Trystan Casey
Electric trailer jacks are a convenient upgrade from manual hand cranks, offering quick and automatic height adjustments for your trailer with the simple push of a button. They are easy to install and can be done with only a few tools. Electric jacks are powered by your RV battery and can be wired up to a 7-pin plug to get power from your tow vehicle. They are also equipped with safety features such as LED lights and a circuit breaker for protection during nighttime use. When installing an electric trailer jack, it is important to consider the weight of your trailer and choose a jack with sufficient lifting capability. In this article, we will provide a step-by-step guide on how to hook up an electric trailer jack, including wiring instructions and tips for choosing the right jack for your trailer.
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What You'll Learn
Electric jacks are powered by an RV battery
Electric jacks are a huge upgrade from manual hand crank jacks. They are powered by an RV battery, which smoothly lifts your trailer with ease. Most electric jacks have a manual override capability, which means they can also be manually operated in case the battery power runs out. Electric jacks are perfect for anyone with back problems as they reduce physical strain. They are also quicker and quieter than manual jacks.
The electric tongue jack from Buyers, for example, is pre-wired with a 48" 7-pole plug that plugs into the towing vehicle to get power. It is 12-volt DC powered and comes with a manual crank override. The FULTON electric side-mount jack offers 14" of screw travel and has a spring-loaded pull pin that quickly releases the 8" drop leg. It has three LED lights for easy setup at night.
The BULLDOG 4000 lb. electric A-Frame trailer jack features 22" of travel with a standard articulating foot. It includes integrated mounting plates, wiring leads, a powder-coated outer tube, and a zinc-plated inner tube. RAM's 3500 Heavy Duty Power Jack is another option that can effortlessly lift and lower your trailer or RV with a simple flip of the switch.
When picking between a manual and an electric trailer jack, consider your budget, physical needs, and preference for effortless or precision operation. Electric jacks cost more upfront than manual jacks, but their convenience can be worth the investment for many. To determine the strength of an electric trailer jack, you need to consider the weight of your trailer. The jack should be able to lift the weight of your trailer tongue.
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They have a manual override capability
Electric trailer jacks are a convenient upgrade from manual hand cranks, saving you time and effort. They are powered by your RV battery and can lift your trailer smoothly and effortlessly at the push of a button. While electric jacks offer various advantages, they can be costly upfront. In contrast, manual jacks are more affordable and durable, with fewer parts to break.
Now, let's focus on the manual override capability of electric trailer jacks. Most electric trailer jacks have a manual override feature, allowing you to operate them manually if the battery power runs out. This backup function ensures that you're not caught off guard if your battery suddenly dies. When picking an electric trailer jack, it's essential to consider this manual override capability as a valuable feature.
The manual override capability provides a reliable solution in case of battery-related issues. You can use the manual crank that comes with the jack to operate it manually. To do this, remove the rubber plug at the top of the jack, insert the crank, and fit it to the override nut. By turning the handle counter-clockwise, you can lower the trailer. This manual override option is especially useful if you're caught in a situation where your battery dies, and you need to operate the jack immediately.
Additionally, some electric jacks include a manual override crank as a standard feature. While this may seem unnecessary at first, it becomes invaluable when you need to manually operate the jack due to a dead battery. This backup function underscores the importance of considering both your budget and physical needs when choosing between a manual and electric trailer jack. Electric jacks offer convenience and ease of use, while manual jacks provide a cost-effective and durable option.
In conclusion, the manual override capability of electric trailer jacks is a valuable feature that ensures you're prepared for unexpected battery-related issues. It allows you to operate the jack manually, providing a reliable backup solution. When choosing an electric trailer jack, consider your specific needs, budget, and the weight of your trailer. The manual override capability underscores the versatility and reliability of electric trailer jacks, making them a popular choice among RV users.
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They are safer and reduce physical strain
Electric trailer jacks are an excellent option for anyone looking to reduce physical strain and increase safety. They are a significant upgrade from manual hand cranks, offering a range of benefits that make them a worthwhile investment.
Firstly, electric jacks are incredibly easy to install and use. They can be fitted with just a few tools and are designed to simplify the process of hitching and unhitching your trailer. With the push of a button, you can raise or lower your trailer automatically, reducing the time and physical effort required compared to manual cranking. This is especially beneficial for those who live in their trailers full-time or frequently hitch and unhitch their trailers.
The convenience and ease of use of electric jacks cannot be overstated. They eliminate the need for strenuous manual cranking, which can be physically exhausting and challenging, especially for individuals with back problems or other physical limitations. Electric jacks use an electric motor to smoothly lift and lower your trailer, reducing the strain on your body and providing a more comfortable experience.
In addition to reducing physical strain, electric jacks also enhance safety. They provide precise and efficient control, allowing you to safely level and hitch your trailer. The risk of accidents and injuries is lowered as the trailer is supported from the ground, reducing the strain on your body and ensuring a more stable connection. Additionally, electric jacks often feature LED lights, enabling safe nighttime hookups, and include a circuit breaker for added protection in case of accidental disconnections.
Furthermore, electric jacks offer adjustable height settings, accommodating different lifting needs and ensuring a proper fit for your trailer. They are also built to last, with durable construction and anti-rust coatings to withstand various elements and prolong their lifespan.
Overall, electric trailer jacks offer a safer and more user-friendly alternative to manual jacks. They reduce physical strain, improve safety, and provide a range of features that make them a convenient and reliable option for trailer owners. While they may come with a higher upfront cost, the benefits they offer can make them a worthwhile investment for anyone looking to enhance their trailer experience.
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They are easy to install
Electric trailer jacks are easy to install and can be done with only a few tools. They are a huge upgrade from manual hand crank jacks, saving you a lot of work and time. Most even come with LED lights installed to help you when hitching and unhitching at night. If you live in your trailer full-time or have a work trailer that you hitch and unhitch frequently, getting an electric jack is a good idea.
The standard tube diameter for an A-frame trailer jack is 2.25 inches. The power jacks generally have this diameter, but if you require a special size, you may need to order a custom electric jack. You can buy power trailer jacks for tongue weights ranging from 3,500 to 5,000 pounds, so there's an option for almost any size and weight of a bumper pull trailer.
If you're replacing an old RV jack with a new electric model, you can choose to do the installation yourself or hire someone to do it for you. The process is simple if you've bought the right size. You can also wire up a 7-pin plug as part of a detachable harness to get power to the jack from your tow vehicle, eliminating the need for a cutoff switch. This involves inserting the plug to raise the jack, adjusting the height, and then unplugging and stowing your wiring harness.
Electric jacks are powered by your RV battery and smoothly lift your trailer with ease. They are perfect for anyone with back problems, as they reduce physical strain. They are more expensive upfront than manual jacks, but their convenience can be worth the investment. When picking between manual and electric jacks, consider your budget, physical needs, and preference for effortless or precision operation.
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$200.64
They come in different types and sizes
Electric trailer jacks come in different types and sizes, and selecting the right one is crucial for stability and performance. The jacks are classified into three main categories based on their power source: manual, electric, and hydraulic. Manual jacks are hand-operated and are simple and easy to use, while electric jacks are powered by electricity and offer convenient push-button operation. Hydraulic jacks, on the other hand, utilize hydraulics to lift and lower the trailer, making them a high-performance alternative to manual and electric jacks.
Electric trailer jacks can be further categorized into drill jacks, which combine electric and manual operation, and are ideal for those who want the convenience of electric operation with the reliability of manual operation. Electric jacks are also available with a manual override feature, allowing users to switch to manual cranking if the battery runs out. This backup function ensures that you're never caught off guard.
Trailer jacks also vary in terms of their weight capacities, with different jacks accommodating different tongue weights of trailers. When choosing a trailer jack, it's important to consider the weight of your trailer's tongue and ensure the jack can support it. Additionally, the jack should have good ground clearance.
The design of the trailer jack is another differentiating factor. A-frame jacks, for instance, are designed to bolt onto an A-frame hitch and are commonly used for travel trailers. Swivel jacks have a rotating mounting base and locking pin, allowing them to swivel parallel to the frame during towing, increasing ground clearance. Drop leg trailer jacks are designed for swift operation, reducing the space between the jack and the ground, and minimizing the cranking required to raise the trailer tongue.
The size and weight of your trailer play a crucial role in selecting the right jack. Smaller trailers with single coupler arms typically use jacks that are bolted or welded to the arm and have a pivoting design. Larger trailers may require a higher weight capacity jack for durability and longevity.
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Frequently asked questions
Electric trailer jacks are a huge upgrade from manual hand cranks, saving you time and reducing physical strain. They can be operated with a simple push of a button, allowing you to raise or lower your trailer automatically. They also come with features like adjustable height and LED lights for safe nighttime hookups.
Firstly, consider the weight of your trailer. The jack should be able to support the weight of your trailer tongue. You should also pay attention to the construction materials and ensure the jack is sealed, welded, and weather-resistant to prolong its lifespan. Additionally, check the lifting capability of the jack and ensure it matches your trailer's requirements.
The installation process may vary depending on the specific model and your trailer setup. Here are some general steps and considerations:
- Consult the instruction manual for your electric trailer jack.
- Ensure you have purchased the right size jack for your trailer. The standard tube diameter for A-frame trailer jacks is 2.25 inches.
- If you're replacing an old jack, you may need to consider the wiring. You can wire a 7-pin plug as part of a detachable harness to power the jack from your tow vehicle.
- Connect the power wires to the trailer harness wiring or use a junction box.
- Consult a professional if you're unsure about the installation process.
