Here is an update on the feasibility of manually leveling our Axis 24.1 with plastic ramps:
We have now camped in maybe 8-10 different places and have always been successful leveling with 1,2 or 3 plastic ramps. We bought this pair of heavy duty truck maintenance ramps that is our workhorse-
https://www.amazon.com/gp/product/B0...?ie=UTF8&psc=1
They are rated at 10,000 lbs each which is 2-1/2 times the weight of our heaviest corner and have stood up well with use. I store them in the long outside compartment on the passenger side of our Axis. Not all Axis models have the storage capacity of our 24.1 but it has sure worked for us.
When I get to a campsite I eyeball the terrane and try to park the coach in the most level orientation. Then I get out my iPad and check the level using the bubble level app in two planes- fore and aft and side to side. Then I guess how much lift I will need in each direction. Sometimes I just need one corner, more often both tires on the aft end, and sometimes three corners. I have a pair of Oxgard stepped leveling ramps that I use if I need a third, but always only on the fronts for load considerations- the fronts weigh 2,500 lbs per corner and the backs weigh 3,500-4,000 lbs each.
3/4 of the time I get it within less than a degree first shot. Sometimes it takes adjusting one corner in or out to lift more or less to get it right. I always lift the duallies on the outer wheel with the heavy truck ramps and never had a problem. After leveling I put chocks in the downhill direction.
The truck ramps will lift about 6-1/2" inches to the platform at the top, but I don't always use the full lift. The Oxnard ramps lift 4-5". I have never not had enough lift, but in one case it was close and still had another degree to go. I probably would have been able to make it by jockeying my parking spot a bit.
I have always been able to level within a degree in both directions which meets Dometic's specs for absorption fridges and I can't feel any slope while sleeping.
So far so good.
David
Thor Forums
