Choosing the right tongue jack for your trailer can make all the difference in ensuring a smooth and safe towing experience. Whether you’re hauling a boat, RV, or 5th-wheel, you’ll want a reliable and durable jack that can handle the job. In this in-depth guide, we’ll delve into the top-performing tongue jacks on the market, highlighting their unique features and capabilities. From impressive lift capacities to corrosion-resistant designs, these models are engineered to provide the strength and convenience you need. So, if you’re ready to take the guesswork out of selecting the perfect tongue jack for your trailer, keep reading.
Lippert Power Tongue Jack for A-Frame Trailers and 5th Wheel RVs
If you own an A-frame trailer or a 5th wheel RV, the Lippert Power Tongue Jack is an excellent choice to effortlessly raise and lower your trailer with its 3,500 lb. lift capacity and 18 vertical range powered by 30 AMPs.
This heavy-duty jack boasts a powerfully engineered design with helical-cut gears, a 12V motor, and a tough construction featuring heavy-gauge steel, a textured housing, and a black powder-coat finish.
With push-button operation and integrated LED lights for nighttime use, this tongue jack will save you time and effort during setup and takedown.
Plus, the easy installation with all necessary hardware and pins guarantees a hassle-free experience.
Whether you’re hauling cargo, a travel trailer, or a 5th wheel, the Lippert Power Tongue Jack is a reliable and durable solution that delivers superior performance.
Best For: A-frame trailers and 5th wheel RVs that require a reliable and powerful tongue jack for easy setup and takedown.
Pros:
Heavy-duty 3,500 lb. lift capacity and 18″ vertical range
Push-button operation and integrated LED lights for convenience
Durable construction with heavy-gauge steel and black powder-coat finish
Cons:
More expensive compared to manual tongue jacks
Requires a 12V power source for operation
Possible compatibility issues with some trailer or RV models
The REESE Pro Series EJ10000101 Boat Trailer Jack’s 1,000-pound capacity and 10-inch travel make it an excellent choice for those seeking a sturdy and dependable tongue jack for their trailer.
This bolt-on jack features a corrosion-resistant zinc finish and a durable 6-inch poly wheel, ensuring smooth operation and long-lasting performance.
The 3/8-inch swivel pull pin and included hardware make installation a breeze, accommodating trailer frames up to 3 x 5 inches.
While some users reported issues with the bolt length and a rattling handle, the majority praised the jack’s overall quality and value.
With a retaining ring swivel mount for minimal deflection, this tongue jack offers the support you can count on for your boat trailer.
Best For: The REESE Pro Series EJ10000101 Boat Trailer Jack is best for boat owners seeking a sturdy and reliable tongue jack with a 1,000-pound capacity.
Pros:
Corrosion-resistant zinc finish for long-lasting durability
Smooth-operating 6-inch poly wheel
Easy bolt-on installation with included hardware
Cons:
Bolts may be too long for some trailer frames
Handle can hang down when jack is in the up position
Some users reported the jack feeling loose and rattling
For trailer owners seeking a durable and reliable tongue jack, the Fulton TJ12000101 Swivel Trailer Tongue Jack, with its 1200-pound capacity and corrosion-resistant design, is a premium choice.
This heavy-duty jack features Z-MAX 600 Superior Plating, ensuring it can withstand the elements and maintain its sturdy performance.
The bolt-on design makes installation a breeze, and the included 3/8-inch pull pin adds a secure attachment point.
You’ll also appreciate the 6-inch sturdy poly wheel, which provides smooth and effortless maneuvering.
With a 4.6-star rating and positive customer reviews, this Fulton tongue jack is a reliable option to keep your trailer secure and easy to move.
Whether you’re hauling a boat, utility trailer, or RV, this versatile jack is a smart investment that can handle the job.
Best For: Trailer owners seeking a durable and reliable tongue jack with a 1200-pound capacity and corrosion-resistant design.
Pros:
Heavy-duty construction with Z-MAX 600 Superior Plating for enhanced corrosion protection
Bolt-on design for easy installation with included mounting hardware and 3/8-inch pull pin
Sturdy 6-inch poly wheel for smooth and effortless maneuvering
Cons:
Made in China, which may raise concerns for some consumers
Potential warranty issues or difficulties with customer support
May be heavier or bulkier compared to some alternative tongue jack options
Bulldog Powered Drive A-Frame Electric Trailer Jack for Boat Trailers
Boaters who want a powerful and efficient electric trailer jack that can handle up to 4,000 pounds will find the Bulldog Powered Drive A-Frame Electric Trailer Jack a great choice for their boat trailers.
This electric jack offers a 4,000-pound capacity and 22 inches of total travel, making it easy to deploy and set up your trailer.
The single-axis level guarantees precise deployment, while the emergency manual override provides peace of mind.
Plus, the three onboard LED lights make nighttime operation a breeze.
Installation is a snap, with only one wire to the battery and three bolts.
And with an internal fuse, you won’t need to worry about an additional fuse.
Customers rave about the time and effort savings compared to manual jacks, as well as the product’s long-term reliability.
Best For: Boaters with boat trailers up to 4,000 pounds who want a powerful, efficient, and easy-to-use electric trailer jack.
Pros:
4,000-pound capacity for handling heavier trailers
22 inches of total travel for easy deployment
Onboard LED lights for nighttime operation
Cons:
Some customers experienced defects, though able to get replacements
Quick Products JQ-3500B Power A-Frame Electric Tongue Jack for Camper Trailer, RV
With a 3,650-pound maximum lift capacity, the Quick Products JQ-3500B electric tongue jack is the ideal choice for owners of larger camper trailers and RVs seeking a robust and dependable lifting solution.
Featuring sturdy electrical components, heavy-duty steel gears, and a weatherproof vinyl cover, this jack delivers reliable performance even in tough conditions.
While some users reported slow operation, the majority found it satisfactory, praising its ease of installation and overall value.
The manual crank override, bubble-style leveling cap, and LED work light further enhance its versatility.
With a one-year no-hassle warranty and positive customer feedback, the Quick Products JQ-3500B is a smart investment for those in need of a powerful and durable tongue jack for their camper or RV.
Best For: Owners of larger camper trailers and RVs requiring a robust and dependable electric tongue jack with a maximum lift capacity of 3,650 pounds.
Pros:
Sturdy electrical components and heavy-duty steel gears for reliable performance
Weatherproof vinyl cover and manual crank override for versatility
Bubble-style leveling cap and LED work light for added convenience
Cons:
Some users reported slow operation, though most found it satisfactory
Wiring instructions may be inadequate for those unfamiliar with electrical circuitry
Potential need to enlarge mounting hole for vintage trailers
When selecting a tongue jack for your trailer, you’ll want to weigh essential factors like lift capacity, vertical range, ease of use, power source, and corrosion resistance.
These features can profoundly impact the jack’s performance and durability, so it’s vital to choose one that meets your specific needs.
Take the time to research and compare different options to find the perfect tongue jack for your trailer.
Lift Capacity
Determining the appropriate lift capacity for your tongue jack is crucial to guaranteeing the stability and safety of your trailer or RV. Selecting a jack with a capacity that surpasses the gross trailer weight (GTW) will prevent premature wear, damage, or failure, which could lead to accidents or injuries.
The lift capacity of a tongue jack is typically measured in pounds, with common capacities ranging from 1,000 to 4,000 pounds or more. Tongue jacks with higher lift capacities generally have more powerful motors and heavier-duty construction, making them better suited for larger or heavier trailers.
Be sure to weigh the GTW of your trailer, which includes the weight of the trailer itself, cargo, and any additional equipment, to guarantee the jack can handle the total weight.
Exceeding the lift capacity of your tongue jack can lead to serious issues, so it’s imperative to choose a model with a sufficient capacity for your specific trailer or RV. Doing so will provide the stability and safety you need when hitching, unhitching, and maneuvering your trailer.
Vertical Range
Another pivotal factor to weigh when selecting a tongue jack is its vertical range, which dictates the maximum height it can lift a trailer.
Some models, like the Lippert Power Tongue Jack, offer up to 18 inches of vertical range, giving you the flexibility to handle trailers with higher ground clearance or those that need to be lifted for leveling or maintenance.
A longer vertical range is often advantageous, but it can impact the jack’s overall lift capacity, with more powerful motors and heavier-duty construction required.
When choosing a tongue jack, be sure to ponder the specific needs of your trailer, including its weight, size, and ground clearance, to verify you select a model with the appropriate vertical range.
Keep in mind that tongue jacks with longer vertical ranges tend to be larger and heavier than those with shorter ranges, so factor in these size and weight considerations as well.
Ease of Use
Ease of use is a crucial consideration when choosing a tongue jack, as it can substantially impact the overall convenience and efficiency of your trailer operations.
A push-button tongue jack, for instance, can save you time and energy compared to manual crank jacks, making it a more user-friendly option. Integrated LED lights on the jack are also a great feature, offering visibility and safety during nighttime use.
Moreover, a single-axis level on the tongue jack can simplify the deployment process, reducing the effort required to set up and tear down your camper.
And in case of power failure or other emergencies, an emergency manual override capability can provide an added layer of convenience and control.
Power Source
When it comes to tongue jacks, the power source is a key consideration that can impact both the capability and convenience of your setup.
Electric tongue jacks, for instance, require a reliable 12V power source, typically from a deep-cycle battery, to operate efficiently and handle heavier trailer loads. The power consumption of these jacks can vary, with some models drawing up to 30 amps during operation, while others may be less demanding.
Regardless, it’s vital to guarantee the power source is properly wired and fused, often requiring a 30-amp ATC fuse in a weatherproof holder, for safe and reliable performance.
To further enhance the versatility of electric tongue jacks, many models come equipped with a manual override feature.
This allows you to operate the jack manually in case of a power failure or electrical issue, providing an extra layer of convenience and peace of mind.
Some electric tongue jacks even feature a built-in LED light, drawing power from the same 12V source, which can be particularly handy during nighttime use.
Corrosion Resistance
Corrosion resistance is a critical factor to ponder when selecting a tongue jack, as it can markedly impact the jack’s durability and longevity, particularly in harsh outdoor environments.
You’ll want to look for tongue jacks with zinc or chrome plating, as these can provide excellent protection against corrosion. For even greater resistance, consider a tongue jack with a Z-MAX 600 superior plating, which offers long-lasting defense against rust and corrosion.
The materials and construction of the tongue jack also play a role in its corrosion resistance.
Heavy-gauge steel and a textured housing can add an extra layer of protection against the elements. Additionally, a rust-resistant coating or finish can help prevent corrosion, ensuring your tongue jack performs reliably over time.
Weight Considerations
The weight of your trailer is a crucial factor to ponder when selecting a tongue jack, as it will determine the appropriate load capacity the jack must support.
You’ll want to carefully consider the maximum Gross Vehicle Weight Rating (GVWR) of your trailer and choose a tongue jack that can safely handle that weight.
Lighter trailers may only need a 2,000 or 3,500-pound capacity jack, while heavier trailers will require a 5,000 or 7,000-pound capacity model.
Additionally, you’ll need to factor in the weight distribution of your trailer.
Tongue weight, which is the downward force exerted on the tow vehicle’s hitch, should be between 10-15% of the total trailer weight.
Make sure the tongue jack you select can support this weight.
Look for features like dual-stage lifting for increased stability and heavy-duty construction for long-lasting performance.
Don’t skimp on the weight capacity – it’s better to have a jack that exceeds your needs than one that’s not up to the task.
Installation Requirements
Alongside the weight considerations, you’ll also want to carefully evaluate the installation requirements when choosing a tongue jack for your trailer.
Ease of installation is vital, so look for a model that only needs three bolts and a single wire to the battery, rather than complex wiring and calibration.
The tongue jack’s size and weight can impact the installation process too, with heavier models potentially requiring extra support or reinforcement to the trailer frame.
Be sure to confirm the tongue jack’s compatibility with your specific trailer or RV, as some are designed for particular frame and A-frame types.
The quality of the included mounting hardware can also affect the installation – higher-quality hardware generally provides a more secure and stable connection.
Additionally, some tongue jacks may need extra accessories like terminal connectors or fuse holders to complete the installation safely.
Considering all these installation factors will help you pick the right tongue jack for your needs.
Frequently Asked Questions
How Do I Properly Maintain My Trailer Tongue Jack?
To properly maintain your trailer tongue jack, regularly inspect and lubricate the moving parts. Keep the jack free of dirt and debris, and store it in a protected area when not in use. Replacing worn components can extend its lifespan.
What Is the Standard Size of a Trailer Tongue Jack?
You’d be surprised to learn that the standard size of a trailer tongue jack is often overlooked, like the proverbial elephant in the room. Typically, they range from 2,000 to 5,000 pounds of lift capacity, so choose wisely for your rig’s needs.
Can I Use My Trailer Tongue Jack for Other Purposes?
You can use your trailer tongue jack for other purposes, but it’s not recommended. Tongue jacks are designed specifically for trailers and may not have the capacity or stability to handle other tasks safely. It’s best to use the appropriate tool for the job.
How Do I Troubleshoot a Malfunctioning Trailer Tongue Jack?
If your trailer tongue jack’s not jiving, don’t fret. Diagnose the issue – check for jammed gears, busted springs, or worn components. With a few simple troubleshooting steps, you can get that jack back in sync and ready to lift your trailer with ease.
Are There Any Safety Tips for Using a Trailer Tongue Jack?
When using a trailer tongue jack, always engage the parking brake, support the jack with stabilizers, and guarantee the jack is properly positioned. Avoid overextending the jack and be cautious when raising or lowering the trailer. Remember, safety should be your top priority.
Conclusion
When choosing the perfect tongue jack for your trusty trailer, consider the lift capacity, construction, and features that best suit your needs.
Opt for a persuasive power unit that can handle the load with ease, and a design that withstands the elements.
With the right tongue jack, you’ll be well on your way to a smooth and carefree journey, leaving any potential hiccups in the rearview.
