Available Types of Trailer Jacks

Question:

I have a trailer which holds an airplane - the issue is getting it fitting into the garage, it is too high - I need a different trailer tongue wheel jack that brings the trailer tongue as close to the ground as possible - I need the height of how close I can get with whatever jack you have that addresses this issue

asked by: Trailer W

Expert Reply:

You'll first want to confirm the required tongue weight (TW) capacity of your new jack to ensure you choose one rated high enough for the job. A simple way to measure a trailer's actual TW is a scale like # e99044 but other ways to measure are noted in the linked article. It is generally a good idea to select one with a good bit more capacity than you actually need since this will typically help the jack last longer.

Jacks come in several types. The ones you referenced, Fulton Bolt-Thru Swivel Jack # FXPD15L and Pro Series Round A-Frame Jack # PSRV20000103, are for different installations; the Fulton is a side-frame mount and the Pro Series is an a-frame mount. The linked article on trailer jacks will show you each type and also highlight other considerations to help you select the right type of jack.

You will want one with the lowest possible retracted bracket height. This will keep the trailer tongue as low as possible.

In your specific application you might even be better off fabricating a caster wheel dolly (like a low-sitting furniture mover's dolly) and mounting the appropriate size hitch ball to it. This would let the trailer coupler be even closer to the ground than with most jacks. Naturally you need to ensure this device (meaning each one of its various components) can handle the trailer tongue weight load you place on it.

expert reply by: Adam R