Yes, the Optitec machine can manoeuvre most caravans or trailers of up to 3500kg on hard level surfaces.

Yes, the Optitec machine can easily move almost any large tandem wheel caravan or trailer in very tight spots, on hard level surfaces that would not be possible any other way.

The Optitec machine is rated to handle 350kg towball weight.

The Optitec Jockey Wheel is designed to manoeuvre large caravans on flat, hard surfaces. However, as you can see from our videos they can be used on grass and gravel under certain circumstances.

There are many variables involved with different caravans or trailers plus everyone's grass, gravel or dirt are different.

A bit of "kiwi ingenuity" using 4wd recovery tracks, timber planks etc may work when the surface traction is not good. It may even require a bit of help ‘pushing’ in slippery conditions.

Please note that we cannot guarantee that everyone is able to move every type of caravan on any particular surface.

Although it is not specifically designed to do so, many people use the Optitec to move their caravan or trailer on gently sloping driveways. Once again, this operation depends on so many variables and the ability of the user to get it to do what they want.

Please note that we can't guarantee that everyone is able to move every type or configuration of caravan up or down any incline.

No, the Optitec machine fits onto a standard Jockey Wheel Clamp.

HOWEVER… if your van is over 1500kg and only has a single clamp, we advise fitting our Double Clamp Bracket.

This is made specifically for the Optitec machine and only takes a few minutes to install (see our Optitec Double Clamp Bracket Installation VIDEO).

Yes! We designed the Optitec machines to be powered from the van’s onboard battery.

We recommend 6 AWG (6 B&S) for any cable runs over 2 metres. Always install a 70 amp circuit breaker.

The Optitec machine is very efficient. It will draw about 5 or 6 Amps under no load and will use about 12 to 15 Amps moving a heavy caravan on smooth, level surfaces.

The maximum current draw is 50 Amps under full load such as turning a big tandem wheel van. This means that for most normal operations, the power consumed from your battery will not be significant. 

The Optitec machine can be powered from a 12 volt battery such as a car battery, a motorcycle battery or a Jump Starter pack that is normally used for starting a car with a flat battery. The Battery or jump starter must be able to supply 50A and maintain 12volts.

No. During  design and development we decided against installing a built-in battery because research indicated that they are more trouble than they’re worth.

There's nothing worse than going to use something and the battery is flat!  A decent battery also adds extra weight, and is just another item to be maintained and replaced when it fails. Plus, almost every caravan has a battery!

Yes, the Optitec machine has full over current and over temperature protection so you can’t damage it by pushing it hard.

If the overload operates, the machine will shutdown and the wheel will lock to keep it from rolling until you apply the handbrake.

All you need to do is press the “Off” button on the Remote Control and that will reset the overload ready to go again.

The tyre is made from high quality rubber on an alloy wheel made specifically for this machine.

All tyres are a compromise because every trailer weight, towball weight, load distribution and surface vary widely, however the Optitec tyre is designed to be durable and provide the best grip under most situations.

No, never operate the Optitec machine in the wound up position. It must only be used with the support shaft wound to the lowest position.

The machine is extremely powerful and will place excessive stress on the main shaft if operated in a wound up position.

Yes, an Optitec can get bogged in the same way that a 4WD vehicle can. It is designed to be used on a surface where it can grip.

As with all equipment, there are risks that must be considered and some of these include ensuring power supply and cabling is sufficient to power the machine, ensuring that the gas systems in the caravan are completely isolated or source removed to prevent any possibility of gas leakage and fire risk, taking care to chock the wheels when not moving the trailer and care when operating near other obstacles.