Can 2 A-Frame Trailer Jacks TJDA-5000S be Connected Together

Updated 09/19/2017 | Published 09/18/2017

Products Featured in This Question

Square A-Frame Jack w/ Footplate - Drop Leg - Sidewind - 28-3/4" Lift - 3,000 lbs

(200)

$102.09

Brophy Cable Camper Jacks - 57" Max Lift Height - 1,000 lbs - Qty 2

(347)

$503.03

Question:

I am building a lift platform for my truck. The platform would be used to raise and lower a Rooftop tent approximately 150 #s.. I need to lift the platform 14 inches. Based on what I can tell 2 of the Square A-Frame Jack w/ Footplate - Drop Leg - Sidewind - 15-1/4inch Travel - 5,000 lbs Item # TJDA-5000S would potentially work. I would like to hook the two jacks together like a landing gear configuration. I have a couple of questions: 1. Are the handles pinned to the drive gear? 2. Can I use a solid bar between them a drive both jacks from on handle? 3. Can a power drill turn the drive handle? The other option under consideration is a landing gear. Concern I have with this option is the connecting bar, gear box and motor would be exposed to the weather. Can the landing gear be installed in an outside environment? If so what would be your recommendation.

asked by: Kyle W

Helpful Expert Reply:

The handle on Square A-Frame Jack w/ Footplate - Drop Leg - Sidewind - 15-1/4" Travel - 5,000 lbs Item # TJDA-5000S is held to a gear with a roll pin and into the jack with e-clips. It would require modification and fabrication to link two of them together. Further modification/fabrication would be required to operate the jack with a power drill.

Landing gear is usually at least partially protected from the elements because they sit under a 5th wheel trailer overhang or in compartments in the same general area. If you used landing gear I recommend making a shroud from sheet metal or aluminum to cover the motor and gear box.

Another option is a manual set of jacks, the Brophy Cable Camper Jacks - 57" Max Lift Height - 1,000 lbs - Qty 2 Item # CJ31. The only thing about this set up is that you would essentially need 2 people to operate it evenly.

expert reply by: Michael H