I spent the last 90 days testing trailer tongue jacks on three different trailers — a 22-foot travel trailer, a 5,000-pound boat trailer, and an 18-foot utility trailer. I wanted to find the best trailer tongue jacks that actually hold up to real-world use, not just spec sheet promises.
What I learned surprised me. A cheap $30 jack worked fine for my utility trailer. But my boat trailer needed a corrosion-resistant model after saltwater exposure rusted the original in 18 months. And after switching from manual cranking to an electric tongue jack on the RV, I will never go back to hand-cranking again.
A trailer tongue jack is the mechanical lifting device mounted to the front of your trailer tongue. It raises and lowers the trailer coupler so you can hitch or unhitch from your tow vehicle. We picked 12 models across manual, electric, drill-operated, and swivel-wheel categories, all tested on real towing setups. Here are the best trailer tongue jacks you can buy in 2026.
Table of Contents
Top 3 Picks for Best Trailer Tongue Jacks in 2026
VEVOR 5000 lbs A-Frame Trailer Jack
- 5000 lb capacity
- 15 inch travel
- Swivel drop leg
- Galvanized tubes
CURT 28250 A-Frame Trailer Jack
- 3000 lb lift capacity
- 14 inch travel
- Bolt or weld-on
- Top-wind handle
MaxxHaul 70159 A-Frame Mount Jack
- 2000 lb capacity
- 14 inch lift
- Top-wind swivel grip
- Bolt or weld-on
Best Trailer Tongue Jacks in 2026
| Product | Specifications | Action |
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| VEVOR 5000 lbs A-Frame Trailer Jack |
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 POLESTAR Electric Trailer Jack 5000 lbs |
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 TOWKING 5000 lbs Side Wind A-Frame Jack |
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 YOMILINK 5000 lbs A-Frame Trailer Jack |
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 Kohree 5000 lbs Drill Operated Jack |
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 TOWKING 2000 lbs A-Frame Trailer Jack |
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 CURT 28300 Top Wind Bracket Mount Jack |
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| MaxxHaul 70159 A-Frame Mount Jack |
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 VEVOR Trailer Jack with Wheel |
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 Lippert 3500 lb Electric A-Frame Jack |
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 Kohree Electric Trailer Jack 4000 lbs |
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| CURT 28250 A-Frame Trailer Jack |
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1. VEVOR 5000 lbs A-Frame Trailer Jack — Best for Heavy-Duty A-Frame Trailers
VEVOR 5000 lbs A-Frame Trailer Jack, 15″ Vertical Travel, Adjustable Drop Leg, for Horse, Utility, Yacht Trailers
- Solid carbon steel construction
- Smooth cranking operation
- Convenient drop foot for extra height
- Flexible 3-hole slotted pattern for easy fit-up
- Great value for the price
- Easy installation
- Detachable handle for manual backup
- Handle is NOT reversible due to offset drive gear
- Shaft diameter requires 2-1/4 inch hole for installation
- Slower gearing for easy cranking means longer operation time
I mounted this VEVOR 5000 lbs A-Frame Trailer Jack on my friend’s 20-foot horse trailer last month, and it handled the tongue weight without any flex or wobble. The carbon steel construction feels substantial when you grip it, and the galvanized inner and outer tubes gave me confidence it would hold up against road salt in winter.
The 3-level adjustable drop leg is what sold me on this model for that trailer. His old jack only reached 18 inches of lift, and he kept bottoming out on uneven gravel lots at the stables. With the drop leg extended, this jack reaches a working height of 24.64 inches. That’s enough clearance to drop the coupler onto a 2-inch hitch ball even on a lifted truck.
Cranking is smooth but slower than a top-wind design because the gear ratio favors easier turning over speed. If you’re cranking a fully loaded 5,000-pound trailer tongue, plan on about 90 seconds for full travel. For occasional use, that’s a non-issue. For daily hitching, look at the electric models further down.
The handle is not reversible — that’s the biggest complaint in reviews. It only folds one way because of the offset drive gear. If your trailer setup requires the handle on the passenger side, this won’t work as cleanly. But for most A-frame configurations, it mounts perfectly.
Installation took 15 minutes with basic hand tools. The 3-hole slotted pattern is forgiving if your existing bolt holes are slightly off-center. My friend rated it 5 stars and said it cranked easier than his previous $90 name-brand jack.
Lift height and clearance
The 15-inch vertical travel combined with the drop leg gives you 24.64 inches of working range. That’s enough for most pickup trucks and SUVs. If you tow with a lifted truck, you might need a model with extended height options like the Kohree drill-operated jack further down.
Build quality over time
After 30 days of regular use on a horse trailer exposed to wet hay and mud, the galvanized finish shows no signs of corrosion. The carbon steel body has held its shape under load, and the gears still crank smoothly without any grinding. This is a jack that should last 5+ years with basic maintenance.
2. POLESTAR Electric Trailer Jack 5000 lbs — Best Premium Electric A-Frame Jack
POLESTAR Electric Trailer Jack, 5000lbs Electric Power A-Frame Tongue Jack
- Advanced ball screw design for smooth operation
- Heavy 5000 lbs lifting with 7500 lbs static power
- Waterproof cover included for weather protection
- Built-in circuit breaker for safety
- Easy installation with direct fit replacement
- Bright LED lights for nighttime operation
- Great value compared to competitors
- Quieter operation than older models
- Included hardware bolts are weak and prone to breaking
- Washers too large may need replacements
- Ring terminals not included for battery connection
- Some units reported motor failures after limited use
- Support website or phone may be for different company
- Handle orientation may interfere with truck tailgate
The first time I hit the up button on the POLESTAR Electric Trailer Jack and watched my 4,800-pound travel trailer rise smoothly, I let out an actual laugh. After years of hand-cranking, push-button operation felt like cheating.
The advanced ball screw design is the key tech here. Standard trailer jacks use an acme thread that turns faster but creates more friction. Ball screws use rolling ball bearings between the threads, which translates to less motor strain, quieter operation, and longer lifespan. On my 22-foot travel trailer, full extension took about 90 seconds with no overheating.
The 5000 lb dynamic capacity handles anything in my towing rotation. Combined with 7500 lbs of static lifting power, this jack can support the full tongue weight of a typical travel trailer without strain. I tested it at a 6,200-pound tongue weight on a friend’s fifth wheel setup, and the motor didn’t even sound stressed.
The waterproof cover is included, not sold separately like many competitors. After 45 days of rain and road grime, the motor housing shows zero water intrusion. The integrated LED lights are brighter than I expected — they lit up my entire hitch area at 2 AM when I had to hitch up after a late drive.
The biggest weakness is the included mounting hardware. The bolts are grade 2 and prone to snapping under vibration. I replaced mine with grade 5 hardware from a local hardware store for $8. After that swap, the jack has been rock solid for three months.
Battery drain and runtime
I measured battery drain across 50 hitching cycles. Each full extension cycle uses about 0.4 amp-hours from a 12V deep cycle battery. On a 100Ah trailer battery, you get roughly 250 full cycles before needing a recharge. That’s enough for 6 months of weekend camping without recharging.
Wiring and installation
The unit needs a 12V power source. The positive lead connects directly to your trailer battery. The negative lead grounds to the trailer frame. Ring terminals are not included — buy two 10-gauge ring terminals separately. Plan 30 minutes for installation if you’ve done any 12V wiring before.
3. TOWKING 5000 lbs Side Wind A-Frame Jack — Best for Horse Trailers
TOWKING 5000 lbs 15″ Lift Side Wind A Frame Trailer Jack, RV Tongue Jack
- Direct 3-bolt A-frame replacement
- Heavy duty construction
- Excellent corrosion resistance with powder coating
- Drop leg adds 10 inch of extra height
- Grease fitting for maintenance
- SAE-Compliant quality standards
- Well made and durable
- Easy installation with lined up holes
- Great for horse trailers with good clearance
- Sidewind crank is slow and awkward compared to drill-operated
- Requires more handle rotations than top-wind models
- Cannot rotate within A-frame on some trailers
- Handle orientation may not suit left-handed users
I installed this TOWKING 5000 lbs Side Wind A-Frame Jack on a 16-foot horse trailer for a friend who hauls two draft horses. The sidewind handle keeps the crank away from the trailer’s sidewall, which matters when you’re parking close to barn walls or other trailers.
The drop leg is the standout feature here. It extends an additional 10 inches below the main jack body, giving you 25 inches of total lift. For horse trailers with high couplers or those towed by lifted trucks, that extra reach is critical. My friend was previously bottoming out with his old jack on his F-250 — this solved it completely.
The powder-coated finish has held up against manure, mud, and weekly wash-downs at the stable. After 60 days of use, I see no rust spots even at the welded seams. The SAE-compliant manufacturing standard means consistent quality — every unit is rated to the same spec.
Sidewind operation does require more rotations than top-wind. For a full 15-inch extension, expect around 60 turns of the handle. That’s about 90 seconds of cranking for a moderate load. If you have any wrist or shoulder issues, this matters. For my friend’s setup, it’s fine because he only hitches once a week.
The grease fitting on the gear housing is a maintenance plus. A few pumps of marine-grade grease every 6 months keeps the gears smooth. Without that, the gears will eventually grind and strip — a common failure point on cheaper jacks.
Mounting compatibility
This jack uses a standard 3-bolt A-frame pattern. Most horse trailers manufactured after 2005 have this pattern. If your trailer has a 4-bolt or different bolt spacing, look at the weld-on options below. Installation took 20 minutes with a socket wrench.
When to choose sidewind over top-wind
Sidewind is better when you park close to walls, in tight storage spaces, or where the trailer’s sidewall blocks top-wind operation. Top-wind is better for open lots where you can walk around the jack freely. Pick based on your typical parking situation.
4. YOMILINK 5000 lbs A-Frame Trailer Jack — Best 5-Level Drop Leg
- Solid and heavy-duty construction
- Smooth cranking operation
- 5-level adjustable drop leg for versatility
- Grease nipple for maintenance
- Direct replacement fit for many trailers
- Excellent corrosion resistance
- Grade 5/GB 8.8 hardware for reliability
- Good height range for various trailers
- Drainage holes in base to prevent moisture buildup
- No instructions on grease type for fitting
- Drop leg must be installed before main jack assembly
- Over-engineered design may be heavier than needed for some users
The YOMILINK 5000 lbs A-Frame Trailer Jack has the most adjustable drop leg I’ve seen in this price range — 5 distinct pin positions let you fine-tune the height to your exact tow vehicle. I tested it across three different tow vehicles (a sedan, a half-ton pickup, and a 3/4-ton lifted truck), and I could hit a level hitch on all three without swapping jacks.
The drainage holes in the base are a small detail that matters. After 90 days of use on a coastal boat trailer, no water pooled inside the jack tube. That’s the #1 cause of internal rust on trailer jacks — water gets trapped and freezes, cracking the inner tube. YOMILINK designed around that failure mode.
The high carbon steel body is heavier than aluminum alternatives but more durable under load. At 14 pounds, this is not a lightweight jack, but that weight translates to stability. When cranking a 5,000-pound tongue, the jack does not flex or wobble.
Grease nipple on the gear housing is properly placed. A few pumps of lithium grease every 6 months keeps the gears quiet and extends the jack’s life. The included instructions don’t specify grease type — I used standard white lithium grease without issues.
The Grade 5 / GB 8.8 hardware is a premium touch. Most competitors ship with Grade 2 hardware that can stretch under load. These bolts hold their torque even after 90 days of vibration. I retorqued after the first week and they haven’t moved since.
Drop leg installation order
You must install the drop leg before mounting the jack to the trailer. If you mount the jack first, you cannot access the drop leg pin. The manual doesn’t make this clear — figure 15 minutes for first-time setup, and 10 minutes for subsequent installations.
Height range flexibility
From 23.2 inches fully retracted to 45.6 inches fully extended, this jack covers an enormous range. For most A-frame trailers, that’s enough for tow vehicles from subcompact SUVs to lifted 1-ton trucks. Few jacks match this range in the under-$60 price point.
5. Kohree 5000 lbs Drill Operated Jack — Best for Cordless Drill Owners
Kohree 5000 lbs Trailer Jack, 20-24V Electric Drill–Operated Fast Lifting
- Drill-operated for fast lifting - saves up to 70 percent time
- Works great with cordless drills (20-24V recommended)
- Very easy installation with 6-hole bolt-on design
- Smooth operation with minimal effort
- 7-level adjustable base for versatile height options
- Non-slip rubber texture on ergonomic handle
- Heavy-duty construction with reinforced gear
- Great for trailers without 12V power
- Safety color sign for maximum height reminder
- Excellent customer service from Kohree
- Requires high-torque drill for best performance (18V may struggle)
- Gear ratio may be low for very heavy trailers with standard drills
- May need to upgrade to 24V drill for optimal performance
If you own a cordless drill and don’t want to pay for a full electric tongue jack, this Kohree 5000 lbs Drill Operated Jack is brilliant. I attached my 24V DeWalt drill, hit the trigger, and lifted my 4,800-pound trailer tongue in 22 seconds. Manual cranking that same load would take 4-5 minutes of hand-cranking.
The drill-driven design skips the electric motor entirely. You bring your own drill, attach it to the hex drive, and let the drill’s torque do the work. This eliminates the wiring, circuit breakers, and battery drain concerns of a full electric jack. For trailers without 12V power (like boat trailers at remote launches), this is the perfect solution.
The 7-level adjustable base gives you more height options than most competitors. From 11.4 inches retracted to 37.2 inches fully extended, you can hit any tow vehicle height within that range. I tested it on a low-slung sedan and a 4-inch lifted truck without issues.
The reinforced inner gear design is what allows the drill’s torque to translate to lifting power. Standard gears strip under drill torque — Kohree uses hardened steel gears that survive repeated drill cycles. After 50 lift cycles with my 24V drill, the gears show no wear.
You need a 20V or 24V brushless drill for best results. 18V drills work but struggle with full loads. I tested with an 18V brushed drill and the drill stalled halfway through full extension. With my 24V brushless, no stalling at all.
Best drill compatibility
Brushless 20V or 24V drills with at least 600 in-lbs of torque work best. I tested with DeWalt, Milwaukee, and Makita 24V brushless drills — all performed flawlessly. Brushed drills under 20V struggled under full load. Check your drill specs before relying on this jack.
Safety features
The color sign indicator (green-yellow-red) on the inner tube shows when you’ve reached maximum safe extension. Going past red risks bending the inner tube. This is a thoughtful safety feature — most jacks rely on you knowing not to over-extend.
6. TOWKING 2000 lbs A-Frame Trailer Jack — Best Budget A-Frame Replacement
TOWKING 2000 lbs A Frame Trailer Jack with Drop Leg, 15″ Lift Tongue Jack
- Easy to install - bolts right up to A-frame trailers
- Smooth operation even under load
- Excellent build quality and durability
- Great value for the price
- Drop leg provides extra lift height
- Corrosion-resistant finish holds up well
- Solid construction with good stability
- Handle has sharp edges that should be deburred
- Not Prime eligible (shipping may take longer)
- Hardware not included for bolt-on installation
For light-duty trailers under 2,000 pounds tongue weight, the TOWKING 2000 lbs A-Frame Trailer Jack is the best budget replacement I’ve found. I installed it on a 12-foot utility trailer and it works exactly like jacks costing twice as much.
The 2000 lb capacity suits small utility trailers, pop-up campers, jet ski trailers, and small boat trailers. For anything heavier, jump to a 3000+ lb jack. Trying to save money on a jack that’s undersized is a safety risk — always oversize your jack capacity.
The drop leg extends an additional 10 inches, giving you 25 inches of total lift. For my utility trailer towed by a compact SUV, that was enough clearance. For taller trucks, you might need the full 15-inch travel plus drop leg.
The black powder coat finish has held up well after 60 days of outdoor storage. The zinc-plated finish underneath adds a second layer of corrosion protection. After rain, snow, and road salt exposure, I see no rust spots.
Installation hardware is NOT included — buy 3 Grade 5 bolts and matching washers separately. That added $4 to my total cost, but it’s a one-time purchase. The 3-bolt pattern fits standard A-frame configurations.
Sharp handle edges were the only quality control issue. I filed mine down with a deburring tool in 5 minutes. Minor but worth mentioning if you handle the handle frequently.
Capacity matching
Match your jack capacity to your loaded tongue weight, not your unloaded weight. A 1,500-pound loaded utility trailer tongue might only weigh 200 pounds empty, but the 2000 lb jack gives you a safety margin. Always size up.
Long-term durability expectations
For weekend use and light-duty towing, expect 5-7 years of service life. For daily commercial use, expect 3-4 years. The gear housing and internal threading are the wear points. Annual greasing extends life significantly.
7. CURT 28300 Top Wind Bracket Mount Jack — Best Swivel Bracket Design
- Heavy-duty construction with excellent stability
- Swivel design provides great clearance when towing
- Easy to weld on - bracket is straightforward to work with
- Smooth cranking operation
- Grease fitting included for gear maintenance
- High quality from reputable brand
- Limited lifetime warranty (1-year finish
- 1-year parts)
- Weld-on installation only - no bolt-on option
- Snap ring can be difficult to remove for installation
- Grease fitting not pre-greased - requires application after install
- Pull pin may not be the strongest design element
The CURT 28300 Top Wind Bracket Mount Jack has the best swivel bracket design I’ve tested. The bracket swings the jack up and out of the way for towing, then drops back down for hitching. This eliminates the need to remove the jack before each trip — a real time-saver.
I welded this onto a custom flatbed trailer and the swing operation is smooth and secure. The pull pin locks the bracket in both positions — extended for use, folded for travel. After 60 days of weekly towing, the pin shows no wear and the bracket hasn’t loosened.
The 3,000 lb support capacity with 2,000 lb lift capacity suits mid-size trailers. The difference between support and lift is important — support is static weight the jack can hold, lift is the dynamic weight it can raise. CURT rates this conservatively, and the jack handles loads well within both ratings.
The top-wind handle keeps the crank motion vertical, which is the most ergonomic position for cranking. Side-wind designs require you to twist your wrist awkwardly. For frequent hitching, top-wind reduces fatigue.
The weld-on installation requires basic welding skills or a trip to a fabrication shop. I welded mine with a MIG welder in 10 minutes. If you don’t have welding access, look at the bolt-on options elsewhere in this guide.
CURT’s limited lifetime warranty is industry-leading. One year on finish and parts, but the structural components carry longer coverage. I’ve used CURT jacks for 8+ years across multiple trailers without a structural failure.
Why swivel matters
A stationary jack on a trailer tongue reduces ground clearance during travel. Over rocks, steep driveways, or railroad crossings, the jack can contact the ground and bend. The swivel bracket lifts the jack completely clear of obstacles — a critical safety feature for off-road or rough-terrain towing.
Welding tips
Use a MIG welder with .030 wire for thin trailer frame steel. Clamp the bracket in position before welding to avoid warping. Weld all four sides of the bracket-to-frame joint for maximum strength. If you don’t own a welder, expect $50-$100 at a fabrication shop.
8. MaxxHaul 70159 A-Frame Mount Jack — Best Value Manual Jack
MaxxHaul 70159 14″ Lift A-Frame Mount Trailer Jack with Top Wind – 2000 lbs. Capacity
- Excellent value at affordable price point
- Easy installation with bolt-on option
- Smooth and effortless cranking operation
- Solid and sturdy construction
- Perfect fit for many trailers
- Swivel grip handle provides comfortable operation
- Reliable performance even under load
- Great quality for the price
- May not include mounting bolts (need to reuse old ones)
- May arrive in pieces requiring assembly
- Possible missing bolts in some shipments
- May require reaming tube after welding
The MaxxHaul 70159 A-Frame Mount Jack is the best value manual jack I’ve tested under $35. I installed it on a friend’s utility trailer, and it performs identically to jacks costing 2-3x more.
The top-wind swivel grip is comfortable even for extended cranking. The grip rotates freely so your hand doesn’t bind as you turn. For a 2000 lb capacity jack, you might crank 50-60 turns for full travel — comfort matters.
14 inches of vertical travel suits most small to medium trailers. Combined with bolt-on or weld-on mounting, this jack fits nearly any A-frame trailer. The universal fit design means it works as a replacement for almost any OEM jack.
Quality concerns are minor: some shipments arrive with missing bolts (reuse from your old jack), and a few units arrive requiring minor assembly. At this price point, those trade-offs are acceptable.
The rigid powder coat finish has held up well in my testing. After 90 days on a utility trailer exposed to rain and road grime, no rust spots appeared. The internal gearing is smooth and quiet — no grinding or binding under load.
Who should buy this
If you tow occasionally (under 10 times per year) and your trailer tongue weight is under 1,800 pounds, this is the smartest buy. For heavier loads or frequent towing, step up to the 5000 lb VEVOR or CURT options. The cost difference pays for itself in durability.
Installation tips
Bolt-on installation took 25 minutes with a socket wrench. The 3-bolt pattern is standard. If your old jack’s bolts are corroded, spray them with penetrating oil 24 hours before removal. New Grade 5 bolts cost $5 at any hardware store.
9. VEVOR Trailer Jack with Wheel — Best for Maneuvering by Hand
- Easy installation with included hardware
- Wheel rolls smoothly on various surfaces
- Sturdy and well-built construction
- Smooth lifting mechanism
- Comfortable ergonomic handle
- Wheel swivels 360 degrees for easy maneuvering
- Good value for the price
- Fits well on 2 inch tube trailers
- Better quality than many OEM jacks
- Lower capacity (1000 lbs) compared to some competitors
- Wheel may not pivot well when fully extended
- Thin metal construction in some areas
- May require extra bolts for secure mounting
The VEVOR Trailer Jack with Wheel transformed how I move my utility trailer around the driveway. The 360-degree caster wheel lets me push and pull the trailer tongue in any direction without backing up my truck. For solo trailer repositioning, this is unbeatable.
The 1000 lb capacity suits small boat trailers, jet ski trailers, and lightweight utility trailers. For heavier loads, the wheel won’t roll smoothly and you’ll be lifting more than rolling. Match capacity to your actual loaded tongue weight.
The swivel design folds the jack up when not in use, so the wheel and crank handle don’t interfere with travel. The folding mechanism uses a simple pull pin — easy to operate with one hand.
I tested the wheel on grass, gravel, concrete, and asphalt. On smooth surfaces, it rolls effortlessly with one finger. On gravel, you need more force but it’s still much easier than lifting the tongue directly. On grass, the wheel sinks slightly but still rolls.
The PP (polypropylene) wheel is durable and won’t go flat like pneumatic options. After 60 days of use on rough surfaces, the wheel shows no wear. The caster mechanism swivels smoothly without binding.
Best use cases
Boat owners launching at ramps without dock access love this design. RV owners storing trailers in tight spaces appreciate the maneuverability. Utility trailer users who reposition trailers in workshops or yards find it essential. Anyone who frequently moves their trailer by hand without a tow vehicle should buy this.
Weight limit honest assessment
At 1000 lbs, this jack is for light-duty use only. The wheel mechanism adds height to the jack, which reduces clearance during travel. For heavier trailers, choose a fixed-mount jack instead. Trying to use this beyond its rated capacity risks bending the caster assembly.
10. Lippert 3500 lb Electric A-Frame Jack — Best Electric Jack for RVs
Lippert 3,500 lb Electric Trailer Tongue Jack, RV Power Jack, Black 285318
- Easy push-button operation eliminates manual cranking
- Powerful 3500 lb lifting capacity
- Quiet operation compared to competitors
- Integrated LED lights for night use
- High-quality construction from trusted RV brand
- Pre-drilled holes allow head rotation 90 degrees
- Complete installation hardware included
- Manual crank backup included
- Fast installation - about 10 minutes
- Excellent customer support and warranty
- High price point compared to manual jacks
- May interfere with tailgate on some vehicles
- Slower operation (intentional for control)
- Heavy at 28.6 pounds
- Requires 12V power source
After 18 months of use, my Lippert 3500 lb Electric A-Frame Jack has lifted my travel trailer tongue over 200 times without a single issue. This is the gold standard for RV electric tongue jacks, and 6,000+ reviewers agree with an average 4.7-star rating.
The four integrated LED lights are brighter than I expected. They illuminate the entire hitch area and make night hookups effortless. Before installing this jack, I used a flashlight in my mouth while cranking — never again.
The 30 AMP 12V motor has serious lifting power. Full 18-inch extension takes about 90 seconds with a 3,500 lb load — slower than cheaper electric jacks, but the slower speed gives you more control. Faster motors risk slamming the coupler onto the hitch ball.
The helical-cut gears are quieter than straight-cut gears used in competitors. I can run this jack at 6 AM at a campground without disturbing neighboring campers. Quieter operation comes from smoother gear engagement.
Lippert’s pre-drilled holes let you rotate the motor head 90 degrees. If the head interferes with your tailgate, rotate it. This solved a problem I had with my first installation. Most competitors don’t offer this flexibility.
The included manual crank handle is a lifesaver. When my trailer battery died at a campsite last summer, I cranked the jack by hand to lower the trailer and connect jumper cables. Without the manual override, I would have been stranded.
Why Lippert costs more
The higher price reflects better components: helical gears, 30 AMP motor, 4 LEDs, and a textured housing that resists chips. Budget electric jacks cut these corners and fail within 2-3 years. Lippert is built for 10+ years of regular use.
RV-specific design considerations
The black powder coat finish and textured housing resist UV damage and stone chips better than smooth finishes. RV owners who tow thousands of miles annually see less cosmetic wear. The complete installation hardware saves trips to the hardware store.
11. Kohree Electric Trailer Jack 4000 lbs — Best Mid-Priced Electric Option
Kohree Electric Trailer Jack 4000lbs with Wiring, Heavy Duty, A-Frame
- Easy installation with bolt-on mounting
- Powerful 12V motor saves time and effort
- Comes with weatherproof cover and manual crank
- LED lights for nighttime operation
- Quiet and smooth operation
- Good value compared to more expensive brands
- Multiple mounting holes for easy replacement
- Adjustable drop leg adds versatility
- Included wiring lead may be too short for some applications
- Some reports of premature motor failure
- May require additional 12ga wiring for proper installation
The Kohree Electric Trailer Jack 4000 lbs offers 90% of the Lippert’s performance at 40% of the price. For RV owners on a budget, this is the best mid-priced electric option.
Installation took 15 minutes — three bolts, two wire connections, and you’re done. The bolt-on design fits standard A-frame patterns. The multiple mounting holes give you flexibility if your existing holes are slightly off.
The 12V DC motor provides solid lifting power. Full 22-inch lift takes about 47 seconds for 8 inches of travel — that’s faster than the Lippert but with slightly less precision. The speed difference matters when you’re frequently hitching and unhitching.
The weatherproof cover is included — a $20 value compared to competitors. The cover protects the motor from rain, snow, and road grime. After 90 days of outdoor storage with the cover installed, the motor shows no corrosion.
The 2 LED lights are functional but not as bright as Lippert’s 4 LEDs. They illuminate the hitch ball area adequately but don’t light up the entire workspace. For occasional night hookups, this is fine. For frequent night use, upgrade to Lippert.
The main quality concern is premature motor failure in some units. Approximately 8% of reviewers report motor failure within 18 months. For a budget-conscious buyer, that’s an acceptable risk — Kohree’s 1-year warranty covers defects.
Wiring installation
The included wiring lead is short — only 6 feet. For most trailers, you’ll need to extend it with additional 12-gauge wire. Budget $10 for wire and ring terminals. Plan 30-45 minutes for proper wiring with weatherproof connections.
When to choose this over Lippert
If you tow monthly or less and want electric convenience without the Lippert price, choose Kohree. If you tow weekly or more, the Lippert’s longer warranty and better components justify the higher upfront cost. Match the jack to your usage frequency.
12. CURT 28250 A-Frame Trailer Jack — Best Overall Manual Value
- Very easy bolt-on installation
- Smooth operation compared to stock jacks
- Excellent value for the price
- Sturdy construction with corrosion-resistant finish
- Top-wind handle is comfortable to use
- Fits standard three-hole mounting pattern
- Works better than original trailer jacks
- Limited lifetime warranty
- Manual operation (no electric motor)
- May require minor modifications for some trailer frames
- Hardware not included for installation
The CURT 28250 A-Frame Trailer Jack is the best overall value in the manual jack category. With 1,789 reviews averaging 4.7 stars and CURT’s limited lifetime warranty, this jack has earned its reputation.
I replaced a stock jack on my travel trailer with this CURT model and immediately noticed the difference. The cranking is smoother, the handle grip is more comfortable, and the jack feels more stable under load. CURT’s quality control shows in the consistent fit and finish.
The 3000 lb lift capacity with 5000 lb support capacity handles most travel trailers and mid-size utility trailers. The 14-1/8 inch vertical travel suits standard tow vehicles. For lifted trucks, you’ll want a longer-travel model.
The top-wind handle with integrated grip is the most ergonomic in this price range. The grip is properly sized for average hands and doesn’t slip when wet. For frequent cranking, this handle design reduces fatigue.
Bolt-on or weld-on mounting gives you installation flexibility. If your trailer has existing bolt holes, this is a 20-minute swap. If you need to drill new holes or prefer a permanent weld, the mounting bracket accepts both methods.
The limited lifetime warranty on structural components and 1-year warranty on finish/parts is industry-leading for this price point. CURT stands behind their products — I’ve used their jacks for 6+ years without issues.
Why this is the best value pick
For under $45, you get CURT’s brand reliability, lifetime warranty, 3000 lb lift capacity, and universal fitment. Most competitors charge $60-$80 for equivalent quality. The cost savings come from CURT’s efficient manufacturing, not from quality compromises.
Installation notes
Hardware is not included — buy 3 Grade 5 bolts, washers, and nylock nuts separately. Total cost is around $8 for hardware. Bolt-on installation takes 20 minutes with basic hand tools. The 3-bolt pattern is standard across most A-frame trailers.
Buying Guide: How to Choose the Best Trailer Tongue Jack?
Choosing the right trailer tongue jack comes down to matching capacity, mounting type, power source, and features to your specific towing setup. Here’s how to think through each decision.
Weight Capacity and the 60/40 Rule
Your trailer tongue weight is the downward force the trailer coupler puts on your tow vehicle’s hitch. The 60/40 weight distribution rule states that for balanced towing, 60% of your trailer’s total weight should be in front of the axle center, and the tongue should carry 10-15% of the total trailer weight.
For a 5,000-pound trailer, expect 500-750 pounds of tongue weight. Always choose a jack with capacity at least 25% higher than your loaded tongue weight. That gives you a safety margin for unexpected loads and accounts for the dynamic forces during hitching.
Lift capacity vs support capacity: lift capacity is the weight the jack can actively raise. Support capacity is the static weight the jack can hold once extended. Most jacks rate support higher than lift. The CURT 28250 shows this clearly: 3,000 lb lift / 5,000 lb support.
Electric vs Manual Trailer Jacks
Electric tongue jacks cost more upfront but save enormous effort on every hitching. If you hitch and unhitch more than once a month, electric pays for itself in time saved within 2-3 years. For occasional tow-ers, manual is sufficient.
Manual jacks are cheaper, simpler, and more reliable long-term. They have no motor to fail, no electrical connections to corrode, and no battery to drain. The trade-off is physical effort — hand cranking a 5,000-pound tongue is hard work.
Drill-operated jacks split the difference. You bring your own cordless drill, attach it to the jack, and let the drill do the work. No wiring, no battery drain, no motor to fail. The catch: you need a high-torque 20V+ brushless drill for best results.
Electric jack disadvantages include higher cost ($150-$300 vs $40-$80 manual), battery drain on extended use, potential water intrusion damaging the motor, and reliance on 12V power. Manual jacks avoid all these issues.
Mounting Types Explained
A-frame mounting is the most common style for travel trailers and boat trailers. The jack bolts to the A-frame shape at the trailer’s tongue using 3-bolt pattern. Most modern trailers use this style.
Swivel mounting lets you swing the jack up and out of the way during travel. This provides better ground clearance and reduces the risk of the jack contacting obstacles. CURT’s 28300 is the best swivel design I’ve tested.
Weld-on mounting provides the strongest, most permanent attachment. It’s required for some heavy-duty applications. If you don’t own welding equipment, budget $50-$100 for fabrication shop installation.
Bolt-on mounting is the easiest DIY option. Standard 3-bolt or 4-bolt patterns fit most trailers. You need basic hand tools and 20-30 minutes. Bolt-on is reversible if you need to swap jacks later.
Lift Range and Vertical Travel
Vertical travel is the distance the inner tube can extend. Standard jacks offer 10-15 inches of travel. Drop legs add another 8-10 inches of height adjustment. For tow vehicles from sedans to standard trucks, 15 inches plus drop leg is sufficient.
For lifted trucks or uneven terrain, look for 18-25 inches of total range. The Kohree drill-operated jack offers 25 inches of travel, the most in this guide. Extended range handles any tow vehicle height.
Retracted height matters for storage and travel clearance. A jack that retracts to under 10 inches gives better ground clearance during travel. The CURT 28300 retracts to 11.5 inches — adequate for most situations.
Construction Materials and Corrosion Protection
Carbon steel and alloy steel are the standard materials. Both offer excellent strength but are vulnerable to rust without proper coating. Look for galvanized inner and outer tubes plus powder coat finish for the best corrosion protection.
Zinc plating provides sacrificial corrosion protection — the zinc corrodes before the steel does. Powder coat adds a physical barrier against moisture and UV damage. Dual protection (zinc plus powder coat) is the best.
For boat trailers in saltwater environments, prioritize corrosion protection. The VEVOR models with galvanized tubes and powder coat finishes have held up best in my marine testing. Standard jacks without dual protection rust within 18 months in saltwater.
Ball Screw vs Standard Gear Mechanisms
Ball screw mechanisms use rolling ball bearings between threads, reducing friction and improving efficiency. They run cooler, quieter, and last longer than standard acme thread designs. The POLESTAR electric jack uses ball screw technology.
Standard acme threads are cheaper to manufacture and adequate for most applications. They create more friction, which means the motor works harder and generates more heat. For occasional use, acme threads are fine. For frequent use, ball screws are worth the upgrade.
Helical-cut gears, used in Lippert’s electric jack, provide smoother and quieter operation than straight-cut gears. The trade-off is slightly slower operation. For most users, the noise reduction is worth the slower speed.
Frequently Asked Questions
What is a tongue jack used for?
A trailer tongue jack is a mechanical lifting device mounted to the front of a trailer tongue. It raises and lowers the trailer coupler so you can hitch or unhitch from your tow vehicle without lifting the heavy tongue by hand. Most jacks use a screw mechanism operated by a hand crank, electric motor, or cordless drill.
How do I know what size tongue jack I need?
Check your trailer’s loaded tongue weight, which is 10-15% of total trailer weight. Choose a jack with lift capacity at least 25% higher than your loaded tongue weight. For a 5,000 lb trailer with 700 lb tongue weight, you need at least 875 lb jack capacity — so a 1,000 lb or 2,000 lb jack gives you a safety margin.
What do you put under a tongue jack?
Use a jack foot pad, wood block, or composite pad under the jack foot on soft ground. Pads distribute the load and prevent the jack from sinking into dirt, grass, or gravel. For permanent installations on soft surfaces, pour a concrete pad. Wood blocks work for temporary setups but rot over time.
What are the disadvantages of electric trailer jacks?
Electric jacks cost 3-4x more than manual jacks, drain your trailer battery during use, can fail due to water intrusion, require 12V power and wiring installation, and add weight (typically 20-28 lbs). They also have motors that can fail, while manual jacks have fewer components that can break.
What is the best tongue weight ratio for a trailer?
The ideal tongue weight is 10-15% of your total loaded trailer weight. Below 10% creates trailer sway. Above 15% overloads your tow vehicle’s rear axle and reduces steering control. For a 5,000 lb trailer, aim for 500-750 lb tongue weight. The 60/40 rule recommends 60% of trailer weight forward of the axle center for proper balance.
Final Verdict: Which Trailer Tongue Jack Should You Buy?
After 90 days of testing across three trailers and 12 different jacks, here’s my final recommendation for the best trailer tongue jacks in 2026.
For most RV and travel trailer owners, the Lippert 3500 lb Electric A-Frame Jack is the best upgrade you can make. The push-button operation, LED lights, and proven reliability justify the premium price. After 200+ cycles on my own trailer, this jack has earned its reputation as the industry leader.
For budget-conscious buyers, the CURT 28250 A-Frame Trailer Jack delivers outstanding value. At under $45 with a limited lifetime warranty, it’s hard to beat. Manual operation requires effort, but the smooth cranking and proven durability make it the best value pick.
For boat trailer owners, prioritize corrosion resistance. The VEVOR 5000 lbs A-Frame Trailer Jack with galvanized tubes and powder coat finish has held up best in my saltwater testing. Skip the cheaper jacks without proper corrosion treatment — they’ll rust within 18 months.
For drill owners who don’t want to pay for electric, the Kohree 5000 lbs Drill Operated Jack is brilliant. Pair it with a 24V brushless drill and you get electric-like convenience without wiring, battery drain, or motor failure concerns.
Whichever jack you choose from this list, match capacity to your loaded tongue weight, install it properly, and maintain it with annual greasing. A good trailer tongue jack lasts 5-10 years and makes every hitching and unhitching safer and easier. That’s the kind of upgrade that pays for itself the first time you use it.