How to Change AL-KO Side Friction Pads on Your Caravan Stabiliser

Towing a caravan safely is all about control and confidence — and AL-KO stabilisers play a huge part in that. If your caravan feels less stable on the road or you’re hearing a squeaking or grinding noise from the hitch, it might be time to check — and possibly replace — the side friction pads on your AL-KO hitch.

Thankfully, changing them is a relatively straightforward job, and we’ll walk you through it step by step.

🚐 Not Sure If Your Pads Need Replacing?

Before replacing, it’s important to check the condition of your friction pads.

👉 Read our guide:How to Check AL-KO Friction Pads

🧰 What You’ll Need:

• Replacement AL-KO side friction pads (specific to your model – AKS 2004/3004 etc.)

• A flat-head screwdriver

• A clean cloth or rag

• Gloves (optional, but handy!)

💡 Tip: If you’re replacing the side pads, check the front/rear pad too — often it makes sense to do them all at once.

🔄 How to Replace the Side Friction Pads:

1.Ensure Safety First

• Unhitch your caravan from the car.

• Make sure the handbrake is on and the van is level.

• Engage the hitch lever so the stabiliser is in the “off” position (handle up).

2. Locate the Side Pads

• Look for two plastic caps on either side of the hitch head. These cover the side friction pads.

• Using your flat-head screwdriver, gently pop off the caps.

3. Remove the Worn Pads

• Inside each opening, you’ll find the worn pad and a retaining spring.

• Carefully pry out the pads using your screwdriver, ensuring you don’t damage the clips or housing.

• Note how the spring sits, as you’ll be replacing it in the same position.

4. Clean the Area

• Wipe away any dust, dirt or grease from the inside of the hitch housing.

• Make sure the towball surface is grease-free (a greasy towball can ruin your new pads).

5.Insert the New Pads

• Line up the new pad with the housing.

• Reinsert the spring and pad, ensuring it’s seated snugly.

• Repeat on the other side.

6.Replace the Plastic Covers

• Simply press the plastic end caps back into place over each pad.

7.Test the Hitch

• Engage the stabiliser handle and check for firm resistance.

• If you feel a solid grip when pushing down, your new pads are working perfectly.

🔍 Signs It’s Time to Replace the Pads:

• Squeaking or grinding noises from the hitch

• Less resistance in the stabiliser handle

• Reduced towing stability

• Pads visibly worn, shiny, or glazed

🏕️ Keep It Smooth with IDS Camping & Leisure

We stock genuine AL-KO replacement pads for all major models, along with towball cleaning wipes and hitch maintenance gear. If you’re unsure which pads you need, feel free to call or pop in — our team is always happy to help.

👉 Shop AL-KO Pads & Towing Accessories »

This video may also help click here

🛑 Important: Never grease your towball when using an AL-KO stabiliser. Friction is key to the stabiliser working correctly — a greasy towball will cause slipping and reduce effectiveness.

FAQs

Are side pads different from front/rear pads?

Yes — they sit in different positions and apply pressure differently.

How often should they be replaced?

When worn, smooth, or contaminated.

Can I replace them myself?

Yes — it’s a simple DIY job.