Three Things To Know About Travel Trailer Stabilizing Jacks

The numerous features inside of a travel trailer are easy to focus on when you shop, but it's also important to take note of what useful exterior features a trailer offers. One thing that you shouldn't overlook is whether or not a particular trailer has a pair of stabilizing jacks. A stabilizing jack is a scissor-like device that shares some visual similarities with the jack that you might use while changing your car's tire. You'll often find travel trailers that have a pair of stabilizing jacks mounted to their underside — typically, on the back corners of the trailer. Here are some things that are useful to know about stabilizing jacks.

They Provide More Stability When You Walk Around

If you were to walk around the interior of a travel trailer that isn't equipped with stabilizing jacks, you might notice a slight lack of stability. In other words, the trailer may wobble and vibrate a little, especially when you're in the back end. In addition to potentially feeling a little disconcerting beneath your feet, this wobble and vibration can be problematic. For example, it might cause glasses in your shelves to clink together or, in severe cases, items to roll off your countertop. A trailer that has stabilizing jacks will be considerably more stable and will help you to avoid these issues.

Powered Jacks Are More Convenient

When you look at different travel trailers and note the stabilizing jacks, you'll see that many of them require manual operation. This means that when you park the trailer, you'll get out of your vehicle and turn a handle on each jack to deploy it. While you can get the hang of this task, there's an easier way. Try to find a travel trailer that has powered jacks. Instead of you having to exert yourself, you can simply press a button to deploy each of the jacks.

Don't Add Them Afterward

Regarding stabilizing jacks, you generally have two options — buy a trailer that already has jacks or buy a trailer and install the jacks afterward. While the presence of stabilizing jacks might not be the first thing you consider when you shop for a trailer, buying a model that already has this feature will be handy. Otherwise, you'd need to shop for a pair of jacks and install them yourself — a task that can be difficult, especially if you aren't acquainted with such work. Alternatively, you'd need to take the trailer to a professional for this job, which could be costly. When your trailer comes with stabilizing jacks, you'll avoid such hassles.

For more information about travel trailers, contact a dealership.

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