Is A Trailer Jack Important?
Towing a trailer opens up a world of possibilities, from hauling equipment and off-road vehicles to transporting a tiny house. However, safe and efficient towing hinges on a fundamental piece of equipment. The trailer jack is a seemingly simple tool but is critical in hauling.
What Is A Trailer Jack?
The ubiquitous trailer jack is a mechanical device that raises and lowers a trailer’s front end. Essentially, it provides the necessary leverage to lift the coupler, the part of the trailer that connects to the towing vehicle’s hitch. Without a jack, hitching and unhitching would be a back-breaking and potentially dangerous exercise.
Why You Need a Trailer Jack
The importance of a correctly functioning trailer jack cannot be overstated. Here’s why:
- Safe Hitching and Unhitching: A jack allows you to precisely align the trailer coupler with the hitch ball, minimizing the risk of injury to yourself and damage to your trailer or vehicle.
- Trailer Leveling: Jacks help level the trailer when parked, ensuring proper weight distribution.
- Tire Changes and Maintenance: Jacks lift the trailer to facilitate tire changes, wheel bearing maintenance, and other necessary tasks. So, be sure to always carry a jack with you on the road.
- Preventing Trailer Damage: Jacks prevent damage to the trailer’s frame and suspension by properly supporting the tongue when unhitched.
Types of Trailer Jacks
There are different types of jacks for different trailer weight capacities. Understanding the distinctions is crucial for selecting the right one:
- A-Frame Jacks: These are commonly found on A-frame trailers. They are mounted directly to the A-frame tongue and offer good stability.
- Spring-Loaded Jacks: A spring-loaded jack with a foot pedal is perfect for heavy-duty trailers like the Bigfoot Monster Deckover. It makes raising and lowering effortless.
- Side-Wind Jacks: These jacks feature a crank handle on the side, allowing for easy adjustments from any angle. They are ideal for low-duty trailers (up to 10K GVWR).
- Top-Wind Jacks: These jacks, originally manufactured by RAM®, have a manual crank handle on the top for reliable operation without needing electricity. They are a standard feature of our 14K Model ‘C’ Trailers.
- Electric Jacks: Powered by the trailer’s electrical system, these jacks eliminate manual cranking, making them suited for heavy trailers or those requiring frequent adjustments.
- Drop-Leg Jacks: These jacks incorporate an adjustable drop leg with a side-release pin, allowing for quick height adjustments and simplifying leveling on uneven surfaces.
Don’t get stuck with the wrong trailer jack. If you’re unsure which jack is right for your trailer, contact your nearest Bigfoot Trailer location for assistance.
Where to Buy a Trailer Jack Near Me
Bigfoot delivers custom trailers handcrafted in the USA! We take the guesswork out of purchasing a trailer jack. As a factory-direct manufacturer, we provide service in the entire Eastern United States with locations in Columbia, SC; Hartford, CT; Philadelphia, PA; Springfield, MA; and by appointment with retailers in Fort Myers and Marianna, FL. Contact us at https://www.bigfoottrailers.net/ for a free quote.
