
Coleman Santee is a pop-up camper that comes with a set of stabilizer jacks to keep the camper steady and stable when parked. These jacks are usually located at the four bottom corners of the camper and are operated using a crank or jack handle. The process of stabilising a camper involves first levelling the trailer side-to-side and then front-to-back, before lowering the jacks to the ground and applying a small amount of pressure to stabilise the camper.
What You'll Learn
- Coleman/Fleetwood stabilizers: crank up and down with the handle
- Stabilizer jack access: how to reach jacks without crawling under the camper
- Stabilizer jack handle: how to use it to lower jacks securely
- Sand shoes: help stabilize the camper and reduce rocking
- Leveling: how to level your camper before using the stabilizers
Coleman/Fleetwood stabilizers: crank up and down with the handle
Coleman/Fleetwood campers have swing-down corner jacks that can be cranked up and down with the same handle used to raise and lower the roof. The basic procedure for stabilising your camper is to first level side-to-side with boards, Lynx Blocks or a BAL, and then level front-to-back with the tongue jack. After the trailer is level and the roof is up, you can put the stabilisers down.
To extend the jack, press down on the foot and it will click down against the ground. You will then see a slot in the back side, and slots cut in the front of the jack. The handle slips into one of the slots in the front of the jack, then through the slot in the back. To snug up or loosen the jack, slip the jack handle into the second slot above the ratchet mechanism, making sure the tip of the jack handle slips all the way through the slot in the back of the jack. Then, push down on the handle until the stabiliser clicks into position.
You can purchase a new jack handle from Coleman Pop Up Parts for $19.95. This long-reach handle measures 14 inches. The T-slot end accepts onto 17-inch and 20-inch screw-down Coleman and Fleetwood corner stabiliser jacks. Please note that this tool is for the stabiliser jacks only and is not designed to raise the camper roof.
If you are looking for a new crank handle to raise and lower the roof of your Coleman or Fleetwood camper, you can also purchase this from Coleman Pop Up Parts. This handle features a larger gauge shaft, a larger free-spin handle and a T-slot end. It works great on units with drive hub extension tubes, which are found on units produced after the 1990s. This handle measures 11-3/4 inches in total length. The T-slot end has 7-1/8 inches of reach and the crank handle measures 7/8 of an inch in outside diameter. This handle will work if your camper has a tube that your crank handle fits into.
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Stabilizer jack access: how to reach jacks without crawling under the camper
Stabilizer jacks are essential for your camper trailer, as they significantly reduce the movement felt inside the RV. While they may be a little tricky to access, it's important to remember that you should never crawl under your camper to reach them. Here are some tips and instructions to help you reach and use your stabilizer jacks safely and effectively.
Understanding Your Stabilizer Jacks
Firstly, it's crucial to understand the difference between stabilizing jacks and leveling jacks. Many RVers assume they are the same, but they serve distinct purposes. Stabilizing jacks are not meant to lift heavy loads or make adjustments to your RV; instead, they support your RV by absorbing the shifting caused by movement inside the vehicle. On the other hand, leveling jacks are used to level your RV from side to side or front to back.
Accessing the Jacks
Now, let's address the main concern: how to access the stabilizer jacks without crawling under the camper. Here are some suggestions:
- Kneeling: You can try kneeling next to your camper and reaching under to access the stabilizer jacks. It is recommended to use a pad to protect your knees. Reach toward the center of the camper and grasp the end of the stabilizer jack. Push it forward and then swing it down.
- Using a Screwdriver: If you don't have the stabilizer jack handle, a large screwdriver can be a temporary solution. You can use it to crank the jack up or down, but be careful not to over-tighten as this can put too much weight on the jacks.
- Using a Substitute Tool: If you have the swing-down type of stabilizer jack, you can use a round bar, rebar, or an old lug wrench to extend the leg to the ground. Make sure to paint the bar a bright color so you don't leave it behind.
- Leveling Blocks: Using leveling blocks, such as the Lynx Levelers or stackable blocks, can help you avoid having to extend the stabilizer jacks too far. This method also helps keep your jacks free from moisture or mud, which can cause rust over time.
Important Reminders
Remember, stabilizer jacks should only be used when you are camping in your trailer. When storing your trailer, there is no need to deploy the stabilizer jacks. Additionally, always chock your tires when parking your trailer, whether for storage or camping.
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Stabilizer jack handle: how to use it to lower jacks securely
Stabilizer jacks are an essential component of your camper setup, providing stability and preventing unwanted movement while you're inside your camper. Here's a detailed guide on how to use a stabilizer jack handle to lower jacks securely:
Understanding Stabilizer Jacks
Before using the stabilizer jack handle, it's important to understand the purpose of stabilizer jacks. Unlike leveling jacks, stabilizer jacks are not meant for lifting or leveling your camper. Their primary function is to stabilize and prevent rocking motions once your camper is already level. This distinction is crucial to avoid potential damage to your camper.
Preparing to Use the Stabilizer Jack Handle
- Level your camper: Before using stabilizer jacks, ensure your camper is level from side to side and front to back. You can achieve this by using leveling blocks, ramps, or the tongue jack.
- Locate the stabilizer jacks: Depending on your camper model, the stabilizer jacks may be at the rear or all four corners. Identify where they are located and ensure you can access them safely without crawling under the camper, as this is not recommended.
- Acquire the stabilizer jack handle: The stabilizer jack handle is a crucial tool for operating the jacks. It is typically metal, approximately 8-16 inches long, with one flattened end that fits into the jack. If you don't have the handle, you may need to order one or use a temporary alternative like a large flat-head screwdriver.
Using the Stabilizer Jack Handle to Lower Jacks
- Access the stabilizer jacks: Reach for the stabilizer jacks by kneeling or standing next to the camper. Avoid crawling underneath.
- Release the stabilizer jacks: Grasp the end of the stabilizer jack toward the center of the camper and push it forward. Then, swing the jack down until it's hanging.
- Extend the stabilizer jack: Insert the flattened end of the jack handle into the corresponding slot on the jack. Push down on the handle to ratchet the inner part of the stabilizer down until you feel firm pressure. Ensure the jack is firmly against the ground.
- Secure the stabilizer jack: Once the jack is extended and in position, make any necessary adjustments to ensure it is snug and secure. This typically involves giving the jack handle a half-turn or fine-tuning the height.
- Repeat for each stabilizer jack: Perform the above steps for each stabilizer jack at the rear or all four corners of your camper.
Additional Tips
- Don't use stabilizer jacks for leveling: Remember that stabilizer jacks are not meant for leveling your camper. Always level your camper first using appropriate methods like leveling blocks or the tongue jack.
- Be cautious when stabilizing: When deploying stabilizer jacks, be cautious not to overextend them. If needed, use additional support underneath, such as wood blocks or Lynx Blocks, to prevent overextension.
- Store stabilizer jacks properly: When not in use, ensure the stabilizer jacks are securely folded back up and locked into their stored position.
- Maintain stabilizer jacks: Keep the stabilizer jacks well-lubricated to ensure smooth operation. Regularly inspect and clean them to prevent stiffness.
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Sand shoes: help stabilize the camper and reduce rocking
Sand shoes are a great way to help stabilize your camper and reduce rocking. They are designed to fit 17-inch and 20-inch jacks, and they provide a wider footprint on the ground, resulting in a more comfortable experience with less rocking inside the camper.
To use sand shoes, simply attach them to the bottom of your camper's jacks before lowering them to the ground. Once in position, adjust the jacks until they are firmly in contact with the ground and providing adequate support. It is important to remember that stabilizing jacks are not meant to bear the weight of the camper. Their purpose is to reduce side-to-side motion and lessen the strain on the bolts and frame as you move inside the camper.
In addition to sand shoes, there are several other methods to stabilize your camper and reduce rocking. These include:
- Leveling blocks and wheel chocks: Place leveling blocks under your tires and wheel chocks at the front and back of your tires to level and stabilize your camper.
- Fifth-wheel tripod: For fifth-wheel trailers, a kingpin tripod provides a wide tripod footprint to prevent movement.
- X-Brace Hitch Mount Stabilizer: This device attaches to a 2" hitch receiver at the rear bumper to stabilize the back of your RV.
- RV Step Stabilizer: Placing a stabilizer under the bottom step can reduce movement when entering and exiting the camper.
- Slide-Out Stabilizers: These accessories provide additional support under slide-out rooms, reducing movement when people sit or lie down.
- Stabilizing Jacks: Hydraulic, electric, or manual stabilizing jacks can be used to stabilize the camper once it is level. Remember to put down all the jacks for equal weight distribution.
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Leveling: how to level your camper before using the stabilizers
Before using the stabilizers on your Coleman Santee camper, you must first level your camper. This is important for both your comfort and safety, as an uneven camper can be uncomfortable and unsafe. Here is a step-by-step guide to help you level your camper:
Park in a Flat Area
Start by choosing a parking spot that is as flat as possible. While leveling can compensate for minor unevenness, parking on a slope will still be uncomfortable and unsafe. If the ground slopes towards your camper, reposition it so that the ground slopes towards the front or back.
Clear the Area
Ensure that there are no rocks, branches, or camping items nearby that could get in the way. Ask everyone to move away from the camper while you work.
Measure the Side-to-Side Angle
Use a level to measure the angle of your camper from side to side. Place the level from left to right in the doorway of your camper. The side of the level that is lower indicates the side of the camper that needs to be raised. Keep your camper hitched until you have finished leveling it from side to side.
Place Leveling Blocks
Place leveling blocks near the tires on the side that needs to be raised. Leveling blocks are like plastic Lego blocks for campers. Snap them together to form a ramp and drive your camper slowly onto them. Alternatively, you can use pieces of wood that are wider than your tires. Make sure the wheels are firmly on the blocks and adjust as needed.
Secure the Wheels
Place wheel chocks under the tires to hold the camper still. Chocks are a safety measure and should always be used. Place them behind the wheels if the ground slopes towards the rear of your camper.
Measure the Front-to-Back Angle
Now, use your level to measure the angle of your camper from front to back. Place the level in the doorway so that the ends point towards the front and back of your camper. If one side is lower, you will need to adjust it further.
Adjust the Tongue Jack
Place pieces of wood under the tongue jack, which is the front part of your camper that connects to your vehicle. This will provide a resting spot for the jack. You can also use a wheel dock from a camping supply store. Adjust the tongue jack by cranking it up or down until your camper is level from front to back.
Once you have completed these steps, your camper should be level. Now you can move on to using the stabilizers to prevent your camper from rocking and falling out of level. Remember, stabilizers are not meant for leveling, but for stabilizing your camper after it has been leveled.
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Frequently asked questions
You can access the stabilizer jacks by kneeling down next to the camper and reaching under to grasp the end of the stabilizer jack toward the center of the camper. Push it forward, then swing the jack down.
First, level your trailer all around. Go to each corner and push the stabilizers toward the center of the trailer and swing them down. The inner part of the stabilizer will slide down and lock into place. Use the stabilizer handle to ratchet the inner part down until there is firm pressure.
You will need a tool to use the stabilizer jacks. This could be the crank handle that comes with the jack, or a screwdriver or lug wrench.