Is Your Boat’s Trailer Jack Ready to Fold?
Trailer jacks are seldom thought of but an absolutely necessary component of your boat’s trailer. Depending on the loaded weight of the trailer, the amount of weight that the jack supports can be considerable. So unless you happen to be an Olympic power lifter, you might not be able to hook up if your trailer jack fails. Fortunately, we carry a wide range of jacks suitable for different boat weights, applications and environments to get you back on track quickly if your trailer’s jack bites the dust. Whether you use your boat in saltwater or freshwater, you'll find a trailer jack that is perfect for your specific needs at West Marine.
What to Consider When Buying a Trailer Jack
The trailer jack you choose must be rated to support the tongue weight of your trailer when loaded with your boat. We carry a variety of trailer jacks with the heaviest models capable of supporting tongue weights up to 5,000 pounds. You will also need to decide between a jack with a foot or a wheel. If your boat is too heavy to move around manually, then a jack with a foot will work well. If your boat is light enough, a jack with a caster-style wheel will allow you to move the trailer around, which can help when you are hooking the trailer up to the tow vehicle. Large diameter wheels tend to move more freely than small diameter wheels, especially over uneven terrain.
You should also consider where you use your boat. Saltwater boaters need jacks that are corrosion resistant. These can be powder-coated steel, anodized aluminum or zinc-plated steel. Other considerations include the amount of "travel", which is the jack’s up/down movement in inches and the maximum height of the jack. Whatever style you require, we most likely have a jack to meet your needs.
One additional consideration is the bolt-hole pattern of the jack’s mount and the tongue dimension to which it will fit. Our selection includes models designed to fit trailer tongues measuring 3"W x 3"H, 3"W x 4"H and 3"W x 5"H.
West Marine is here to help!
If you need a little help deciding which trailer jack is best for you, check out our West Advisor article Choosing a Trailer Jack or seek the advice of a West Marine associate at a store near you.
Trailer Jacks FAQ
Consider the tongue weight of your loaded trailer. The jack must be rated to support this weight. You’ll also need to choose between a jack with a foot or a wheel:
- Wheeled Trailer Jacks: Best for lighter trailers, making it easier to maneuver by hand.
- Fixed-Foot Trailer Jacks: Provide stability for heavier loads.
Ensure your jack matches the weight capacity and mounting style of your boat trailer.
Wheeled trailer jacks provide increased mobility and ease of use when moving your trailer by hand. Benefits include:
- Simple maneuvering on flat surfaces.
- Efficient alignment with a tow vehicle.
- Ideal for smaller and lightweight trailers.
Proper maintenance helps extend the lifespan of your trailer jack. Follow these steps:
- Rinse with fresh water after use, especially if exposed to saltwater.
- Regularly lubricate moving parts to prevent friction and rust.
- Inspect for corrosion or wear and replace parts as needed.
Yes, some trailer jacks are designed for saltwater environments. Look for:
- Powder-Coated Steel: Adds a protective barrier against rust.
- Anodized Aluminum: Lightweight and corrosion-resistant.
- Stainless Steel Components: Ideal for marine applications.
Most trailer jacks are designed for DIY installation and can be installed with basic tools:
- Use the provided mounting brackets and follow the manufacturer’s instructions.
- Ensure the jack is securely attached to prevent movement during transport.
- If unsure about weight capacity or compatibility, seek professional assistance.
If your trailer jack fails, take these steps:
- Use a backup support like a jack stand to stabilize the trailer.
- Inspect for broken components and determine if repairs are possible.
- Consider replacing the jack if damage is severe—West Marine offers a variety of replacement trailer jacks.