Drive On Trailer Jack: Choosing & Using Guide

For safe and efficient trailer management, understanding the nuances of a drive on trailer jack is paramount. Fulton Performance Products offers various models, each possessing a specific weight capacity, that address diverse trailer needs, from small utility trailers to larger boat trailers. Improper selection or usage can lead to frame damage, a common issue addressed by organizations like the National Association of Trailer Manufacturers (NATM) through safety guidelines. This guide provides a comprehensive overview, enabling users to select the appropriate drive on trailer jack and implement correct procedures, ensuring both equipment longevity and operator safety during hitching and unhitching.

Drive-On Trailer Jacks: A Comprehensive Guide to Selection and Usage

Understanding the nuances of drive-on trailer jacks is crucial for anyone regularly loading and unloading vehicles, equipment, or cargo onto trailers. These jacks offer a convenient and often safer alternative to traditional ramp systems, particularly when dealing with low-clearance vehicles or limited space. This guide provides an in-depth look at how to choose the right drive-on trailer jack and use it effectively, ensuring both safety and efficiency.

Defining Drive-On Trailer Jacks and Their Benefits

Before diving into the specifics of selection and usage, it’s important to establish a clear understanding of what constitutes a "drive-on trailer jack." These are typically ramps, often adjustable in height, that allow vehicles or equipment to be driven directly onto a trailer. They differ significantly from standard trailer jacks designed solely for leveling and stabilizing a parked trailer.

The key benefits of using a drive-on trailer jack include:

• Ease of Loading/Unloading: Eliminates the need for cumbersome ramps that require precise alignment and can be challenging to maneuver, especially in tight spaces.
• Reduced Risk of Damage: Lower approach angles are often achievable, minimizing the risk of scraping low-clearance vehicles or equipment.
• Enhanced Safety: Provides a more stable and secure platform for loading, reducing the potential for slippage or accidents.
• Space Efficiency: Often require less space than traditional ramps, making them ideal for use in limited areas.
• Versatility: Many drive-on trailer jacks are adjustable, accommodating various trailer heights and loading requirements.

Selecting the Right Drive-On Trailer Jack: Key Considerations

Choosing the appropriate drive-on trailer jack requires careful consideration of several factors. Failing to properly assess your needs can lead to purchasing a jack that is inadequate or unsuitable for your specific applications.

1. Weight Capacity: This is the most critical factor. The jack must have a weight capacity that exceeds the combined weight of the heaviest vehicle or equipment you plan to load and unload. Always err on the side of caution and choose a jack with a significant safety margin. Refer to the manufacturer’s specifications for accurate weight ratings.
2. Adjustable Height Range: Determine the range of trailer bed heights you will need to accommodate. A jack with a wider adjustable range offers greater flexibility and adaptability. Consider the lowest clearance vehicle you will be loading and ensure the jack can achieve a sufficiently low angle of approach.
3. Construction Material and Durability: Look for jacks constructed from high-quality steel or aluminum with robust welding and durable finishes. Powder coating is often a good indicator of corrosion resistance. Consider the frequency of use and the environmental conditions in which the jack will be used.
4. Surface Traction and Grip: The surface of the drive-on ramps should provide excellent traction to prevent slippage, especially in wet or oily conditions. Look for features like knurled surfaces, raised patterns, or integrated grip strips.
5. Portability and Storage: If portability is a concern, consider the weight and size of the jack when folded or disassembled. Some models are designed for easy transport and storage.
6. Safety Features: Evaluate the presence of safety features such as locking mechanisms, anti-roll-back devices, and clear visual indicators of proper engagement.
7. Footprint and Stability: A wider footprint generally provides greater stability. Ensure the jack has a stable base that can handle the weight of the load without tipping or shifting.

The below table illustrates the different types of material and their benefits.

Material	Benefits	Drawbacks
Steel	High Strength, Durability, Cost-Effective, Wide Availability	Prone to Rust if not properly coated, Heavier than Aluminum
Aluminum	Lightweight, Corrosion Resistant, Attractive Appearance	More Expensive than Steel, Can be less durable than steel for heavy-duty applications
Composite/Plastic	Lightweight, Corrosion Resistant, Can be molded into complex shapes	Lower Weight Capacity, Not as durable as metal options

Safe and Effective Usage of Drive-On Trailer Jacks

Once you’ve selected the appropriate drive-on trailer jack, proper usage is paramount to ensure safety and prevent damage to your vehicle, equipment, or trailer.

1. Pre-Use Inspection: Before each use, thoroughly inspect the jack for any signs of damage, wear, or corrosion. Check for loose bolts, cracks, or bent components. Do not use the jack if any defects are found.
2. Surface Preparation: Ensure the ground surface is level, firm, and stable. Avoid using the jack on soft, uneven, or sloping surfaces. Use leveling blocks or shims if necessary to create a level platform.
3. Correct Placement: Position the jack directly in front of the trailer bed and align it properly with the loading area. Ensure the jack is securely engaged with the trailer frame or designated mounting points.
4. Height Adjustment: Adjust the jack to the appropriate height to create a smooth transition between the ground and the trailer bed. Avoid excessively steep angles of approach.
5. Slow and Controlled Loading: Drive onto the jack slowly and carefully, maintaining a steady speed and avoiding sudden acceleration or braking. Use a spotter to guide you and ensure safe positioning.
6. Weight Distribution: Distribute the weight of the vehicle or equipment evenly across the trailer bed. Avoid concentrating excessive weight in one area.
7. Securing the Load: Once the vehicle or equipment is loaded, secure it properly to the trailer using appropriate tie-downs, straps, or chains.
8. Unloading Procedures: Follow the same procedures for unloading, driving off the jack slowly and carefully.
9. Regular Maintenance: Clean and lubricate the jack regularly to ensure smooth operation and prevent corrosion. Store the jack in a dry, protected location when not in use.

By adhering to these guidelines, you can ensure safe and effective use of your drive-on trailer jack, simplifying the loading and unloading process and minimizing the risk of accidents or damage.

So, there you have it! Hopefully, this guide has demystified the world of drive on trailer jacks and helps you choose and use one safely and effectively. Now get out there, get your boat or trailer hitched up with confidence, and enjoy the open road (or water!).