Electric A-Frame Trailer Jack and Battery Box Recommendation for an Enclosed Trailer

Updated 09/09/2015 | Published 09/07/2015

Products Featured in This Question

Lippert Electric Trailer Jack with Footplate - A-Frame - 18" Lift - 3,500 lbs - Black

(341)

$229.36

CTEK MULTI US 7002 12-Volt Universal Battery Charger w/ Pulse Maintenance and Backup Power

(91)

$157.99

Stromberg Carlson Electric Trailer Jack - Drop Leg - A-Frame - 23" Lift - 4,500 lbs - Black

(840)

$288.15

Question:

I have a enclosed motorcycle trailer. The only battery I have is for the electric brakes and I cant use that for the jack. I need to purchase a 12 volt battery that can be enclosed in some kind of case and wired to what. When looking for battery and case where and what am I asking for and how do I hook the battery so when the truck is running it is charging the 12 volt battery for jack. Dont want to use my 7 way plug to power the jack. needs to be tied into something to get the results I want. Any advise will help and where and what am I asking for as far as the battery and case. What is a good brand in the 4000 lb to 4500 lb range. Who is a good company to deal with. Thanks

asked by: Michael M

Expert Reply:

You can get a jack and battery box from us, right here at etrailer! For a battery a 12 volt car battery will work fine. It doesn't have to be the fanciest battery (since they are getting so pricey these days) so long as it has the amperage rating for the draw of the jack you use.

For a battery box you could use # 329-HM327BKS for group 27 batteries. The interior measures 13-1/4" long x 8-5/8" tall x 7" wide so the battery will need to fit those dimensions. It comes with mounting brackets and the strap to secure the lid to the box.

You can run a wire from the 12 volt circuit on the trailer side connector to the positive battery terminal. This will provide a maintenance charge but will not charge up the battery. This is because most vehicle alternators cannot push back the amperage needed to charge up a battery over that much distance.

The best solution is to charge the battery with an AC power charger such as # CTEK56353.

I think the best value for an A-frame tongue jack is the Stromberg Carlson # SC63VR which is rated for 4500 pounds of tongue weight. This is 1000 pounds more than other models, and even though you may not need this much capacity, you will find that the jack motor runs quick and effortlessly. This will add years to its life. This jack also has a unique clutch that prevents damage from overextending or retracting the jack foot - the most common reason for jack failure. I also like that is has a generous 23" lift, including a time-saving drop-foot. It includes LED lights for operating the hitch in the dark, and a built-in bullseye leveling bubble.

expert reply by: Michael H