Jacking twin axle that has 2 motor movers
When there are two motor movers fitted to a twin axle caravan the jacking points need to be removed to permit access. In this case where is it safe to position the jack on the chassis to either change a wheel that has a puncture or position the second Al-ko wheel lock.
For example is it safe to position a jack (bottle/scissor/trolley) between the axles on the chassis or is it better on the bottom of one of the axles?
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And me!
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As you are waiting for delivery, I assume it is a new van. If so check if you are fortunate enough to have chosen one with EP automatic levelling system such as a Buccaneer. If so you will be able to jack up using the centre jacks to lift the van.
If not, consider the possibility of have the system fitted, rather expensive, but will also make it very easy to apply the twin locks.
No bending, kneeling, lying down to find a suitable jacking point, just press a button and up she goes, and best of all easy levelling.
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I see you have asked the question on another post about the EPsystem
We had ours fitted 5 years ago, not tempting providence here, but would not hesitate to make the same decision again. As I said above, it will jack up either side of the van on manual setting and the levelling is so simple.
As we have single axle, first job is to attach wheel lock then the OH sets the level while I set about water and electrics. Do not bother with the remote if it comes at extra cost as the control can be located just inside the door. With two axle and two locks, I guess the first job would be to jack up and fit both locks, then lower and start the levelling process.
Maintenance so far consists of wiping the rams and applying a wipe of lubricant at the start of our touring season and again before winter.
If cost and weight are not a concern, it will probably be your best gizmo.
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Wisdom is that it is not good to jack axle tube at any point. The tube and mountings could be damaged. If you have to jack the axel then the point closest to the chassis rail is best.
The best position is on the bottom of the chassis rail where the axle mounting plate is positioned so you have a double thickness of chassis and bracket to give you the strongest point.
I carry a low entry light weight 2 tonne jack.
Sell the dreadful Alko wheel lock and replace with a couple of Nemesis then you only need to jack if you get a flat. Far quicker and safer.
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Jacking Points on twin axle caravan fitted with AWD Powertouch Motormovers.
When touring I use a single Lock n Level air bag in order to facilitate fitting the 2nd Al-Ko chassis lock. I then deflate the Lock n Level and leave in situ until departure. This is by far the easiest and quickest method of lifting the front wheel. If levelling is required I use the twin axle lock n Level on the opposite side. This equates to £300 + for the combo set but to me it is well worth the money and is such a simple process. It is vital to chock the caravan wheels and jockey wheel when carrying out the procedure. However, when the caravan is in storage I do not like the idea of leaving the Lock n Level deflated under the rear wheel having raised it to fit the 2nd Alko lock. Whilst in storage it is an insurance requirement to have both Alko Locks fitted on the same side. In this instance I utilise the Alko bottle jack (2 ton) provided by Coachman and jack it on the heavy duty jacking brackets which are fitted in the designated location on the inside of the chassis which is behind the rear edge of the motormover. The jacking brackets are fitted on the inside of the chassis due to the position of the motor mover. Access is between the motor mover and the spare wheel carrier. Yes you have to lie down on your side to position the jack but once in place the extended handle provided gives sufficient leverage in order to easily jack the caravan and fit the 2nd lock. I have a roll up exercise mat for cushioning and keeping clean when lying down. Again chocking the caravan wheels and jockey wheel is essential to prevent any caravan sway.
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