Trail-A-Mate Caravan & Trailer Jack User & Technical Guide

Overview

The Trail-A-Mate is a hydraulic jack designed specifically for use with caravans and trailers, offering a working load limit of 1500kg. It is engineered to meet AS/NZ Standards 2693:2007, ensuring reliability and safety for lifting operations.

Specifications

• Working Load Limit: 1500kg
• Minimum Height: 145mm
• Maximum Height: 780mm
• Maximum Lifting Range: 380mm

Initial Setup & Air Purging

• Air Purging: To ensure optimal performance, it's crucial to purge any trapped air in the hydraulic system before first use. This can be done by opening the release valve (turn counter-clockwise) and unscrewing the air vent valve (also counter-clockwise), then operating the pump handle several times. After purging, tighten the air vent valve without over-tightening the O-ring and close the release valve.

Operating Instructions

1. Base Plate: Must be fitted to use as a jack.
2. Lifting Clamp: Attach to the outer shaft cover, ensuring it's opposite the release valve and jack handle linkage. Tighten the lifting clamp handle securely.
3. Positioning: Place the jack alongside the vehicle, aligning the saddle slot with the Trail-A-Mate MarkII engagement fitting on the caravan.
4. Lifting: Ensure the release valve is tightened clockwise. Pump the handle until the saddle slot locks into the engagement fitting, then continue to raise to the desired height.
5. Lowering: Remove support stands if used, then slowly turn the release valve counter-clockwise to lower the vehicle.

Safety Warnings

• Engagement Fitting: Use only with the Trail-A-Mate engagement fitting.
• Support: Never travel with the jack fitted to the caravan/trailer. Always use vehicle support stands when a vehicle is lifted.
• Under Vehicle: No part of the body should be under the vehicle when it's supported only by the jack.

Maintenance Procedures

• Oil Level: Maintain oil level at 20mm below the top of the reservoir for optimal performance. Use only high-quality hydraulic jacking oil, preferably Grade 32. Avoid using brake fluid, glycerin, detergent, engine, or dirty motor oil.
• Rust Prevention: Check the piston rod and pump every three months for rust or corrosion. Clean and wipe with an oily cloth. Keep the saddle and pump piston down when not in use, and ensure the release valve is closed.

Troubleshooting

• Will Not Lift Load: Ensure the release valve is closed tightly. If the issue persists, purge air from the system or check the valve function.
• Partial Lifting: Check oil level; it may be too low or overfilled. Adjust accordingly.
• Will Not Hold Load: Tighten the release valve or replace the check valve if worn or defective.
• Jack Will Not Lower: Lubricate external moving parts or purge air if air-blocked.
• Poor Lifting Performance: May be due to a defective pump/valve, dirty oil, or air in the system. Replace the check valve or change the hydraulic oil as needed.

Parts List

Key components include the oil reservoir, O-rings, pump housing, release valve, outer and inner shaft covers, piston housing and piston, seals, check valve/safety valve, linkage pins, pump handle, air release valve, lifting clamp handle, lifting clamp, and lifting saddle.

Important Notes

• Always use the jack on level, firm ground.
• Ensure the caravan/trailer wheels are chocked.
• The caravan/trailer should be attached to the towing vehicle during jacking.
• Regular maintenance and proper operation are crucial for safety and longevity of the jack.

This guide serves as a comprehensive resource for customer service and technical staff, providing all necessary operational, safety, and maintenance information for the Trail-A-Mate Caravan & Trailer Jack.