When it comes to towing and manoeuvring your caravan, one small component plays a huge role in making life easier: the jockey wheel. This essential piece of equipment supports the front of your van when unhitched, helps you move it into position, and makes the hitching process smoother and safer. At RV Mega, New Zealand’s largest stockist of caravan and motorhome parts, we supply an extensive range of jockey wheels from leading brands including AL-KO, Coast, and Black Jack. Choosing the right one for your vehicle is key to ensuring reliability, safety, and convenience.
Why the Jockey Wheel Matters
A jockey wheel may seem like a simple accessory, but it performs several vital functions. It allows you to:
• Adjust height easily when hitching and unhitching your caravan.
• Support front-end weight when the caravan is detached from the tow vehicle.
• Manoeuvre safely into tight spaces or uneven terrain.
A poorly chosen or under-rated jockey wheel can struggle under load, cause unnecessary strain on your A-frame, or make manoeuvring difficult.
Key Factors to Consider
When selecting a jockey wheel, there are several features to weigh up:
1. Load Capacity
Check the weight your jockey wheel needs to support. Caravans and larger motorhomes demand heavy-duty options, such as those offered by AL-KO, to safely carry the load without damage or bending.
2. Wheel Size and Material
Larger wheels roll more easily over gravel, grass, or uneven surfaces, while solid rubber wheels provide durability. For lightweight caravans, a smaller wheel may suffice, but for heavy rigs or frequent use, choose a robust, heavy-duty design.
3. Adjustability and Operation
Manual crank jockey wheels are the most common and budget-friendly, but powered electric jockey wheels like Black Jack offer effortless operation, ideal for those with larger caravans or mobility concerns.
4. Mounting Style
Swivel-mounted jockey wheels make storage easier when travelling, while fixed options are sturdy but less flexible.
The Benefits of Choosing Quality
Investing in a high-quality jockey wheel ensures:
• Safety – no risk of collapsing under load.
• Longevity – durable components resist corrosion and wear.
• Ease of use – smoother hitching, unhitching, and manoeuvring.
At RV Mega, we stock trusted brands designed to withstand New Zealand’s varied conditions, whether you’re travelling on coastal roads, campgrounds, or rugged off-road tracks.
RV Mega – New Zealand’s Jockey Wheel Experts
With the country’s largest range of caravan and motorhome parts, RV Mega makes it simple to find the right jockey wheel for your setup. Our team is here to help you choose the ideal model – whether that’s a compact AL-KO option, a Coast wheel for general touring, or a Black Jack electric jockey wheel for ultimate convenience.
When it comes to keeping your caravan stable and easy to manoeuvre, the jockey wheel is one of the most important investments you can make. Visit RV Mega today and find the perfect fit for your next adventure.