Need new trailer jack

[496 Cubic Inches]

The cheapie that came on my trailer is all rusted out after two years so its time to replace it. I saw a Fulton at Boaters World that has a coating called Sharkskin thats supposed to be the cats meow for salt water resistance. Has anyone here tried one? <br /><br />I also saw a galvanized jack and one that has an electroplated coating,both claim to be the best choice for saltwater resistance. <br /><br />Am I better off buying an expensive jack or should I just buy the cheapies every other year?

 

[2MADAKAT]

Re: Need new trailer jack

I guess it depends on the size of your boat. Personally, I bought a small hydraulic jack to use when towing my boat. Less than 50.00, can handle up to 2.5 tons.

 

[Nikko]

Re: Need new trailer jack

My cheap one froxe up after 1/2 dozen uses (in salt water) even though I was diligent about rinsing it. Rather that replace it, I took it apart (had to use heat to break the actual acme thread free), cleaned it up and loaded it with marine grease (it was totally dry when I took it apart...no lubricaiton at all!). It's working great so far!<br /><br />Good luck<br />Nikko

 

[rwidman]

Re: Need new trailer jack

I would go with the better quality jack. Another mode of failure than freezing is total collapse. You don't want that to happen, especially if your foot is in the way.

 

[rwidman]

Re: Need new trailer jack

Oops!<br /><br />I hate computers!

 

[umblecumbuz]

Re: Need new trailer jack

Sometimes it's the insides that give more trouble than the bits you can see.<br /><br />You can easily paint the outside bits - and maybe do as Nikko did and strip the unit before it gets too bad and service the inside bits. <br /><br />That will lengthen the life even of a cheapie.

 

[rwidman]

Re: Need new trailer jack

For many of us, a replacement trailer jack is less than the cost of a day on the water. Nobody ever said boating was cheap!