What is the purpose of jockey wheels on a trailer?

Jockey wheels are an essential component for any type of trailer, being extremely useful to move it much more easily when it's not attached to any vehicle. Likewise, this wheel serves as an extra support point to maintain balance, as trailers only have two support wheels.

What is a Jockey Wheel

The Jockey wheel is one of the simplest components included in a trailer, as it's made up of only a steel tube and a wheel with a diameter of 20 cm. It also includes a crank that allows you to adjust the height of the wheel to any trailer model. When you need to move the trailer, it's recommended to raise the wheel as much as possible.

There are two types of Jockey wheels on the market: rigid and inflatable. The choice between one or the other largely depends on the maneuverability required to move the trailer and the location where it's being used. Regardless of the Jockey wheel model you choose, they are always attached to the front of the trailer using a clamp.

Inflatable Jockey Wheel

The main advantage of this type of wheel is that it adapts much better to imperfections in the terrain. Therefore, it’s the perfect choice for areas with potholes or stones, as it will be much easier to avoid them.

Rigid Jockey Wheel

The rigid wheel is designed for use with smaller trailers, as its handling can be quite limited. This wheel is more advisable for terrains without gravel or sand, as it can easily get stuck.

Where to place the Jockey Wheel once the trailer is attached

The function of the Jockey wheel ends once the trailer is attached to the vehicle, as driving with it could cause many problems, as it's not designed for that. Therefore, whenever you hit the road, it’s recommended to uninstall it or fold it up as much as possible to avoid any hindrance while driving.

If you decide to fold it, it's important to check that it's properly secured, as any bump could cause it to come loose or break.

Maintenance of Jockey Wheels

As it's such an important component, you must ensure that it's always in optimal condition. Therefore, it's important to check its condition periodically.

The maintenance of the wheel will largely depend on the type of wheel you are using. If you're using an inflatable Jockey wheel, you must check the pressure and inflate it periodically to avoid any breakage. The rigid one, on the other hand, wears out much faster, so it’s common to replace it from time to time.

Since both wheels have the same installation process, it’s advisable to have one model of each, as you will be prepared for any situation.