trailer tongue jack, saltwater use, longevity

[chuck in WA]

I have to replace my jack at the end of EVERY season because the internals get corroded and the gears strip out. I had been using the cheap Harbor Freight $20 ones, but "upgraded" to a $40 one from West Marine last season. The claim on the box was something to the effect of "good for 300 hours of saltwater use", but, alas, it has now siezed up also. Any thoughts for a replacement?

 

[EddiePetty]

Re: trailer tongue jack, saltwater use, longevity

I have to replace my jack at the end of EVERY season because the internals get corroded and the gears strip out. I had been using the cheap Harbor Freight $20 ones, but "upgraded" to a $40 one from West Marine last season. The claim on the box was something to the effect of "good for 300 hours of saltwater use", but, alas, it has now siezed up also. Any thoughts for a replacement?

...not trying to insult ya' Chuck but I think ya' got what ya' paid for !!!!!

Check-out the ads right here at iBoats .....they're on sale with a TWO YEAR WARRANTY.

As a part of my clean-up routine, I even wash down the jack. Several times a year I'll pop the top cap on my jack and brush some grease around the gears and lubricate the crank handle and swing arm pivot. Shucks, I even smear a little grease on the extended shaft and lubricate the axle !!! I've NEVER had to replace a jack due to corrosion.

You might try a slightly higher rated jack to reduce internal wear.

FWIW....Ed in 'ol Virginny

 

[wellsc1]

Re: trailer tongue jack, saltwater use, longevity

Try Corrosion X for protection, but clean the gears first. Snake oil or serious stuff, I'm trying it for the first time.

 

[JB]

Re: trailer tongue jack, saltwater use, longevity

http://servicesiboats.com/www/deliv...heel_Jack_1500_lbs/dm/view_id.56359--dz.55456

 

[robert graham]

Re: trailer tongue jack, saltwater use, longevity

remove top cap, pump it full of marine grease, spray outside with white grease...I also spray outside of entire tilt/trim unit with the white grease and it keeps the water off and unit like new! Good luck!

 

[chuck in WA]

Re: trailer tongue jack, saltwater use, longevity

Thanks gents, and no insult taken Ed. I suppose I did get what I paid for! Will try a little more preventative maintenance next time around.

 

[Knightgang]

Re: trailer tongue jack, saltwater use, longevity

My jack never gets wet at the ramp, never had a problem either...

I do have many other trailers and a little jack maint goes a long way to keeping them free and working...

 

[dingbat]

Re: trailer tongue jack, saltwater use, longevity

My current trailer is 12 years old. Still has the original jack on it. I spray the jacket shaft down with white lithium grease every couple of months for good luck.
This is the one I have

http://www.iboats.com/Fulton_Deluxe...68413272--**********.702512810--view_id.20980

 

[ondarvr]

Re: trailer tongue jack, saltwater use, longevity

I have three trailers with jacks, 12, 10 and 9 years old, all have the the original jack ans they work fine. I do grease them every year or two (maybe three) depending on how they feel though.