Correct Trailer Tongue Jack Capacity for a Trailer with GVWR of 2980-lbs

Updated 06/28/2017 | Published 06/27/2017

Question:

I need to replace a trailer jack on a trailer with a GVWR of 2980. What does the capacity of the trailer jack need to be to support this weight of trailer?

asked by: Michael R

Expert Reply:

When it comes to either trailer tires, hitches, winches or jacks, having extra capacity is a good idea.

With jacks, using one rated for more weight than you're actually going to ask it to lift means it will have to work less hard to do its job. That tends to mean reduced wear and tear and can lead to a longer working lifespan for the jack.

Since the cost difference between 1000-lb and 2000-lb jack is often quite small, it just makes sense to add safety margin whenever possible. For a trailer like yours that is in the range of 3000-lbs I suggest using at least a 2K-rated tongue jack like Pro Series # PSRV20000103 or the Bulldog # BD155033. But if you want to, for just a few more dollars, you can use a 5K jack like # BD175000.

expert reply by: Adam R