Levelling a motorhome on blocks is an essential skill for every camper. Whether you’re parked on uneven ground at a campsite or exploring off‑grid locations, properly levelling your motorhome makes everyday life more comfortable and prevents strain on doors, appliances, and plumbing. This guide explains everything you need to know, from why levelling matters to step‑by‑step techniques for levelling on blocks safely and effectively.
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Why levelling your motorhome matters
Creating a level base for your motorhome isn’t just about comfort; it has several practical benefits:
- Improved sleep and comfort: A tilted motorhome can make beds feel uneven and cause you to roll toward one side.
- Proper operation of appliances: Many appliances, such as refrigeration units, work best when the vehicle is level.
- Prevents damage: Parking on uneven ground can place stress on the chassis, jacks, and slide‑outs.
- Better waste tank drainage: Tanks and toilets work more efficiently when the motorhome is reasonably level.
Whether you’re new to motorhoming or a seasoned traveller, understanding how to level on blocks is a skill that will save time, frustration, and wear on your vehicle.
Choosing the right site before levelling
Before you place motorhome blocks, take a moment to choose the best available spot:
- Look for the flattest area possible. Even small changes in slope can make a big difference.
- Avoid soft or boggy ground, which can cause blocks to sink under weight.
- Expect that you may still need to level. Most campgrounds and wild camping spots are not perfectly flat.
Once your site is chosen, you’re ready to start the levelling process.
Equipment you’ll need for levelling your motorhome on blocks
To level your motorhome on blocks, the right tools make the job easier and safer. Essentials include:
- Motorhome levelling blocks: Durable plastic or rubber blocks designed to support the heavy weight. You can simply find these on Amazon
- Spirit level or digital level: To measure how even your motorhome is.
- Chocks: To prevent wheel movement once in position.
- Optional accessories: Such as a dedicated levelling ramp or wheel ramps for a smoother transition.
Levelling blocks are available in sets with interlocking sections so you can build up the height you need. Choose blocks that are robust and designed for vehicle use to avoid cracking or failure.
Step‑by‑step: Levelling a motorhome on blocks
1. Assess the slope
Park your motorhome as close as possible to the desired position. Use a spirit level placed on a flat surface inside (like a counter or dashboard) to determine which way the vehicle is leaning.
2. Identify which side needs raising
If your motorhome tilts to one side or front/back, you’ll need to raise the lower side. For example, if the driver’s side is lower, you will place levelling blocks under the offside wheels.
3. Prepare your blocks
Lay your blocks so they form a stable ramp or pad. Blocks should be positioned in line with the wheel that needs to be raised. Ensure they are firmly on the ground and not wobbly.
4. Slowly drive onto the blocks
With a second person outside guiding you if possible, slowly drive the motorhome onto the blocks. Approach gently — rushing can cause wheels to slip or blocks to shift.
5. Check your level
Once on the blocks, stop and check with your spirit level. If the motorhome is still off-level, you may need to add more blocks or adjust its position.
6. Secure with chocks
Once level, place chocks on the downhill side of the wheels (front and back) to prevent any movement. This increases safety and prevents rolling.
7. Final safety check
Before settling in, re‑check your level and ensure the motorhome feels stable. Adjust if necessary.
Levelling on blocks is a simple process once you’re familiar with it, and becoming confident with the steps will make setting up at every stop quicker and easier.
Tips to effectively level your motorhome on blocks
- Use a digital levelling app: Many modern smartphones have built‑in levels that can help you measure pitch and roll accurately.
- Take it slowly: Rushing onto blocks can cause them to slide or misalign.
- Stack evenly: Blocks should be stacked evenly across the width of the wheel — uneven stacks can collapse.
- Safety first: Never crawl under a motorhome that is supported only by levelling blocks. If you need to work underneath, use appropriate jacks and stands.
Levelling front to back vs side to side
Levelling a motorhome isn’t always just side‑to‑side. You may also need to adjust front‑to‑back tilt:
- Place blocks under the front or rear wheels to reduce nose‑down or nose‑up tilt.
- Be aware that this can change the side‑to‑side balance, so always re‑check both axes with your level.
Some motorhomers prefer using ramps for front‑to‑back levelling, then fine‑tune side levelling with blocks.
Common mistakes to avoid
- Not chocking wheels: Without chocks, wheels can roll backwards or forward, even on level ground.
- Using unsuitable blocks: Cheap or flimsy blocks may crack or shift under weight.
- Ignoring surface conditions: Wet or unstable ground can cause blocks to sink or tilt.
- Guessing rather than measuring: Always use a level. Guesswork leads to poorly levelled vehicles and frustration.
Avoiding these common mistakes will make levelling more reliable and safer.
Alternative motorhome levelling methods to blocks
While this guide focuses on levelling a motorhome on blocks, other options include:
- Levelling ramps: Provide a smooth incline, which often feels easier to drive onto.
- Integrated hydraulic levelling systems: Some motorhomes have built‑in systems that can adjust each wheel independently.
- Combination approach: Using ramps for front‑to‑back adjustment and blocks for side‑to‑side fine‑tuning.
Each method has advantages, and choosing the right one depends on your motorhome and personal preference.
Summary
Levelling a motorhome on blocks is a valuable skill that enhances comfort, safety, and the overall camping experience. With the right equipment and approach, it becomes a quick and reliable part of setting up camp.
By using quality levelling blocks, checking with a spirit level, and following proper steps, you’ll ensure your motorhome sits securely and comfortably — ready for whatever adventures lie ahead.
