I bought one of these systems. Jacked the caravans once, saw the way it twisted the Alford chassis legs and took it off. Tried it on both my Coachman 546 vip and daughters Bailey Vendee. Same effect on both chassis. Found the finish to be appalling, the welding atrocious and in fact regarded it as detrimental to my caravan so disposed of it. In its stead I made my own from 30mmx10mm cold rolled steel bar , 50mmx50mmx3mm able iron and short pieces of 50mm steel tube. The 30x10 was used to make a piece 50mm longer than the chassis was deep and a fish plate to fit inside the chassis. The 50x 50x was welded to the long 30x10 and a M12 nut welded to the vertical face. The tube was cut to protrude 20 mm below the longer piece of flat bar and welded to both the flat bar and the angle iron. The long flat bar was marked to match the pre punched holes in the chassis, the fishplate was marked to match the same holes. The longer plate was drilled 13 mm to give clearance to M12x bolts the fishplate was drilled and tapped M12x. When 4 of these pieces were made they were sent of to be galvanised. I purchased a couple of 3.5 ton bottle jacks. Upon fitted the units to the caravans I found jacking the caravans to a hight where I could easily removed a wheel if needed caused no twist whatsoever to the chassis rails. Each pair was made in a couple of hours and material costs including galvanising was aprox £25 per pair. Jacks were £50 each but I bought 3.5 ton jacks as supplied with Iveco Daily vans, cheaper are available from Internet. Compared to the £100 I spent on the kojack system that would of in my giew damaged my chassis a cheaper and better method of lifting the van. The kojack system twists the chassis rails because the jacking point is out from the face of the chassis rails and acts like a lever upon them. My system not only strengthens the rail substantially by means of the fish plate but the jacking point is in line with the chassis face so forces are perpendicular to the chassis. The angle iron and clamp bolt through it acts on the fish plate to ensure there is no forcing of the jacking plate from the face of the chassis rails while the caravan is being jacked. I happily pay the weight penalty secure in the knowlage that my system was engineered to be safe and not damage my chassis rails
Thanks for commenting, interesting stuff 👍 The fines for overweight caravans can be considerable, best to keep an eye on weights, something we all don’t do enough. ATB Dave & Helen 👍
great video .. my motor mover is behind the wheels .yours are in front of the wheel ..which means you are able to fit the brackets quite easily.. has anyone managed to fit the kojack with a motor mover hindering access to the bolt holes? tia
Hi Glen, many thanks for watching and leaving a comment. I haven’t had anyone mention that the motor mover is in the way behind the wheels but that’s a pain for you. Sorry I can’t offer any help but maybe your dealer/service engineer may be able to offer help. Thanks again for watching. Cheers, Helen & Dave 👍
Hi Glenn. By chance over the Easter hols I removed both wheels myself as the tyres had reached their 5 year life and needed replacing at our local tyre fitters. Our Coachman motor mover is in front of the wheels. I have a 2 tonne trolley jack which presented little problem in jacking up at the axle/chassis cross-plate. I bought the trolly jack because I feel it is steadier and safer to use as long as you hitch the van up and chock up the opposite side first ( we have a single axle van). Hope this helps.
I’ve got one of the original kojack scissor jacks I bought in 2008. Brill tool. Moved it on to my new Coachman. It’s used almost every trip to align the wheels for the alko lock. Remember to service the jack and use regularly. Used it last year to free the van when the van sank deep in the soft field.
That's good to Know Rich, thanks for sharing. Must say, I never considered raising the van to align the wheel lock before, great idea. Thanks for watching. Helen & Dave
Have run flat tyres (metal band within) just started watching you videos dave, owned a caravan for years never had a puncher? Now said that next time out I'll get one😂,
Hi David, thanks for watching the channel we really appreciate your support. We’re 8 years into Caravanning and we’ve been lucky too (hope it stays that way). Thanks & stay tuned 👍 Helen & Dave 👍
Hi,Dave. Good video,I'm about to go into the caravaning world and obviously I will be a novice.I found this video very useful and,your right in the comment,should you suffer a puncture where there's no mobile signal.Thanks again Dave.😊
I would suggest the Alko jacking system would be better as there is more room for the jack if the Caravan is very low because of a flat tyre. We fitted a 2000 kg one to our 1500kg van.
now take it off and sell it. go buya trolley jack and put it under the axle, save you twisting the chassis.. or simply use the bottle jack under the chassis itself, by going outward at the bottom your damaging the chassis and asking for trouble with bottle jack falling over..... remember yo umight be having the change a wheel on mud or grass or soft tarmack... you never get a flat tyre ona nice dead flat smooth road with no traffic.
Hi Dave I am old school I have a 2 ton trolley jack no problem place it under the axel pump it up no chance of it falling off, I must admit the kojack is a great alternative great video. Pete.
Thanks Dave, Didn’t even think about how i change a caravan tyre ! i presumed the car jack would suffice !… clearly not!😁😁… you have saved me a whole world of trouble !!
Thanks Joe, that's exactly the position I was in. Never had to change one yet but know plenty who have, I too had no idea how I was going to deal with it. Thanks for watching. Helen & Dave
The kojack is a brilliant product. Especially for aligning up the wheel for the Alko Chassis/wheel lock. And or putting tyre savers under the wheels for long term storage to stop flat spots.
Hi Dave, Great Vlog and a big thank you for mentioning us. Glad our vlog on the Flat Tyre helped you decide on what Jack to fit onto your caravan. It is a great system, Jack is a bit weighty so we secure it in the caravan but it is we'll worth it. Your vlog was a very comprehensive demonstration of how to Jack up the Caravan. The Jack will go a bit higher, there are 3 sections to the piston. It gets a bit harder when you get to the 3rd. Thanks for sharing all the best. James
You’re welcome James, genuinely watching your video was a game changer for us. I now realise the Jack extends higher, a few of my subscribers put me right👍 Thanks for watching. ATB Dave & Helen 👍
I wouldn’t be sticking my fingers under the wheel to see if it’s jacked up enough, if the seal in that jack goes your fingers are crushed into that nice concrete driveway you’ve got there…just an observation… Maybe a proper jacking pad?, using one would give you more height on the jack so less jacking but make sure you have enough room to get the jack out when you drop the van Cheers for the video, very informative 👍
Hi Andy, thanks for watching and leaving a comment. Yes, lesson learned, you're not the first to point that mistake out to me, it's appreciated though, so ta. ATB, Dave & Helen.
Watched your video , I've had 2 twin axle caravans since 2014 both lost the jacking points due to the 4 wheel motor mover so I bought a small trolley jack from Halfords, worked well plus if you have a twin axle it makes fitting the alko locks to both wheels a doddle. Just one safety point I would not recommend putting your hand between the wheel and the floor to check the clearance, the one in a million chance this new jack was to fail the Consequences would be very serious.
Thanks Barry, you're not the first person to point that out! Shan't be doing that again. Trolly Jack sounds like a great alternative. Thanks for watching. ATB, Dave & Helen.
Yeah, I must admit I need that jacking system aswell. I follow caravan escapades aswell and seeing that him and you both have them now has made my mind up to get some now . Thanks again and keep the good work up.
Hi Andrew, thanks for watching and taking the time to leave a comment. I must admit, I just can't believe I left it so long to get this sorted. Hope you get one soon. ATB, Dave & Helen.
Thanks very much Terry. I do feel much better now it’s fitted but will call Mayday before I get on my knees at the side of the motorway 😂😂. Thanks for watching. ATB Dave & Helen 👍
Torque wrench should be on the nut, not the bolt head. You should be tightening the nut against a surface that you want to be tight against and against which the torque should be measured. By measuring it on the bolt head you cannot be sure that some of the resistance in the torque is not caused by the bolt heads interface with the fixing surface, or anywhere else that the bolt shaft comes into contact with that causes friction. This is more of an issues on rough surfaces and less of an issues on new paint. But any burr on the bracket could have an effect. Also when changing a flat tyre jack the wheel up to a height that allows you to put on an inflated tyre. Remember it will stand higher. You don't want to be raising the caravan on the jack without a wheel on. That is the time it will fall off the jack. Better to fall back on the wheel than the ground. Blocks under the axle are a good idea It is possible to jack an alko chassis without a jacking point, but very dodgy, unless the load is well spread with a spreader plate of some description. But if you do, always place the jack behind the axle to the rear. Otherwise you could be trying to jack the tow vehicle too. Also take care in high sidewinds. If as sometimes happens you lose wheel nuts in the excitement and drama of rain, darkness, mud, sand etc, then rob some off the other wheel. Generally three retaining nuts will get you to a safer place if care is taken.
@@HelenandDave I see, but I wouldn't always trust instruction. I would probably have used washers on both sides. But most important to use a washer between the nut and the frame.
Great Jack dave although I do carry a small bottle Jack worst nightmare has got to be getting a puncture on a smart motorway or not so smart another great video enjoy sunny hunny been to searles plenty of times
Hi Martin, totally agree, the thought of it alone is quite scary. Our first time at Searles, getting our grandson off the fairground rides was a challenge 😂😂 Thanks for watching, ATB, Dave & Helen 👍
Who loves ya baby 📍, great jacking system, I was looking at fitting the kojack , but we were lucky,because are caravan had the alco Jack system already on it, cheers Dave, let’s hope we never have to use them,👍👍
Hi dave I had these on my caravan. Very useful. Campervan now. But I may be strong. But the kojak didn't look square to the chassis. The reference I was using. On your view through wheel & flap. Didn't look parallel to floor of caravan & top of jack
Hi David, thanks for watching, hope you’re well. I think it’s an illusion, deffo on square but the drive does slope a little and the van was hitched to the car so front end a little lower than the back. Thanks again. Dave & Helen 👍👍
It’s great to see you managed to extract the full kit out of the box without all the orange paint falling off. Maybe Kojack have stopped using the very technical, take a mouthful of paint and spit on the jack spraying system
Hi Dave & Helen, I finally got around to installing my Kojack (why do I crave a lollipop when I say that word) last week and hopefully I shan’t have to test it anytime soon 🤞 The funnything was that I promised myself after watching your BAFTA winning video that I would take the mud flaps off first. It was only when I got on my hands and knees that I realised our 580 doesn’t have any 😂 Another thanks from us for your service! Best wishes David & Rachel 🥂
Hi David & Rachel, ‘Who loves ya baby’ 😂😂 This has to be one of the funniest comments we’ve ever had. David, you need to get on your knees more! Seriously though, thanks as always for watching, hope you got the Kojack fitted ok and as you say have no need to use it anytime soon. Best wishes, Helen & Dave 👍
Great video, very informative. One question….. How much clearance do I need beside the bracket? On my Bailey Phoenix+ 640, the grey waste pipe runs close to the pre-drilled holes for the offside bracket. I’d like to make sure I can fit the bracket, before ordering a set.
Hi Rich, many thanks for your comment. It's raining at the moment but if you send me an e-mail to caravantastic@hotmail.com I'll get out and take a picture and measure up and send to you. Thanks for watching. Dave & Helen.
Excellent video Dave. I also live in Norfolk. Brand new to caravans and watching your video when you visited Greentrees i spotted a nice caravan at the end of the video. So thanks to you i bought it. I pick it up in a few weeks. 18th July. What torque wrench have you got mate? Thank you both again for your videos. Im learning alot from them. All the best.
Hi Dave, great to hear from you and congratulations on your caravan purchase. I'd be grateful if you let them know at Greentrees that you saw the caravan on our TH-cam Channel. Hope you have many fun adventures. Here is a link to our amazon store and the Torque wrench. Best wishes, Helen & Dave
Had one for years and moved it from van to van as they came and went. Just buy new hardware,19mm bolts, Nylocs and washers each time ( Ive a box now). I use it each time I remove the wheels and replace the winter wheels. Always keep the jack upright as over time if laid over they'll get an airlock and bleeding a jack on the site of a puncture is not recommended for you blood pressure! As a belt and braces I also carry a foldable axle stand.
Absolutely right! Best thing is to run the flat up a levelling block. My old work colleague found this out the hard way on a trip to Scotland. He had trouble placing his jack underneath and another van stopped and the guy suggested running it up a level which created more distance.
Tried to buy this system in NZ but not able to. Even tried Australia. Made same type from heavy angle iron and had engineer weld in supports to each side also jack retention pipe to stop jack slipping. Turn out a great lifting port with bottle jack either 2 or 4 ton.
Hi Warren, great to know we have viewers in New Zealand, thanks so much. Shame you couldn’t pick one up but what a brilliant alternative you have come up with. ATB, Dave & Helen 👍
Well done Dave, fiddly job, I find jobs like that often need a swear box. Fitted Kojacks on a couple of our vans, not too easy to access and getting the jack stable and engaged is sometimes a bit of a fuss, had to use it too regularly for levelling on the drive, so got a trolley jack. Need a good piece of scaff board or similar to go beneath any jack to get a stable platform on soft or dodgy ground. Thankfully in 30 years and a lot of trips, never had a puncture on a van. Have a Kojack in my garage for a twin axle, never fitted it, so will end up in a car boot along with lots of other redundant stuff one day! Due to dodgy knees I cheat nowadays with an E and P system, though would most likely still get Mayday out to change a wheel in any case, as it is the law of Sod that it will not likely happen in a great place…..
Hi there Mel, you e done well to go all that time without a puncture, well done. You must also have accumulated a lot of gear over that time, Im always buying caravan stuff 😂😂. Hope you’re well and thanks for watching 👍
I fitted the Bailey one to my Swift as it's all Alko Chassis. According to Alko site you can place a jack on the chassis or the double part of the chassis either side of the axel no where else.
Hi Mike, that’s absolutely correct other than the pre drilled holes in the frame to attach a jacking plate. Thanks for watching and leaving a comment. Cheers, Dave & Helen 👍
I measured the height of the point, where to put the jack under the frame, to the ground and indeed in case of a flat tyre it is to low to put a pot jack under it. You’ll definitely need a scissor jack. I checked the size of the scissor jack foot. It’s bigger as the one from the pot jack. The top area of the scissor jack is flat and also bigger as that from the pot jack.
The kojack is a brilliant product. Just a little pointer the jack does have another extension! The top of the jack is on a threaded bar and can be screwed out the extend before you use the 2 hydraulic extensions
Hi Darren, thanks very much for watching and that little useful pointer. I have since worked that one out but I’m pleased to be able to report that thus far I’ve not had to use it. Hope that remains the case for some time 👍 ATB, Dave & Helen 👍
Hi, I fitted this system to our van. I’ve also modified a Milenco Stacka levelling pad as a stable platform for the jack to stand on. Did this by cutting a few of the fins off with a multi tool. We also use the Milenco pads to level the caravan, you need to jack it up to use the Alco lock. Not as much bother than you might think. The Milenco tyre saver sits on top of the levelling pad when in use.
A great video, easy enough to do, not sure why they don't supply spring washers or nyloc nuts to prevent the nuts loosening overtime, can't see the point of spirit levels unless you actually level the caravan prior to fitting, some great advice on jacking up after fitting 👍
Hi there, thanks for watching. The nuts are actually nyloc, I should have highlighted that. I won’t be getting on my knees to check the caravan is level, will stick with using my little spirit level in the van.😂 Glad I have the Jack, should have done this earlier. ATB, Dave & Helen 👍
You could angle the jack on the block to give mud flap clearance. the top will stay connected. If steady's are down, you need to raise them before jacking.
Hi Dave, most interesting although I did squirm when you ran your hand under the tyre, however as I do not anticipate changing a wheel [leave that to the RAC!], does the caravan include it's own jacking point? [Swift Challenger 480se 2024]
Hi John, thanks for watching and leaving a comment. I'm not certain about your specific model but from what I can gather most caravans are jacked underneath the axle (the strongest point) RAC/Green Flag would also be my first point of call, assuming I can get a phone signal and as we are often away in the sticks that can sometimes be an issue, which is why I decided to get this particular jack. The car jack wouldn't be suitable as our motor mover inhibits access to the axle but this comes with a bracket that is designed to fit onto the Al-Ko frame. Been caravanning for 8 years, out almost every week and never had a puncture and hope it stays that way but at least I know that should the worst happen and I can't get through to the recovery service, then I can hopefully get out of trouble. Thanks again, Dave
hi Dave,you dont need a block to get more height as the top section screws out to increase the height.You,ve probably found that out by now but just thought i,d say. Love your vlogs.
Hi Rob, thanks, yes this has been pointed out to me, if only I had read the instructions first 😬. Thanks for supporting and leaving a comment. ATB, Dave & Helen 👍
Relying pn the spirit level to adjust the position of the brackets MUST also require that the van is LEVEL before you start. This video commented on the van pitching down towards the car, SO if using the jack this would suggest you are not getting a true virtical lift and therefore possible movement as the groove in the lift piston would not fully interface with the bracket fitting.
Hi Mike, you're absolutely right and this was pointed out to me before (the video is well over a year old now). I did check this with the caravan level and adjusted accordingly. Thanks for watching and pointing this out. Cheers, Dave
Hi. Dave Some great points made there on jacking points on the caravan frame. It's a problem when on the side of the road/motorway we don't have a jack as such. I have the jack but no jacking point on the frame 😕 we have RAC and like you use that as a default. Great video cheers Paul and Sarah
Hi Paul & Sarah, I don’t want to think about a puncture on the motorway, that has to be a job for the professionals. I’d need to come a lane off and cause some tailbacks before I attempted it 😂. Hope you’re enjoying your trip away and thanks for watching. Cheers, Dave & Helen 👍
Great Volg ! All i would say if you have a standard bottle jack (Aldi 5 ton) you can use this even if its a bit tall, by running the punctured tyre up your levelling ramp to get under the axle jacking point before lifting .
Hi John, yes that sounds very feasible. We’ve been lucky to not have a puncture so far but I do feel much better now. Will still call Mayday first 😂😂. Thanks as always, cheers, Dave & Helen 👍
From experience once jacked up do not remove wheel until you have the alko wheel carrier lowered and pulled out if that is how you transport the spare and lower the front and rear corner steady on the side you are working the carrier can be a total nightmare to pull out if it has not been moved for a while and could dislodge the jack
@@ericdavis5723 Hi Eric, that’s a really good point. Our spare is in the side locker under the bed but I think the same rule applies, get the spare out ready. Sounds like you’ve experienced the challenges first hand. Thanks for sharing. Cheers, Dave & Helen 👍
@@HelenandDaveIndeed Just Call Mayday , Especially On Motorways, I Know They Sometimes Take A While To Turn Up But It's Just To Dangerous On The Roadside.👍
Love your videos but just wondered if I could ask a question about this one. At 19:42 into the video and especially at 19:55 is it my imagination or is the jacking motion flexing the chasis outwards? I know the caravan is tilting but the angle between the caravan floor and the back edge of the jacking bracket is not remaining a constant angle. Surely this is dangerous and can/will weaken your chasis.
Hi Andy, many thanks for watching the channel we really appreciate your support. No, the chassis didn’t/doesn’t bend or flex I’m sure it’s the fact that the camera is level but the caravan is being tilted to one side that may give that impression. The frames are amazingly strong. Thankfully, I’ve had no use for this Jack as yet and hopefully that will remain the case! I did get it purely from a belt & braces perspective to get us out of trouble as a last resort. Thanks again for watching and best wishes, Helen & Dave
Hi, great video. Our new van has this already fitted, but now, having watched video, I can use the jacking system safely. Never thought about being attached to the car for safety if it was on site. Thanks, Paul and Jo .
Hi David, when you fitted the bolts on the brackets, the washers should have gone between the chassis and the nuts, that my way of thinking 🤔 and not the bolts. I like the idea of the bottle jack with the telescopic lifting ram, 👌
Hi there Hilary, thanks very much indeed for watching and leaving a comment. No it clearly shows on the diagram in the instructions that the washers are on the not side, not the bolt side. I can’t attach a pic but if you pause the video at 8m02s you will see what I mean (if it’s not blurred). Obviously I hope I never need to use it but it certainly gives me a bit more peace of mind. Thanks again, ATB, Dave & Helen 👍
Hilary is correct in saying the washer always goes under the nut in engineering practise but in this case it’s being used to spread the head load over a slot so technically a washer is used correctly under the head in this case, the correct way should be head and nut reversed so the head load is spread evenly over its entire contact surface with the chassis but it would be even more difficult to fit one handed. As it’s the bolt that’s in shear loading it is very unlikely to matter much anyway but in general practise it’s always good to follow the assembly instructions then in the event of failure the legal beavers would determine who is to blame.
Hi there Ron, thanks very much for the additional info. I must admit, it does seem strange that the washer is not on the nut side doesn’t it and I can’t think why a washer is not both sides either. I’m not at all technical so that’s why I followed the instruction leaflet. Your final point is a good one too. Thanks again, Dave 👍
@@HelenandDave David I have also fitted these just in case as I have experienced 3 flats in 50 years of vanning. I am a retired mechanical design engineer and my experience is avoiding clear technical assembly instructions are inevitably the result of losing in a claim court when I submit my report to prove that is the case.
@@ronr61 No flats yet but the law of averages suggest it’s only a matter of time. Good to get the perspective of others who can talk from experience. Thanks again 👍
Hi Dave, we have a German Caravan on an Alko chassis with built in Jacking point witch is galvanised, and use a Alko scissor Jack, not had to use it in an emergency yet but had a test run, seems to work fine, very informative Video Bob
Hi there Bob, that’s interesting to know, it seems some manufacturers do fit them then which is good. Even better that you haven’t had to use it though. Thanks for watching, cheers Dave and Helen 👍
Good job done there Dave 👍. No worries now if you get a puncture (not that you want one). I fitted the Alko side lift jack but I prefer the kojack bottle jack. Don’t know why Alko didn’t go this way? Did you notice at around 22 min 20 secs the opposite wheel had moved forward from the chock ? Great informative video. Cheers, Rob & Gail 😀
Hi Rob, as always, many thanks for watching and leaving a comment. Had the KiwikFit Fitter here today (3 new tyres) and funnily enough it moved very slightly forward when he jacked up too. Not sure if it was pivoting or if the handbrake just wasn't tight enough. In my case it was hitched to the car so the movement would only have just been what the hitch damper would allow but that's too much. What's your view? Had a nice stay at Searles, our grandson could not get enough of the fairground lol. ATB, Dave & Helen.
@@HelenandDave I’d say it was everything you’ve described, the hitch allowing the handbrake to take up the slack, hence the pivoting. We’ll keep a look out for Searles 👍. Cheers, Rob & Gail
Hi Paul, I thought that was the case and found that there is a further extension on the jack and it lifts high enough to change the wheel. Thanks for watching, Helen & Dave
Great video has made me think and definitely getting the kojack this I no exactly how to fit it .After watching your indepth video brilliant and a massive thankyou .ps also agree its nice to have a new caravan because your caravan is always loosing money so it's waying up the options .your caravan is emaculate all the best terry emm
Hi Terry & Emm, thanks very much for the lovely feedback, appreciated. Glad we got the Kojack, there is a link in the description that will take you to their Amazon shop, where you van also view a full description. Thanks for supporting. ATB, Dave & Helen.
If you use a wooden board under the jack you will get more surface area as well as height and I would recommend that if you are at the side of the road and are changing the offside wheel especially to angle the jack towards the front of the caravan so that you are a)not having to hold the mudflap and b) you don't have your body sticking out into a live lane and you are able to observe oncoming traffic. I would also keep the shorter handle but either get a longer handle or a length of pipe (not plastic) to go over that handle to make pumping up easier with greater leverage and faster. You will want to be as fast as possible if at the side of the road. As with a car, you should always have the spare already removed and under the chassis and then the removed wheel so that if the jack suddenly failed, the hub does not end up on the floor with little clearance to be able to jack it up again. Bottle jacks also have a tendency to leak a little as they get older, so keeping it in an old ice cream tub or similar will help prevent you dirtying your car boot or wherever you keep it in the caravan. Never attempt to jack up on a hill and wherever possible, it would be better to first pump the tyre with air to allow you enough time to get to a relatively flat area to change the tyre.
Hi there Andrew, this excellent advice both in terms of H&S and practicality. Really appreciate it and will head it too. Thanks very much, Dave & Helen.
I like the ice cream tub idea, I have always cursed jacks for marking their territory in the back of my Land Rovers. I even went as far as making a wooden tray for the trolley jack to live in, stooped carrying that as they're a right pain on anything other than a hard smooth surface.
Just a quickie (which might need sanity-checking by someone else). At 13:00, where you're using the horizontal spirit level on the bracket to make adjustments to ensure it is level before tightening the bolts, it's worth mentioning that you have to be sure you've double-checked that the van itself is level front-to-back before you start the fitting process. Nice video, thumbs up from me. I always make a point of reading others comments because it refines everything but that wouldn't happen unless you'd taken the trouble to make the video in the first place. I'm new to this game and have only been out once and it was a bit of a nightmare (I i won't go into it 😅). I hate the idea of not being able to change a wheel myself, but on my 2010 Bailey Pageant the spare is slung under the middle of the axle and i wouldn't fancy jacking up to fish it out when needed. I go local (with decent mobile signals) do will probably rely on RAC/AA, but when I start going further afield I'm probably going to fit a Kojack and keep the spare in the van when towing.
Hi Steve, many thanks for watching and your valuable comment, appreciated. We used to have a Bailey with the spare underneath. I tried to remove it once, just so I knew how to do it and inspect the condition of the tyre but the frame was corroded and it wouldn't budge so if you haven't already, I would just try that. Bailey's are very nice vans so so we wish you many happy trips and thanks again for watching and taking the time to leave a comment. ATB, Dave & Helen.
Hi Donna, good to hear from you again. No such thing as a daft question but yes, it stays on all of the time now. Reassuring to know we have it. Take care, Helen & Dave 👍
Thats a great video, i learn something every day, never thought about not jacking up on alko chassis. So now my dilemma is should i fit this system as you have so excellent demonstrated or as you pointed out just ring mayday or whoever, after all i cannot remember the last time i was anywhere and i didnt have a phone signal. 🤔
Hi Ian, thanks very much for watching, glad you liked the video. Thing is, I’ve never had a puncture on the caravan yet but I have been in an area without a phone signal loads of times. I hope I never get a caravan puncture but the law of averages says, I will one day. So I just wanted to be covered in that eventuality. Thanks again for the comment and watching the video. Cheers, Dave & Helen 👍
These definitely look super handy thank you, ha definitely can’t go wrong with a a load of bit timber. Something I keep in my car is a tyre puncture plugging kit just in case, won’t work on side walls and certain areas but very handy if need to sort something fast and temporary. Oh also need to carry some sort of pump a battery one or a compressor that works off the car battery. Thanks though will get some of these jacking points. Sam
Hi, I am also thinking of buying this jacking system. However I also have a tyre sealant added to my wheels to help prevent a flat tyre. Should I get a puncture it automatically seals and prevents the tyre from going down. Very easy to instal and will hopefully prevent a flat on a narrow country road. Regards Peter.
Hi Peter, that’s interesting, I haven’t seen these. I’ve seen the puncture/flat tyre repair, which might be good as a temporary fix to get you to a safe place to change your tyre. I have put a link to the Kojack in the description to this video where you can find full info. Thanks very much for watching and leaving a comment. ATB, Dave & Helen 👍
I have the Kojack system the same as yours. I am assuming that you know that the ram of the hydraulic jack is in 3 parts outer ram, inner ram and also a screw in/out part this last part should be undone to give you enought lift on the jack. Hope this helps
I love comments like this, most helpful, thank you. If only I had read the instructions properly first 😂😂. I’m glad I got it. Thanks again, Dave & Helen 👍
I have a twin axle caravan with a quad motor mover. Unfortunately these get in the way of the mounting holes so you can't use one of these jacks :( One piece of a advice I'd like to offer though is always carry an axle stand with you to pop under the chassis once you've jacked it up. If the ground becomes a little unstable or you're on a road with large lorries flying past which can sway the caravan this can potentially make it unstable too. The axle stand could save your limbs or your life!
I have a similar problem with movers getting in the way on our T/A . I found an electric scissor jack which fits between the wheels to allow access to the jacking point.
Great video, i had seen this on Caravan Escapades as you had suggested, its a good product. I have an Elddis caravan with a BPW chassis which means i cannot fit this to my van. Unfortunately Purpleline only make a kit for ALCO chassis which is a shame. Anyway another great video, look forward to the next one.
I think when I fit mine I'll replace them bolts and nylocs with S/Steel ones. That air release screw should have been nipped up really Dave, just use the end of the lifting lever to tighten and undo. You did well considering the tools you were using :)
Thanks very much for the advice, typical me, straight in without reading the destructions (naughty I know). I’m deffo no mechanic but it was straight forward. Hope you’re well and thanks for watching. ATB, Dave & Helen 👍
I see on eBay that the LoJack scissor jack is 1/2 the price of the bottle jack version, and it comes with the bolt on jack points as well, better deal if you are being cost efficient…😁
Hi Dave. I am relatively new to the caravan world and have stumbled across a flat tyre after setting up and going out and coming back to the van. I’m on a grass pitch with long grass and have very little ground clearance. Is there anyone out there with any suggestions?
Hi Richard, sounds very precarious especially if the ground is soft. I would try and hitch the caravan to the car and tow it onto hard ground whee you can then hopefully get a jack underneath but you may need to call green flag or RAC if you are a member. Cheers, Dave
In regard to jacking up the caravan following a puncture years ago I experienced such an issue on our way to our holiday destination. The situation wasn't helped by the fact the puncture was to the side where I would access the spare-wheel rack. By using a combination of caravan steadies and the Jockey wheel I managed to lift the side of the van high enough to removed the punctured wheel and access the rack, not recommended using the steadies to support the weight of the van but in an emergency?
Well done George, a scary situation but you managed to get yourself out of it. It really is a nightmare scenario. Thanks for sharing. Cheers, Dave & Helen 👍
Hi Phil, sadly no, just the cardboard box it’s delivered in. There is a link in the video description with full details. Thanks for watching. Cheers, Dave and Helen 👍
Hi Richard, yes the holes are already there so it’s nice and easy to fit. There’s a link in the description that will take you to all the info you need on Amazon. Thanks for watching, Dave & Helen 👍
Interesting, I fitted the AL-KO ones that come with a standard jack, just as easy but yours raised the caravan quicker. Can't believe the manufacturers don't fit them as standard, especially as it needs with a spare wheel.
Hi Kevin, I'm amazed that they are not supplied. There is an awful lot of kit that has to be purchased over and above the caravan itself before you can get out and actually camp! Like a battery for instance. ATB to you and Sadie, Cheers, Dave & Helen.
Hi Dave Just watched your video on the Kojak could you tell me can the jack be swivelled round as I have a twin axle fitted with an all wheel drive powertouch motor mover? Thank you Brian
Hi Brian, if you mean can you twist the base so the Jack can be pumped from an angle, then yes it can. There is a link in the description to the Jack where you could read a full description. Thanks for watching Brian. Cheers, Dave
Have you considered how high the jack must lift from a fully flat tyre to allow for an inflated spare to be fitted. My Coachman tyre wall is about 5” so the jack must lift that height above just getting an inflated tyre off the ground. Even with an inflated tyre ou we’re at the full extent of travel. Is the jack therefor not for changing a flat tyre?
Hi Fred, what I hadn’t considered at the time of filming was that the Jack has a 3rd extension which is threaded and if this is first extended then the two further hydraulic bars will give sufficient height/clearance to remove and fit an inflated tyre. It’s a good point you made and thanks for the comment. Cheers, Dave
@@HelenandDave Dave? I don’t think you understand. The screw is only there to engage the jack to the jacking pound and doesn’t lift anything. All we have is the 6” of lift in the other two stages. With a fully flat tyre that’s just enough to get the offending wheel off. The fully inflated tyre can’t be fitted without extra lift that the Kojak doesn’t have.
@@HelenandDave I saw your TH-cam and you just had a slow puncture on a twin axle. Not a true test. Try a fully flat tyre on a single axle and you’ll see what I mean.
@@fredcutler1640 you’re getting confused, I don’t have a twin axle caravan but anyway, I’ve tried it again since I made the video and it works fine. I also have watched countless other videos and read on line articles. The Jack works fine and I’m happy with it. 👍😊
Hi Roger, thanks for watching. I don’t know much about them or how you inflate, assume with a foot pump. Worth chatting with a dealer/retailer I would suggest. Thanks for watching, ATB Dave & Helen 👍
I always have a aerosol tyre weld can in my car and an electric pump ..I think it would seal the tyre to get you home ..not had to use it yet tho so not sure tbh
Hi Dave You said the safest place to jack up a caravan is the axle yet you put the kojack on the chassis I'm a little confused, surely this will bend the chassis Confused of Belvedere
Hi Kenneth, Al-Ko who build these frames have pre drilled the holes to fit a jacking point, It you were to jack under the frame (other than under the axle) it will almost certainly buckle. The Kojack system (along with other makes) are designed for the job and to be attached to the pre drilled holes. Hope that helps. Cheers, Dave & Helen.
Hi Ian, yes the axle is the strongest part of the frame but it’s also the hardest part to access especially if you have a motor mover and mud flaps fitted and there is also no safe jacking point (certainly not on our caravan). Cheers Dave & Helen 👍
This was a very interesting video because I already have a bottle jack and I didn’t know how I was going to put the jack on the chassis to lift it up. I think I will have to get that kit. Just out of interest where did you get yours from? Thanks Dave
Hi Makey & Jackie, I must admit I had read this too, such a shame that they didn't come up with something a little stronger. Hopefully, it won't get much use lol. Thanks for watching. ATB, Dave & Helen.
Hello Howell, thanks very much for watching and leaving a comment. There are many contradictory views on this. Personally as long as the caravan is hitched to the car and there is a chock under the opposite wheel then I think that steadies down to steady the caravan is fine but under no circumstances should the weight of the caravan be put on the steadies as that could damage the chassis or caravan floor. If you are concerned about the caravan potentially falling then the only trusted form of support would be an axle stand. The challenge is would you really be carrying axle stands on your Caravanning trip? Putting the spare under the axle before swapping the wheel is probably a good alternative in the event of a Jack fail. Thanks again, Dave & Helen 👍
Great video except a couple of safety issues. NEVER go under anything only supported with a jack, putting fingers under a wheel is a huge no no, imagine if the jack collapsed when your fingers were underneath, would make going to the loo interesting. Also putting your head under it, I hope I don't need to explain that one. Jacking anything is an incredibly dangerous act that if you are lucky you will never need to do at the side of a road with vehicles passing at speed. Thank you for another well produced video.
Hi Trevor, Thanks for these top H&S tips, much appreciated. I didn’t have my head under the caravan whilst it was jacked up at anytime but I did fall fowl to the fingers under the wheel, not clever and I won’t be doing that again. I dread the thought of changing a wheel at the side of the road, especially a motorway, that would be a job for the recovery team. ATB Dave & Helen 👍
@@HelenandDave Cheers Dave. I get a bit OTT when it comes to jacking. Once saw someone loose their hand because just as they were taking the wheel off the jack collapsed, they had their hand on top of the tyre. A bit messy.
Why do so many caravan builders and designers use the AL-KO chassis there is absolutely no torsional diagonal rigidity what so ever, every time you use the corner steadies the body is under stress and the sealed joints eventually start leaking I speak from experience having owned a Bailey.
Hi Roger, this is not something I am very knowledgable about but you would think/hope after all of these years they would have got it right. We had a Bailey prior to the Sterling and the spare tyre under the frame in a rack that was almost impossible to access was also quite baffling! Thanks for watching and your comment is very much appreciated. Best wishes, Helen & Dave
,@@HelenandDave I also had a problem with the spare wheel, it was made in such a manner that I could not get to the wheel as it was trapped under chassis when the carrier was lowered. Roger
Hi Phil, funny you should say that, they’re on my drive fitting 3 new tyres as we speak and you’re right. You can’t get quicker….. top job. ATB, Dave & Helen 👍
@@andrewmoorey6103 Thanks Andrew, I wouldn’t honestly know (pretty useless at anything like this). I just followed the diagram. There was only two washers on each mount and the diagram showed them on the bolt side. The bolts are nylon lock. I’m worried now 😬
Always tighten the nut, not the bolt
I bought one of these systems. Jacked the caravans once, saw the way it twisted the Alford chassis legs and took it off. Tried it on both my Coachman 546 vip and daughters Bailey Vendee. Same effect on both chassis. Found the finish to be appalling, the welding atrocious and in fact regarded it as detrimental to my caravan so disposed of it.
In its stead I made my own from 30mmx10mm cold rolled steel bar , 50mmx50mmx3mm able iron and short pieces of 50mm steel tube.
The 30x10 was used to make a piece 50mm longer than the chassis was deep and a fish plate to fit inside the chassis.
The 50x 50x was welded to the long 30x10 and a M12 nut welded to the vertical face. The tube was cut to protrude 20 mm below the longer piece of flat bar and welded to both the flat bar and the angle iron. The long flat bar was marked to match the pre punched holes in the chassis, the fishplate was marked to match the same holes. The longer plate was drilled 13 mm to give clearance to M12x bolts the fishplate was drilled and tapped M12x.
When 4 of these pieces were made they were sent of to be galvanised.
I purchased a couple of 3.5 ton bottle jacks.
Upon fitted the units to the caravans I found jacking the caravans to a hight where I could easily removed a wheel if needed caused no twist whatsoever to the chassis rails.
Each pair was made in a couple of hours and material costs including galvanising was aprox £25 per pair. Jacks were £50 each but I bought 3.5 ton jacks as supplied with Iveco Daily vans, cheaper are available from Internet.
Compared to the £100 I spent on the kojack system that would of in my giew damaged my chassis a cheaper and better method of lifting the van.
The kojack system twists the chassis rails because the jacking point is out from the face of the chassis rails and acts like a lever upon them. My system not only strengthens the rail substantially by means of the fish plate but the jacking point is in line with the chassis face so forces are perpendicular to the chassis. The angle iron and clamp bolt through it acts on the fish plate to ensure there is no forcing of the jacking plate from the face of the chassis rails while the caravan is being jacked. I happily pay the weight penalty secure in the knowlage that my system was engineered to be safe and not damage my chassis rails
Thanks for commenting, interesting stuff 👍 The fines for overweight caravans can be considerable, best to keep an eye on weights, something we all don’t do enough. ATB Dave & Helen 👍
great video .. my motor mover is behind the wheels .yours are in front of the wheel ..which means you are able to fit the brackets quite easily.. has anyone managed to fit the kojack with a motor mover hindering access to the bolt holes? tia
Hi Glen, many thanks for watching and leaving a comment. I haven’t had anyone mention that the motor mover is in the way behind the wheels but that’s a pain for you. Sorry I can’t offer any help but maybe your dealer/service engineer may be able to offer help. Thanks again for watching. Cheers, Helen & Dave 👍
Hi Glenn. By chance over the Easter hols I removed both wheels myself as the tyres had reached their 5 year life and needed replacing at our local tyre fitters. Our Coachman motor mover is in front of the wheels. I have a 2 tonne trolley jack which presented little problem in jacking up at the axle/chassis cross-plate. I bought the trolly jack because I feel it is steadier and safer to use as long as you hitch the van up and chock up the opposite side first ( we have a single axle van). Hope this helps.
I’ve got one of the original kojack scissor jacks I bought in 2008. Brill tool. Moved it on to my new Coachman.
It’s used almost every trip to align the wheels for the alko lock.
Remember to service the jack and use regularly.
Used it last year to free the van when the van sank deep in the soft field.
That's good to Know Rich, thanks for sharing. Must say, I never considered raising the van to align the wheel lock before, great idea. Thanks for watching. Helen & Dave
Have run flat tyres (metal band within) just started watching you videos dave, owned a caravan for years never had a puncher? Now said that next time out I'll get one😂,
Hi David, thanks for watching the channel we really appreciate your support. We’re 8 years into Caravanning and we’ve been lucky too (hope it stays that way). Thanks & stay tuned 👍 Helen & Dave 👍
Hi,Dave.
Good video,I'm about to go into the caravaning world and obviously I will be a novice.I found this video very useful and,your right in the comment,should you suffer a puncture where there's no mobile signal.Thanks again Dave.😊
Thanks very much Paul, your comment and feedback is really appreciated. Best to be prepared. Cheers, Dave
I would suggest the Alko jacking system would be better as there is more room for the jack if the Caravan is very low because of a flat tyre. We fitted a 2000 kg one to our 1500kg van.
Just fitted mine today nice and easy job peace of mind now after seeing your video thank you
Nice one William, must say I’m glad we got it 👍 ATB Dave & Helen 👍
now take it off and sell it. go buya trolley jack and put it under the axle, save you twisting the chassis.. or simply use the bottle jack under the chassis itself, by going outward at the bottom your damaging the chassis and asking for trouble with bottle jack falling over..... remember yo umight be having the change a wheel on mud or grass or soft tarmack... you never get a flat tyre ona nice dead flat smooth road with no traffic.
Nice and handy for taking on holiday a trolly jack 😂😂😂
Hi Dave I am old school I have a 2 ton trolley jack no problem place it under the axel pump it up no chance of it falling off, I must admit the kojack is a great alternative great video. Pete.
That's not old school, that's organised lol. Thanks for watching Peter
Thanks Dave.
Thanks Dave,
Didn’t even think about how i change a caravan tyre ! i presumed the car jack would suffice !… clearly not!😁😁… you have saved me a whole world of trouble !!
Thanks Joe, that's exactly the position I was in. Never had to change one yet but know plenty who have, I too had no idea how I was going to deal with it. Thanks for watching. Helen & Dave
Me thinks you've convinced me to get one of these fitted, another great video ......
Cheers
Hi Michael, thanks very much for watching. I feel better knowing it’s there now but hope not to have to use it anytime soon. ATB Dave & Helen 👍
The kojack is a brilliant product. Especially for aligning up the wheel for the Alko Chassis/wheel lock. And or putting tyre savers under the wheels for long term storage to stop flat spots.
Hi Kevin, valuable comment and much appreciated. Hadn’t thought about that re: alignment for wheel lock 👍😊. Cheers, Dave & Helen
Great video Dave. Thanks for sharing. Enjoy your time ;))
Thanks Stew, always appreciate your support. ATB, Dave & Helen 👍
Hi Dave, Great Vlog and a big thank you for mentioning us. Glad our vlog on the Flat Tyre helped you decide on what Jack to fit onto your caravan. It is a great system, Jack is a bit weighty so we secure it in the caravan but it is we'll worth it. Your vlog was a very comprehensive demonstration of how to Jack up the Caravan. The Jack will go a bit higher, there are 3 sections to the piston. It gets a bit harder when you get to the 3rd. Thanks for sharing all the best. James
You’re welcome James, genuinely watching your video was a game changer for us. I now realise the Jack extends higher, a few of my subscribers put me right👍 Thanks for watching. ATB Dave & Helen 👍
Excellent video, clear and informative. Don’t forget to raise the steadies!
Thank You very much. YES! steadies up, you’re right. ATB, Dave & Helen 👍
I wouldn’t be sticking my fingers under the wheel to see if it’s jacked up enough, if the seal in that jack goes your fingers are crushed into that nice concrete driveway you’ve got there…just an observation…
Maybe a proper jacking pad?, using one would give you more height on the jack so less jacking but make sure you have enough room to get the jack out when you drop the van
Cheers for the video, very informative 👍
Hi Andy, thanks for watching and leaving a comment. Yes, lesson learned, you're not the first to point that mistake out to me, it's appreciated though, so ta. ATB, Dave & Helen.
Watched your video , I've had 2 twin axle caravans since 2014 both lost the jacking points due to the 4 wheel motor mover so I bought a small trolley jack from Halfords, worked well plus if you have a twin axle it makes fitting the alko locks to both wheels a doddle. Just one safety point I would not recommend putting your hand between the wheel and the floor to check the clearance, the one in a million chance this new jack was to fail the Consequences would be very serious.
Thanks Barry, you're not the first person to point that out! Shan't be doing that again. Trolly Jack sounds like a great alternative. Thanks for watching. ATB, Dave & Helen.
Yeah, I must admit I need that jacking system aswell. I follow caravan escapades aswell and seeing that him and you both have them now has made my mind up to get some now . Thanks again and keep the good work up.
Hi Andrew, thanks for watching and taking the time to leave a comment. I must admit, I just can't believe I left it so long to get this sorted. Hope you get one soon. ATB, Dave & Helen.
Great vlog Dave, will be getting the twin axle system for my caravan. Cheers Terry
Thanks very much Terry. I do feel much better now it’s fitted but will call Mayday before I get on my knees at the side of the motorway 😂😂. Thanks for watching. ATB Dave & Helen 👍
Torque wrench should be on the nut, not the bolt head. You should be tightening the nut against a surface that you want to be tight against and against which the torque should be measured. By measuring it on the bolt head you cannot be sure that some of the resistance in the torque is not caused by the bolt heads interface with the fixing surface, or anywhere else that the bolt shaft comes into contact with that causes friction. This is more of an issues on rough surfaces and less of an issues on new paint. But any burr on the bracket could have an effect.
Also when changing a flat tyre jack the wheel up to a height that allows you to put on an inflated tyre. Remember it will stand higher. You don't want to be raising the caravan on the jack without a wheel on. That is the time it will fall off the jack. Better to fall back on the wheel than the ground. Blocks under the axle are a good idea
It is possible to jack an alko chassis without a jacking point, but very dodgy, unless the load is well spread with a spreader plate of some description. But if you do, always place the jack behind the axle to the rear. Otherwise you could be trying to jack the tow vehicle too. Also take care in high sidewinds. If as sometimes happens you lose wheel nuts in the excitement and drama of rain, darkness, mud, sand etc, then rob some off the other wheel. Generally three retaining nuts will get you to a safer place if care is taken.
Thanks David, comprehensive and useful information. Cheers, Dave & Helen.
Top advice, thank you! I would have made the identical mistake by torquing the bolt vs nut.
Also there must be a washer under the nut.
@mcplutt not according to the instructions which can be clearly seen in the video
@@HelenandDave I see, but I wouldn't always trust instruction. I would probably have used washers on both sides. But most important to use a washer between the nut and the frame.
Great Jack dave although I do carry a small bottle Jack worst nightmare has got to be getting a puncture on a smart motorway or not so smart another great video enjoy sunny hunny been to searles plenty of times
Hi Martin, totally agree, the thought of it alone is quite scary. Our first time at Searles, getting our grandson off the fairground rides was a challenge 😂😂 Thanks for watching, ATB, Dave & Helen 👍
Who loves ya baby 📍, great jacking system, I was looking at fitting the kojack , but we were lucky,because are caravan had the alco Jack system already on it, cheers Dave, let’s hope we never have to use them,👍👍
😂😂😂 I wondered if anyone would quote Tele Savallis 👍 Too right, would rather not have to put it to the test. ATB, Dave & Helen 👍
Hi dave I had these on my caravan. Very useful. Campervan now.
But I may be strong. But the kojak didn't look square to the chassis. The reference I was using. On your view through wheel & flap. Didn't look parallel to floor of caravan & top of jack
Hi David, thanks for watching, hope you’re well. I think it’s an illusion, deffo on square but the drive does slope a little and the van was hitched to the car so front end a little lower than the back. Thanks again. Dave & Helen 👍👍
Looks really good will look at purchasing one
Thanks Paul, it’s something that you never really want to use but I feel better for having it. Thanks for watching. ATB Dave & Helen 👍
dont its over priced rubbish gimick. buy a trolley jack
It’s great to see you managed to extract the full kit out of the box without all the orange paint falling off. Maybe Kojack have stopped using the very technical, take a mouthful of paint and spit on the jack spraying system
Yeah, no problems at all then and now. Sounds like you have had issues though!
Hi Dave & Helen,
I finally got around to installing my Kojack (why do I crave a lollipop when I say that word) last week and hopefully I shan’t have to test it anytime soon 🤞
The funnything was that I promised myself after watching your BAFTA winning video that I would take the mud flaps off first.
It was only when I got on my hands and knees that I realised our 580 doesn’t have any 😂
Another thanks from us for your service!
Best wishes
David & Rachel 🥂
Hi David & Rachel, ‘Who loves ya baby’ 😂😂 This has to be one of the funniest comments we’ve ever had. David, you need to get on your knees more! Seriously though, thanks as always for watching, hope you got the Kojack fitted ok and as you say have no need to use it anytime soon. Best wishes, Helen & Dave 👍
Hi Dave I have the original Kojack which is the scissor type circa 2009 still going strong 👍😁
Hi Colin, that's reassuring to know. I can't believe I hadn't done this sooner. Hope you're well. ATB, Dave & Helen.
Great video, very informative. One question….. How much clearance do I need beside the bracket? On my Bailey Phoenix+ 640, the grey waste pipe runs close to the pre-drilled holes for the offside bracket. I’d like to make sure I can fit the bracket, before ordering a set.
Hi Rich, many thanks for your comment. It's raining at the moment but if you send me an e-mail to caravantastic@hotmail.com I'll get out and take a picture and measure up and send to you. Thanks for watching. Dave & Helen.
Excellent video Dave. I also live in Norfolk. Brand new to caravans and watching your video when you visited Greentrees i spotted a nice caravan at the end of the video. So thanks to you i bought it. I pick it up in a few weeks. 18th July. What torque wrench have you got mate? Thank you both again for your videos. Im learning alot from them. All the best.
Hi Dave, great to hear from you and congratulations on your caravan purchase. I'd be grateful if you let them know at Greentrees that you saw the caravan on our TH-cam Channel. Hope you have many fun adventures. Here is a link to our amazon store and the Torque wrench. Best wishes, Helen & Dave
Excellent, there is a slot on the end of the handle that slots into the valve that you open and close to release the pressure
Thanks for pointing that out, much appreciated. Dave & Helen 👍
Great job. Top man
Thanks 👍
Had one for years and moved it from van to van as they came and went. Just buy new hardware,19mm bolts, Nylocs and washers each time ( Ive a box now).
I use it each time I remove the wheels and replace the winter wheels. Always keep the jack upright as over time if laid over they'll get an airlock and bleeding a jack on the site of a puncture is not recommended for you blood pressure! As a belt and braces I also carry a foldable axle stand.
Thanks for watching Dave and for your invaluable top tips. Folding axle stand is a great idea. Best wishes, Dave
Hi . You have to remember a flat tyre drops your height by 4to5 inches a thick block won’t let you get the jack in place. Great content though
Thanks Mick, good point, hope I never have to find out but maybe a slimmer block of wood worth keeping in the locker 👍 Cheers, Dave & Helen
Absolutely right! Best thing is to run the flat up a levelling block. My old work colleague found this out the hard way on a trip to Scotland. He had trouble placing his jack underneath and another van stopped and the guy suggested running it up a level which created more distance.
Tried to buy this system in NZ but not able to. Even tried Australia.
Made same type from heavy angle iron and had engineer weld in supports to each side also jack retention pipe to stop jack slipping. Turn out a great lifting port with bottle jack either 2 or 4 ton.
Hi Warren, great to know we have viewers in New Zealand, thanks so much. Shame you couldn’t pick one up but what a brilliant alternative you have come up with. ATB, Dave & Helen 👍
Well done Dave, fiddly job, I find jobs like that often need a swear box.
Fitted Kojacks on a couple of our vans, not too easy to access and getting the jack stable and engaged is sometimes a bit of a fuss, had to use it too regularly for levelling on the drive, so got a trolley jack. Need a good piece of scaff board or similar to go beneath any jack to get a stable platform on soft or dodgy ground. Thankfully in 30 years and a lot of trips, never had a puncture on a van.
Have a Kojack in my garage for a twin axle, never fitted it, so will end up in a car boot along with lots of other redundant stuff one day! Due to dodgy knees I cheat nowadays with an E and P system, though would most likely still get Mayday out to change a wheel in any case, as it is the law of Sod that it will not likely happen in a great place…..
Hi there Mel, you e done well to go all that time without a puncture, well done. You must also have accumulated a lot of gear over that time, Im always buying caravan stuff 😂😂. Hope you’re well and thanks for watching 👍
I fitted the Bailey one to my Swift as it's all Alko Chassis.
According to Alko site you can place a jack on the chassis or the double part of the chassis either side of the axel no where else.
Hi Mike, that’s absolutely correct other than the pre drilled holes in the frame to attach a jacking plate. Thanks for watching and leaving a comment. Cheers, Dave & Helen 👍
Great video, well put together and very informative. Another job on the list for me to do next month on our caravan.
Thanks very much for watching. Sorry to give you another job but I’m glad I’ve finally done it. ATB, Dave & Helen 👍
I measured the height of the point, where to put the jack under the frame, to the ground and indeed in case of a flat tyre it is to low to put a pot jack under it. You’ll definitely need a scissor jack. I checked the size of the scissor jack foot. It’s bigger as the one from the pot jack. The top area of the scissor jack is flat and also bigger as that from the pot jack.
The kojack is a brilliant product. Just a little pointer the jack does have another extension! The top of the jack is on a threaded bar and can be screwed out the extend before you use the 2 hydraulic extensions
Hi Darren, thanks very much for watching and that little useful pointer. I have since worked that one out but I’m pleased to be able to report that thus far I’ve not had to use it. Hope that remains the case for some time 👍 ATB, Dave & Helen 👍
The screw just takes up the slack, same as putting a block of wood under the jack. This is not lifting anything anywhere is it?
Hi, I fitted this system to our van. I’ve also modified a Milenco Stacka levelling pad as a stable platform for the jack to stand on. Did this by cutting a few of the fins off with a multi tool. We also use the Milenco pads to level the caravan, you need to jack it up to use the Alco lock. Not as much bother than you might think. The Milenco tyre saver sits on top of the levelling pad when in use.
Hi, thanks for watching, sounds like a good modification with the Milenco levelling pad, well done! Appreciate your comment. Cheers, Dave & Helen 👍
A great video, easy enough to do, not sure why they don't supply spring washers or nyloc nuts to prevent the nuts loosening overtime, can't see the point of spirit levels unless you actually level the caravan prior to fitting, some great advice on jacking up after fitting 👍
Hi there, thanks for watching. The nuts are actually nyloc, I should have highlighted that. I won’t be getting on my knees to check the caravan is level, will stick with using my little spirit level in the van.😂 Glad I have the Jack, should have done this earlier. ATB, Dave & Helen 👍
You could angle the jack on the block to give mud flap clearance. the top will stay connected. If steady's are down, you need to raise them before jacking.
Thanks Helen, I’ll look at that. Steadies up for sure. ATB Dave & Helen 👍
Hi Dave, most interesting although I did squirm when you ran your hand under the tyre, however as I do not anticipate changing a wheel [leave that to the RAC!], does the caravan include it's own jacking point? [Swift Challenger 480se 2024]
Hi John, thanks for watching and leaving a comment. I'm not certain about your specific model but from what I can gather most caravans are jacked underneath the axle (the strongest point) RAC/Green Flag would also be my first point of call, assuming I can get a phone signal and as we are often away in the sticks that can sometimes be an issue, which is why I decided to get this particular jack. The car jack wouldn't be suitable as our motor mover inhibits access to the axle but this comes with a bracket that is designed to fit onto the Al-Ko frame. Been caravanning for 8 years, out almost every week and never had a puncture and hope it stays that way but at least I know that should the worst happen and I can't get through to the recovery service, then I can hopefully get out of trouble. Thanks again, Dave
@@HelenandDave ☝
hi Dave,you dont need a block to get more height as the top section screws out to increase the height.You,ve probably found that out by now but just thought i,d say. Love your vlogs.
Hi Rob, thanks, yes this has been pointed out to me, if only I had read the instructions first 😬. Thanks for supporting and leaving a comment. ATB, Dave & Helen 👍
Relying pn the spirit level to adjust the position of the brackets MUST also require that the van is LEVEL before you start. This video commented on the van pitching down towards the car, SO if using the jack this would suggest you are not getting a true virtical lift and therefore possible movement as the groove in the lift piston would not fully interface with the bracket fitting.
Hi Mike, you're absolutely right and this was pointed out to me before (the video is well over a year old now). I did check this with the caravan level and adjusted accordingly. Thanks for watching and pointing this out. Cheers, Dave
Good clear video. Thank you
Thanks for watching 👍
looks great
Cheers Steve, appreciate it 👍
Hi. Dave Some great points made there on jacking points on the caravan frame. It's a problem when on the side of the road/motorway we don't have a jack as such. I have the jack but no jacking point on the frame 😕 we have RAC and like you use that as a default. Great video cheers Paul and Sarah
Hi Paul & Sarah, I don’t want to think about a puncture on the motorway, that has to be a job for the professionals. I’d need to come a lane off and cause some tailbacks before I attempted it 😂. Hope you’re enjoying your trip away and thanks for watching. Cheers, Dave & Helen 👍
@@HelenandDave yes really enjoying this site. So much around here to do but most you need a car to get to it all.
Great Volg ! All i would say if you have a standard bottle jack (Aldi 5 ton) you can use this even if its a bit tall, by running the punctured tyre up your levelling ramp to get under the axle jacking point before lifting .
Hi John, yes that sounds very feasible. We’ve been lucky to not have a puncture so far but I do feel much better now. Will still call Mayday first 😂😂. Thanks as always, cheers, Dave & Helen 👍
From experience once jacked up do not remove wheel until you have the alko wheel carrier lowered and pulled out if that is how you transport the spare and lower the front and rear corner steady on the side you are working the carrier can be a total nightmare to pull out if it has not been moved for a while and could dislodge the jack
@@ericdavis5723 Hi Eric, that’s a really good point. Our spare is in the side locker under the bed but I think the same rule applies, get the spare out ready. Sounds like you’ve experienced the challenges first hand. Thanks for sharing. Cheers, Dave & Helen 👍
@@HelenandDaveIndeed Just Call Mayday , Especially On Motorways, I Know They Sometimes Take A While To Turn Up But It's Just To Dangerous On The Roadside.👍
@ronaldyardley8965 yes, couldn’t agree more 👍
Love your videos but just wondered if I could ask a question about this one. At 19:42 into the video and especially at 19:55 is it my imagination or is the jacking motion flexing the chasis outwards? I know the caravan is tilting but the angle between the caravan floor and the back edge of the jacking bracket is not remaining a constant angle. Surely this is dangerous and can/will weaken your chasis.
Hi Andy, many thanks for watching the channel we really appreciate your support. No, the chassis didn’t/doesn’t bend or flex I’m sure it’s the fact that the camera is level but the caravan is being tilted to one side that may give that impression.
The frames are amazingly strong. Thankfully, I’ve had no use for this Jack as yet and hopefully that will remain the case! I did get it purely from a belt & braces perspective to get us out of trouble as a last resort. Thanks again for watching and best wishes, Helen & Dave
Hi, great video. Our new van has this already fitted, but now, having watched video, I can use the jacking system safely. Never thought about being attached to the car for safety if it was on site.
Thanks, Paul and Jo .
Hi Paul & Jo, oh I’m glad it’s been useful for you, thanks very much for watching, appreciate it. ATB, Dave & Helen 👍
Hi David, when you fitted the bolts on the brackets, the washers should have gone between the chassis and the nuts, that my way of thinking 🤔 and not the bolts. I like the idea of the bottle jack with the telescopic lifting ram, 👌
Hi there Hilary, thanks very much indeed for watching and leaving a comment. No it clearly shows on the diagram in the instructions that the washers are on the not side, not the bolt side. I can’t attach a pic but if you pause the video at 8m02s you will see what I mean (if it’s not blurred). Obviously I hope I never need to use it but it certainly gives me a bit more peace of mind. Thanks again, ATB, Dave & Helen 👍
Hilary is correct in saying the washer always goes under the nut in engineering practise but in this case it’s being used to spread the head load over a slot so technically a washer is used correctly under the head in this case, the correct way should be head and nut reversed so the head load is spread evenly over its entire contact surface with the chassis but it would be even more difficult to fit one handed. As it’s the bolt that’s in shear loading it is very unlikely to matter much anyway but in general practise it’s always good to follow the assembly instructions then in the event of failure the legal beavers would determine who is to blame.
Hi there Ron, thanks very much for the additional info. I must admit, it does seem strange that the washer is not on the nut side doesn’t it and I can’t think why a washer is not both sides either. I’m not at all technical so that’s why I followed the instruction leaflet. Your final point is a good one too. Thanks again, Dave 👍
@@HelenandDave David I have also fitted these just in case as I have experienced 3 flats in 50 years of vanning. I am a retired mechanical design engineer and my experience is avoiding clear technical assembly instructions are inevitably the result of losing in a claim court when I submit my report to prove that is the case.
@@ronr61 No flats yet but the law of averages suggest it’s only a matter of time. Good to get the perspective of others who can talk from experience. Thanks again 👍
Hi Dave, we have a German Caravan on an Alko chassis with built in Jacking point witch is galvanised, and use a Alko scissor Jack, not had to use it in an emergency yet but had a test run, seems to work fine, very informative Video Bob
Hi there Bob, that’s interesting to know, it seems some manufacturers do fit them then which is good. Even better that you haven’t had to use it though. Thanks for watching, cheers Dave and Helen 👍
Good job done there Dave 👍. No worries now if you get a puncture (not that you want one). I fitted the Alko side lift jack but I prefer the kojack bottle jack. Don’t know why Alko didn’t go this way? Did you notice at around 22 min 20 secs the opposite wheel had moved forward from the chock ? Great informative video. Cheers, Rob & Gail 😀
Hi Rob, as always, many thanks for watching and leaving a comment. Had the KiwikFit Fitter here today (3 new tyres) and funnily enough it moved very slightly forward when he jacked up too. Not sure if it was pivoting or if the handbrake just wasn't tight enough. In my case it was hitched to the car so the movement would only have just been what the hitch damper would allow but that's too much. What's your view? Had a nice stay at Searles, our grandson could not get enough of the fairground lol. ATB, Dave & Helen.
@@HelenandDave I’d say it was everything you’ve described, the hitch allowing the handbrake to take up the slack, hence the pivoting. We’ll keep a look out for Searles 👍. Cheers, Rob & Gail
Had the same issue dave found the jack didn't lift enough hight so I use two bits of decking board
Hi Paul, I thought that was the case and found that there is a further extension on the jack and it lifts high enough to change the wheel. Thanks for watching, Helen & Dave
On the jack the top piece will unscrew to give you extra height I fitted it on our van very good system
Hi Andrew, thanks for pointing that out, typical me, should have read those instructions 😬. Thanks, Dave & Helen 👍
Great video has made me think and definitely getting the kojack this I no exactly how to fit it .After watching your indepth video brilliant and a massive thankyou .ps also agree its nice to have a new caravan because your caravan is always loosing money so it's waying up the options .your caravan is emaculate all the best terry emm
Hi Terry & Emm, thanks very much for the lovely feedback, appreciated. Glad we got the Kojack, there is a link in the description that will take you to their Amazon shop, where you van also view a full description. Thanks for supporting. ATB, Dave & Helen.
If you use a wooden board under the jack you will get more surface area as well as height and I would recommend that if you are at the side of the road and are changing the offside wheel especially to angle the jack towards the front of the caravan so that you are a)not having to hold the mudflap and b) you don't have your body sticking out into a live lane and you are able to observe oncoming traffic. I would also keep the shorter handle but either get a longer handle or a length of pipe (not plastic) to go over that handle to make pumping up easier with greater leverage and faster. You will want to be as fast as possible if at the side of the road. As with a car, you should always have the spare already removed and under the chassis and then the removed wheel so that if the jack suddenly failed, the hub does not end up on the floor with little clearance to be able to jack it up again. Bottle jacks also have a tendency to leak a little as they get older, so keeping it in an old ice cream tub or similar will help prevent you dirtying your car boot or wherever you keep it in the caravan. Never attempt to jack up on a hill and wherever possible, it would be better to first pump the tyre with air to allow you enough time to get to a relatively flat area to change the tyre.
Hi there Andrew, this excellent advice both in terms of H&S and practicality. Really appreciate it and will head it too. Thanks very much, Dave & Helen.
I like the ice cream tub idea, I have always cursed jacks for marking their territory in the back of my Land Rovers. I even went as far as making a wooden tray for the trolley jack to live in, stooped carrying that as they're a right pain on anything other than a hard smooth surface.
@@m1cxf I shall be adopting it too Trevor 👍
Just a quickie (which might need sanity-checking by someone else). At 13:00, where you're using the horizontal spirit level on the bracket to make adjustments to ensure it is level before tightening the bolts, it's worth mentioning that you have to be sure you've double-checked that the van itself is level front-to-back before you start the fitting process.
Nice video, thumbs up from me. I always make a point of reading others comments because it refines everything but that wouldn't happen unless you'd taken the trouble to make the video in the first place. I'm new to this game and have only been out once and it was a bit of a nightmare (I i won't go into it 😅). I hate the idea of not being able to change a wheel myself, but on my 2010 Bailey Pageant the spare is slung under the middle of the axle and i wouldn't fancy jacking up to fish it out when needed. I go local (with decent mobile signals) do will probably rely on RAC/AA, but when I start going further afield I'm probably going to fit a Kojack and keep the spare in the van when towing.
Hi Steve, many thanks for watching and your valuable comment, appreciated.
We used to have a Bailey with the spare underneath. I tried to remove it once, just so I knew how to do it and inspect the condition of the tyre but the frame was corroded and it wouldn't budge so if you haven't already, I would just try that. Bailey's are very nice vans so so we wish you many happy trips and thanks again for watching and taking the time to leave a comment. ATB, Dave & Helen.
Iv jacked up loads of alko caravans, the frame doesn't bend if you put it in the right place
Great vlog .. such great info ..maybe a daft question but does that stay on the caravan all the time now?
Hi Donna, good to hear from you again. No such thing as a daft question but yes, it stays on all of the time now. Reassuring to know we have it. Take care, Helen & Dave 👍
It's worth buying the two locating pins that screw into the stud holes so that you can fit the wheel over these and locate the studs in the holes.
Thanks Roy, that's good to know. Cheers, Dave & Helen
Hi Dave
Great job considering you seemed to be working blind.
Think I may have to invest in one thanks for the advice.
ATB Joe & Tracey 👍
Hi Joe & Tracey, thanks very much, I’m not at all mechanical so that was good for me 😂😂 Thanks for watching, ATB Dave & Helen 👍
Thats a great video, i learn something every day, never thought about not jacking up on alko chassis. So now my dilemma is should i fit this system as you have so excellent demonstrated or as you pointed out just ring mayday or whoever, after all i cannot remember the last time i was anywhere and i didnt have a phone signal. 🤔
Hi Ian, thanks very much for watching, glad you liked the video. Thing is, I’ve never had a puncture on the caravan yet but I have been in an area without a phone signal loads of times. I hope I never get a caravan puncture but the law of averages says, I will one day. So I just wanted to be covered in that eventuality. Thanks again for the comment and watching the video. Cheers, Dave & Helen 👍
🔥🔥 Love this experience L189
Thanks
I have the AL-KO side lift jack that came with the caravan it's not the easiest to use, I may change it for this system. 👍
Hi Gary, we’ll at least you got a Jack 👍 I’m glad we have it. Thanks for watching. ATB, Dave & Helen 👍
@@HelenandDave That's true 🤔😂
These definitely look super handy thank you, ha definitely can’t go wrong with a a load of bit timber.
Something I keep in my car is a tyre puncture plugging kit just in case, won’t work on side walls and certain areas but very handy if need to sort something fast and temporary.
Oh also need to carry some sort of pump a battery one or a compressor that works off the car battery.
Thanks though will get some of these jacking points.
Sam
Hi Sam, thanks very much for watching. I have peace of mind now. There is a link in the description to the Kojack. 👍 Cheers, Dave & Helen 👍
Hi, I am also thinking of buying this jacking system. However I also have a tyre sealant added to my wheels to help prevent a flat tyre. Should I get a puncture it automatically seals and prevents the tyre from going down. Very easy to instal and will hopefully prevent a flat on a narrow country road.
Regards
Peter.
Hi Peter, that’s interesting, I haven’t seen these. I’ve seen the puncture/flat tyre repair, which might be good as a temporary fix to get you to a safe place to change your tyre. I have put a link to the Kojack in the description to this video where you can find full info. Thanks very much for watching and leaving a comment. ATB, Dave & Helen 👍
I have the Kojack system the same as yours. I am assuming that you know that the ram of the hydraulic jack is in 3 parts outer ram, inner ram and also a screw in/out part this last part should be undone to give you enought lift on the jack. Hope this helps
I love comments like this, most helpful, thank you. If only I had read the instructions properly first 😂😂. I’m glad I got it. Thanks again, Dave & Helen 👍
You are best taking a small trolly jack, what you have is a lot of hard work, small trolly jack is also best for twin axle.
Personal choice, wouldn’t want to cart a trolley Jack around.
I have a twin axle caravan with a quad motor mover. Unfortunately these get in the way of the mounting holes so you can't use one of these jacks :( One piece of a advice I'd like to offer though is always carry an axle stand with you to pop under the chassis once you've jacked it up. If the ground becomes a little unstable or you're on a road with large lorries flying past which can sway the caravan this can potentially make it unstable too. The axle stand could save your limbs or your life!
Hi there Andy, that’s great advice too. Thanks for sharing 👍
I have a similar problem with movers getting in the way on our T/A . I found an electric scissor jack which fits between the wheels to allow access to the jacking point.
@@sooty1410 nice one 👍
Great video, i had seen this on Caravan Escapades as you had suggested, its a good product. I have an Elddis caravan with a BPW chassis which means i cannot fit this to my van. Unfortunately Purpleline only make a kit for ALCO chassis which is a shame. Anyway another great video, look forward to the next one.
Hi Simon, that's interesting (and a shame) I didn't realise this, is there an alternative that you can get? Thanks for watching, Cheers, Dave & Helen.
I think when I fit mine I'll replace them bolts and nylocs with S/Steel ones. That air release screw should have been nipped up really Dave, just use the end of the lifting lever to tighten and undo. You did well considering the tools you were using :)
Thanks very much for the advice, typical me, straight in without reading the destructions (naughty I know). I’m deffo no mechanic but it was straight forward. Hope you’re well and thanks for watching. ATB, Dave & Helen 👍
I see on eBay that the LoJack scissor jack is 1/2 the price of the bottle jack version, and it comes with the bolt on jack points as well, better deal if you are being cost efficient…😁
Hi there Eamon, looks like a good deal 👍 thanks for watching. ATB, Helen & Dave 👍
Electronic legs..great on twin wheeler.
Hi Lynda, luxury! How the other half live 😂 You’re right though. Might look into that. Thanks for watching 👍 Cheers Dave & Helen
@Caravantastic well worth the money, and if you change vans, they can be put on the new one
@@lyndapotter8591 if I don’t change vans can they be put on the existing one?
@@HelenandDave yes
Hi Dave. I am relatively new to the caravan world and have stumbled across a flat tyre after setting up and going out and coming back to the van. I’m on a grass pitch with long grass and have very little ground clearance. Is there anyone out there with any suggestions?
Hi Richard, sounds very precarious especially if the ground is soft. I would try and hitch the caravan to the car and tow it onto hard ground whee you can then hopefully get a jack underneath but you may need to call green flag or RAC if you are a member. Cheers, Dave
In regard to jacking up the caravan following a puncture years ago I experienced such an issue on our way to our holiday destination. The situation wasn't helped by the fact the puncture was to the side where I would access the spare-wheel rack. By using a combination of caravan steadies and the Jockey wheel I managed to lift the side of the van high enough to removed the punctured wheel and access the rack, not recommended using the steadies to support the weight of the van but in an emergency?
Well done George, a scary situation but you managed to get yourself out of it. It really is a nightmare scenario. Thanks for sharing. Cheers, Dave & Helen 👍
Hi Dave do you get a bag or box to store the Jack
Hi Phil, sadly no, just the cardboard box it’s delivered in. There is a link in the video description with full details. Thanks for watching. Cheers, Dave and Helen 👍
Hi David, did you have to drill the holes in the chassis or were they already there. Thanks Richard.
Hi Richard, yes the holes are already there so it’s nice and easy to fit. There’s a link in the description that will take you to all the info you need on Amazon. Thanks for watching, Dave & Helen 👍
Interesting, I fitted the AL-KO ones that come with a standard jack, just as easy but yours raised the caravan quicker.
Can't believe the manufacturers don't fit them as standard, especially as it needs with a spare wheel.
Hi Kevin, I'm amazed that they are not supplied. There is an awful lot of kit that has to be purchased over and above the caravan itself before you can get out and actually camp! Like a battery for instance. ATB to you and Sadie, Cheers, Dave & Helen.
@@HelenandDave You can say that again! 🙃 👍
Do you need to have the caravan level before fitting the brackets ?
Hi Simon, much better to have level if you can 👍
Hi Dave
Just watched your video on the Kojak could you tell me can the jack be swivelled round as I have a twin axle fitted with an all wheel drive powertouch motor mover?
Thank you Brian
Hi Brian, if you mean can you twist the base so the Jack can be pumped from an angle, then yes it can. There is a link in the description to the Jack where you could read a full description. Thanks for watching Brian. Cheers, Dave
@@HelenandDave
Yes thanks Dave that’s what I wanted to know 👍
We have kojack to excellent jack.
Nice one Paul. Peace of mind now. ATB Dave & Helen 👍
Have you considered how high the jack must lift from a fully flat tyre to allow for an inflated spare to be fitted. My Coachman tyre wall is about 5” so the jack must lift that height above just getting an inflated tyre off the ground.
Even with an inflated tyre ou we’re at the full extent of travel. Is the jack therefor not for changing a flat tyre?
Hi Fred, what I hadn’t considered at the time of filming was that the Jack has a 3rd extension which is threaded and if this is first extended then the two further hydraulic bars will give sufficient height/clearance to remove and fit an inflated tyre. It’s a good point you made and thanks for the comment. Cheers, Dave
@@HelenandDave Dave? I don’t think you understand. The screw is only there to engage the jack to the jacking pound and doesn’t lift anything. All we have is the 6” of lift in the other two stages. With a fully flat tyre that’s just enough to get the offending wheel off. The fully inflated tyre can’t be fitted without extra lift that the Kojak doesn’t have.
@@fredcutler1640 I’m afraid you’ve got that wrong. I’ve tried it and it does give ample lift to remove or put on an inflated tyre.
@@HelenandDave I saw your TH-cam and you just had a slow puncture on a twin axle. Not a true test. Try a fully flat tyre on a single axle and you’ll see what I mean.
@@fredcutler1640 you’re getting confused, I don’t have a twin axle caravan but anyway, I’ve tried it again since I made the video and it works fine. I also have watched countless other videos and read on line articles. The Jack works fine and I’m happy with it. 👍😊
Hi Dave. How about using an airbag jack .......looking at ebay I see that they can lift several tons....would that be a solution ?
Hi Roger, thanks for watching. I don’t know much about them or how you inflate, assume with a foot pump. Worth chatting with a dealer/retailer I would suggest. Thanks for watching, ATB Dave & Helen 👍
I always have a aerosol tyre weld can in my car and an electric pump ..I think it would seal the tyre to get you home ..not had to use it yet tho so not sure tbh
Hi Charles, hope you never have to use it but it’s reassuring to know it’s there 👍
Yea good video mate 👍
I have a kojak. Jacking system except mine has a hydraulic scissor jack
Nice one Steve 👍
Hi Dave
You said the safest place to jack up a caravan is the axle yet you put the kojack on the chassis I'm a little confused, surely this will bend the chassis
Confused of Belvedere
Hi Kenneth, Al-Ko who build these frames have pre drilled the holes to fit a jacking point, It you were to jack under the frame (other than under the axle) it will almost certainly buckle. The Kojack system (along with other makes) are designed for the job and to be attached to the pre drilled holes. Hope that helps. Cheers, Dave & Helen.
Yes but as you said just jack it up on axel
Hi Ian, yes the axle is the strongest part of the frame but it’s also the hardest part to access especially if you have a motor mover and mud flaps fitted and there is also no safe jacking point (certainly not on our caravan). Cheers Dave & Helen 👍
This was a very interesting video because I already have a bottle jack and I didn’t know how I was going to put the jack on the chassis to lift it up. I think I will have to get that kit.
Just out of interest where did you get yours from?
Thanks Dave
Hi Greg, there’s a link in the description that will take you there. 👍 Thanks very much for watching 👍
Got one fitted love it but that handle is not good, it lets it down should of been a solid handle. Buts it’s a nice bit of kit just incase
Hi Makey & Jackie, I must admit I had read this too, such a shame that they didn't come up with something a little stronger. Hopefully, it won't get much use lol. Thanks for watching. ATB, Dave & Helen.
Would you drop leg steadies when changing wheel
Hello Howell, thanks very much for watching and leaving a comment. There are many contradictory views on this. Personally as long as the caravan is hitched to the car and there is a chock under the opposite wheel then I think that steadies down to steady the caravan is fine but under no circumstances should the weight of the caravan be put on the steadies as that could damage the chassis or caravan floor. If you are concerned about the caravan potentially falling then the only trusted form of support would be an axle stand. The challenge is would you really be carrying axle stands on your Caravanning trip? Putting the spare under the axle before swapping the wheel is probably a good alternative in the event of a Jack fail. Thanks again, Dave & Helen 👍
You have a lovely van, keep it, and just do the extras. The extra 20k can be sent to me to dispose of....
😂😂 Why didn’t we think of that!!! I can’t send you £20k Bry but Ill buy you a Chinese next time I see you 👍👍
@@HelenandDave Perfect. Bless you
Great video except a couple of safety issues. NEVER go under anything only supported with a jack, putting fingers under a wheel is a huge no no, imagine if the jack collapsed when your fingers were underneath, would make going to the loo interesting. Also putting your head under it, I hope I don't need to explain that one. Jacking anything is an incredibly dangerous act that if you are lucky you will never need to do at the side of a road with vehicles passing at speed.
Thank you for another well produced video.
Hi Trevor, Thanks for these top H&S tips, much appreciated. I didn’t have my head under the caravan whilst it was jacked up at anytime but I did fall fowl to the fingers under the wheel, not clever and I won’t be doing that again.
I dread the thought of changing a wheel at the side of the road, especially a motorway, that would be a job for the recovery team. ATB Dave & Helen 👍
@@HelenandDave Cheers Dave. I get a bit OTT when it comes to jacking. Once saw someone loose their hand because just as they were taking the wheel off the jack collapsed, they had their hand on top of the tyre. A bit messy.
@@m1cxf no 2nd chances Trevor, it’s good advice mate 👍
Good advice, being ex Fire Service we used the term Pack as you Jack to ensure safety in the event of a failure.
We carry a bottle jack. We found out the hard way that an ordinary jack does not do the business.
Hi Dave & Lindsay, that’s deffo experience talking! I feel much more confident now. 👍
it would have been nice to see it done with a flat tyre and on the side of the road ??
😂😂 sorry about that !
Why do so many caravan builders and designers use the AL-KO chassis there is absolutely no torsional diagonal rigidity what so ever, every time you use the corner steadies the body is under stress and the sealed joints eventually start leaking I speak from experience having owned a Bailey.
Hi Roger, this is not something I am very knowledgable about but you would think/hope after all of these years they would have got it right. We had a Bailey prior to the Sterling and the spare tyre under the frame in a rack that was almost impossible to access was also quite baffling! Thanks for watching and your comment is very much appreciated. Best wishes, Helen & Dave
,@@HelenandDave I also had a problem with the spare wheel, it was made in such a manner that I could not get to the wheel as it was trapped under chassis when the carrier was lowered. Roger
Kwik-Fit will soon sort it. 😉
Hi Phil, funny you should say that, they’re on my drive fitting 3 new tyres as we speak and you’re right. You can’t get quicker….. top job. ATB, Dave & Helen 👍
@@HelenandDave I know. 😁 I've just driven past. 😀
There is no hiding place 😂😂
The bolts will be washer faced the washer should go on the back with the nut.
Hi Andrew, thanks for your message. Not according to the instruction booklet which is visible in the video. Cheers Dave 👍
Just speaking with my engineers hat on!
@@andrewmoorey6103 Thanks Andrew, I wouldn’t honestly know (pretty useless at anything like this). I just followed the diagram. There was only two washers on each mount and the diagram showed them on the bolt side. The bolts are nylon lock. I’m worried now 😬
Don't be, it's not coming undone with Nylocs!
Just me being a bit anal!
@@andrewmoorey6103 thanks Andrew 👍👍👍
I cringed never put your hand under the wheel
Quite right Richard, first and last time I promise.
Can't believe you put fingers under the wheel to verify there's a gap. No accounting for Darwinism 😮
It was a mistake, I won’t be making again. No accounting for damn right rudeness and sarcasm!!