A-Frame Trailer Jack Operation and Tongue Weight

Question:

Hi E-Trailer Staff, I believe I have this make of top handle hand crank trailer jack. It does not have any logos whatsoever on the jack but the A-Frame has an Atwood part #. The trailer is currently in the driveway and the foot of the jack is extended but not fully and sitting on several levels. The problem is when I turn the handle counter clockwise to raise the foot of the jack the tongue starts to lower but the foot does not retract/raise. I lifted the trailer with a 2 1/2 ton jack just alittle bit off the levelers-then I can retract the foot of the trailer jack. What might be the problem here? Thank you all so much-your help is always appreciated.

asked by: Carolyn B

Expert Reply:

From what you told me it sounds like the foot on your trailer jack, like part # TJA-2001-B, doesn't leave the ground until you have the tongue weight of the trailer supported. Since the purpose of an A-Frame trailer jack is to support the tongue weight of the trailer if you don't have anything else supporting the tongue weight of your trailer it will naturally go down as the foot retracts into the jack.

When your trailer is parked and uncoupled it is always best to leave the foot of your jack down. The only time you should be retracting that jack is when the trailer is coupled and the hitch ball/trailer hitch of the tow vehicle is taking on the tongue weight of the trailer.

Let me know if you have any other questions.

expert reply by: Jon G