When you’re towing a trailer, one of the most important components you’ll need to consider is the jockey wheel. It might seem like a small part of the whole towing setup, but trust us, getting the right one for your trailer can make a massive difference in your ease of use and the lifespan of your equipment.
The big question here is: What type of jockey wheel do I need? Should you go for a standard, medium, or heavy-duty version? Let’s break it down so you’ll know exactly what’s best for your needs.
Standard Jockey Wheels
A standard jockey wheel is typically designed for light trailers. If you have a small caravan or a trailer that’s used for light loads, a standard jockey wheel might be all you need. These are often made with lighter materials and are built to handle basic tasks like moving your trailer around on flat ground or lifting it onto a towball.
Standard jockey wheels usually come in 6” or 8” sizes, with the smaller wheels being best suited for smooth, even surfaces. The 8” option offers slightly better durability and handling, especially on softer ground. These wheels are commonly available with either a clamp attachment for fixed positioning or a swivel attachment, which allows for easier manoeuvrability.
Standard jockey wheels are great if your trailer isn’t used heavily or if you mainly store it in a stable position when not in use. They’re usually easier to operate, too, with a simple winding mechanism. If you only need to move a trailer around in a low-stress environment and you don’t plan on putting it through heavy use, a standard jockey wheel is a practical and cost-effective choice.
Medium-Duty Jockey Wheels
As the name suggests, medium-duty jockey wheels are a step up from standard models. These are ideal for trailers that carry a bit more weight, such as small boats, larger caravans, or trailers with additional gear on board. Medium-duty jockey wheels offer increased durability and strength, so they can handle more weight and provide a smoother, easier operation when you’re manoeuvring your trailer.
Medium-duty jockey wheels are typically available in 8” or 10” sizes, with the larger wheel providing better support and stability over rough or uneven terrain. The 10” option is particularly useful if you often need to move your trailer on gravel, dirt, or grass, as it rolls more smoothly over obstacles. You have the option to use either clamp or swivel attachments for these wheels, making it easy to find the right mounting solution for your setup.
For frequent trailer use or heavier loads, a medium-duty jockey wheel is a reliable choice. Designed for durability, it withstands more wear and tear compared to a standard wheel. Designed for tougher conditions, it performs well on rough ground or when parking on an incline. It strikes a good balance between strength and convenience.
Heavy-Duty Jockey Wheels
If you’re pulling big trailers or carrying really heavy stuff, you need a strong wheel called a heavy-duty jockey wheel. This wheel is built to hold a lot of weight and helps keep your trailer steady, so it’s easier to move, no matter how big or heavy it is. It’s like having a really strong helper to make sure your trailer doesn’t tip over or get stuck!
Heavy-duty jockey wheels typically come in 10” sizes, designed to offer maximum support and durability. These wheels offer improved traction and stability on soft or uneven ground, making them a great choice for heavy loads. Many heavy-duty models are built with reinforced materials and wider designs to help distribute weight more evenly.
For added convenience, heavy-duty jockey wheels are available with swivel attachments, allowing for better manoeuvrability when hitching or unhitching your trailer. Some models also come with extra-strong clamps to ensure a firm and secure fit, even under heavy stress.
Choosing the Right Jockey Wheel for Your Trailer
The key to choosing the right jockey wheel comes down to knowing the weight of your trailer and how often you plan on using it. If your trailer is light and you’re only towing it occasionally, a standard model with a 6” or 8” wheel should suffice. But if you’re towing more frequently or have a heavier load, stepping up to a medium-duty model (8” or 10”) or a heavy-duty version (10”) will give you greater durability and ease of use.
Don’t forget that investing in a high-quality jockey wheel, no matter which type you choose, can extend the life of your trailer, keep your equipment in better condition, and make your towing experience far less stressful. You’ll find a wide selection of jockey wheels to suit different trailers and needs at places like West Coast Trailer Parts. We can help you get the right fit for your specific requirements.
