Trailer Jack with Drive Wheel Recommendation for Moving Sailboat Trailer

Updated 12/23/2025 | Published 10/16/2024

Products Featured in This Question

Ark Xtreme Off-Road Ratcheting Jack w/ Wheel - Sidewind - 10" Lift - 770 lbs - Silver

(76)

$279.00

Trailer Valet 5X Swivel Jack and Trailer Mover - Topwind - 15" Lift - 5,000 lbs

(578)

$469.00

Question:

I need a to move a trailer up a slight grade in the yard from a back alley, mostly dirt. Its a boat trailer, with sailboat is under 2500 lbs. Do you suggest the Ark Xtreme Off-Road Ratcheting Jack w/ Wheel - Sidewind - 18inch Lift - 770 lbs ? I like that its not electric. Thanks.

asked by: Matt C

Expert Reply:

Hey Matt, since you have a slight grade I would instead recommend the Trailer Valet 5X part # STC-V211 over the # ORJW1SU. The # ORJW1SU requires releasing tension in the crank that turns the wheel every time you go to crank the wheel further so I would be afraid that during that time the trailer might want to move out from under you and create a dangerous situation.

With the Trailer Valet you'd be able to keep constant tension in the drive wheel so that you wouldn't have to worry about that.

expert reply by: Jameson C

Jameson C.

12/22/2025

Hey Matt, how did things go with the Trailer Valet 5X for moving your boat trailer up that grade? It sounds like keeping tension on the drive wheel could make a big difference. Your update could help others trying to move a trailer on uneven ground.

Matt C.

12/23/2025

@JamesonC As a product, it does what it says on the box. For my situation it's a mixed bag. The trailer is going up grade in reverse, and is unfortunately rear end heavy. I am able to make it work with traction boards over the loose terrain, and having someone sit on the extended tongue. It's a boat trailer that goes from a 3 foot tongue to a 9 ft or so tongue.