Can't get it Up!

I picked up a 12,000 lb capacity Gooseneck trailer yesterday for hauling my N and implements, the Skidsteer and my Mother-In-Law to her Weight Watcher meetings. Everything seems to be in good shape, but I need to replace the jack on the front of the trailer.

After researching on the web, it seems like a �Drop Leg� jack is the way to go, but I need some expert advice on which one to use.

Questions-

1) Trailer capacity is 12,000lbs. Should I get a 12m, 10m or 5m capacity jack? I figger 12m would be best, but the cost is relative in this situation.

2) Drop Legs come in both sprung and un-sprung models. Is the extra $20.00 for the sprung model worth it?

3) The trailer frame is steel. Is weld-on the best way to go, or is �bolt on� a better alternative? We like stout around here.

4) Top crank or side crank? I�m sure my arm is going to get tired either way.

5) Ground clearance and lift height are a big concern. I don�t want to drag the jack in the dirt in the �up� position, but also need to lift high enough to accommodate 3 different truck bed heights.

6) I figger I�ll be leaving the trailer fully loaded at times, and some jacks list �12000lb static and 5000lb operational". Does this mean it�ll be stable at 10m, but only lift 5m? I plan to load and unload at times when the trailer isn�t attached to the truck.

Thanks for the help! I gotta go, I�ve got orders to run to Krispy Kreme�..

Scott

A guy that builds 5th wheel trailers says he likes to see nose up just a hair.

I have one trailer with landing gear off a semi trailer & one with a spring loaded landing gear. Only problem with spring loaded is I still hear well & it is noisy when I raise it.