Trailer Jacks Explained
Are you considering purchasing a bumper-pull trailer for the first time? Whether you are planning to transport ATVs for a weekend getaway or haul materials for your business, there are several components designed to make your hauling experience safe and efficient. One of these essential components is trailer jacks. This article will explain everything you need to know about trailer jacks.
Types of Trailer Jacks
Trailer jacks come in a variety of types, each with its weight capacity and features. Here are three common types:
Heavy-duty
These are for trailers with a gross vehicle weight rating (GVWR) of 14,000 pounds or higher. They are typically larger and more robust than other types of jacks and are used with heavy-duty trailers such as our flat deck trailers and custom trailers.
Medium-duty
They are suitable for trailers with a GVWR of 8,000 to 14,000 pounds—our 8,000 lb. GVWR Top Wind Jack is solely for Bigfoot’s 14K ‘C’ Model trailer.
Light-duty
These are for trailers with a GVWR of 10,000 pounds or less. They are popular for dump trailers, custom trailers, and light-duty equipment trailers.
What are Trailer Tongue Jacks?
A trailer jack is a mechanical device attached to a trailer’s tongue (front). It allows you to manually raise and lower the trailer’s coupler, the part that connects to the tow vehicle’s hitch. It is essential for several reasons:
- Connecting and disconnecting: When the trailer is level, and the coupler is raised, you can easily connect or disconnect it from the tow vehicle’s hitch.
- Prevents tipping: When the trailer is not connected to a tow vehicle, a trailer jack can help keep it from tipping over during loading and unloading.
- Leveling: Trailer jacks can be used to level a trailer parked on uneven ground. It prevents the trailer from tipping and ensures proper fluid drainage.
How to Connect/Disconnect a Trailer Jack
The specific steps for safely connecting and disconnecting a trailer jack will vary depending on the make and model of the jack and whether it is manual or electric. However, here is the general process:
- Lower the jack: Lower the jack handle until the trailer is level and the coupler is at its lowest position.
- Chock the wheels: Place wheel chocks behind both trailer wheels to keep them from rolling.
- Connect or disconnect the coupler: If you are connecting the trailer, raise the jack until the coupler is at the same height as the tow vehicle’s hitch. Then, carefully maneuver the trailer into position and connect the coupler to the hitch. When disconnecting the trailer, lower the jack until the coupler is loose from the hitch.
- Secure the jack: Raise it until fully retracted, securing it upright.
It is important to follow the product specific steps in order to ensure safety for yourself, others and your cargo.
At Bigfoot Trailers we are always happy to assist with any questions you may have concerning the connecting and disconnecting of your trailer.
Safety Tips
When using a trailer jack, it is essential to follow these safety tips:
- Always use jack stands in addition to the trailer jack when working under the trailer.
- Never exceed the weight capacity of the jack.
- Inspect the jack for any signs of damage before each use.
- Be sure the trailer is level and chock the wheels before raising or lowering the jack.
Where to Buy Equipment Trailers for Every Haul
Bigfoot Trailers delivers! As a factory-direct manufacturer, we service the entire Eastern United States with locations in Columbia, SC; Hartford, CT; Lakeland, FL; Norfolk, VA; and by appointment with retailers in Fort Myers and Marianna, FL. Call toll-free (866) 764-8878 or contact us at https://www.bigfoottrailers.net/ for a free quote.
