winter storage

[hhoenig]

while storing in garage on cement slab, should stabilizers be lowered into position, or is it o.k. to use only the nose gear?

[RockyMtnRay]

Originally Posted by hhoenig

while storing in garage on cement slab, should stabilizers be lowered into position, or is it o.k. to use only the nose gear?

If you have one of the older models that truly had "stabilizers" attached to the floor, it won't make much difference whether or not those are lowered because those devices can't carry any significant weight.

However, if you what you mean by "stabilizers" is the underframe scissor or "leveling" jacks on the newer models, then you can lower these (especially the rear ones) to take weight off the tires. However, if you're using these jacks to raise the trailer, it's a good idea to raise each side of the trailer the exact same amount (to within about 1/8 inch) to minimize twisting forces on the frame.

Taking weight off the tires during long term storage is very helpful to tire life because it minimizes flat spotting and cracking/deterioration around the sidewall bulge.

[ripp1202]

What if you put 3 ton car jack stand under the axle to take the weight off the tires and use the stabilizers jack to hold the weight of the trailer??????????????? I will be storing mine in the grass! Still trying to come up with the best way? The Rip

[Bill]

Rip -

Sounds like a good approach, with one exception. Check your Owner's Manual. My memory (never to be fully trusted) says that you should never put jacks under the axle. Instead, put the jacks under the fore-and-aft frame members, just behind the axle. IIRC, this is part of the instructions for changing a tire.

NOPE, IT IS IN THE USER'S MATERIAL FROM DEXTER AXLE.

Bill

[ripp1202]

Bill you'r the man!!!!!!!!!!!!!Dexter say's NOT TO JACK ON AXLE!!!!!!!!!!! THE FRAME ONLY!!!!! I think I will put the car jacks in front and behind the tires on the frame. Then use the stabilizer jack to hold it The Rip