I used a couple of Honda Civic scissor jacks.
They are light weight and compact.
When collapsed the jack ideally should have the screw stick out of
the threaded thrust bearing just a bit (as oppose to being flush).
This allows a fork to be welded on to connect a shaft, without interfering
with the threaded portion of the jack. If the welding interferes with the
thread you will not be able to collapse the jack completely.
In any case, if you get a couple of jacks you will see what is needed
and what needs to be done.
Udo




Friend the Internet about how to do that, though.

Can anyone point me in the right direction?

Are there any of these, new or used, available? (Yes, I know I could order
one from Cobra or Komet, but would like to save that for a last resort.
Looking for something here in USA, if possible.)

Any spares from trailers no longer in use?

Making one of these is acceptable, but would like some advice on types of
jacks to get, how to connect them, etc.

Thanks in advance for your advice,
Bullwinkle