How to Install a Trailer Tongue Jack

A tongue jack keeps this trailer level when it is not attached to a vehicle.

A trailer tongue jack is a device that is attached to the tongue of a trailer and is used to hold the tongue up when it is not attached to a vehicle. When the trailer is attached, the jack is simply toggled to a position parallel with the frame of the trailer so it does not scrape the ground. A tongue jack is also used to raise a trailer, making it possible to remove it from the trailer hitch on the vehicle. A tongue jack is not difficult to install.

Things You'll Need

• Ratchet set
• Drill with a set of bits
• Mounting kit (provided by manufacturer)
• Pencil

Instructions

1. Position the jack on the tongue of your trailer to determine where it should be mounted. You want your jack as close to the front of your trailer as you can get it, without interfering with anything. Toggle the jack to its riding position to determine if it has enough room. Examine the bottom mounting bolt holes to determine if you need to drill holes in order to secure your jack.

2. Insert the top mounting bolts into their holes and place the jack on top of the frame in the location that you picked in Step 1. Insert a bolt through the top hole of one of the straps. Place a washer on the bolt, and then thread the lock washer (provided by the manufacturer) onto the bolt until it is finger tight. Repeat the second half of this step for the other bolt.

3. Repeat Step 2 for the bottom bolts if your trailer frame is thin enough for the bolts to get around. If your trailer frame is too thick, you will need to drill out holes for the bolts. Use a pencil to mark where the holes need to be drilled, and then remove the trailer jack. Drill the holes out with a drill bit that is the next size larger than the bolts you are using. Repeat Step 2 for both the top and bottom bolts.

4. Tighten the bolts with a socket and ratchet combination. The bolts need to be tight, but not tight enough to bend the straps.

References

• Shelby Industries: Jack Installation
• Etrailer: Easy swivel trailer jack installation