (without lifting it yet), loosen the wheel nuts but do not remove them yet! wait until the motorhome is off the ground.
Now is the time to remove the lug nuts and remove the wheel. Remember to turn the nuts counterclockwise.
Fit the spare tire, and don’t forget the strategy from before by placing the damaged wheel under the motorhome just as you did with the spare! Once you have placed the wheel, it is time to put the nuts. It would be convenient for you to start tightening at the bottom.
Always do it in an “X” shape and with enough force so that they can support the weight of the motorhome. But, be careful with the pressure you exert. Too much force could cause the motorhome to fall. Do you already have the nuts tightened? Now you can remove the damaged wheel from under the motorhome, lower the motorhome carefully and finish tightening the lug nuts.
And that is it, place the damaged wheel where you had the spare one and collect all the tools in your tool trolley, you have the motorhome ready with a new wheel.
Should I store my Class C motorhome with the jacks down?
Yes, you should store your Class C motorhome with the jacks down. This way, you relieve the tires and the suspensions of a lot of pressure. By using a jack stand kit, your RV is more stable and the weight of the tires is evenly distributed.
Here’s how to do store your RV (step-by-step):
- Park in a flat place. Place the level on a counter to see that the inside is level from front to back and side to side. If necessary, use a stabilizing jack to level it as close as possible.
- Put the RV in reverse and then drive, to move the home engine back and forth to make the drive level.
- Place a board under the tire if you cannot level your motorhome moving back and forth.
- Place chocks and apply the parking brake to prevent it from shifting once level. Remember, your tires must be completely on the boards. Do not use primary level stabilizers. They are not built for weight and they can stress the frame.
Besides the obvious advantage of relieving the tires of all the weight and pressure, there are additional benefits of storing your RV with the jacks down.
Did you know that in order to function properly your refrigerator MUST be placed on a level, flat surface? Its cooling fluids flow through the ducts using gravity. If it is not arranged properly, it can overheat and be damaged.
In addition, nothing is more disagreeable than having items that do not fit in the cabinets and on the counters. Worse: feel your vehicle swinging from left to right under your feet!
Conclusions
After reading this guide, you should have a much better idea of what motorhome jacks are and how to jack up a Class C motorhome.
When choosing a jack for your Class C motorhome, take into account the complexity and frequency of the repairs you will carry out, and choose the one accordingly. Regardless of the model, remember to choose the correct weight limitation to create a safe work environment.
Once you get the most convenient jack along with its accessories (if you want it, of course), you are ready to perform the most complicated repairs on your vehicle from the comfort of your home! In addition to transforming it into a small repair and maintenance shop, you will also save a lot of money.
Do you have any questions or suggestions on this content? Please feel free to get in contact!
FAQ on How to jack up a Class C motorhome?
Should I store my RV with the jacks down?
Yes, you should store your RV with the jacks down. This way, you relieve the tires and the suspensions of a lot of pressure. By using a jack stand kit, your RV is more stable and the weight of the tires is evenly distributed.
Where should I store my RV when not in use?
When not in use, you should store your RV in a garage or at a specific RV storage (either indoor or outdoor). If keeping the RV outside, it is essential to cover it in order to avoid external damages, water leaks or mould.
Should an RV be stored level?
It is recommended to store the RV at as level as possible. This way, you relieve the tires and the suspensions of a lot of pressure. By using a jack stand kit, your RV is more stable and the weight of the tires is evenly distributed.
What are the best hydraulic levelling jacks for a motorhome?
The best hydraulic levelling jack for your motorhome is made of steel since it resists greater weights. Second, you have to consider the lifting speed. This is measured in how many times you have to operate the device for it to charge its limit capacity and, in general, it is 10 times.
Other FAQs about Class C Motorhome that you may be interested in.
Who builds the best Class C motorhomes?
Class C motorhome levelling systems explained
