Choosing a trailer jack for a client involves understanding their specific needs and the technical requirements of their trailer.
Here’s a step-by-step guide to help you choose the right trailer jack:
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What type of trailer do you have?
Travel Trailer: Usually requires a tongue jack.
Boat Trailer: Typically uses a swivel jack.
Utility Trailer: Can use a variety of jacks depending on size and weight.
Fifth Wheel Trailer: Requires a landing gear system. -
What is the weight capacity and weight of the trailer?
Gross Trailer Weight (GTW): The total weight of the trailer when fully loaded.
Tongue Weight (TW): The downward force exerted on the hitch ball by the trailer coupler. This is usually 10-15% of the GTW for travel trailers. -
What type of jack do you need?
Swivel Jacks: Mounted to the side of the trailer and can swivel up and out of the way when towing, often used for boat and utility trailers.
Drop Leg Jacks: Provide additional height and adjustability, useful for utility and commercial trailers.
Electric Jacks: Offer convenience and ease of use, ideal for larger trailers.
Landing Gear: Used for fifth wheel trailers, typically come in pairs.
Additional Features:
A-Frame Jacks: Mount to the A-frame of the trailer tongue, common for travel trailers.
Electric vs. Manual: Electric jacks offer ease of use but are more expensive and require a power source.
Wheel vs. Foot Plate: Wheels provide mobility, while foot plates offer stability.
Side Wind vs. Top Wind: Refers to the position of the handle, affecting ease of use depending on the trailer's setup.
4. What load capacity should you consider?
Ensure that the trailer jack's lifting capacity exceeds the tongue weight of the trailer, preferably with a comfortable safety margin to account for any additional load or uneven distribution of weight. This approach ensures safe and effective use of the jack.
Understand the Tongue Weight (TW):
The tongue weight is typically 10-15% of the gross trailer weight (GTW). For example, if a trailer has a GTW of 5,000 lbs, the tongue weight would be between 500 and 750 lbs.
Choose a Jack with Sufficient Capacity:
The jack’s lifting capacity should be greater than the tongue weight to ensure it can safely lift and hold the trailer. For the above example, you would need a jack with a minimum lifting capacity of 750 lbs.
5. What about safety margin?
It’s always good to have a buffer. Choose a jack with a capacity that’s higher than the minimum requirement. If the tongue weight is 750 lbs, a jack with a 1,000 lbs capacity would provide a good safety margin.
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Questions to choose the right trailer jack:
What type of trailer do you have?
What is the gross trailer weight (GTW)?
What is the tongue weight (TW)?
Do you prefer a manual or electric jack?
Do you need a jack with a wheel or a foot plate?
Are there any specific height requirements or limitations?
What is your budget?
After gathering all the necessary information, we can choose a trailer jack that fits you. Providing a few options from trusted brands, along with explanations for your recommendations, will help the client make an informed decision.
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