Caravan jockey wheels: the definitive guide
Technical advice
Caravan jockey wheels: the definitive guide
Beyond a little TLC during the annual service, the role of a caravan jockey wheel is often overlooked until it's time to hitch up and head off to your favourite campsite. However, supporting loads ranging from 60kg to 125kg while being pushed or pulled through a hard-standing pitch by a motor mover makes this unsung hero an essential ingredient for any caravan holiday.
From tips to prolong the life of your jockey wheel to the pros and cons of jockey wheel type, this guide aims to answer the questions you have yet to consider...until now.
What is a caravan jockey wheel?
Simply put, a caravan jockey wheel is an extendable tube with a wheel fitted to the lower part. This tube then clamps to the A-frame and supports the front of the caravan when it isn't hitched to your car. During transit, the jockey wheel is lifted through the clamp and stored off the ground.
How does a caravan jockey wheel work?
Here’s how a jockey wheel functions:
Attachment: The jockey wheel fits to the caravan's A-frame, close to the hitch.
Wheel rotation: When you wish to move or manoeuvre the caravan, lower the jockey wheel until it makes contact with the ground. The wheel can then rotate freely.
Push or pull: With the jockey wheel in contact with the ground, the caravan can be pushed or pulled into the desired position. A motor mover makes this process much easier.
Height adjustment: If necessary, you can also adjust the height of the jockey wheel to level the caravan. This is particularly useful when pitching on uneven ground.
Retraction: With the caravan attached to the car, raise the jockey wheel until its forks are in the two slots in the main tube. Undo the clamp, raise the jockey wheel assembly through the clamp, and secure it.
What size wheel do I need for a caravan?
A standard jockey wheel is usually between 200mm and 220mm for UK caravans.
How to measure a jockey wheel
Measure the diameter to ensure that a replacement wheel is the correct size. I.e. from one side to the other. The tube (the part that fits into the clamp) is usually 48mm.
How to fit a jockey wheel to a caravan
To replace a jockey wheel assembly, follow these steps:
- Undo the clamp that secures the jockey wheel to the A-frame.
- Remove the jockey wheel assembly.
- Lubricate the clamp threads with copper grease or white spray grease.
- Lift the new assembly into position and tighten the clamp.
Types of jockey wheel
Standard jockey wheel
This is the most common type. It consists of a single plastic wheel mounted on a shaft with a winding handle. Standard jockey wheels are versatile and suitable for most caravans.
Pneumatic jockey wheel tyre
Some jockey wheels have air-filled tyres, which provide better shock absorption and manoeuvrability, especially on gravel. However, flat tyres can be problematic, especially if pushed from the bead when moving.
Motorised jockey wheel movers
These are motorised systems that replace the jockey wheel assembly when manoeuvring. They can be a handy alternative to a motor mover.
Caravan jockey wheel covers
As with the other equipment on a caravan's A-frame, it's best to protect it from the elements. A decent A-frame cover should fit over the hitch and the top of the jockey wheel assembly.
Tips and advice for using caravan jockey wheels
Preventative maintenance is vital.
- The jockey wheel is usually fully unwound during the annual service, and the internal threads are greased.
- Grease the threads on the jockey wheel clamp. To do so, ensure the caravan is fully supported, remove the threaded part of the clamp, and lubricate the threads. Then, reinstall.
- Check the wheel for any damage.
- If your jockey wheel has a pneumatic tyre, regularly check the tyre pressure.
FAQ
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How does a jockey wheel work?
A wheel is attached to a threaded tube that can be wound up or down to adjust the height. The threaded part fits inside a thicker tube that clamps to the caravan's A-frame.
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How do you measure a jockey wheel?
Locate the centre of the wheel and measure from one side to the other in a straight line passing through it. This measurement will give you the wheel size. It's worth checking the width to ensure a replacement wheel fits between the forks.
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How to use a jockey wheel on a caravan?
To use the jockey wheel, wind it down to lift the front of the caravan and wind it up to lower it. Before attaching the caravan to the car, ensure the hitch is high enough for the tow ball to pass underneath.
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What size jockey wheel for a caravan?
The key measurement when looking for a replacement jockey wheel assembly is the width of the tube. Caravans usually require a 48mm jockey wheel assembly, although measuring the old unit before purchasing a new one is good practice.
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How to change a jockey wheel on a caravan
- Undo the clamp that secures the jockey wheel to the A-frame.
- Remove the jockey wheel assembly.
- Lubricate the clamp threads with copper grease or white spray grease.
- Lift the new assembly into position and tighten the clamp.
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What is the average weight of a caravan jockey wheel?
The Kartt caravan jockey wheel - a popular replacement unit - weighs 7.7kg.
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How can I prevent a jockey wheel clamp from seizing?
The threads can seize without proper lubrication. To prevent this, support the front of the caravan, remove the threaded part of the clamp, and grease the threads with copper grease.
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Is the Kartt replacement unit a heavy-duty jockey wheel?
Yes, the Kartt jockey wheel is designed to withstand a 250kg nose weight.
Final thoughts
A caravan jockey wheel ensures a caravan's safe and efficient operation. It assists with manoeuvrability, height adjustment, and hitching and unhitching from your car. Different types are available, from jockey wheels with pneumatic tyres to Kartt premium products.
Always ensure your jockey wheel is locked in tight and in good repair.
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