The jockey wheel is one of the most important components of any trailer, and that is especially the case if you’re heading bush in a camper trailer or caravan. The thing is, not all jockey wheels are the same, and getting one that suits your specific needs is really important – after all, the last thing you want to ruin your trip away is a failing jockey wheel!
Here’s a look at some of the considerations you need to take into account when purchasing a new jockey wheel for your trailer.
Trailer Type
The biggest influencing factor to the type of jockey wheel you buy is the kind of trailer you’re buying it for. Obviously, a small single-axle boat trailer isn’t going to have the same needs as a large dual axle caravan. For example, a standard jockey wheel, such as the Ark Economic Jockey Wheel features a 250mm maximum height extension, a solid rubber tyre and is rated for up to 350kg making it perfect for lightweight towing. On the flipside, a 10” Heavy Duty Jockey Wheel is available in either fixed or swivel options and features a high 500kg load capacity and sealed bearings that protect the wheel in an off-road environment making it perfect for larger towing such as a big caravan.
Where You’re Planning to Travel
Your destination, or wherever you plan to take your trailer is another contributing factor to the type of jockey wheel you purchase. For instance, if you’re planning to head off road, then a standard wheel just won’t do the trick. Instead you’ll want to consider purchasing an off-road specific jockey wheel. An off-road specific jockey wheel, such as Ark’s XO Series, are specifically designed to handle anything the Aussie bush can throw at it. They’re super tough, but they’re also highly versatile with multiple height options, a highly maneuverable trailing yoke design, different yoke locking positions and are available in many sizes, weight ratings and cover most of the styles mentioned above. Alternatively, a pneumatic jockey wheel, such as Ark’s 10″ Pneumatic Jockey Wheels, feature a large 10in inflatable tyre specially designed to cope with difficult ground conditions. That makes them great for off-road use and even towing and camping on sand or other soft sites.
The Need to Maneuver Your Trailer
If maneuvering your trailer while it’s unhitched from your tow vehicle is something you need to do regularly, then this is another contributing factor to the type of jockey wheel you purchase. Your reasons for needing to maneuver your vehicle will vary. Maybe the location you store your trailer at home is difficult to get to, or the campsite you’re traveling to has limited maneuvering room. Either way, a jockey wheel suited to unhitched maneuvering is worth considering. Again, for off-road use Ark’s XO Series is a good option, as its trailing yoke design makes it highly maneuverable. Alternatively, a ratchet jockey wheel such as the Ark Ezi-Mover Ratchet Jockey Wheels is designed to easily maneuver trailers weighing up to 2 tonnes on an even surface with minimal effort. They’re easily operated by rotating the controls and feature four functions: forward, reverse, neutral and stop/lock.
Where to go for more information?
With extensive skills and experience, Ark are the experts when it comes to jockey wheels for your trailer.
Give the experts a call at Ark today to find the right Jockey Wheel for your trailer!
Anyone who has even a casual familiarity with the automotive industry knows of the famous SEMA Show which is held annually in Las Vegas. It’s one of the world’s largest automotive trade shows that attracts almost 2500 car manufacturers and aftermarket parts suppliers from around the world.
So, it’s fair to say that winning an award at the SEMA Show is no small achievement. Well, we’re incredibly proud to announce that ARK has been named the 2022 Global Media Award winner at the 2022 SEMA show for our XO-Tech Power Distribution hub!
What is this award all about?
SEMA’s Global Media Award sees 23 judges from seven different countries review and evaluate a whopping 3000 product entries, and the award is presented to the products that the judges will appeal most to the customer base in their home country.
“Vehicle customization and personalization has been growing worldwide,” said Linda Spencer,
SEMA director of international and government relations. “The global automotive specialty-equipment market is made up of enthusiasts who are passionate about the hobby. This passion can be found not only throughout the United States but also in countless spots around the globe including in Dubai, United Arab Emirates, Melbourne Australia, and Stockholm, Sweden.”
It goes without saying that we at ARK are absolutely blown away by winning this award. “We are extremely proud that the XO-Tech Power Distribution Hub emerged among thousands
as voted on by a panel of international judges,” said ARK’s founder and owner, Richard Arakelian.
What is the XO-Tech Power Distribution Hub?
About this award-winning product, Richard says “The Power Distribution Hub is unique and offers the user an innovative and cost-effective solution for a 12V electrical system for their camping setup.” Launched on the Australian market in 2022, the XO-TEch Power Distribution Hub is designed to be an innovative, compact, lightweight, and easy-to-install 12V system for 4WDs and other recreational vehicles. The concept of the PDH is to eliminate the need for bulky control boxes, rocker switches, and even fuse boxes.
Why the XO-Tech Power Distribution Hub is a Game Changer
Simply put, the XO-Tech Power Distribution Hub is unlike any other 12V control box on the market. The ultimate all-in-one power management system allows you to control all of your on-board devices, easily monitor your power consumption, protect your battery, and provides a huge range of outputs as well as Bluetooth connectivity for remote control and monitoring via your smartphone. Here are a few reasons why the PDH is a true game-changer:
1. Unlike any other 12V Control Box
Unlike any other 12V control box on the market, the PDH is packed full of technology and features in a compact and sleek design.
2. Saves Space
Because the PDH is just 267mm long by 192mm wide and 60mm deep, it’s compact enough to fit just about anywhere! The PDH is the ultimate solution to maximise available space and minimise the clutter in your camping 12V setup
3. Smart Camping
Because The PDH provides automation for your 12V camping setup and wireless operation through Bluetooth connectivity, you can use your smartphone to monitor your battery and switch devices on and off from the comfort of your camp chair. This also eliminates the need to install bulky rocker switches, which saves you even more space! The ARK Smart Hub also allows the pairing of multiple PDH devices to your smartphone which can be renamed individually, customise the names of your controllable outputs, change battery protection levels, and load battery data such as size and type.
4. Fully Protected Outlets Galore!
As well as the four 10A rated controllable relays, the PDH features a 50A output rated Anderson style connector, a 10A rated cigi socket, a 10A rated Engel socket, a 15A rated Merit socket, and a dual USB socket with 2.1A connections. And unlike other 12V control boxes, all PDH outputs are protected with internal self-resetting fuses and an electronically controlled main relay which are shown active from an array of LED indicators easily visible on the face of the unit. The PDH outputs are completely protected and no ongoing maintenance or replacement of fuses is required!
5. Easy Installation
All you need is a battery wired up to a 50A Anderson style connector with an inline fuse to install the Power Distribution Hub. Connect the battery to the input Anderson style connector and you’ve got yourself the ultimate 12V camping setup with added levels of automation and battery protection for your auxiliary battery!
6. Monitor your Batteries… and your Water Tank!
With the Power Distribution Hub, you can monitor battery voltage, current, power, and time to discharge – all in real-time. It also allows you to monitor total consumption including minimum and maximum voltage data, maximum current data, total watt hours, and used battery capacity in amp hours since last charge. All this information can be viewed on the scrolling OLED display directly on the unit or wirelessly through a smartphone. But here’s the really cool part: the PDH gives you the ability to monitor a single poly water tank. This provides you full control over your usage and the ability to monitor your water levels from the unit directly or wirelessly through a smartphone.
What makes ARK leaders in Portable Power?
ARK Corporation has 45 years of expertise in the areas of Portable Power as well as trailer and off-road accessories. As market leaders in these areas, all our products are engineered, designed, and tested in Australia’s vast and harshest conditions to ensure our range of innovative products meet and exceed the industry’s highest standards.
If you’ve never been to the stunning Coffs coast, then you really need to take a look at your life choices! Coffs Harbour is one of Australia’s ultimate 4WD destinations, with some of the best beach camping you’ll do anywhere in the country, and some of the most challenging 4WD tracks you’ll get the opportunity to challenge.
Despite the scenic stretches and untapped beauty that go hand-in-hand with Coffs Harbour camping, getting there and making your way through the off-road parts can be tricky. Think soft sand combined with beachside water and you’ve got a bog just waiting to happen. This is why travelling with a winch is an absolute must when traversing the stunning Coffs Harbour area in your 4WD. Not only will a winch keep you safe, but it will also make your adventure much more streamlined and enjoyable.
In this blog, we’ll provide tips, tricks, and must-dos for winch safety, as well as outline some of the best Coffs Harbour camping & 4WD hotspots to put on your list.
Exploring Coffs Harbour’s Scenic Camping Spots
Nestled along the New South Wales coastline, Coffs Harbour is a paradise for outdoor enthusiasts, offering a myriad of breathtaking camping and 4WD destinations. While Pebbly Beach may steal the spotlight, this coastal gem has a treasure trove of other camping spots and trails that are equally captivating.
Diggers Beach
Diggers Beach is a haven for campers who seek a serene escape while remaining close to civilization. With its proximity to Coffs Harbour’s amenities, it’s an ideal starting point for those new to camping or 4WD adventures. Here, you’ll find picturesque coastal vistas, pristine sandy shores, and a range of scenic walking tracks.
Sawtell Beach
Sawtell Beach, just a short drive south of Coffs Harbour, beckons campers with its laid-back charm. Set up camp amid the coastal vegetation and enjoy the stunning ocean views. The nearby Sawtell village offers a charming mix of cafes and boutiques, making it a perfect blend of nature and local culture.
Boambee Creek Reserve
For those who prefer a more secluded camping experience, Boambee Creek Reserve is a hidden gem. Tucked away in a lush, subtropical rainforest setting, this camping spot offers tranquility and a sense of being at one with nature. Accessible only by 4WD, it’s a great opportunity to test your vehicle’s capabilities.
Pebbly Beach
When it comes to Coffs Harbour campsites, there’s one in particular that you’ve probably read about in 4WD magazines and seen on 4WD TV shows plenty of times: Pebbly Beach in the Yuraygir National Park, just north of Coffs Harbour.
There’s a valid reason why this campsite gets so much attention. Not only does it have one of the most stunning stretches of coastline to set up your camper trailer or roll out your swag, but it’s an adventure just getting there!
Just How Tough is it Getting to Pebbly Beach?
There’s no two ways about it – Pebbly Beach is no walk in the park. This is a 4WD-only campsite, tailor-made for swags, tents, and well-equipped off-road trailers. Taking a full-sized caravan down this path? Well, you’d have to be as bold as a roo in the headlights to attempt that!
Getting to Pebbly Beach is an adventure in itself. You’ll need to navigate through some serious beachfront driving, cruising through soft sands like a seasoned pro. Then, it’s time to tackle a soft sand track through the foreshore that leads you to a saltwater estuary. Sounds simple, right? But there’s a catch – you can only cross this estuary at low tide! Nature’s clock is your guide.
Once you’ve conquered the salty creek, there’s still a fair bit of sand track driving ahead. Depending on the conditions, you might face gnarly washouts and all sorts of obstacles. But hold on tight, because the journey is worth every bit of effort.
When you finally reach the campsite, you’ll see why adventurers like you embark on this epic journey. Picture this: She-oak lined grassy sites, top-notch toilet facilities, and direct beach access that’s second to none. The beach itself earned its name from its unique coarse, pebbly sand, making it a haven for surfing, swimming, fishing, and whale watching. Pebbly Beach isn’t just a destination; it’s a slice of paradise you have to experience to believe!
So, if you’re up for the challenge, gear up, and let the rugged beauty of Pebbly Beach take your breath away. After all, nothing great ever comes easy, and this adventure is the stuff of legends!
Why a Winch is Essential for Coffs Harbour Camping & 4WD
You’re probably reading this thinking, ‘Okay, a bit of soft sand, a water crossing – sounds fun, but do I REALLY need a winch?’ Great question, and as a team who have been stuck in the soft sand of Pebbly Beach ourselves, our answer is a firm ‘yes’!
The pebbly nature of the sand makes getting bogged a very undesirable circumstance. Essentially, once you’re bogged at Pebbly Beach, you’ll want to avoid trying to drive yourself out. This is because every time your 4WD wheels spin in that sand, they’re digging you in deeper until you’re so deep that a suction effect happens. Once this takes effect, even snatching yourself out becomes a hairy task.
Our advice? Arm yourself and your vehicle with a durable, quality winch before setting foot (or wheel) on Pebbly Beach.
A winch, securely mounted on your vehicle’s front end, is a powerful tool that can pull you out of even the stickiest situations. When the going gets tough and the wheels start to spin, you can rely on your winch to anchor your 4WD and give it the pull it needs to get back on solid ground.
Having a winch is not just about the convenience of self-recovery, either; it’s about safety and self-sufficiency. Pebbly Beach’s remote location means that assistance may not be readily available. With a winch, you have the means to extricate your 4WD and continue your adventure, ensuring that your Pebbly Beach experience remains memorable for all the right reasons.
So, as you gear up for your Pebbly Beach adventure for a bit of Coffs Harbour camping, make sure your trusty winch is in prime condition. It’s not just a piece of equipment; it’s your ticket to conquering the rugged beauty of this remarkable destination. When the going gets tough, your winch will be there to pull you through, ensuring your journey is filled with awe-inspiring vistas, not bogged-down frustrations.
Why a 9000lbs Winch is a Necessary bit of Kit
Now, you may be wondering what type of winch is best suited for this kind of rough off-roading trip. Or you might be feeling pretty chuffed with the winch you’ve already got. Before you get going, though, let’s take a look at the best (and really the only) winch that will get you through the terrain of Pebbly Beach and other Coffs Harbour camping & 4WD tracks: a 9000lbs winch.
Having your 4WD equipped with a 9000lbs winch will ensure that you can slowly drag your way out of that suction pit onto the top of the sand, without spinning wheels and digging in deeper. The good part about the tracks leading into Pebbly is that they give you a number of options of places to winch from, too. As previously mentioned there are plenty of she-oaks lining the foreshore that you could run a winch strap around. Of course, it’s always wise to be travelling in a convoy, so being able to winch from another 4WD is ideal. Another option is to carry a sand anchor. These smart little devices are designed to dig into the sand to give you something to winch from.
Another thing to remember is that it’s important that your winch is a powerful 9000lbs one, like ARK’s XO Series 9000lbs Winch. As mentioned, getting stuck in the sand will have a suctioning effect on your 4WD which means your winch will be working overtime to pull you out, especially if you’re towing a camper trailer. Having that power is the best way to ensure your winch can do the job!
Other Reasons a Winch is the Perfect Bit of Kit for Coffs
Coffs Harbour has been called a ‘4WD Mecca’, and for good reason; there are hundreds of tracks for all levels of ability on offer from the relatively tame National Park tracks around Yuraygir to the infamous England Track which is only for those with a lot of experience and a heavily modified 4WD!
Having a winch installed on your 4WD gives you peace of mind when you’re tackling Coffs Harbour’s tough tracks, and it really is a versatile piece of recovery gear that every 4WD should be equipped with – especially if they’re planning on Coffs Harbour camping.
ARK’S XO Series 9000lbs Winch
Our XO Series 9000lbs Winch has been tried and tested on Australia’s toughest tracks by the team at ARK. It features a rated line pull of over 4 tonnes, a 3-stage planetary gear train with a 5.2hp motor, synthetic rope for ease of use and added strength and an aluminium fairlead to look the part.
If you’re planning to explore some of the gnarlier tracks that Australia has to offer, then talk to the team at ARK to see how an XO Series Winch is the ideal bit of kit for you.
Winch Safety Tips for Your Coffs Harbour Camping Adventure
When you’re gearing up for an off-road adventure in the rugged beauty of Coffs Harbour, having a reliable winch can be a game-changer. However, it’s essential to remember that a winch is a powerful tool that requires careful handling to ensure both your safety and the safety of those around you. Here are some winch safety tips to keep in mind as you embark on your Coffs Harbour camping expedition:
1. Know your winch inside out: Before you hit the trails, take the time to familiarize yourself with your winch and its operation. Read the user manual thoroughly, understand the controls, and practice using it in a safe and controlled environment. Knowledge is your best ally when it comes to winch safety.
2. Use proper safety gear: When operating a winch, ensure you and anyone assisting you are wearing appropriate safety gear. This includes gloves, sturdy footwear, and eye protection. These precautions are essential to protect against potential hazards like flying debris or tensioned cables.
3. Keep clear of the cable: When winching, always keep a safe distance from the winch cable or rope. Never place any part of your body near the cable path or allow others to do so. In case of a cable failure, the recoiling cable can be extremely dangerous.
4. Use a dampener: When winching, especially in recovery situations, always use a winch dampener or a heavy blanket to cover the cable. This helps absorb energy in case the cable snaps, reducing the risk of injury or damage to nearby objects.
5. Anchor points matter: Ensure that the anchor points you use for winching are stable, secure, and rated for the task. Never attach your winch to fragile objects, as they could break under the strain, leading to accidents.
6. Keep a clear path: Before engaging the winch, make sure the path is clear of obstacles and bystanders. Warn others in the vicinity of your actions, and ensure they maintain a safe distance during winching operations.
7. Regular maintenance: Your winch is a mechanical device that requires proper maintenance. Regularly inspect it for signs of wear and tear, and follow the manufacturer’s guidelines for maintenance intervals. A well-maintained winch is a safer winch.
8. Communicate clearly: Effective communication is vital during winching operations. Establish clear signals and communication with anyone assisting you. Ensure everyone understands the plan and follows it meticulously.
9. Be patient: Winching can be a slow and methodical process. Avoid rushing or using excessive force. Applying steady and controlled tension is more effective and safer.
By adhering to these winch safety tips, you’ll not only enhance your safety during your Coffs Harbour camping & 4WD adventure but also ensure a smoother and more enjoyable off-road experience. A winch is a valuable tool, but it must be used with caution and respect for the potential hazards involved.
ARK are the Off-Road Experts!
Here at ARK, we love to get off-road just like you! We regularly hit the tracks, testing all our gear in real-world conditions to ensure that every one of our products ticks all the boxes when it comes to touring Australia.
ARK is 100% Aussie-owned and independent, and we’ve been the leaders in trailer parts, towing gear and 4WD accessories for over 40 years. Whether it’s winches and winch accessories, trailer equipment such as jockey wheels and coupling, or 12V power systems and battery packs to enhance your camping experience, the team at ARK has you covered.
So, get out and enjoy the great outdoors of Pebbly Beach and Coffs Harbour with some premium equipment. Armed with our XO Series 9000lbs Winch and some must-have camping gear, you’ll be set for the adventure of a lifetime!
If there’s one thing that’s undeniable, it’s that Australia is a huge place. That means there’s so much to explore, and getting off the beaten track in a 4WD is of course one of the most popular Aussie pass times. There’s such a wide variety of things to see – from the alpine mountains of the Victorian High Country, to the remote desert expanse of the Simpson and the golden sands and shimmering blue coastal waters of Fraser Island.
Having a properly equipped 4WD is an absolute must when it comes to touring the country, especially if you plan on traveling to the more remote areas this big island has to ofer such as the Simmo or the Kimberley. And there’s one bit of kit that, if you’re planning a big remote trip, is something that you absolutely must have at least one of – a trusty jerry can.
Why Should I Carry a Jerry Can?
It’s really important that if you’re doing a big trip, that you do your research especially when it comes to fuel stops. Even if you’ve installed a long-range tank, it’s highly unlikely that you’ll be carrying enough diesel to cross the Simpson without your tanks needing a top-up. This largely comes down to both the distance between servos, and the increase in fuel usage that comes with constant soft sand driving. Another example is the iconic Canning Stock Route in Western Australia. This track is so long, and so remote, that you’ll actually need to plan well ahead and organise fuel drops in advance!
They’re just a couple of extreme examples of why you should be prepared to carry at least one, probably more jerry cans. But the fact of the matter is, that carrying at least one jerry can is a wise thing to do no matter where your adventures take you, as it always pays to prepare for the worst.
The Right Way to Carry Jerry Cans
The thing that a lot of people don’t consider when it comes to jerry cans, is where they’re going to mount them. Often, you’ll see big 4WDs built with big tyres and suspension, barwork all round and packed to the brim with camping gear with four jerry cans ratchet strapped down on the roof rack. If we’re honest, this is something that always makes us cringe!
There’s a couple of issues here – firstly, the weight of four full jerry cans fitted to the roofrack is almost certainly placing more weight on your roof than it is rated to carry. Most 4WDs have a rated roof carrying weight capacity of between 50kg to 150kg, with a few exceptions such as the 200 Series LandCruiser rated up to 200kg. So if you’re carrying four full jerry cans that weigh around 20kgs each, you’re already at 80kgs! Of course, you also need to include the weight of your roof rack as well, which can be as much as 40kgs for a steel roof rack! So just with the jerry cans and roof rack, you’ve already exceeded the maximum weight limit of most 4WDs roofs. Add awnings, lightbars, tents, swags, camp chairs and everything else you can expect to carry on a remote trip and you can see just how easy it is to overload a roof!
The second issue is weight distribution. Carrying that much weight at the highest point of your 4WD will make it extremely top-heavy, and unstable. This becomes a massive issue when you hit the tracks, as the angles and inclines you’ll often experience off-road can really put your 4WD in a precarious position. Add a bunch of weight to the top of your 4WD, and it doesn’t take much for it to go over!
There is, of course, a solution. Enter the humble jerry can holder!
Benefits of Fitting Jerry Can Holders
Proper weight distribution is just one of the many benefits to installing a proper Jerry Can Holder. Here’s a look at a few more:
Convenience
There are a number of different styles of jerry can holders on the market that can be mounted and are loaded in different ways. ARK’s range includes standard, top and front loading options which means you can pick and choose the one that best suits your needs, whether you’re installing the Jerry can holder onto your 4WD’s rear bar, or onto a caravan or camper trailer.
Safety
Let’s face it, when it comes to carrying something as flammable as fuel, you want to ensure you’re carrying it in a safe manner. You should always carry jerry cans external to your vehicle, and a jerry can holder is the ideal solution.
Theft Prevention
If there’s one thing that has become a fact of life, it’s that fuel is expensive – doesn’t matter if you’re talking about diesel or petrol. With prices in cities often going far over the $2 per litre mark, it goes without saying that when you’re traveling remotely the price will often be double that at bush servos. That means fuel is a precious commodity, and there are plenty of people out there with sketchy morals who will not hesitate to steal a jerry can full of the good stuff should they see one unsecured in a parked 4WD. A lockable jerry can holder such as ARK’s Front Loading Jerry Can Holder or Top Loading Jerry Can Holder is the best way to prevent becoming a victim of fuel theft as they both feature an anti-theft adjustable bar with padlock!!
Versatility
You may be surprised to hear this, but a jerry can holder can actually be a pretty versatile bit of kit! Fit a canvas bag inside it, and you have yourself a camp bin! We’ve also seen people use a jerry can holder as a night time shoe storage rack!
Where to go for more information?
When it comes to getting off-road and exploring this magnificent country, ARK are the proven experts. They’ve been leaders in trailer parts, towing gear and 4WD accessories for over 40 years, are 100% Australian owned and independent.
The best part? They love to get off-road just like you! They regularly hit the tracks, testing all their gear in real world conditions to ensure that their offering tick all the boxes when it comes to touring Australia!
