6 Trailer Jack Stands For Support During Winter Storage
Protect your trailer during winter with these 6 top-rated jack stands. Ensure stability, prevent tire damage, and maintain frame integrity all season long.
Storing your trailer for the winter shouldn’t mean coming back to warped frames, blown tires, or a sagging suspension system in the spring. Taking the weight off your tires and stabilizing your rig with quality jack stands is the single best investment you can make for your trailer’s longevity. Let’s look at the best ways to keep your home-away-from-home secure and ready for the next adventure.
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Why Proper Trailer Support Matters for Winter
When your trailer sits stationary for months, the weight of the frame and interior components exerts constant pressure on the tires and suspension. This can lead to flat spots on your rubber and premature fatigue in your leaf springs or torsion axles. By distributing that weight across jack stands, you effectively "offload" the stress from the vulnerable running gear.
Beyond tire health, support jacks prevent the trailer from shifting during freeze-thaw cycles. As the ground beneath your tires softens or shifts, an unsupported trailer can develop structural stress or uneven settling. Using jack stands ensures your frame remains level, which is critical for preventing door misalignment and keeping your slide-outs functioning smoothly.
Preparing Your Trailer Frame for Long Storage
Before you place a single jack, you need to find the right contact points on your trailer frame. Consult your owner’s manual to identify the structural steel members capable of supporting the weight; never place jacks under the axle tubes or the bumper, as these can easily buckle under the load.
Clear the area of debris and ensure you are working on a level, solid surface. If the ground is dirt or gravel, use thick plywood or specialized jack pads to prevent the stands from sinking into the earth during a thaw. A stable foundation is the most important step in the entire process.
Camco 44561 Aluminum Stack Jacks for Stability
If you have a smaller travel trailer or a pop-up camper, the Camco 44561 aluminum stack jacks are a fantastic, lightweight solution. They are incredibly easy to store in a small compartment when you’re out on the road, and their stackable design allows for quick height adjustments.
Because they are aluminum, they won’t rust if you’re storing the trailer in a humid climate or near the coast. However, they aren’t intended for heavy-duty leveling or lifting massive fifth wheels. If you have a compact rig and want something simple and corrosion-resistant, these are the perfect choice.
Husky 76862 Heavy Duty Scissor Jacks for Support
For those who need a bit more muscle, the Husky 76862 scissor jacks provide a robust, reliable platform for medium-sized trailers. These are designed to be bolted onto the frame, offering a permanent stabilization solution that you can crank down whenever you reach a campsite or park for the winter.
The scissor mechanism is naturally stable, and the wide base plates distribute weight effectively across the ground. These are ideal for the weekend warrior who wants a "set it and forget it" system that handles both winter storage and campground leveling. If you value convenience and durability, these are a top-tier contender.
LIBRA 24-Inch Drop Leg Jacks for Heavy Trailers
When you’re dealing with a large toy hauler or a heavy-duty cargo trailer, standard jacks just won’t cut it. LIBRA’s 24-inch drop leg jacks are built for significant weight capacity, featuring a spring-loaded locking pin that makes rapid height adjustments a breeze.
These are best for trailers that sit high off the ground where you need significant extension. They require a bit more installation effort, but the trade-off is unmatched peace of mind during the off-season. If you have a heavy rig that needs serious, industrial-grade support, look no further.
EAZ-LIFT 48860 Stabilizer Jacks for Balance
EAZ-LIFT is a staple in the RV industry, and their 48860 stabilizer jacks are designed specifically to eliminate that "bouncy" feeling when you walk through your trailer. While they are primarily marketed as stabilizers, they are perfectly capable of holding a trailer steady through the winter months.
These jacks are straightforward, affordable, and easy to operate with a standard drill adapter. They are the best choice for the budget-conscious camper who wants a reliable, no-nonsense solution. They might not be the heavy-lifters of the bunch, but for standard travel trailers, they provide excellent balance.
BAL 23216 Deluxe Scissor Jacks for Durability
If you live in an area with harsh winters and significant moisture, the BAL 23216 jacks are built to last. They feature a powder-coated finish that resists rust and corrosion far better than standard steel jacks, and the heavy-gauge steel construction feels substantial the moment you touch it.
These are an excellent upgrade if your factory-installed jacks are starting to show their age. They offer a smooth, consistent crank that makes leveling a precise task rather than a struggle. If you want a premium product that will survive years of road salt and winter storage, this is the one to buy.
Andersen Manufacturing 3600 Levelers for Ease
Sometimes, the best way to support a trailer isn’t a jack at all, but a leveling system that keeps the weight distributed across the tires. The Andersen 3600 levelers are a clever alternative for those who don’t want to fully jack up their rig but need to ensure it stays level and secure.
These are perfect for short-term storage or for those who park on slightly uneven terrain. They are incredibly fast to use and require no mechanical installation. While they don’t take the weight off the suspension like a jack stand, they are a fantastic supplement to your winter storage kit.
Safety Tips for Positioning Your Jack Stands
- Always use jack stands in pairs to ensure the frame doesn’t twist under uneven pressure.
- Never rely on a hydraulic bottle jack for long-term storage; use it only to lift, then transfer the weight to mechanical stands.
- Double-check your locking pins or threaded collars before walking away from the trailer.
- Consider using wheel chocks on both sides of the tires, even if the trailer is jacked up, to prevent any accidental rolling.
Maintaining Your Jacks Throughout the Off-Season
Even the best jacks need a little love to stay functional. Before you put them into storage, wipe down the threaded rods and apply a light coat of silicone or lithium grease to keep the movement smooth and prevent rust. If your jacks are bolted to the frame, check the mounting bolts for tightness every season.
A quick visual inspection in the spring will save you a massive headache when it’s time to head out for your first trip. If you notice any bent components or stripped threads, replace the jack immediately rather than trying to force it. Proper maintenance is the hallmark of an experienced camper.
Taking the time to properly support your trailer this winter will pay dividends in reduced maintenance and a smoother start to your next camping season. Whether you opt for heavy-duty scissor jacks or simple aluminum stands, the key is consistency and proper placement. Now that your rig is tucked away safely, you can spend the winter months dreaming about your next big trip.
