Can you lift a Caravan?
Yes. You can lift a caravan off the ground for tasks like changing a wheel or performing undercarriage maintenance, but you must use the correct equipment, locate the manufacturer-recommended jacking points, and follow strict safety practices. Never rely on stabiliser legs for weight support or work under a raised caravan without proper stands. Check your model's manual for exact guidance.
Caravans pose unique challenges when lifting: the chassis is designed for towing and stabilization, not sustained lifting; weight distribution, soft ground, and the risk of tipping require careful planning. This article provides practical guidance on safe lifting, equipment, and common mistakes to avoid.
Safety and planning before lifting
Before you lift, ensure you have a stable, level working area and the right equipment. Plan which points on the frame will bear the load and confirm the caravan’s weight rating to select suitable gear. If you’re uncertain, don’t proceed—consult the manufacturer or a professional.
Here is a practical checklist to prepare for lifting a caravan safely:
- Verify the caravan’s gross vehicle weight rating (GVWR) and ensure your jack and stands are rated above that weight.
- Identify the manufacturer’s recommended jacking points on the chassis or frame near each wheel.
- Park on firm, level ground and apply the handbrake; chock the wheels that will stay on the ground.
- Ensure the area is clear of people and obstacles; keep a helper nearby if possible.
- Inspect jacking points for damage or corrosion; do not use compromised points.
- Have a plan for lowering and retorquing fasteners; use protective equipment (gloves, eye protection).
Following these safety measures minimizes the risk of slipping, bending the chassis, or a sudden collapse during lifting.
Equipment and jacking points
Using the right gear and locating the correct lifting points are essential for a stable lift. The following guidance applies to most caravans, but always cross-check with your specific model’s manual.
Before you assemble the lifting setup, review the equipment needs and the jacking points you will use:
- Hydraulic jack or high-capacity trolley bottle jack rated for at least the caravan’s GVWR (many caravans require 2–3 tonnes or more).
- A set of sturdy axle stands or purpose-built caravan stands rated for the caravan weight; use at least two stands on the supported end.
- Wheel chocks for the wheels that remain on the ground, plus a wheel brace or torque wrench for lug nuts.
- Timber blocks or a heavy mat to distribute load on soft ground and protect the chassis.
- Clear, stable surface and lighting; gloves and eye protection; helper if available.
- Manufacturer’s jacking points, usually located at reinforced sections of the frame near each wheel.
Always follow the manufacturer’s indicated jacking points and never place supports on flooring, tanks, or non-structural parts of the caravan. Properly placed supports prevent frame deformation and reduce the risk of accidents.
Step-by-step lifting procedure
These steps outline a cautious, general approach for lifting a caravan to change a wheel or access the undercarriage. Adapt to your model and conditions, and stop if anything feels unstable.
Use this procedure as a practical guide for performing the lift safely:
- Park on level ground, engage the handbrake, and chock the wheels on the opposite side. Ensure the caravan is stationary and cannot roll.
- Loosen the lug nuts on the wheel you’ll remove while the wheel remains on the ground.
- Position the hydraulic jack under the recommended jacking point near the wheel. Ensure full contact with the structural Point and that the jack is on solid ground or a stable base.
- Slowly lift the caravan until the wheel clear of the ground; verify that the weight is evenly supported by the jack and not by a non-reinforced component.
- Place axle stands under the chassis near the jacking point or at the manufacturer’s specified support points. Lower the jack slowly until the caravan rests securely on the stands; never rely on the jack alone to hold weight.
- Remove the wheel, perform the necessary maintenance, or install the replacement wheel.
- Reinstall the wheel, hand-tighten lug nuts, then lower the caravan off the stands by removing the stands and gradually lowering the jack until the wheel contacts the ground.
- Torque the lug nuts to the manufacturer’s specification in a star pattern, then remove the chocks and test the stability before driving away.
Important caveats: never crawl under a caravan that is only supported by a jack. Always use stands on solid, indicated points. If the ground is soft or uneven, or if the caravan is heavily loaded, seek professional assistance.
When to call a professional
If you lack the right equipment, are unsure about the correct jacking points for your model, or encounter any instability, contact a qualified technician or roadside assistance. Lifting and working under a caravan carries a significant risk of crush injuries, chassis damage, or uncontrolled movement if not performed correctly.
Summary
Lifting a caravan is feasible for wheel changes and basic maintenance, but it requires careful planning, the right equipment, and strict adherence to manufacturer guidance. Use proper jacking points, chocks, and stands, work on firm ground, and never rely on stabilizer legs to bear weight. If in doubt, consult the caravan’s manual or a professional to ensure safety and prevent damage.
How much does it cost to lift a Dodge Caravan?
The best part is, our Dodge Grand Caravan Lift and Lowering Kits start from as little as $199.99.
How much does it cost to raise a caravan?
Re: Lifting Caravan Clearance
It is done regularly it will lift the van about 100mm caravan maintenance places will most likely charge around $300 to $400. WDH will need adjusting. Result higher centre of gravity may not tow as well and most likely more fuel use as higher.
Can I raise the height of my caravan?
By cutting the front and rear spring mount fittings off the chassis, attaching a 50mm, 75mm or 100mm long steel beam and refitting the springs we will lift the van by exactly the thickness of the beam.
Can a Dodge Caravan be lifted?
DOdge caravan. lift kits
Our lift kits for the Grand Caravan, Town & Country, VW Routan, and RAM C/V are designed the same way we build everything at Journeys Off Road. A bit of added ground clearance makes these vans more versatile, more useful, and more capable wherever you take them.
