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Maintaining the Futura Vehicle Trailer Jack (Jockey Wheel)

Manuals & Guides

This guide provides detailed instructions on the operation and maintenance of the Knott Jack (Jockey Wheel) for Futura vehicle trailers, ensuring optimal performance and longevity.

Operation Warning - Lock the wheel retracting mechanism before towing.

The jack may deploy when underway towing if it is not locked in the up position when raised.

The "Knott" Jockey Wheel jack handle must be tight with the wheel completely raised. Secure the wheel in the up position by tightening the handle.

Trailer Jack Operation: Important Note

The retractable wheel on your trailer jack may fail to retract properly if the trailer tongue is positioned too low, causing the jack to jam.

To prevent this issue:

1. Ensure your tow vehicle's hitch is above the minimum height specified in:

The trailer's owner's manual
The decal on the trailer tongue

2. Be aware of your surroundings and the specific requirements of Knott jacks:

If the rear wheels of your tow vehicle are in a dip, you may need to reposition the trailer to ensure the tongue height is sufficient for the jack's jockey wheel retracting mechanism to engage correctly.

Knott jacks are particularly sensitive to correct tongue height, and improper height can prevent the folding wheel mechanism from engaging properly.

By maintaining the correct trailer tongue height, you can avoid jack jamming issues and ensure the smooth operation of the retractable wheel system.

A video

Troubleshooting Common Issues

Sticking Mechanism: If the jack handle is difficult to wind, ensure all moving parts are properly lubricated and free of debris. Pay special attention to the wedge mechanism on the retracting jockey wheel.

Alignment Problems: Verify that the jack is correctly aligned and not bending under load. Tighten any loose bolts or fasteners.

Load Issues: Make sure the trailer tongue is at the correct height to allow proper engagement of the folding mechanism.

Safety Precautions

Always use a jack stand to support the trailer while working on the jockey wheel jack.

If you encounter persistent issues or suspect internal damage, consult a professional for repair or replacement.

Step-by-Step Maintenance Guide

By following this guide, you can ensure that your Futura vehicle trailer jockey wheel remains in optimal condition, reducing the risk of malfunctions during use.

Remove the Load:

Use a car jack to raise the tongue of the trailer, thereby removing the load from the jack. Try winding the jack with the load off of it.

The Knott jack will jam if the trailer tongue is too low to allow the folding wheel mechanism to correctly engage. Ensure your tow vehicle hitch is above the minimum height as specified in the trailer’s owner’s manual and on the decal on the trailer tongue.

Support the Trailer:

Use a jack stand or keep the trailer coupled to your tow vehicle to ensure stability. Engage the park brake for added safety.

Clean the Jack:

Dirt, grime, and rust can cause the jack to stick. Clean off any visible debris using a wire brush or cloth. After cleaning, lubricate the parts.

Lubrication:

The most common reason for a trailer jack to stick is lack of lubrication. Apply a liberal amount of good-quality grease or lubricating oil to the moving parts of the jack, especially the screw shaft and wheel retraction mechanism.

Silicone-based lubricants or graphite lubricants are good options as they tend not to attract dirt.

Check for Damage or Rust:

Inspect the jack for any signs of damage or excessive rust, particularly around the screw and any folding mechanisms. If rust is present, you may need to use a rust remover before applying lubricant.

Inspect for Alignment Issues:

Make sure that the jack is correctly aligned and not bending under load, which can cause binding and make it hard to operate.

Ensure that it’s properly mounted and that all bolts and fasteners are tight.

If after these steps the jack still doesn’t operate smoothly, it might be damaged internally (stripped gears, bent components) and may need professional repair or replacement.

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