The best jockey wheel is the one that suits your caravan setup, the trailer’s weight, and where you camp. A reliable jockey wheel makes hitching easier, helps you handle rough terrain, and keeps the A frame stable when you are unhitched from the tow vehicle.
In this guide, you will learn how caravan jockey wheels work, the main types of jockey wheels, and what to check so you choose the right jockey wheel for smooth operation on paved surfaces, uneven ground, and soft ground.
A jockey wheel is the front support wheel on your caravan or camper trailer. It helps you raise and lower the coupling, level the van, and manoeuvre the drawbar when you are not connected to the tow vehicle.
Jockey wheels for caravans come in an extensive range, from standard jockey wheels for typical caravan parks to heavy duty jockey wheels designed to handle harsh road conditions and heavy loads. The perfect jockey wheel depends on your load capacity needs, wheel sizes, and mounting styles.
A caravan jockey wheel work is simple. You wind the handle to lift or lower the A frame using the internal screw, then roll the wheel to position the hitch.
For best results, the wheel needs
If the wheel wobbles, sinks, or binds under load, it usually means the wheel for your caravan is undersized, the load rating is too low, or the swivel mount and clamp on hardware are worn.
There are several types of jockey wheels for caravans and trailer jockey wheels. The right jockey wheel depends on weight capacities, terrain, and how much effort you want to put in during setup.
Wheel configuration changes how the jockey wheel performs across surfaces.
As a guide, larger wheels roll easier over ruts and edges. Smaller wheels can struggle on uneven terrain.
Mounting styles matter because the wrong fit can cause wobble, poor height adjustment, or clearance issues.
Common mounting styles include
Before you buy, check:
If you use caravan movers, make sure the jockey wheel position does not interfere with mover clearance or battery boxes on the drawbar.
Choosing the best jockey wheel for your caravan means matching the wheel to how you tow and where you camp.
Check
For a boat trailer, corrosion resistance matters, but the load rating still needs to suit the trailer’s weight.
Heavy duty jockey wheels are designed for heavy loads, off road travel, and uneven terrain. They are typically built with durable materials, stronger swivel brackets, and higher load capacity.
If you regularly handle rough terrain, look for:
Trail A Mate style hydraulic jack models are often chosen for heavy duty setups because they lift smoothly and cope well with heavy loads.
To choose the right jockey wheel, start with these key features.
Choose a rating that suits your trailer’s weight and gives you a buffer.
Larger wheels roll easier over uneven surfaces. Pneumatic wheels help on soft ground. Solid wheel options suit paved surfaces.
Match the clamp on or bolt on size to your A frame and drawbar. A swivel mount adds convenience and clearance.
If you mostly camp on smooth surfaces, a standard jockey wheel is often enough. If you camp off road or on uneven terrain, heavy duty jockey wheels or dual wheel jockey wheels are usually a better fit.
Price varies across the range of jockey wheels. Standard jockey wheels are usually the most affordable. Electric jockey wheels and hydraulic jack models cost more, but can save effort and help with effortless maneuvering on heavy loads.
Reputable brands such as Trail A Mate and AL KO are well known for heavy duty gear. When comparing options, look for clear specs on load rating, wheel sizes, and mounting bracket compatibility.
Correct installation and basic upkeep help your jockey wheel last longer and stay safe.
A few extras can make setup easier and add peace of mind.
Helpful add-ons include:
Browse our range of caravan jockey wheels, then check your trailer’s weight and your mounting style before you choose. If you are not sure, no worries. Send us your details and we will help you find the right fit so you can get set up faster and get back to enjoying the trip.
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