Motorhome Self-Levelling Systems

Are They Worth the Investment?

If you've ever arrived at a campsite after a long day on the road only to spend the next 20 minutes driving backwards and forwards onto levelling ramps, you'll understand why motorhome self-levelling systems are becoming one of the most desirable upgrades for touring enthusiasts.

Whether you're touring the Scottish Highlands, exploring the coastal roads of Cornwall, or heading across Europe to the Alps, a level motorhome is essential for comfort, convenience and even the efficient operation of some onboard equipment.

Why Levelling Your Motorhome Matters

Many motorhome owners underestimate the importance of a perfectly level pitch. Sleeping at an angle can quickly become uncomfortable, shower trays may not drain properly, and absorption fridges generally perform better when the vehicle is level.

Traditional levelling methods involve ramps, chocks and plenty of trial and error. Modern hydraulic self-levelling systems remove the hassle by automatically raising and lowering the motorhome until it reaches a perfectly level position. The process typically takes between 60 seconds and three minutes.

How Do Self-Levelling Systems Work?

Most systems use hydraulic jacks mounted to the chassis. Sensors and gyroscopic technology assess the motorhome's position, while a control unit directs hydraulic rams to lift and stabilise the vehicle.

Once activated via a touchscreen control panel, remote handset or smartphone app, the system automatically adjusts each corner of the motorhome until it is level. As an added benefit, the jacks also stabilise the vehicle, eliminating much of the movement felt when people walk around inside.

The Benefits of Automatic Levelling

Motorhome owners who have upgraded to a hydraulic levelling system often cite several advantages:

• Faster pitching and setup.
• Improved comfort when sleeping and cooking.
• Better shower drainage.
• Reduced movement inside the vehicle.
• Easier wheel changes and maintenance access.
• Enhanced security, as a vehicle raised on jacks is harder to drive away.

The main downside is weight. Depending on the system, a self-levelling kit can add between 28kg and 68kg to your payload, so it's important to consider your vehicle's weight limits before installation.

Leading Motorhome Self-Levelling System Suppliers

Amplo

Established in 1985, Amplo offers a lightweight hydraulic levelling solution that uses telescopic jacks and automatic controls to achieve a level pitch in just a few minutes.

Key features include:

• Smartphone app and touchscreen operation.
• Lightweight system weighing around 28kg.
• Corrosion-resistant components.
• Automatic retract and manual override functions.
• Passcode protection for additional security.

Email: sales@amplolevel.co.uk

Phone: 01782 333422

Unit 15 Aynsley Mills,

Sutherland Road,

ST3 1HH

 

Ma-Ve

Ma-Ve's system features four independent hydraulic actuators, each capable of handling substantial loads.

Highlights include:

• Bluetooth app control.
• Self-adjusting inclination sensors.
• Aluminium and stainless-steel construction.
• Approximate system weight of 30kg.
• Designed specifically for AL-KO chassis applications.

E&P Hydraulics LevelM

E&P Hydraulics is one of the most recognised names in the premium levelling market and is fitted as original equipment on many luxury European motorhomes.

Features include:

• Automatic and manual levelling modes.
• Removable touchscreen controller.
• Intelligent operation to minimise chassis stress.
• Extensive UK and European dealer network.
• Suitable for a wide range of motorhomes and campervans.

E&P Hydraulics

Haverstraat 143

2153 GD Nieuw-Vennep

Nederland

📞+31 (0)25 2626151

📩info@ep-hydraulics.com

 

M-Level

A British-made system developed specifically for the UK market, M-Level has quickly gained popularity among touring enthusiasts.

Notable features include:

• Auto-level function.
• Typical levelling time of 60 to 90 seconds.
• Compatible with Fiat, Ford, Mercedes, Volkswagen Crafter and MAN-based motorhomes.
• Manual lifting function for tyre changes and maintenance.
• UK-based manufacturing and support.

Unit 11 Aynsley Mill

Portland Works

Sutherland Road

Longton

Stoke on Trent

ST3 1HH 

📞01782703407 

 

 

AL-KO HY4

AL-KO's HY4 system takes a different approach by using four independent hydraulic units, each with its own pump.

Benefits include:

• Reduced hydraulic pipework.
• Smartphone app control.
• Memory settings for frequently used pitches.
• Stable and balanced operation.
• Suitable for AL-KO chassis-equipped motorhomes.

AL-KO Customer Centre United Kingdom

Unit 7&8 Sucham Park, Northfield Road

CV47 0AB Southam (UK)

United Kingdom

📞+44 19 26 8 18 500

📩customercentre.uk@alko-tech.com

 

HPC Automatic Levelling System (Glide-Right)

Although not featured in every levelling guide, HPC has developed a strong reputation among motorhome owners looking for a lightweight hydraulic solution.

Features include:

• Levelling in under 90 seconds.
• Smartphone app connectivity.
• Four preset operating modes.
• Aluminium corrosion-resistant jacks.
• Three-year warranty.
• System weight from around 40kg to 55kg depending on configuration.

General Enquiries: Sales Office

📞+440151 541 8246 (Wirral)

📩info@glide-rite.com

 

What Should You Look For When Choosing a System?

Before investing several thousand pounds in a levelling system, it's worth comparing:

• Total installed weight.
• Speed of operation.
• Warranty length.
• Smartphone connectivity.
• Manual override capability.
• Availability of servicing and spare parts.
• Dealer and installation network.
• Vehicle compatibility.

Visiting major motorhome shows can be an excellent way to compare systems side-by-side and speak directly with manufacturers and installers.

Are Self-Levelling Systems Worth It?

For occasional weekend users, levelling ramps may still be the most cost-effective solution.

However, for full-time motorhomers, long-term tourers, and those who regularly visit uneven pitches across the UK and Europe, a self-levelling system can transform the touring experience. The convenience of arriving on site, pressing a button and being perfectly level within minutes is hard to overstate.

As motorhome technology continues to evolve, automatic levelling systems are becoming increasingly common and may soon be considered as essential as solar panels, lithium batteries and satellite navigation systems for serious tourers.

For many motorhome owners, once you've experienced automatic levelling, there's no going back.

Thanks for reading, and I hope this helps you keep your van on the road and running smoothly. If you found this useful, be sure to subscribe to my YouTube channel, Johnny Burr, for more motorhome tips and adventures. Don't forget to join our growing community in my Facebook groups, Motorhome touring Scotland and Motorhome Touring The UK and Europe, or hop onto our Motorhome Touring Discord server to share your own experiences and chat with fellow enthusiasts. You can also keep up with my latest travels over on Instagram at @johnnyburr3 and catch my latest content over on Caravan Radio. Safe travels, and I’ll see you on the road!

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