Forum Discussion

bbaker2001's avatar
bbaker2001
Explorer
Jan 17, 2016

front landing jacks

my legs come way down
does anyone build a set of blocks to put under jacks. someone told me it is unsafe because it could roll off.
I am thinking of cutting 2x4x12" and make them about 8" tall
  • I want to spread the load, both on sand, gravel or concrete! I use 2 x 12, 2 x 4's in my opinion are to narrow to adequately hold the weight. In addition, I took a 6 x 6 and ripped it giving me a 3 x 6 approximately 18" long for the front legs. When I pull the pin and lower the feet, they drop about 6" to the top of the 3 x 6. I too feel they extend to far with out any blocks, but you must make it wide enough to provide a stable platform.
  • I see that a lot with people putting the jacks up on blocks.

    On concrete we don't even bother with the wood. Gravel and grass just a two inch boards under each jack. Just enough for the front jack feet to be on.
  • The legs are designed to come way down. Do you feel your legs go down too far? What makes you feel that way?
  • I cut 2 15" long pieces from a railroad plank. These planks are heavily treated, so no rot. I screwed a handle on one end of each, for ease of carry. Been using them many years, still in great shape.

    Jerry
  • Can't you pull the pins and extend the legs before you run them all the way down?
  • Why do you feel the need for tall blocks?

    We use a chunk of 2x8 to keep the legs out of the mud and water but beyond that why bother?

    Yes, if you do a pull test when you hook up (and you should), if it's not hooked, it has a good chance of falling off. With a 2x8, the trailer can't fall far.
  • I wouldn't use 2X4's, stacking them 8" high. If you want to stack them that high use 2X8's or 2X12's. Better yet get an 8X8 and cut to size.
  • rhagfo's avatar
    rhagfo
    Explorer III
    If you put blocks under the landing gear you don't want tall skinny blocks.
    Based on your measurements you will stack the 2X4s to create a stack 8" tall this is also referred to cribbing. I would not go much taller than 8" with a 12"X12" base.