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Upgrading NT 5x8 to A-Frame Coupler and jack

PostPosted: Tue Sep 27, 2016 1:37 pm
by TimC
I'd appreciate any advice on doing an upgrade to an a-frame coupler and jack on an Ironton (N. Tool) 5x8 bolt together trailer. I've found a coupler, but, I don't see an angle in the description.

https://www.amazon.com/gp/product/B006YEBSJS/ref=ox_sc_act_title_2?ie=UTF8&psc=1&smid=ATVPDKIKX0DER
https://www.amazon.com/gp/product/B005DGK1D2/ref=ox_sc_act_title_1?ie=UTF8&psc=1&smid=ATVPDKIKX0DER

I'm specifically wonder if the angle of the coupler will match the a-frame angle on the trailer and if the jack will be too long to retract up far enough to eliminate damage. I realize this is a weld on coupler. I will drill the holes needed to attach.

TimC

Re: Upgrading NT 5x8 to A-Frame Coupler and jack

PostPosted: Wed Sep 28, 2016 12:33 am
by Esteban
A-frame couplers are usually designed to fit a 50 degree A-frame tongue.

:thumbsup: To get good ground clearance consider using a Bulldog 155033 A-frame jack which has a fully retracted height of 5.4" from the mounting bracket. Its $36.31 from Amazon.com. You may pay less by doing an internet search.

:thinking: The Pro Series 1401000303 A-Frame Jack you linked to has an 8" bracket to bottom retracted height which provides 2.6" less road clearance than a Bulldog 155033 jack.

Re: Upgrading NT 5x8 to A-Frame Coupler and jack

PostPosted: Wed Sep 28, 2016 8:51 am
by alaska teardrop
A rack & gear jack from Bulldog (try Tractor Supply). The wheel drops out & the shaft retracts up flush with the frame. Also can use a block of wood without the wheel.
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Re: Upgrading NT 5x8 to A-Frame Coupler and jack

PostPosted: Wed Sep 28, 2016 9:19 am
by KennethW
For ground clearance you can put 3/4" pipe between the jack flange and the hitch bolt holes and use long bolts. Low cost and easy. You will not be lifting a lot of weight so it will be plenty strong.
I use the same thing on a HF trailer and the angle does not match. I pushed it on tight and drill the 6 mounting holes the same as the old mount.
If the hole in the hitch bars go thru as in a HF trailer. It is easier if you can have it upside down to drill. :twisted:

Re: Upgrading NT 5x8 to A-Frame Coupler and jack

PostPosted: Tue Oct 04, 2016 11:11 pm
by Larry8
I did it on my build, it took a little bit of work but I got into fit okay. Check it out in the build blogs under Larry8 NT Build.