What Capacity Should Electric Trailer Jack Have

Question:

Im looking into purchasing an electric jack for my 25foot camper. It is difficult with a manual crank to raise the trailer hooked to my tow vehicle high enough to connect my sway bars for the weight distribution system. Will this jack be able to lift the trailer AND the tow vehicle to enable the installation of the sway bars?

asked by: Barry

Helpful Expert Reply:

Your question is the reason why I always recommend that folks get a powered jack with a higher weight capacity that what's actually needed. When not used with weight distribution, a trailer jack only needs to lift the tongue weight of the trailer, which is 10-15 percent of the fully loaded trailer weight. However, if you're wanting to lift the rear of the vehicle as to take the tension out of the system so the spring bars can be installed or removed, going with a high-capacity jack like the Stromberg Carlson Electric Trailer Jack - Drop Leg - A-Frame - 23" Lift - 5,000 lbs - Black, Item # JET-5000 would certainly be the way to go.

Going with a jack that's rated higher than you actually need means that the jack won't be working so hard, so it'll last longer.

Although the jack can be powered by the accessory circuit wire from the 7-way, it's recommended that a trailer mounted battery be used to power it. Having the power supply close to the jack ensures that the jack will work as efficiently as possible.

expert reply by: Mike L