If I hitch up my trailer with the trailer hitch I used on my previous F150 (2000 Lariat SuperCab) the tailgate will hit the jackscrew on the trailer if it is lowered. Obviously this would be a very bad thing. Short of being vigilant to NEVER lower the tailgate with the trailer hitched, is there a solution? Do trailer hitches come in different lengths?

-the ChiefGearhead

 

Buy a flip up tongue jack. Something like this:

 

Very cool. Thanks a lot Skwerl!

-the ChiefGearhead

 

If you want to look at one of these folding jacks in person, WalMart carries them in the automotive section. I've bought several for trailers I've built and they are easy to install and work well. They're available with or without the wheel.

 

Also a decent selection at tractor supply.

 

Another option is to move the jack toward the front of the trailer. Move it just enough so the tailgate will clear. Mine required adding metal and welding. Be sure the WD hitch can still be mounted with the jack in the new position. Maybe install the WD hitch before moving the jack, then place the jack where it will work with the WD hitch installed.

 

The answer for what the OP asked is yes, there are longer shanks to move the trailer back a bit. I have two of them with 2" ***** on them. They are roughly 2" longer than what is on the shelf and have been looking for another one that is a 2" drop. The one I got that is a 2" drop has the same issue, tailgate hits the jack, but the others are far enough back that the gate clears it by a 1/4".

Here is one that may work for your needs. https://www.etrailer.com/Ball-Mounts/Curt/D-4.html

 

You can get longer draw bars, but don't. Increasing the distance of the ball from the truck lowers weight capability and increases the effects of sway.

One of the newer trucks has a setup where the tailgate cables are caught about a third of the way down to provide quick access to loading small things like groceries, and you can reach in an move them off the catches to fully lower the tailgate. You'd think there would be an aftermarket product out there for that already, but I don't see anything.

 

Thanks for all the information gents....it looks like my best solution is to just deal with it and make sure that I lock the tailgate when towing. I had a feeling that extending the trailer farther from the truck was a bad idea (I mean, it’s just common sense) but I wasn’t sure if there was an optimal distance. Turns out it’s only as far as it needs to be in order to allow for a 60 degree + turn without having the trailer hit the bumper. I’ll stick with what I’ve got and be careful.

-the ChiefGearhead

 

The problem usually isn't a lack of care on your part, but a lack of knowledge on somebody else's part. They do something to help you and end up dropping the tailgate on the tongue jack.

Every trailer I've ever owned I ended up converting the tongue jack to a style that did not hit the tailgate. Tongue jacks come in all shapes, sizes and weight capacities. some are bolt on, some are welded on. Do yourself a favor and find one that fits your trailer and needs, then install it. That way you don't have to worry about somebody else 'helping' and leaving a permanent ding in your truck.