2017 auto-leveling. Should I use jack pads?

[t18skyguy]

I see the orange plastic jack pads for sale. Should I be using these? Is the exiting metal pad going to rust and go bad on me if I don't ? Just wondering what are your thoughts/

[GeorgiaRV]

I use them on mine when the jacks are going to have to extend a lot to level the MH. It keeps the jacks from having to extend a lot, less movement I feel is saving the life of the system. I usually put at least one pad out unless i am on smooth pavement ground. Just me. I don't think you really need to if you don't want to.

[memphis02]

I like to use them (I actually cut up some 6x6 pressure treated lumber, which I tend to use over the orange Lego blocks). When the jacks are toward the end of their stroke, I tend to notice/feel people moving around in the coach, especially at night than when I use a block or two. Less of a need than preference, I suppose, though.

[hoppers4]

I use as many as I can to reduce the workload of the system. I usually put 4 or 5 pads under each foot to reduce the stroke. I'm not concerned about the life of the metal pad, just trying to extend the life of the leveling system.

[Zinkow]

I've got Hosspads, and put then out every time I level on dirt or pavement.

[Shakedown St.]

I use 4x6 blocks. The jacks don't extend very far, and provides a solid feel.

[memphis02]

I try to keep an assortment of different items. On most occasions, I only use my 6x6 blocks under the jacks and an occasional 2x12 to level up a tire. We got a *really* off-level site in the Tetons. I ended up using every one of my leveling supplies!!! (note where I used my tri-links )

I was thankful to have the 4x4s shown here, in the bays as I was able to take some of the weight off the front by lowering my front wheels onto them. Definitely got some weird looks, but at least we were level!!!!

[Jopopsy]

Originally Posted by Zinkow

I've got Hosspads, and put then out every time I level on dirt or pavement.

X2. Everything but concrete, unless the pad is really unlevel (yes, I've been on concrete that was very unlevel).

[t18skyguy]

Thank you guys. I'm for sure going to use something. All good reasons and I'm gonna check out the hosspads.Thanks Don

[Zinkow]

t18skyguy - If your going to get the hosspads, get the megas - they are 14.5" sq - easier to center under the jacks

[BigJohnD]

We've got a set of these:

https://www.outriggerpads.com/for-rvs/

We have the 12x12x1" ones, and they are pretty much indestructible. Had them for our Class A and Class C, but still carry a few for different situations.

A lot of parks require pads. If you're on asphalt, at least down here, chances are you've seen the punch through marks that the heavier rigs leave, hence the rule to have them to distribute the weight.

[t18skyguy]

Originally Posted by BigJohnD

We've got a set of these:

https://www.outriggerpads.com/for-rvs/

We have the 12x12x1" ones, and they are pretty much indestructible. Had them for our Class A and Class C, but still carry a few for different situations.

A lot of parks require pads. If you're on asphalt, at least down here, chances are you've seen the punch through marks that the heavier rigs leave, hence the rule to have them to distribute the weight.

Excellent point BigJohn, didn't even think of that. tx