Jockey Wheel For Trailer: How To Choose & Buy Online In NZ

Imagine you’re easing your caravan onto uneven ground, wrestling with the drawbar’s weight and fighting for every centimetre. Frustration sets in as you strain to hitch or unhitch, and you can’t help thinking there must be a smarter way to handle your trailer.

Enter the jockey wheel: a retractable wheel assembly that clips onto your trailer’s coupling head, supports tongue weight and turns heavy lifting into a simple, controlled push or pull. Whether you’re a caravanner lining up at a holiday park, a boatie manoeuvring on a boat ramp or a trade professional hauling gear across a site, a well-matched jockey wheel transforms trailer handling from a chore into a breeze.

This guide will walk New Zealand trailer owners through every step of selecting and buying the ideal jockey wheel online. You’ll learn how to:

• calculate your trailer’s load and pick the right wheel type
• weigh up clamp-on versus weld-on mounts plus key adjustment features
• compare popular NZ brands and find trusted online retailers
• finalise your order and install your new jockey wheel with ease

Let’s begin with Step 1: understanding your trailer and the purpose of a jockey wheel.

Step 1: Understand your trailer and the purpose of a jockey wheel

When you’re lining up a heavy trailer drawbar or caravan coupling, a jockey wheel is the unsung hero that takes the grunt work out of the task. Mounted at the front of your trailer, it bears the tongue weight and lets you hitch or unhitch with minimal effort. Grasping its role is the first step towards choosing the right jockey wheel for your needs.

In this section, we’ll define what a jockey wheel is, highlight its practical benefits and explore the common Kiwi scenarios where it really earns its keep.

What is a jockey wheel?

A jockey wheel is a retractable wheel assembly that sits at your trailer’s coupling head. It typically consists of:

• A wheel (solid rubber or pneumatic tyre)
• A screw-jack or crank mechanism for height adjustment
• A mounting bracket (clamp-on or weld-on)
• A handle to raise and lower the assembly

This compact unit performs three critical jobs:

1. Supporting the trailer’s tongue weight when it’s unhitched
2. Allowing one person to hitch or unhitch with a simple push or pull
3. Enabling low-effort manoeuvring of the trailer by hand

[Insert labelled diagram showing coupling head, wheel, jack and handle]

Benefits of using a jockey wheel

A good jockey wheel slashes the manual lifting and tilting you’d otherwise face, shields the drawbar from impact damage and keeps your trailer stable on slopes or soft ground.

Key advantages include:

• Reduced physical strain during hitching and unhitching
• Enhanced stability on uneven terrain
• Protection for drawbar, coupling and chassis from wear and tear

Imagine you’ve just arrived at a windy boat ramp. Instead of wrestling your trailer into position, you simply lower the jockey wheel, guide the trailer forward by hand and lock it off—no sudden lurches, no scraped hull.

Typical New Zealand use cases

In Aotearoa, jockey wheels prove indispensable across a variety of towing situations:

• Caravan and camper trailers at holiday parks and DOC campsites
• Boat trailers launching on sandy beaches or gravel slips
• Trade and DIY trailers moving tools and materials across farms and construction sites

With New Zealand’s mix of coastal ramps, rolling hills and soft campground turf, a sturdy, adjustable jockey wheel can turn a wrestling match into a straightforward push or pull.

Step 2: Review NZ safety laws and best practices

Before you invest in a new jockey wheel and start measuring load ratings, it pays to get across the rules and safety recommendations that keep your trailer road-worthy. Although jockey wheels themselves aren’t singled out in legislation, they’re part of the broader trailer coupling and towbar requirements set by the NZ Transport Agency (NZTA). Familiarising yourself with these guidelines—and performing a few simple checks—will protect you from compliance headaches and help prevent avoidable accidents.

NZTA guidelines and legal requirements

The NZTA doesn’t publish a rule specifically for jockey wheels, but it does regulate all towing connections under its Vehicle Inspection Portal. This covers how towbars, couplings and related attachments must perform when your trailer goes through a WOF or COF check. Key points to note:

• You must ensure your jockey wheel assembly isn’t compromising the integrity of the coupling or drawbar.
• Any modifications—like swapping a clamp-on bracket for a weld-on one—should meet the same safety standards as the original towbar components.
• If in doubt, ask your local WOF/COF inspector to confirm the installation meets NZTA requirements.

For detailed guidance on towing connections and towbar regulations, head to the NZTA’s Vehicle Inspection Portal: https://vehicleinspection.nzta.govt.nz/virms/in-service-wof-and-cof/heavy-vehicles/towing-connections/towbar

Industry standards overview

Behind the scenes, the benchmark for trailer couplings and attachments is set by AS 4177.2:2000 (Trailer coupling and attachment standard). While this document isn’t available for free online, you can purchase or view it through Standards New Zealand to check exact specifications on load ratings, bracket design and materials.

Another useful reference is the Heavy Vehicles Rule 2004, which includes sections relevant to towing equipment. You’ll find guidance on strength requirements and installation practices that apply to jockey wheels as part of your trailer’s overall coupling system: https://www.nzta.govt.nz/resources/rules/heavy-vehicles-2004

Recommended safety checks

A quick pre-trip inspection can save you time, money and stress down the road. Before each outing, tick off these checks and note any issues in a maintenance diary:

• Verify the load rating plate on your jockey wheel is legible and matches your trailer’s tongue weight.
• Inspect the mounting bracket, bolts, pins and locking clips for corrosion, cracks or signs of looseness.
• Rotate and retract the wheel under load to confirm smooth operation without binding or excessive play.

Keeping records of each check helps spot wear patterns and justifies warranty claims should any component fail prematurely. With these laws and best-practice tips under your belt, you’re ready to move on to calculating load capacities and choosing the perfect wheel type in Step 3.

Step 3: Determine load capacity and wheel type

Before you even think about handles and finishes, it’s vital to match your jockey wheel’s capacity to the weight it’ll carry—and pick the wheel style that suits your terrain and usage. Get this right, and you’ll avoid overloading, premature wear or worst-case, a failed wheel on the ramp.

Calculating your trailer’s total weight

Start by locating the Gross Trailer Mass (GTM) on your trailer’s compliance plate—usually near the drawbar. The GTM is the maximum loaded weight of the trailer. Your jockey wheel needs to support the tongue weight, typically 5–10% of the GTM.
• Tongue weight (TW) = GTM × 5–10%
• For example, with a 2000 kg GTM:
TW = 2000 kg × 0.05 = 100 kg to
TW = 2000 kg × 0.10 = 200 kg
That range tells you the minimum load your jockey wheel must bear.

Selecting the correct load rating

It’s wise to add a safety margin of around 25% to your highest estimated tongue weight. That means:
Required Rating = Max TW × 1.25
Using our example:
Required Rating = 200 kg × 1.25 = 250 kg
Since standard NZ jockey wheels come in ratings such as 200 kg, 350 kg, 500 kg, 750 kg and 1000 kg+, you’d opt for at least the next size up—in this case, a 350 kg-rated wheel.

Typical load ratings available in New Zealand:

• 200 kg
• 350 kg
• 500 kg
• 750 kg
• 1000 kg and above

Solid rubber vs pneumatic wheels

Choosing between solid rubber and pneumatic tyres comes down to maintenance, ride comfort and your usual terrain. Here’s a quick comparison:

If you’re mostly on smooth campsites or hard-packed launch ramps, solid rubber might be your go-to. But if you’re bumping over gravel roads or want a cushioned feel, pneumatic could be worth the extra upkeep.

Pros and cons of motorised jockey wheels

Electric jockey wheels take the grunt out of even the heaviest trailers—some handle up to 2000 kg GTM with minimal effort:

Pros:

• Virtually no physical lifting or cranking
• Ideal for solo travellers with heavy boats or caravans
• Speeds up hitching on steep driveways

Cons:

• Premium price tag
• Battery dependence and charging routine
• Limited spare-part options in some cases

If you regularly wrestle a heavy boat trailer on soft ramps or face tight, hilly driveways, a motorised unit could be a game-changer. For lighter DIY trailers or occasional use, a robust manual wheel often does the trick.

Step 4: Choose a mounting mechanism: clamp-on vs weld-on

Picking the right mounting style for your jockey wheel isn’t just about installation—it affects portability, strength and how often you swap wheels between trailers. NZ trailers typically accept either clamp-on or weld-on brackets, each with its own pros and cons. Below, we’ll run through what you need to know to make a fit that lasts.

Before diving into the two styles, take a moment to consider how you’re using your trailer. Do you need to move the jockey wheel between multiple drawbars? Or is this a permanent fit on a heavy-duty work trailer? Your answer will help steer you towards clamp-on convenience or weld-on stability.

Clamp-on jockey wheels

Clamp-on jockey wheels attach to your drawbar with U-bolts and adjustable brackets—no sparks or welders needed. The bracket wraps around the drawbar, and the U-bolts thread up through mounting plates, pulling the assembly tight.

Benefits:

• Portable: You can transfer the jockey wheel from one trailer to another in minutes.
• No welding required: Ideal for DIYers or hire fleets where permanent changes aren’t allowed.
• Quick installation: Bolt it on, give each nut a firm snug, and you’re good to go.

How to clamp on your jockey wheel:

1. Slide the bracket over the drawbar so the wheel sits squarely under the coupling head.
2. Hand-tighten the U-bolt nuts until the bracket holds its position.
3. Using a spanner or torque wrench, alternate tightening the nuts in a criss-cross pattern. Aim for “hand-tight plus a quarter-turn” each side—this balances the load and prevents bracket distortion.
4. Check alignment by rolling the wheel up and down; the unit should stay parallel to the drawbar.

A clamp-on setup is a no-brainer if you need flexibility or only own light to medium-duty trailers. Just be sure to retorque the nuts after the first 50 km of towing.

Weld-on jockey wheels

Weld-on jockey wheels are the go-to for a “fit-and-forget” solution. A steel bracket is permanently welded to your chassis, providing a rock-solid mount that can handle higher loads and harsher conditions.

Advantages of weld-on mounts:

• Superior strength: No slipping or bracket flex under heavy tongue weights.
• Fewer moving parts: No U-bolts to inspect or retighten, cutting down on routine checks.
• Ideal for heavy-use trailers: Construction sites, agricultural gear or commercial fleets.

Because welding directly to your drawbar or chassis is irreversible, it’s best left to a qualified welder. A certified professional will select the correct weld type and ensure heat-treatment or post-weld galvanising restores corrosion protection. Improper welding risks weakening the steel or voiding your trailer’s compliance rating.

Ensuring compatibility with your trailer

Whether you go clamp-on or weld-on, you must match your jockey wheel bracket to your drawbar’s dimensions. Follow these steps:

1. Measure drawbar thickness: Common sections range from 4 mm to 8 mm plate.
2. Check drawbar width: Ensure the bracket’s inner “jaw” clears the full width without forcing.
3. Note hole spacing or bracket slot length: U-bolt centres must align with the bracket’s drilled holes.

Always cross-reference these measurements against the jockey wheel manufacturer’s fitment chart. If in doubt, print out their specs sheet and hold it up to your trailer before ordering. Getting this right up front saves headaches—and keeps your wheel from riding off-centre or rocking in use.

Step 5: Consider adjustability and special features

Choosing a jockey wheel isn’t just about load capacity or mounting style. The small details—how easily you adjust height, lock the wheel in place or swivel it 360°—can make day-to-day use far more enjoyable. In this step we’ll explore the extra features that take a standard jockey wheel and turn it into a genuinely user-friendly tool.

Whether you’re jockeying a caravan on a slope or gently nudging a trailer into a tight spot, these special features can save time, reduce strain and add peace of mind.

Height adjustment mechanisms

There are two primary systems for raising and lowering a jockey wheel: the screw-jack and the pin-and-hole setup.

Screw-jack systems use a threaded rod and crank to fine-tune the wheel’s height, typically within a 250–350 mm range. The gear ratio of the screw determines how many turns you need to lift the load—higher ratios mean less effort but more cranking. Look for handles with comfortable grips and smooth operation, as these can shave minutes off your adjustment routine.

Pin-and-hole mechanisms rely on a simple locking pin that drops into pre-drilled holes along the leg. While quicker to set up—just pull the pin, slide to the desired height and reinsert—it offers fewer height increments. These systems are ideal if you don’t need micro-adjustments and prefer a faster, fuss-free process.

Integrated handbrakes and locking features

On steep ramps or when dealing with heavy loads, an integrated handbrake can be a game-changer. The brake clamps the wheel in place, preventing unwanted rollaway while you hitch or unhitch. Some models feature a lever-actuated drum brake, while others use a friction pad against the wheel surface.

Beyond braking, locking features like spring-loaded pins, safety clips and attached chains ensure the jockey wheel stays exactly where you set it. A drop-in pin with a retention clip is the simplest, yet a welded safety chain adds an extra layer if the pin somehow shakes loose. These small touches keep your trailer secure—especially when you’re parked on uneven or soft ground.

Handles, retractable arms and pivot locks

Ergonomics matter when you’re winding up a screw-jack or pulling a lever. Look for handles contoured to fit your hand or those that fold away neatly against the drawbar when not in use. Retractable arms that slide into a cavity minimise the chance of snagging bushes or clothing.

Pivot-lock mechanisms are equally important. Many jockey wheels swivel freely for steering, but you’ll want a positive lock for straight-line towing. A simple spring-loaded pin or a twist-lock collar can fix the wheel in a forward-facing position, preventing it from swinging under load.

Swivel and steering capabilities

Finally, consider whether you need a fixed-wheel or a fully swivelling unit. A fixed jockey wheel keeps the trailer tracking straight behind your tow vehicle and is less likely to wander on ramps. In contrast, a 360° swivel wheel offers maximum manoeuvrability—ideal for tight marina jetties or squeezing into campsite spots without hitching up.

If you opt for a swivel wheel, check how easily it transitions between lock and free-spin modes. You don’t want to wrestle with a stiff collar when time is tight. For mixed use—ramps one day, holiday parks the next—a swivel wheel with a robust pivot-lock gives you the best of both worlds.

With these adjustability and feature considerations covered, you’re equipped to choose a jockey wheel that not only fits your trailer but also complements your everyday towing needs.

Step 6: Assess material quality and corrosion protection

In New Zealand’s varied climate—ranging from salty coastal air to inland humidity—your jockey wheel’s material and finish are critical to its lifespan. A well-chosen construction material and a robust protective coating will fend off rust, maintain smooth operation and save you from early replacements. In this step, we’ll explore the common materials used in jockey wheels, compare popular corrosion-defence finishes and cover practical upkeep tips suited to our local conditions.

Common construction materials

Jockey wheels are built from a handful of industry-standard materials, each offering its own blend of strength, weight and weather resistance:

• Galvanised steel
– Extremely strong and durable.
– Heavier than alternative alloys, but can withstand heavy tongue weights.

• Powder-coated steel
– Steel frame treated with a coloured, baked-on finish.
– Offers good abrasion resistance; however, any chip or scratch exposes bare metal to corrosion.

• Aluminium
– Lightweight and naturally corrosion-resistant.
– Not as rigid under extreme loads—best suited to medium-duty caravans or DIY trailers.

• Reinforced plastic composites
– Virtually impervious to rust and very light.
– Less structural stiffness; heat and UV exposure can cause long-term degradation if not properly stabilised.

When choosing a material, balance the weight you intend to carry with how much manual handling you’re prepared for—and factor in how often you’ll need to transport the trailer by hand.

Protective coatings and finishes

A quality coating serves as your first line of defence against rust. Here’s how the main finishes compare:

• Hot-dip galvanising
– Trailer components are submerged in molten zinc, forming a thick, rugged outer layer.
– Highly suited to coastal or high-rain areas thanks to superior barrier protection.

• Spray galvanising (zinc thermic coating)
– Zinc-rich spray applied to steel parts before assembly.
– Easier to touch up in the field, though layer thickness may vary.

• Powder coating
– Electrostatic application of fine polymer powder, then cured under heat.
– Allows for colour customisation and smooth finish; requires careful repair if scratched.

For trailers based near the sea or regularly exposed to road salt, hot-dip galvanising is the gold standard. Inland users may find spray galvanising or powder coating offers a good balance between cost and corrosion resistance.

Durability and maintenance implications

Even the best materials and coatings need some TLC to last:

• Freshwater rinse after saltwater exposure
Rinse your jockey wheel with clean water—especially after a day at the boat ramp—to remove corrosive salt deposits.

• Regular visual inspections
Every three to six months, check for flaking paint, surface rust or signs of metal fatigue. Early detection of chipped finishes lets you recoat before corrosion takes hold.

• Touch-up and re-coating schedules
Keep a can of compatible spray-galvanise or powder-coat touch-up paint on hand. For hot-dip galvanised parts, light surface rust can often be brushed off and sealed with a zinc-rich cold-galvanising compound.

• Part replacement in heavy-use settings
On commercial or farm trailers where jockey wheels see daily use, plan to replace high-stress components (jack screws, pivot pins or U-bolts) every two to three years—or sooner if wear is evident.

By selecting sturdy materials, choosing the right protective finish and committing to straightforward maintenance, you’ll keep your jockey wheel rolling smoothly and looking sharp for years to come.

Step 7: Compare top jockey wheel products and brands in NZ

When it comes to picking the right jockey wheel, brand reputation and product specifications matter as much as price. Below, we’ve highlighted leading options available in New Zealand—ranging from heavy-lift electric models to tried-and-tested manual wheels.

Whether you prefer no-effort electric units or robust manual setups, each of these brands brings unique strengths, from off-road toughness to excellent spare-part support.

Trojan electric jockey wheel from Action Outdoors

Action Outdoors stocks the Trojan electric jockey wheel, a motorised unit built for heavy-duty towing. Key specifications include:

• Load capacity: 2000 kg GTM
• Unit weight: 17 kg
• Delivery: 3–4 days NZ-wide

Pros: minimal physical effort, swift hitching on steep or uneven ground, backed by a local supplier you can trust.
Cons: premium price point and limited spare-part availability if components fail.

AL-KO jockey wheels

AL-KO has long been a favourite among trailer owners for its reliable manual wheels. Their range covers both clamp-on and weld-on models with load ratings from 200 kg up to 750 kg. You’ll find galvanised steel construction, user-friendly screw-jacks and ready access to replacement parts. Explore the full lineup at Trailer Parts NZ.

ARK offroad jockey wheels

Designed for tougher terrain, ARK’s Extreme Offroad XO jockey wheel boasts a 750 kg load rating and solid rubber tyre that won’t puncture, making it ideal for rugged farm tracks or remote campsites. For those who prefer cushioning, ARK’s pneumatic jockey wheel offers adjustable pressure and smoother handling over uneven surfaces. Check out ARK’s selection at Burnsco.

Other local brands and specialty options

New Zealand’s market is packed with other reliable retailers:

• The Trailer Shop offers a manual Trojan range and specialist stands: thetrailershop.co.nz
• SUPERCheap Auto stocks budget-friendly clamp-on units with click-&-collect convenience: supercheapauto.co.nz
• Repco caters to the 4×4 and towing communities with a solid lineup of pneumatic and solid wheels: repco.co.nz

Product comparison table

With these options laid out side-by-side, you can confidently weigh up which jockey wheel aligns with your trailer’s demands, your budget and the terrain you frequent. Next up: finding the best online retailer for your purchase in Step 8.

Step 8: Identify reliable online retailers in New Zealand

Choosing where to buy your jockey wheel online is just as important as selecting the right model. A reputable retailer not only offers solid stock and transparent pricing but also stands behind their products with reliable shipping, returns and local support. In this section, we’ll cover the key criteria for vetting online suppliers, highlight Action Outdoors’ specialist offerings and point you towards other trusted Kiwi retailers.

Criteria for choosing an online retailer

When shopping for a jockey wheel, consider:

• Reputation and customer reviews: Look for consistent five-star feedback and detailed testimonials.
• Delivery speed and lead times: Check whether items are in stock locally or ship from overseas, and note any peak-season delays.
• Returns and warranty policy: A clear, hassle-free returns process and manufacturer-backed warranty can save headaches if something goes wrong.
• Shipping zones and costs: Ensure the retailer delivers to your region—rural delivery in NZ can attract extra charges.
• Payment security: Verify the website uses HTTPS encryption, displays recognised trust seals and offers secure payment methods.

Action Outdoors: specialist NZ supplier

As an Auckland-based store with nationwide delivery, Action Outdoors ticks all the boxes. Their dedicated trailer and marine range includes jockey wheels from manual solid-tyre units to electric Trojan models. You’ll benefit from:

• Local expertise on New Zealand terrain and trailer use
• NZ stock levels with most items shipping within 3–4 business days
• Click-and-collect or in-store advice at their Auckland showroom
• Transparent warranties and dedicated after-sales support

Other reputable NZ retailers

For wider comparisons and alternative stock, consider:

• SUPERCheap Auto – click-and-collect across 50+ stores, budget options in multiple load ratings
• Repco – strong 4×4 and towing gear focus, nationwide delivery and in-store pickup
• Trailer Parts NZ – specialist components supplier with an extensive AL-KO range and genuine spare parts
• Burnsco – boating and trailer accessory expert, perfect if you combine marine and towing needs

What to check before placing an order

Before clicking “buy”, take a moment to confirm:

• Shipping costs and zones: rural or remote areas can incur additional fees
• Estimated delivery dates: crucial ahead of holiday weekends or peak seasons
• Restocking fees: some retailers charge for returns or exchanges
• Payment options: ensure your preferred method (credit card, PayPal, Afterpay) is available and protected by two-factor authentication
• Warranty and returns window: note the timeframe and any conditions for returns or replacements

Finding the right retailer ensures your new jockey wheel arrives on time, fits perfectly and is backed by knowledgeable support—setting you up for a smooth installation and worry-free towing.

Step 9: Place your order: shipping, payment and returns

Ordering a jockey wheel online might seem straightforward, but a little planning ensures your new gear arrives on time, fits as expected and carries the protection you need. In this step, we’ll cover how to confirm stock levels and delivery estimates, choose payment methods with confidence, understand returns and warranties, and keep your transaction secure from start to finish.

Checking stock availability and delivery times

When browsing online stores, look for clear “In stock” indicators next to product listings—especially if you’re ordering during holiday seasons or peak boating and camping months. Many Kiwi retailers, including Action Outdoors, display lead times (for example, standard shipping within 3–4 business days). If you have a deadline—such as an upcoming weekend away—add a buffer for unexpected delays by placing your order at least a week in advance.

If an item is on back-order, note the estimated dispatch date and compare it against alternative suppliers. Some retailers offer click-and-collect from local stores, which can be faster and more cost-effective than courier delivery to remote addresses.

Payment options and security

Most reputable online retailers accept a range of payment methods: credit and debit cards, PayPal and interest-free options like Afterpay. Before entering any details, confirm the website uses HTTPS (look for the padlock icon in your browser’s address bar) and displays recognised trust seals. If you opt for a new payment platform, enable two-factor authentication where possible—this extra step can thwart unauthorised transactions.

Keep an eye out for any surcharges on certain card types and check if the retailer offers instalment plans without hidden fees. A transparent checkout will show you all costs upfront, so you won’t be caught out by unexpected extras at the final stage.

Understanding returns and warranty terms

New Zealand’s Consumer Guarantees Act provides a solid foundation for returns and refunds, but individual retailers may set their own return windows—typically between 14 and 30 days from purchase. Read the fine print on restocking fees, who covers return shipping and whether the product must be unused and in its original packaging.

For warranties, note the duration and what’s covered. Some jockey wheels come with a manufacturer’s warranty covering mechanical or electrical faults (in the case of motorised models), while others may offer limited guarantees on finishes and coatings. Keep your proof of purchase and any serial numbers safe—they’ll streamline the claims process if you need to repair or replace components.

Tips for safe online transactions

Protecting yourself during online shopping is as important as choosing the right jockey wheel. Avoid public or unsecured Wi-Fi networks when entering payment details, and save your order confirmations and receipts—either by printing them or backing them up in secure cloud storage. Once your purchase is complete, monitor your bank statements for any unexpected charges and report discrepancies immediately. A few simple precautions go a long way towards a smooth, worry-free delivery experience.

Step 10: Install and maintain your jockey wheel for longevity

Fitting and looking after your jockey wheel properly is the key to years of smooth towing. A careful installation minimises wobble and wear, while regular maintenance keeps moving parts slick and corrosion at bay. Follow the checklist below to get your new jockey wheel up and running—and stay on top of upkeep throughout its service life.

Pre-installation checks and tools required

Before you start, lay out all the components and confirm each part matches your order:

• Adjustable spanner and/or combination spanners
• Torque wrench (capable of low to medium torque settings)
• Measuring tape or rule
• Spirit level (for bracket alignment)
• Work gloves and safety glasses

Inspect the bracket and wheel assembly for any damage or missing pieces. Double-check that the mounting bracket suits your drawbar thickness and that all bolts, nuts and locking pins are present. A quick dry-run by loosely assembling everything on the ground helps avoid surprises once you’re under the trailer.

Step-by-step installation guide

1. Position the bracket on your drawbar so the jockey wheel sits directly under the coupling head. Use a spirit level to ensure it’s vertical—and check it doesn’t foul any chassis members.
2. Hand-thread each U-bolt or mounting bolt into place, making sure the bracket jaws sit evenly around the drawbar.
3. Alternate tightening the nuts in a criss-cross pattern. Aim for “hand-tight plus a quarter turn” on each nut (or to the torque value specified by the manufacturer, typically around 25–30 Nm).
4. Insert and secure any locking pins or clips. Confirm the wheel retracts and extends smoothly by cranking the handle through its full travel under a light load.
5. Adjust the wheel height to the optimum towing position and re-check alignment—there should be no side-to-side play.

With the wheel installed, perform a final visual inspection and a quick roll test: if it tracks straight and feels solid, you’re ready for the road.

Regular maintenance routines

A few simple checks every six months (or after heavy use) will keep your jockey wheel running like new:

• Lubricate pivot points, screw jacks and any exposed threads with a light machine oil or grease.
• For pneumatic tyres, verify tyre pressure matches the manufacturer’s recommendation; for solid wheels, look for cracks or deformities.
• Rinse off salt and grit—especially after coastal trips—to prevent corrosive build-up.
• Wipe down galvanised or powder-coated surfaces, and touch up any scratches with a compatible zinc-rich or powder-coat repair paint.

Logging these routines in a maintenance diary helps you spot trends—such as a steady drop in tyre pressure or recurring stiffness—which can indicate when parts need replacement.

Troubleshooting common issues

Even the best jockey wheels can develop minor issues over time. Here’s how to diagnose and fix them:

• Wobbling wheel: check and re-tighten U-bolts or mounting nuts, then inspect bearings for wear. Replace any loose or worn parts promptly.
• Stiff jack or difficulty cranking: clean the screw shaft and apply fresh lubricant; if grit has worn the threads, consider replacing the screw-jack assembly.
• Surface rust or chipped paint: wire-brush affected areas, then seal with a cold-galvanising compound or touch-up paint to stop corrosion in its tracks.

Addressing these small faults early prevents more serious breakdowns and ensures your jockey wheel remains a reliable ally whenever you hitch up.

Keep your trailer road-ready

Your trailer’s handling and safety hinge on selecting the right jockey wheel and caring for it from day one. By following the steps above—understanding load requirements, choosing the right wheel type and mounting style, factoring in adjustability and material quality, buying from reputable NZ retailers, and installing and maintaining your new jockey wheel—you’ll make hitching, manoeuvring and towing straightforward and secure. Regular upkeep—greasing pivot points, rinsing off saltwater and checking fasteners—will keep your jockey wheel performing year after year.

Whether you’re heading to a boat ramp, holiday park or job site, a well-matched jockey wheel and simple maintenance routine mean fewer surprises and smoother trips. Ready to gear up? Explore more trailer, marine and outdoor kit at Action Outdoors’ homepage and hit the road with confidence.