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Powered low-speed manoeuvring for compatible caravans, trailers and boats.
The T-REX Striker powered jockey wheel provides 12V electric assistance for short, controlled manoeuvring of a compatible caravan, trailer, boat trailer or similar load.
Its main advantage is reducing the physical effort involved in small positioning movements around suitable driveways, storage areas and campsites.
It is not a replacement for a tow vehicle, trailer braking system or conventional safe parking procedures.
Ground conditions, slope, trailer configuration and correct installation all affect whether a powered jockey wheel is suitable.
T-REX Powered Jockey Wheel Specifications
| Specification | Published Information |
|---|---|
| Motor | 350W |
| Input voltage | 12V DC |
| Rated vehicle load | Up to 2270kg according to the supplier listing. This is a vehicle-load rating and should not be interpreted as a 2270kg vertical drawbar load. |
| Maximum speed | Approximately 6–7 metres per minute |
| Maximum incline | 5° maximum |
| Wheel | Solid rubber wheel |
| Drive | Powered forward and reverse |
| Brake | Automatic brake |
| Clamp adjustment | Supplier lists adjusted clamper height positions of 32cm / 42cm. This is not a 32–42cm A-frame width specification. |
| Battery | 12V battery. The manufacturer’s manual specifies a minimum battery capacity of 18Ah. Check the latest manual supplied with your unit before use. |
The current supplier listing states that this powered jockey wheel is
not suitable for dual-axle caravans and
not suitable for loose surfaces including gravel, sand or long grass.
Who Is It Best Suited For?
- Compatible single-axle caravans and trailers within the manufacturer’s limits.
- Boat trailers and similar loads where the mounting arrangement is suitable.
- Short positioning movements on firm, stable surfaces.
- Driveways, garages and storage areas where low-speed control is useful.
- Owners wanting to reduce the amount of manual pushing required when positioning a trailer.
Compatibility should be confirmed before purchase.
Trailer weight alone does not determine suitability.
Drawbar arrangement, vertical load, mounting position, available clearance and surface conditions also matter.
Where It Should Not Be Used
- Dual-axle caravans: the supplier specifically lists these as unsuitable.
- Loose gravel, sand or long grass: these surfaces are specifically excluded by the supplier.
- Slopes above 5°: this exceeds the manufacturer’s stated maximum.
- Public-road towing: a powered jockey wheel is not a tow vehicle.
- As a trailer brake: the automatic brake does not replace the trailer’s approved braking system.
- As a lifting jack: the manufacturer’s manual states that the jockey wheel is intended for horizontal movement and should not be used as a jack.
Understanding the 2270kg Rating
The supplier advertises a maximum vehicle load of 2270kg.
This describes the load the powered mover is intended to manoeuvre under suitable conditions.
It should not be interpreted as meaning that the jockey wheel can safely carry 2270kg vertically on the drawbar.
The trailer’s actual ball weight, drawbar design and jockey-wheel mounting arrangement must remain within their own applicable ratings.
If there is any doubt about the vertical load on the jockey wheel, check the trailer manufacturer’s information and the latest T-REX manual before use.
12V Battery Requirements
The powered jockey wheel operates from a 12V battery.
The manufacturer’s manual specifies a minimum battery capacity of 18Ah.
The battery should be adequately charged before manoeuvring the trailer.
- Use a suitable 12V battery.
- Check cables and connections before operation.
- Keep electrical connections clean and in good condition.
- Disconnect the jockey wheel from the battery before carrying out maintenance.
- Do not connect the unit directly to a 240V AC mains supply.
Using the Jockey Wheel on a Slope
The manufacturer’s maximum published incline is 5°.
Even on a smaller incline, additional precautions are required.
- Use appropriate wheel chocks.
- Keep the powered jockey wheel positioned at the lowest point of the load when operating on an incline, as directed by the manual.
- Maintain a clear view of the trailer and its travel path.
- Keep people clear of the potential movement path.
- Never rely solely on the powered jockey wheel’s automatic brake to secure a parked trailer.
Turning and Manoeuvring
The manufacturer’s manual recommends using the largest practical turning radius.
Very sharp turns can place excessive sideways load on the jockey wheel, tyre and mounting system.
The unit is best considered a low-speed positioning aid rather than a machine for repeatedly moving trailers over long distances.
Checks Before Each Use
- Confirm the caravan or trailer is suitable for this powered jockey wheel.
- Confirm the loaded vehicle mass remains within the manufacturer’s limit.
- Check the trailer’s drawbar and mounting arrangement.
- Inspect the mounting bracket and fasteners.
- Check the wheel for damage or abnormal wear.
- Inspect the battery leads, connectors and controls.
- Make sure the 12V battery is sufficiently charged.
- Check that the travel path is firm, stable and clear.
- Use wheel chocks where required.
- Keep bystanders clear before starting movement.
Buyer Checklist
- Is your caravan or trailer single axle?
- Is the loaded vehicle mass below the published 2270kg limit?
- Is the mounting arrangement suitable for the supplied bracket?
- Will you normally use it on firm surfaces rather than gravel, sand or long grass?
- Are the areas where you manoeuvre generally below the 5° maximum incline?
- Do you have a suitable 12V battery?
- Do you have a safe backup method if the jockey wheel cannot move the trailer?
If any of these points are uncertain, confirm compatibility with the trailer manufacturer or supplier before purchasing.
Safety and Maintenance
- Read the manufacturer’s manual before first use.
- Inspect the unit for damage, loose components or excessive wear.
- Keep hands, feet and clothing away from moving components.
- Do not leave the jockey wheel unattended while it is carrying a load.
- Disconnect battery power before working on or around the powered mechanism.
- Keep the unit clean and maintain it according to the manufacturer’s instructions.
- Do not use damaged electrical leads or connectors.
- Keep the supplied lock and keys secure when the unit is stored.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I use the T-REX powered jockey wheel with a dual-axle caravan?
The current supplier listing says no.
It specifically states that the product is not suitable for dual-axle caravans.
Can it be used on gravel?
The supplier specifically lists loose gravel, sand and long grass as unsuitable surfaces.
It is better suited to firm, stable ground.
How steep a slope can it handle?
The manufacturer’s published maximum incline is 5°.
The manual also recommends using wheel chocks when operating on an incline.
How fast does it move?
The supplier lists a maximum speed of approximately 6–7 metres per minute.
It is designed for careful low-speed manoeuvring rather than travelling significant distances.
Does the 2270kg rating mean it can support 2270kg on the jockey wheel?
No.
The 2270kg figure is published as a vehicle-load rating.
It should not be treated as the vertical drawbar or jockey-wheel load rating.
What battery does it need?
It operates from 12V DC.
The manufacturer’s manual specifies a minimum battery capacity of 18Ah.
Always check the current manual supplied with the exact model.
Can I use it instead of wheel chocks?
No.
The automatic brake is not a substitute for appropriate trailer braking, wheel chocks or safe parking procedures.
Check Current Product Details
T-REX Striker 12V 350W Motorised Jockey Wheel
Check the latest price, availability, specifications and supplied accessories directly from the merchant before purchasing.
