Lawn & Garden Care(1)

8 Landing Gear Extensions for Uneven Grass for Stability

Stabilize on uneven grass with 8 essential landing gear extensions. Find the perfect solution for a steady setup.

Parking a travel trailer or motorhome on a grassy site often leads to uneven footing and the dreaded sinking sensation as ground moisture shifts under weight. Stabilizing an RV on soft terrain requires more than just factory-installed jacks, as localized pressure can quickly turn a lush lawn into a muddy pit. Choosing the right landing gear extension ensures a level living space and prevents structural stress on the vehicle’s frame.

Camco FasTen XL Blocks: Best for All-Around Versatility

For families who frequent a variety of campgrounds, from manicured private parks to rustic state sites, having a modular solution is essential. These blocks are designed to interlock securely, creating a stable platform that distributes weight across a larger footprint than a standard jack pad.

Because they are made of durable, UV-stabilized resin, they resist cracking even after long-term exposure to the elements. They store compactly in a small bin, making them perfect for those with limited under-belly storage space.

The bottom line: These blocks offer the best balance between affordability and modular utility for the average weekend camper.

Andersen Hitches Rapid Jack: For Heavy-Duty Leveling

When dealing with a significantly tilted site, traditional blocks might not provide the height needed to bring the vehicle level. The Rapid Jack functions as both a lifting tool and a base, capable of raising one side of a trailer to equalize height differences.

Its heavy-duty construction is meant to handle substantial weight without deforming or slipping. While it is larger than a standard block set, the ability to lift a trailer with a single device simplifies the setup process significantly.

The bottom line: Choose this if the trailer frequently visits sites with noticeable slopes or deep ruts.

Lippert JT’s Strong Arm: The Best Stability Upgrade

Shaky floors and interior movement can ruin the comfort of a parked RV. Unlike simple pads that sit under the jacks, the Strong Arm system bolts directly to the frame and the jack legs, effectively triangulating the support.

By reducing the side-to-side and front-to-back movement of the jack legs, the entire vehicle feels anchored to the ground. This is a semi-permanent installation that remains in place during travel, meaning no extra setup time is required upon arrival.

The bottom line: This is the premier choice for owners tired of the “wobble” and looking for a permanent fix to trailer stability.

BAL C-Jacks: A Solid Choice for Low-Profile Trailers

Small campers and teardrop trailers often sit closer to the ground, leaving little room for bulky jack extensions. BAL C-Jacks provide a robust alternative to standard scissor jacks, offering a more rigid frame mount that is specifically designed for lighter vehicles.

They deploy quickly and provide a wider base of support than generic factory equipment. The low-profile design ensures that departure angles aren’t compromised while driving over uneven campground roads.

The bottom line: Use these if the current factory jacks are struggling to keep a smaller trailer steady on soft or uneven ground.

SnapPad EQ Grand: The Best Permanent Jack Pad Solution

For those who want to avoid the ritual of placing blocks under each jack before leveling, the SnapPad offers a “set it and forget it” approach. These rubber pads attach directly to the metal landing feet of a power leveling system.

Because they stay attached permanently, there is no need to crawl underneath the rig to position blocks on rainy or muddy days. The thick, recycled rubber material adds a significant surface area to the jack, which prevents sinking in soft turf.

The bottom line: This is the ultimate convenience solution for owners of rigs equipped with automatic hydraulic leveling systems.

Stromberg Carlson Base Pad: For Very Soft, Spongy Lawns

Sometimes, ground conditions are simply too soft for thin plastic blocks. The Stromberg Carlson base pad provides a larger, thicker surface area designed to float on top of saturated soil rather than cutting into it.

The heavy-duty construction is built to prevent the “punch-through” effect where a jack foot sinks deep into mud. These pads are lightweight yet sturdy enough to handle the concentrated weight of large motorhomes.

The bottom line: Keep a set of these on hand specifically for springtime travel when campground grass is likely to be soft or waterlogged.

Tri-Lynx Lynx Levelers: The Best Interlocking Block Kit

The classic orange interlocking blocks are a staple for a reason. They can be configured into a wide pyramid or a flat, expansive base, making them highly adaptable to various terrain types.

They are lightweight and nest together tightly, which is ideal for those managing tight storage compartments. Their durability is well-proven, often lasting for many years even with heavy use in varying climates.

The bottom line: These are the standard for a reason; they are effective, easy to store, and highly versatile for almost any leveling scenario.

Valterra Stackers: The Best No-Frills, Budget Pick

For the minimalist or the budget-conscious homeowner, these stackers offer a simple way to gain a few inches of height. They are straightforward to use and provide just enough lift to clear small obstacles or level out minor grass depressions.

While they may not offer the heavy-duty weight distribution of a rubber pad, they are more than sufficient for smaller, lighter travel trailers. They are also easily replaced if one goes missing at a campsite.

The bottom line: Buy these if the goal is basic functionality without over-investing in complex gear.

Blocks vs. Pads vs. Jacks: Which One Do You Need?

Determining the right tool depends entirely on the weight of the trailer and the frequency of travel. For those who move weekly, permanent solutions like SnapPads offer the highest return on investment through time saved.

Casual campers who only head out a few times a year are better served by modular block systems. These are cost-effective and take up minimal space in the garage or storage shed during the off-season.

  • Weight Matters: Heavier rigs require rubber or high-density composite pads to prevent cracking.
  • Storage Space: If storage is limited, prioritize modular blocks that nest together.
  • Setup Speed: If back pain or mobility is a concern, opt for permanent, bolt-on solutions.

Proper Placement to Prevent Sinking on Soft Ground

Placement is just as important as the equipment itself. Always aim to place the pad or block centered beneath the jack foot to ensure weight is distributed evenly across the entire surface area.

On extremely soft ground, consider placing a secondary, larger board or plywood sheet beneath the jack pad to further increase the footprint. This “double-layer” approach is the most effective way to prevent the landing gear from burying itself in mud overnight.

  • Always verify that the ground underneath the pad is as level as possible before extending the jacks.
  • Check for potential hidden underground pipes or irrigation lines before putting down heavy-duty jacks in residential settings.
  • Clean any mud or debris off blocks before storing them to prevent mess and long-term degradation.

Investing in reliable stabilization gear transforms a frustrating, wobbly setup into a stable, comfortable home base. By selecting the right combination of blocks, pads, or jacks, the stress of uneven terrain is easily managed, allowing for more time spent enjoying the outdoors rather than struggling with equipment. Choose a solution that matches the weight of the rig and the frequency of use to ensure many seasons of worry-free leveling.

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