What Capacity Jack is Needed at Minimum to Support 3,100 lb Boat and Trailer

Updated 11/04/2020 | Published 11/02/2020

Products Featured in This Question

Dutton-Lainson Trailer Jack w/ Footplate - Sidewind - Fixed Mount - 28-1/2" Lift - Zinc - 2.5K

(133)

$162.45

Trailer Valet JXS Drill Powered Swivel Trailer Jack w/ Footplate - Sidewind - 14" Lift - 1.6K

(427)

$169.00

Question:

I have a 21 foot boat that is 3100 pounds on a dual axle trailer came with the boat. The tongue jack is toast. Whats the minimum and/or recommended weight I would need to buy to support the boat trailer? I read your rule of thumb, but I want to ensure I get the right capacity for a safe trailer.

asked by: Patrick T

Expert Reply:

A trailer jack only needs to support the tongue weight, which for a boat trailer is something like 5 to maybe 10 percent of the weight of your loaded trailer, because so much of the weight is at the rear of the trailer. To be absolutely sure you will need to know your tongue weight by using a scale like the etrailer Tongue Weight Scale # e99044 but we can make a good guesstimate.

With a 3,100 lb boat, since the trailers themselves are usually fairly light you can get away with a 2,500 lb jack like the Dutton-Lainson Bolt-On, Drop Leg Trailer Jack # DL22320.

I would be surprised if you needed something larger, but if needed you could go up to the 5,000 lb Trailer Valet JXS Trailer Jack # TV64FR.

expert reply by: Kyle S