Written by Oakleigh Wood
You’ve finally arrived, found a great pitch and got the motorhome parked up. Then the little annoyances start…
Water is sitting in the sink. A cupboard door that normally closes perfectly suddenly needs a little more persuasion. You’re constantly aware that the motorhome isn’t quite level, and you find yourself wishing you’d spent another ten minutes getting it right.
It’s one of those things that can take the shine off an otherwise great trip.
Of course you can reach for the levelling ramps. But if you’re touring regularly, there’s another option: an automatic levelling system.
One system we’re seeing increasingly chosen by customers is AMPLO, offering powered levelling without the faff of manually positoning ramps every time you arrive on a pitch.
What Does an Automatic Levelling System Actually Do?
An automatic levelling system uses powered supports fitted to the motorhome to adjust its position once you’re parked.
Rather than driving backwards and forwards onto ramps and checking the level manually, the system takes care of the adjustment through its control system.
The important point here is that levelling isn’t the same as simply lifting the vehicle. The system needs to work with the motorhome’s chassis, weight distribution and suspension to achieve a stable, level position without placing unnecessary loads on components.
That’s why the system needs to be correctly specified for the individual vehicle.
Automatic Levelling: More Than Just Convenience
The obvious benefit is convenience. Arrive, park, operate the system and get on with your trip.
But there are other considerations.
More Consistent Levelling
With manual ramps, the final position depends on how accurately you judge the pitch and how many adjustments you’re prepared to make.
An automatic system provides a more controlled approach, helping you achieve a consistent level position without repeatedly moving the vehicle.
Less Manual Handling
Levelling blocks and ramps aren’t particularly difficult to use, but they do need storing, positioning and collecting up again.
For owners who tour frequently, removing that part of the setup can make a noticeable difference — particularly when you’ve just driven several hours and would rather be inside with a cup of tea.
Better Use of Your Pitch
You don’t always get the luxury of a perfectly flat pitch.
An automatic system gives you more flexibility when choosing where to position the motorhome, rather than relying on the natural gradient of the ground or trying to find the flattest part of the pitch.
Choosing a Levelling System for Your Motorhome?
This is where it pays to look beyond the headline features.
The right system depends on the vehicle it’s being fitted to, so factors such as gross vehicle weight, chassis type, axle configuration, available mounting points and ground clearance all need to be considered.
The system also needs to be installed in a way that works with the vehicle’s existing components and doesn’t interfere with suspension, braking or other chassis equipment.
If you’re comparing different systems, it’s worth asking:
- Is it compatible with your specific chassis? ( Ford, Fiat, MB, etc )
- What is the system’s operating capacity? ( capacity lift per ram? )
- How are the supports mounted? ( does the chassis need to be drilled? )
- How is the system controlled? ( App on mobile, Control panel, Remote control? )
- What level of automation does it provide? ( Auto, Manual, Other? )
- How does it handle uneven pitches? ( understand the levelling process )
- Who will install and calibrate it?
- What aftercare and support are available?
These are the details that matter once you move beyond simply asking whether a levelling system is convenient.
Why AMPLO?
AMPLO is designed specifically around the practical requirements of motorhome levelling, with a focus on automated operation and straightforward use.
For the owner, that means the process can be considerably simpler than carrying, positioning and driving onto levelling blocks.
But the installation is where things get more technical.
A levelling system needs to be matched to the motorhome’s chassis, weight and configuration, with the supports positioned correctly and the system calibrated appropriately. It isn’t a case of fitting a universal kit and forgetting about it.
That’s also why professional installation matters.
A Small Installation Detail That Makes a Big Difference
A good levelling system is only as good as its installation.
At Bristol Caravans, we pay attention to the details that some overlook. Where the installation requires wiring to pass through the vehicle’s chassis section, we carefully route cables and hydraulic pipes, fitting conduit where appropriate to reduce the risk of rubbing on sharp surfaces. We aim for the underneath of your motorhome to be as tidy as the areas you see day-to-day.
Where possible we also recommend a weatherproof box to protect the hydraulic pump and connections from the elements.
It’s a relatively small part of the installation, but it’s exactly the sort of detail that matters over time. The system is underneath your motorhome, exposed to rain, road salt spray, dirt and everything else that comes with touring. Protecting those components properly helps keep the installation neat, secure and better protected from the environment.
It’s not something you necessarily notice when you’re using the system, and that’s rather the point.
Why Bristol Caravans?
We don’t just fit a levelling system and send you on your way.
The installation is tailored to the individual motorhome, and use, from positioning the hydraulic components and routing the wiring to protecting the installation from the elements.
The result is a cleaner, more considered installation designed around the vehicle, rather than simply adding a system underneath it.
If you’re considering an AMPLO levelling system, speak to us about your motorhome and we’ll talk you through the installation, compatability, and options available.
👉 Interested in an AMPLO levelling system for your motorhome? Contact us today to arrange a FREE assessment and discuss your requirements.
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