14/07/2025
X-Chocks: I find them tremendously helpful in reducing the fore/aft movement within our rig and we use the consistently when setting up the RV. They use simple machines (levers and screws) to put pressure on the tires when placed between them. You can use them for tandem or triple axle trailers. Read on to learn more and hear why I like them (with a HUGE WARNING ⚠️) or skip to the bottom for affiliate links to check current pricing.��
I’ve had discussions with some folks that say they don’t feel much difference when they’re installed - after some investigation it seems that once you get closer to the 15,000lb rig size (and above) their stabilization is less dramatic. Which makes sense if you think about it: a 200lb adult moving around inside a 10,000 lb rig is going to affect the RV more than that same 200lb person in a 15,000lb trailer. The opposite will be true as you reduce trailer weight as well - so a tandem axle weighing 7000lbs may see more dramatic stabilization purely because it has the opportunity to stabilize more movement at the wheels.��
The BAL X Chocks are made in the USA, and from what I can research - are the original design of this style. They’re coated in zinc to inhibit rust and if you look closely - the little holes at the top of the screw can accommodate a padlock for added security. ��
They come in two sizes: the regular fits tire spacing from 1 3/8” to 10” and the X-Tended Fit accommodates tire spacing of 10” up to 17” apart. The majority of trailers will use the regular ones - but there are a few brands out there that have wide stance axle placement and that’s where you’d use the X-Tended Fit versions.��You can get X Chocks as pairs or singles - I personally see the most value in using them on both sides of the RV - so for my tandem axle rig we use two. If we had a triple axle we’d need four.�
Now the unfortunate part, or rather the confusing part: they’re called “chocks” because they reduce tire movement - but they are not, and do not replace, parking chocks because they do not touch the ground.
⚠️ Therefore, (WARNING) always use X Chocks in conjunction with ground contact chocks - as X Chocks are purely for stabilization and reduced movement. I’ve discussed this with BAL and they confirmed - please don’t use them in place of ground contact parking chocks.��
How do you use them?
Basically install them after the trailer is ground chocked, disconnected, and level. It’s easier to install them before slides go out so you don’t have to crawl under.��
If you manually level your trailer:
1. Position and level your trailer in the spot that you desire using ramps, blocks or other secure ways of leveling the trailer
2. Place ground chocks behind at least one wheel on each side. I personally like two on each side - can’t hurt, is cheap, easy, and effective
3. Unhook trailer from tow vehicle
4. Place the X Chocks between the tires and using the included manual tool or ratchet & socket (not a drill or impact - you can’t feel the pressure) crank them out until you feel the resistance in the handle become tight
5. Finish setting up the rest of your trailer and enjoy a more stable rig!
6. Sometimes you will need to add a tad more tension to the chock when the tires cool down and inflation pressure reduces: give them a quick in a few hours or the next morning
7. When you are ready to hook up and leave: bring in any slides and remove the X Chocks. The ground chocks are still in place and will assist you during hooking up to the tow vehicle�
If you auto-level your trailer:
1. The same general sequence, but you'll need to follow your auto level system instructions - most likely swapping the chocking and leveling steps. So it might be to chock, disconnect from the tow vehicle, then auto level - after you're chocked and level thats when you'd install the X Chocks.
*DISCLAIMER* We participate in several affiliate programs that earn us a commission on purchases made through our links at no extra cost to you! As an Amazon Associate I earn from qualifying purchases.
⭐ X-Chock Tire Locking Chocks (Pair - Model 28012)
https://geni.us/pnSq5 (Amazon)
⭐ X-Tended Fit X-Chocks (Pair - Model 28024: For wide stance axles)
https://geni.us/KavZnT (Amazon)
BAL X-Chocks by Norco-Industries, Inc
