Wiktor Wise
Lubricating your electric trailer tongue jack is an important step in maintaining your trailer. While some manufacturers recommend against lubrication, others suggest using specific lubricants like WD-40 or silicon spray. Lubrication can help reduce corrosion and friction, improving the reliability and longevity of the jack. The process involves cleaning the jack and applying the lubricant to specific parts, such as the gears and screw, while avoiding over-lubrication, which can lead to leakage. Proper maintenance of your electric trailer tongue jack ensures smooth and safe operation when raising and lowering your trailer.
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What You'll Learn
Cleaning the ram
Firstly, it is crucial to understand that the ram needs to be cleaned every time you use your trailer. This is because the ram is exposed to various elements such as dirt, sand, leaves, grass, and other debris while stabilizing your trailer. By cleaning it regularly, you prevent these particles from retracting back into the jack stand, which could potentially cause issues.
To clean the ram, start by spraying it with a suitable lubricant, such as WD-40. You can also use other lubricants, such as silicon spray or specific jack lubricants, depending on the manufacturer's recommendations. Spray the lubricant generously onto the ram, ensuring that it reaches all exposed parts.
After applying the lubricant, use a soft microfiber cloth to wipe the ram clean. Be gentle and thorough, ensuring that you remove all dirt and residue. Pay close attention to the crevices and joints of the ram, as debris tends to accumulate in these areas. You can also use a small brush or cotton swab to reach tight spaces and thoroughly clean them.
Once you have wiped down the ram, inspect it for any remaining dirt or grime. If necessary, reapply the lubricant and wipe it down again until the ram is completely clean. Additionally, remember to clean the base of the jack, even though it doesn't retract into the stand. This will help maintain the overall cleanliness and functionality of your trailer tongue jack.
Finally, allow the ram to dry completely before retracting it or using the trailer. This ensures that any remaining lubricant evaporates or is absorbed, leaving the ram well-lubricated and protected. By following these steps, you can effectively clean the ram of your electric trailer tongue jack, ensuring its smooth operation and prolonging its lifespan.
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Using WD-40
Lubricating your electric trailer tongue jack is essential for keeping it in good condition. WD-40 is a popular choice for this task due to its versatility and effectiveness. Here's a step-by-step guide on how to use WD-40 to lubricate your electric trailer tongue jack:
Before you begin, ensure you have the necessary materials: WD-40, a soft microfiber cloth, and some towels or a yoga mat to place underneath the jack for comfort and to catch any drips. It is also important to clean the jack before lubricating it, so have some baking soda and water ready to create a cleaning solution.
First, prepare the electric trailer tongue jack by extending it as far as possible. This will give you better access to the areas that need lubrication. If your jack has been exposed to the elements, it is important to clean it thoroughly before applying any lubricant. Use a soft microfiber cloth and the baking soda solution to wipe down the jack, removing any dirt, debris, or corrosion.
Once the jack is clean and dry, it's time to apply the WD-40. Spray the WD-40 generously onto the jack, focusing on the areas where the handle attaches to the pin or screw. You can also spray it on the ram and the base, although the base does not retract into the stand, so it is not necessary. Ensure you get into all the nooks and crannies of the jack mechanism.
After applying the WD-40, crank the jack while turning it to distribute the lubricant evenly. If your jack has a gear mechanism with a thin, tin cover, you can carefully pry it open and spray WD-40 directly onto the gears for added lubrication.
Finally, use your microfiber cloth to wipe down the jack and remove any excess WD-40. Your electric trailer tongue jack is now lubricated and ready for use!
Remember to perform this maintenance regularly to keep your jack in good working condition. WD-40 is a versatile and effective lubricant, making it a popular choice for trailer owners. By following these steps, you can ensure your jack is well-maintained and extend its lifespan.
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Lubricating gears
Lubricating the gears of an electric trailer tongue jack is an important part of maintaining the mechanism and ensuring its smooth operation. Here is a step-by-step guide to help you through the process:
First, it is essential to identify the type of jack you have and refer to the manufacturer's instructions or recommendations. Some jacks, like the Ultra-Fab Electric A-Frame Jack, have specific procedures for lubrication. It is also important to consult the manufacturer's guidelines to avoid voiding any warranties.
Before beginning the lubrication process, ensure that the jack is stable and secure. You may need to extend the jack to gain access to the gears and other components. For example, to grease the gears of the Ultra-Fab Electric A-Frame Jack, you need to extend the jack until the grease fitting is aligned with the hole in the outer tube.
Next, gather the necessary tools and lubricants. Some jacks may require specific types of grease or oil, such as chassis lube or gear oil. It is important to use the recommended lubricants to ensure compatibility and avoid potential damage.
Once you are ready to lubricate the gears, start by removing the fuse from the fuse holder. This safety step will help prevent any accidental activation of the jack during the process. Then, proceed to remove the gear cover, which is typically secured with screws. Be sure to keep the screws in a safe place so you can reinstall the cover later.
With the gears exposed, it's time to apply the lubricant. Using a grease gun or another suitable applicator, apply a moderate amount of grease to the gears. Be careful not to over-lubricate, as excess grease can attract dirt and debris, leading to potential issues. Work the grease into the gears, ensuring that all moving parts are adequately coated.
After lubricating the gears, carefully wipe away any excess grease from surrounding areas. Then, reinstall the gear cover and secure it with the screws you removed earlier. Finally, replace the fuse in the fuse holder.
By following these steps and paying attention to the specific requirements of your electric trailer tongue jack, you can effectively lubricate the gears, ensuring smooth and efficient operation for your trailer setup. Remember to consult manufacturer guidelines and use appropriate lubricants to maintain the longevity and performance of your jack.
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Using grease or oil
Lubricating your electric trailer tongue jack is important to ensure it functions properly and to prevent damage. Using grease or oil is a common method for lubrication. Here are the steps you can follow:
Preparing the Jack:
Before lubricating, it is important to clean the jack to remove any dirt, debris, or grime that may have built up. Use a soft cloth or brush to wipe down the exposed surfaces of the jack, including the inner tube and outer tube, and any other accessible areas. Ensure the jack is also in the correct position for lubrication, following the manufacturer's instructions if available.
Applying Grease or Oil:
There are a few different types of grease and oil that can be used for lubrication. Wheel bearing grease is commonly used for the gears of power tongue jacks. You can apply grease using a standard grease gun with two pumps to ensure adequate lubrication. Alternatively, you can use a gear oil with a small tip to apply a small amount near the top of the screw, allowing it to work its way down gradually. Be careful not to over-lubricate, as this can lead to excess grease or oil dripping onto the ground or pad beneath the jack.
In some cases, you may need to remove certain components to access the gears or other parts that require lubrication. For example, removing the fuse from the fuse holder and the gear cover using Phillips-head screws can expose the gears, allowing you to grease them effectively. Always refer to the jack's installation instructions or manual for specific guidance on accessing and lubricating internal components.
Protecting the Jack:
After lubrication, it is important to protect the jack from the elements, especially rain. Cover the jack when not in use and try to keep it dry. This will help maintain the effectiveness of the lubrication and prevent corrosion or other damage.
Other Considerations:
Some jacks may have specific manufacturer recommendations or requirements for lubrication. For example, some manufacturers suggest using silicon spray for lubrication, while others may recommend specific types of grease or oil. Always refer to the manufacturer's instructions or contact their customer support for guidance specific to your electric trailer tongue jack model.
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Protecting from rain
While lubricating an electric trailer tongue jack, it is important to protect it from rain and other weather conditions. Here are some ways to do that:
Use a Cover
One of the most common ways to protect your electric trailer tongue jack from rain is by using a cover. There are various covers available specifically designed for this purpose, known as electric tongue jack covers. These covers are usually made of waterproof and durable materials, such as 300D polyester fabric, and are fitted with features like drawstrings, elastic bands, and spring clasps to ensure a snug fit. They are designed to protect the jack from rain, dust, UV damage, and road splashes.
Use a Bucket or a Bag
If you're looking for a more creative solution, consider using a bucket or a bag to cover your jack. Some people have found success in using a simple 5-gallon bucket, while others have used bags, such as those from old motorcycle helmets or RV covers. These options are not only effective at shedding water, but they also allow easy access to the jack's switches without the need for constant removal.
Park in Covered Areas
Whenever possible, try to park your trailer in covered areas, such as under awnings or in garages, to minimize direct exposure to rain and moisture. This simple measure can significantly reduce the chances of water damage to your electric tongue jack.
Seal Any Openings
Inspect your electric tongue jack for any openings or holes, such as the manual override hole, that could allow water intrusion. Sealing these openings with appropriate measures can help prevent rainwater from entering and causing damage to the internal components.
Regular Maintenance
Finally, remember to perform regular maintenance on your electric tongue jack. Clean and lubricate the jack according to the manufacturer's recommendations. This will help ensure that the jack is in optimal condition and more resistant to the elements.
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Frequently asked questions
It is recommended to lubricate your electric trailer tongue jack every time you use it.
You can use a variety of lubricants, including WD-40, WD-40 Dry Lubricant, wheel bearing grease, and silicon spray.
First, remove the fuse from the fuse holder and then remove the gear cover using four Phillips-head screws. Next, grease the gears with chassis lube and reinstall the cover.
If the motor of your jack makes a straining noise when raising or lowering, it may be time to lubricate it. Additionally, if you notice any dirt, sand, leaves, or grass on the ram, it is important to clean and lubricate it before retracting it into the jack stand.
