Easy Guide To Lifting A Pop-Up Camper

Lifting a pop-up camper can be done for a variety of reasons, including to prevent the camper from dragging on the ground, to fit a water tank underneath, or to enable off-road use. There are several methods to achieve this, including installing lift kits (known as All-Terrain kits), switching to larger tires, and performing an axle upgrade.

One common method is to perform a spring over axle lift, which involves moving the leaf springs above the axle, often in combination with new, larger tires. This provides additional ground clearance and can help to reduce tire wear. Another approach is to use lift blocks or axle conversion kits to raise the entire camper.

When lifting a pop-up camper, it is important to consider the potential impact on other components, such as stabilizer jacks, air conditioners, and bike racks, which may need to be adjusted or replaced to accommodate the increased height. Additionally, towing capabilities and tongue weight distribution may need to be reassessed to ensure safe operation.

Spring over axle

To lift a pop-up camper, you can perform a spring over axle conversion. This involves moving the axle to the top of the leaf springs, which raises the entire camper and allows for larger tires to be installed, increasing ground clearance. This modification can be done using an over-under axle kit, which includes new spring seats that need to be installed on the opposite side of the axle.

Step 1: Jack up the trailer

Use a floor jack or jack stands to safely lift the trailer and ensure it is secure and will not move during the process.

Step 2: Remove the wheels and axles

Remove the wheels and tires from the trailer, and then remove the axles. This will give you access to the leaf springs and suspension components.

Step 3: Cut off old spring perches

Remove the existing spring perches or u-bolts that hold the leaf springs in place. You may need to cut or grind them off, depending on their condition and your tools.

Step 4: Install new spring perches

Weld or bolt new spring perches to the top of the axle. These will hold the leaf springs in their new position above the axle. Ensure they are securely attached and can bear the weight of the trailer.

Step 5: Reinstall the axles and wheels

Place the axles back into their original position and secure them. Install the new larger tires and wheels, ensuring they are properly torqued and aligned.

Step 6: Test and adjust

Lower the trailer back to the ground and test the new setup. You may need to adjust the hitch height or stabilizers to level the trailer.

Step 7: Additional modifications

Depending on the new height of the trailer, you may need to make additional modifications, such as:

• Extending the stabilizers or adding blocks to support the trailer when parked.
• Modifying the trailer ball on the tow vehicle to match the new height.
• Installing wheel well extensions to accommodate the larger tires.
• Upgrading the spare tire and mount to match the new tire size.
• Modifying the step to make it easier to enter and exit the camper.
• Relocating or adjusting the air conditioner unit to fit in garages.
• Adjusting the bike rack or adding support struts to accommodate the new height.

A spring over axle conversion is a significant modification that can improve the ground clearance and towing capabilities of a pop-up camper. It is important to plan and research the specific requirements for your trailer, including axle diameter, spring type, and tire size. This process can be complex and time-consuming, so it is recommended to have a professional perform the installation if you are unsure about any steps.

Lift kits

One option is to install a universal lift kit, such as the C&R Universal Lift Kit, which can provide a few extra inches of ground clearance. These kits typically include new lift arms and hardware, and can be installed by those with some DIY experience. However, it is important to note that lift kits can take longer to ship and may require additional modifications to your camper, such as wheel well extensions or a new spare tire mount.

For a more significant lift, you can consider modifying the axle and suspension of your pop-up camper. This typically involves switching to a larger axle and spring system, which allows for larger tires and increases ground clearance. For example, one pop-up camper owner switched to a 5,200-lb axle and installed overslung springs, which provided a 5-inch lift and allowed for the use of 15-inch tires. This modification also required upgrading the stabilizer jacks, step, spare tire mount, and bike rack due to the increased height of the camper.

Another option mentioned by pop-up camper owners is to perform a "spring over axle" modification, which involves moving the springs above the axle. This can provide a lift of around 6-8 inches and typically requires new hubs, wheels, and tires. Some owners also recommend adding lift blocks and new U-bolts for additional height and stability. Keep in mind that this modification may require cutting and welding, so it is best left to those with advanced DIY skills or a professional.

When lifting your pop-up camper, it is important to consider the weight distribution and tongue height. A weight-distributing hitch can help transfer some of the trailer's weight to the front axle of the tow vehicle, improving stability and handling. Additionally, you may need to adjust the hitch height to level the trailer after lifting it.

Axle upgrade

Upgrading the axle of a pop-up camper can be a great way to increase ground clearance and improve its off-road capabilities. This process typically involves relocating the axle to a position under the springs, which provides additional lift and allows for the installation of larger tires.

Spring-Over Axle Conversion

The most common method to lift a pop-up camper is to perform a spring-over axle conversion. This involves moving the axle from the top of the leaf springs to below them. This not only raises the camper but also allows for the installation of larger tires, further increasing ground clearance.

To begin the process, the camper is jacked up and the axle is removed. New spring perches are welded or bolted onto the axle, and it is then reinstalled below the springs. Longer U-bolts are used to secure the springs to the new perches. This process typically adds around 4 inches of ground clearance.

Torsion Axle Spacers

For campers with torsion axles, the process is slightly different. Instead of relocating the axle, heavy-duty spacers are installed between the axle and the frame to achieve the desired lift. This method is generally easier and does not require welding or significant modifications to the suspension.

Considerations

When lifting a pop-up camper, there are several considerations to keep in mind. Firstly, the stabilizer jacks will likely need to be extended or replaced with longer ones to accommodate the increased height. Additionally, the entry step may need to be modified or replaced to ensure ease of access.

Furthermore, larger tires may require the use of a different bolt pattern, and it is important to ensure that the tires do not rub against the wheel wells. In some cases, modifications to the wheel wells or fenders may be necessary to accommodate the larger tires.

Finally, it is crucial to consider the weight distribution and towing capabilities of your setup. Lifting the camper changes the geometry and weight distribution, which may require the use of a weight distribution hitch to ensure safe and stable towing.

Upgrading the axle and lifting a pop-up camper can provide increased ground clearance and improved off-road capabilities. The spring-over axle conversion is the most common method, but for torsion axles, spacers can be used instead. Careful planning and consideration of all components are necessary to ensure a safe and successful upgrade.

Leaf springs

Leaf Spring Identification:

Before starting the lift process, it's important to identify the leaf spring suspension system on your pop-up camper. Leaf springs are typically easy to spot, appearing as a bowed series of flat conjoined plates braced to the axle with U-shaped metal brackets.

Jacking Up the Camper:

To begin the lift, you'll need to safely jack up your pop-up camper. Place the jacks on a flat surface and ensure full contact between the jack saddles and stable points on the bottom of the camper. For added safety, it's recommended to use bricks or blocks as a backup in case of jack failure.

Repositioning the Leaf Spring:

Once the camper is securely jacked up, you can proceed to reposition the leaf spring. The standard configuration for leaf springs on pop-up campers is to have them mounted below the axle. To lift the camper, you will move the leaf spring above the axle, a process known as a Spring-Over-Axle (SOA) lift or axle flip.

Disconnecting and Resituating:

Disconnect the leaf spring from its current position, carefully propping it up with suitable supports. Then, resituate the leaf spring above the axle. This change in position will create additional space, allowing the suspension to sit higher and providing the desired lift.

Securing the Leaf Spring:

After placing the leaf spring above the axle, secure it firmly in place using U-bolts or other appropriate fasteners. Ensure that all hardware and brackets are properly tightened to prevent any potential movement or instability.

Vehicle Modification:

Keep in mind that lifting your pop-up camper will likely require some vehicle modifications. For example, you may need to adjust the trailer ball height, add wheel well extensions, or extend the stabilizer jacks. Additionally, be mindful of hoses, wires, and tubes that may be affected by the increased height, ensuring they are not bent, broken, or stretched.

Safety Precautions:

Always exercise caution when working on your pop-up camper. Lifting the suspension will alter how your camper handles, so it's crucial to test and adjust accordingly. Additionally, be aware that suspension modifications may void warranties, so review the terms of your agreement carefully. If in doubt, consult a licensed automotive technician for guidance.

By following these steps and staying mindful of safety precautions, you can successfully lift your pop-up camper using leaf springs, providing additional ground clearance and a smoother off-road experience.

Stabilizer jacks

There are different types of stabilizer jacks available for pop-up campers, including scissor jacks and crank jacks. Scissor jacks are bolted on and can be challenging to install, as finding the right mounting bracket is crucial. Crank jacks, on the other hand, are easier to operate and typically come with a handle that fits into the jack to raise or release it.

When using stabilizer jacks, the first step is to level the trailer from side to side using blocks or levellers under the wheels. Once the trailer is level, the stabilizer jacks are lowered to the ground and adjusted to ensure they are tight and can stabilise the camper effectively. It is important to ensure that the jacks are not used for levelling, as this can affect the stability and safety of the trailer.

To release the pressure on crank stabilizer jacks, use the handle to lift the ratchet mechanism at the top. This will allow the jack to be retracted and folded back under the trailer for travel.

It is worth noting that stabilizer jacks may need to be replaced if they become damaged or if the camper is modified to increase its height, as the original jacks may become too short. When choosing replacement jacks, it is important to consider the weight capacity and ensure that the mounting brackets are compatible with the camper's frame.

Frequently asked questions