Troubleshooting Bulldog 3500 lb Electric Trailer Jack That Does Not Fully Retract Without Load
Updated 06/11/2020 | Published 06/09/2020
Products Featured in This Question
Question:
I have an 3500 Lb Bulldog Electric Trailer jack. Electrically it works fine. As long as it under a load it works fine. But If im hooking the trailer to the truck, once the truck has taken all the weight of the trailer the jack will not continue retracting up. Same when Im unloading the trailer from the truck. I have actually pick up on the foot of the jack so it will extend down to the ground. Once it hits the ground and starts to pick up the trailer off the truck its works fine. My issue is it will not retract or extend when no load bearing weight is present. Can you advise?
asked by: Mark T
Expert Reply:
Usually when this occurs, it's because the jack has been over extended; there is a small lock nut in the channel on the inner tube of this jack that if it's over extended will cut into the V channel on the inside. When this happens, it damages the functioning of the jack. This was confirmed with my contact over at Horizon Global, who own Bulldog.
Because of this, you're likely going to need to replace it. A good replacement for your jack would be the Bulldog # BD500187, which is the same 3500-lbs capacity as your current jack and will work well as a replacement.
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.
Featured Help Information
Miscellaneous Media
Continue Researching
- Video: Stromberg Carlson Hitching Post Chain and 7-Way Plug Holder Review
- Q&A: Protective Cover For Lippert Electric Trailer Jack
- Shop: Stromberg Carlson Hitching Post Chain and 7-Way Plug Holder for Trailer Jacks
- Shop: Phoenix Electric Trailer Jack with Remote - A-Frame - 26" Lift - 5,500 lbs
- Shop: etrailer Protective Cover for Electric A-Frame Jacks - Vinyl - 10-1/2" x 13-3/4"
- Shop: Stromberg Carlson Electric Trailer Jack - Drop Leg - A-Frame - 23" Lift - 4,500 lbs - Black
- Shop: Timbren Silent Ride Suspension for Tandem Axle Trailers w/ 2" Square Axles - 7,000 lbs
- Shop: Replacement Extend/Retract Switch for Lippert Electric Trailer Jack
- Search Results: fic 3500 parts
- Q&A: What Gauge Wire and Fuse Should be Used to Install Bulldog A-Frame Trailer Jack BD500187
- Shop: Trailer Valet JXC Drill Powered Jack w/ Footplate - A-Frame - 14" Lift - 1,600 lbs
- Video: Checking Out the Optronics Flexible LED Light Strip
- Shop: Trailer Hitch
- Article: Trailer Wiring Diagrams
- Q&A: Lug Nut Torque Chart for Trailer Wheels
- Search Results: trailer hitch
- Article: Brake Controller 7- and 4-Way Installation Kit (ETBC7)
- Shop: Trailer Wiring
- Search Results: trailer tires and wheels
- Q&A: What is the Difference Between a Class II and a Class III Hitch?
- Search Results: trailer wiring
- Q&A: Installation Time for Blue Ox BX1128 Flat Tow Base Plate Kit for 2016 Jeep Grand Cherokee
- Video: How to Choose a Trailer Brake Controller
- Shop: Suspension Enhancement
- Article: Wiring Trailer Lights with a 7-Way Plug (It's Easier Than You Think)
- Q&A: What is the Difference Between a 4-Way and 7-Way Trailer Connector
- Video: Measuring To Choose The Right Trailer Axle
- Search Results: trailer jack
- Shop: Brake Controller
- Article: How to Measure for Trailer Hitch Drop
on Camper Jacks
