In last two weeks, our company has been testing the 50-hour durability of our manual trailer jacks. The question is how can we ensure the trailer jacks we use daily are strong enough?
The answer is that they must pass various strict performance tests, such as load testing, self-locking force testing, salt spray testing, and durability testing.
1. Determine the jack's load capacity. Common jack capacities are 1 ton (1000 kg/2200 LBS), 1.5 tons, 2 tons, and 3.5 tons. Where do these figures come from?
Jack capacity≥1.5*trailer tongue weight=10-15% trailer gross weight
Therefore, to choose a suitable jack, you need to know your trailer's gross trailer weight rating and then calculate the required jack capacity based on the above calculations.
2. choose the installation method, i.e., how the jack will be connected to the trailer frame.
Type A jacks are the most common. They are bolted directly to the A-frame at the front of the trailer, as shown in the diagram.
3. Choose the lifting mechanism.
The gear (hand-cranked) type is the most popular. The jack we tested in this instance is also a hand-cranked type. You can also choose a hydraulic type, which is characterized by smooth and effortless operation, but is generally more expensive.
4. Choose the part that contacts the ground.
Generally, this is a fixed base plate, made of a simple metal plate, suitable for large trailers or soft ground. However, if the trailer needs to be moved, we recommend a jack with wheels.
5. Material of our manual trailer jack
The above are the performance requirements for the jack; there are also requirements regarding the material of the jack itself. Ideally, it should be made of heavy-duty steel and have a powder-coated or galvanized surface treatment to prevent corrosion.
