How to Add Clearance so Truck Tailgate Does Not Contact Jack

Updated 06/07/2019 | Published 06/06/2019

Products Featured in This Question

Ultimate Trailer Jack - A-Frame - Topwind - 27-1/2" Lift - 2,000 lbs

(848)

$89.90

1-7/8" Hitch Ball - 1" Diameter x 2-1/8" Long Shank - Chrome - 2,000 lbs

(2635)

$12.01

2" Hitch Ball - 1" Diameter x 2-1/8" Long Shank - Chrome - 7,500 lbs

(1362)

$15.49

Brophy Ball Mount for 2" Hitches - 3/4" Rise, 2" Drop - 13-1/4" Long - 10K

(287)

$86.36

Curt Ball Mount for 2" Hitches - 4" Rise, 6" Drop - 14-1/4" Long - 6,000 lbs

(3914)

$45.93

etrailer Trailer Hitch Receiver Lock for 2" Hitches - Flush - 2-5/8" Span - Chrome

(3706)

$25.61

Question:

Cut the rack tube. My issue is I need a short top side of the jack to insure my truck tailgate will open while hitched to my A-liner trailer and not contact the jack.This jack seems to be a perfect jack to customize the jack height while having enough lift to couple the trailer. Also, does the wheel detach.

asked by: James

Helpful Expert Reply:

Though I cannot recommend cutting the Bulldog Rack-and-Gear Jack with Steel Wheel BD165311, which measures a total of 23-1/2 inches when fully extended (the wheel does not come off), there is another option, the Ultimate Trailer Jack - A-Frame - Topwind - 27-1/2" Lift - 2,000 lbs # 322-RDJ-2K. This jack measures just 7-1/4" from the trailer frame to the top of the handle when fully retracted, which should be enough for you to lower your tailgate.

The other option, if that does not work, is to use a ball mount with a long shank.

For example, the Brophy Ball Mount # BM20 measures 13-1/4" from center of hitch pin hole to center of ball hole and has a 2" drop or 3/4" rise. There is also the Curt Ball Mount # D-28 which is 14-1/4" from center of hitch pin hole to center of ball hole and has a 6" drop or 4" rise; both of these ball mounts fit in a 2" hitch receiver. To lock them to your hitch you can use the Trailer Hitch Receiver Lock # e98880.

Both of these ball mounts use hitch balls with a 1" diameter shank, such as the 1-7/8" Hitch Ball # 19260, 2" Hitch Ball # 63845 or 2-5/16" Hitch Ball # 63847.

I have added links to video reviews for you to check out as well, and if you let me know how much length and rise or drop you need I can try and find the best option for you.