Replacing Swivel Jack with Drop Leg Jack on Boat Trailer

Question:

I had the Dutton DL22560-type of jack on my 1995/6? Shorelandr trailer. The jack mounting plate is part of the winch stand assembly, with the two-bolt washer mounting the jack to the winch stand. I wish to replace the jack with a fixed, square-tube, drop-foot jack that has much more extension distance. I need to raise my boats tongue higher for better drainage. Do you carry some kind of adapter plate that would enable me to bolt a square tube jack against the winch stand using the holes available? I can envision the bolts would insert from within the winch stand extending out away from the winch stand. A steel plate would engage the bolts to squeeze the jack against the winch stand. I realize I will have to remove the winch stand to make such an installation. Thats what Im looking for, and for the drop-foot jack. What do you recommend? Thank you.

asked by: Steve B

Expert Reply:

I have a solution for you, but we do not carry an adapter like you mentioned to mount a square tube jack to your existing winch stand.

The best option for your set-up may be to use a jack like the Pro Series Square Jack with Footplate # PS1400850383. Then, using a sheet of metal drill the bolt holes to match the existing holes in your trailer.

Another option is to try and find a drop leg jack that matches the mounting dimensions on your trailer. One option for a drop leg jack is the Dutton-Lainson Bolt-On Drop Leg Trailer Jack # DL22320. The bolt holes on this jack's mounting plate are 1 inch apart center to center and each side is 5-1/2 inches apart center to center. I have attached a photo showing these measurements for you.

You may also be able to mount the drop leg jack, like the # DL22320, further up the tongue, or lower if there is room, from the winch stand. A jack like the # DL22320 has an easy bolt on installation that will fit around the tongue of the trailer.