When choosing a trailer jack—whether manual or electric—it’s critical to understand two important specifications: Lift Capacity and Load Capacity. While they sound similar, they represent different aspects of performance. Misunderstanding these can lead to equipment failure or unsafe towing conditions.
Let’s break them down.
What is Load Capacity?
Load Capacity refers to the maximum amount of weight the jack can safely support at the trailer's tongue. This doesn’t mean the total weight of your trailer—only the portion resting on the jack when it's unhitched.
For example, if your trailer weighs 8,000 lbs, the tongue weight (typically 10-15% of total weight) might be around 800–1,200 lbs. Your jack’s load capacity must exceed this number to ensure safe and stable operation.
Key Point: Load capacity = how much weight the jack can hold and stabilize without failing.
What is Lift Capacity?
Lift Capacity refers to the amount of weight the jack can raise or lower using its mechanical or electric components. This applies during the lifting action—such as cranking a manual jack or powering an electric one.
For manual jacks, it’s the weight you’re physically cranking. For electric jacks, it’s what the motor is built to move.
Sometimes, lift capacity is slightly less than load capacity because lifting requires more mechanical force and puts additional strain on the system.
Key Point: Lift capacity = how much weight the jack can actively raise or lower.
Why the Difference Matters
-
If your jack can hold your trailer tongue but can’t lift it, you’ll struggle to connect or disconnect from your tow vehicle.
-
Overloading a jack—whether during lifting or while stationary—can result in gear damage, motor burnout (in electric jacks), or even jack collapse.
Manual vs. Electric Jacks: How It Applies
Manual Jacks
-
Side-wind and top-wind jacks rely on user input.
-
A manual jack with a high load capacity might still be difficult to crank if your trailer is near its upper limits.
-
Consider using a jack with a slightly higher lift rating than required for easier operation.
Electric Jacks
-
Electric jacks make lifting easier, but it’s important to check the motor’s lift capacity.
-
Some electric jacks include overload protection or auto shutoff features if weight exceeds safe lifting thresholds.
Always match your jack to your trailer's tongue weight—not total trailer weight—and choose a model that exceeds your needs for safety and ease of use. At Bastion Distribution, all our jacks—whether manual or electric—are clearly labeled with these capacities to help you make the right decision for your towing setup.