1 of CZC AUTO Black Trailer Hitch Coupler Lock, Dia 1/4 Inch, 3/4 Inch Span for Tow Boat RV Truck Car's Coupler (1 Pack, Black) (6,573) $10.55. One question that often arises is whether or not to grease the hitch ball. Here are Four major trailer hitch coupler problems and all-time solutions that work. I had the same problem with my hitch but judicious use of the proper lubricants solved the problem. Repair kit is available to quickly replace all parts except for the housing. It might SEEM like it is tight, but check the nut under the coupler, it probably isn't. H. Our dealer had us play with it a bit, because he says he gets calls for help about this. Should it be this hard? Regular inspection and maintenance of your coupler can help ensure that it is in good working condition and keep you and your trailer safe while on the road. Hitching up and un-hitching would be good, since there seems to be an art to it. You could go out and buy another coupler and see if that will solve the problem. Signs of a misaligned coupler include the trailer pulling to one side, the coupler being difficult to connect or disconnect, or the coupler making a loud or grinding noise while towing. The most common problems that can arise with trailer hitch couplers include: Rust and corrosion can occur on the metal parts of the coupler, such as the hitch ball socket, the locking mechanism, and the pins. It can take the form of a tow ball to allow swiveling and articulation of a trailer, or a tow pin, or a tow hook with a trailer loop, often used for large or agricultural vehicles where slack in the pivot pin allows similar movements. Wrong sizing Wrong sizing is when you pick an oversized or undersized coupler for a hitch ball. When used near water, these products are more likely to rust and corrosion. But the one that is on our camper is a beast. A trailer coupler is a mechanism that connects a tow vehicles hitch to a trailer. When that happens the metal parts inside may rust in a certain position keeping you from putting the coupler over the ball. If you already have enough knowledge about the problem before it occurs then very simply these problems are not going to take place as prevention is better than cure. However, all machines have their pain points. Take the time to read it . However, like any other mechanical device, couplers can also develop problems over time. This can be extremely dangerous and can lead to serious accidents. Bill a la Kill. Any trailer towed with a hitch set behind the rear axle of the tow vehicle can sway or fishtail while driving. It absolutely does loosen up. It may be that the lever/latch on the hitch is not all the way up and not releasing the ball. Remove the latch pin from the trailer coupler and lift the latch upwards to unlock it. Learn how to hook to a ball hitch trailer - watch the video. To fix this problem, you can follow these simple steps, which are very basic and easy to follow. a little grease or WD40 may be called for. When I pull, I'm afraid I'll injure a finger or something. I also got stuck into my trailer hitch coupler. (Helpful Guide and Tips), How Do I Reduce My Pin Weight? Greetings from Colorado from someone who had the same problem with a utility trailer. Don't use too much force. Put the hood on an exercise regime. Itll make your coupler more durable. Repeat the latter part of Step 1 until you get a fit that is snug but not so tight that you cannot move the ball by hand with reasonable effort. When it comes to transporting your bikes, you have two main options: roof racks vs trailer hitch racks. In only a few minutes, you can attain the perfect fit. A bike rack is essential to keep your bike safe and secure during transportation. Keeping the coupler clean and dry can help prevent rust and corrosion from developing. If you raised the jockey wheel off the ground, you need to lower the wheel to the ground and then enough that you see that the back end of the TV isn't being pushed downward. If the ball is too small for your coupler, then it should not fit either and you will have trouble clamping the coupler to the ball. No worries, we are here to help you if you need an experts help. If that doesn't help, I'm at a loss. In the first solution to this problem, you may have to make a little adjustment. This can be caused by not installing the coupler according to the manufacturers instructions, using the wrong size coupler, or not properly securing the coupler to the trailer. I didn't see one online, but I could have missed it. These issues can not only make towing difficult, but they can also be a safety hazard. Its very common to face problems in your hitch coupler, especially in the early days of your hitching life. Read More Different Types Of Trailer Hitches & Hitch ClassesContinue. And because a ball-and-coupler connection has more swivel than a standard fifth-wheel hitch, you'll be able to more easily hook up your trailer on uneven ground. To understand everything in the article, make sure you read it carefully. In this article, we will discuss some common trailer hitch coupler problems and solutions for each one. You can also replace the coupler if its too damaged. I have the same problem when hitching & unhitching. If it is too tight, then adjust in the opposite direction. To solve this problem, you should inspect the coupler for any signs of damage and replace it if necessary. When you are towing a large vehicle, it is . The best way to do it is using a C-clamp. It plays a major role in transporting your trailer properly. Haven't cussed at my hitch in a very long time :-). This will prevent overloading the coupler which can cause it to fail. I know it will come in handy! Step 1 To clean the coupler, use a damp cloth to wipe down the metal parts of the coupler, and dry them thoroughly. Easy way to fix and repair trailer coupler on old rusty trailer. If you are having trailer hitch coupler problems, the best thing to do is not to force the solution. The tongue on your trailer must match the trailer coupler, which comes in a variety of sizes and styles. If your trailer hitch coupler is correctly adjusted, you are supposed to be able to release the handle using a little pressure. This can include replacing worn or damaged parts such as the latch or lock mechanism. Let us know your thoughts. Check for bulbs and wiring, as well as if the hitch is adjustable. The unbalancing, bumpy roads, inappropriate ball size, faulty locking lever can also cause these problems. Here, I will talk about these common trailer hitch coupler problems and their solution. The good news is that those internal parts can easily be replaced without replacing the whole assembly. The parts do not move as well and the fit is less than desired. Such an easy fix for safety! Coupler problems happen to everyone from time to time. Reinsert the ball and check the fit. How to find the best Hitch for Boat Trailer? So, place the coupler in its place again the way you have removed it earlier. Hopefully, your problem will be resolved soon. Here are some tips by using which you can remove rust easily: Stainless steel is a tough material that resists rust, corrosion, and discoloration. which we all faced at least once in our life. Before this job, Aus hated towing this trailer because he was scared it might pop off the hitch of the truck. If you cant put the hitch ball freely Inside the couplers head using your hand, its too tight. As a result, rust and oxidation are prevented, friction is reduced, and moisture is repelled. It is just hard to explain. The primary purpose of dual locking pins on ball mounts is to provide enhanced security. There are better ways to handle the problem and if you force it, you may eliminate those options as well as any manufacturer help. Join F&S+ to read exclusive stories by your favorite writers. Then, you should rotate the handle of your coupler backward until the handle is in the locked position. The answer is yes! Zinc plated TUFFPLATE finish for additional rust resistance and longer life. 5,175. Whatever you do, do not try hammering or forcing the ball into position. As an Amazon Associate, We may earn from qualifying purchases. UPC. Guess that explains the attorneys. If not, you may have to go and buy a new coupler. Either way, the result is terrible, and a lot is at risk. Unfortunately, there are a number of common weigh-safe, Read More Weigh Safe Hitch Problems and Solutions Effective GuideContinue, This trailer hitch installation guide will walk you through the entire process of installing a trailer hitch on your vehicle. Fits a 2" hitch ball and a 3" wide trailer tongue. Should You Grease a Trailer Hitch Ball? Physical damage to the coupler can prevent it from properly connecting to the hitch ball. You should be able to close the coupler when unhitched as that allows you to place a tongue lock. #2. The same goes for manipulating the ball. One(Coupler corrosion) always leads to the other (wear and tear). Then, you should lubricate it regularly. A trailer hitch coupler is a critical component of any towing setup. Some major trailer hitch coupler problems are Coupler misalignment, corrosion, wrong sizing, and wear & tear. I definitely need to practice, thinking I need to put the ball farther back toward trailer when hooking up. Now, you have to mildly ground down the edge of this part a bit. When not in use, store the coupler in a dry place to prevent rust and corrosion. Such an easy fix for safety! Trailer Hitch Coupler does not latch properly. Over time, the latch can become worn out and fail to hold the coupler securely. If face some of these nothing be worried about its normal. Now you will find your stuck trailer hitch coupler is moving freely. Drop hitch onto ball (with trailer well-chocked), get into truck and put it in neutral (if level or downhill) or drive (slight uphill), let it creep forwards just enough to get things back into place (like half an inch), put it back in park with the parking brake on, try the hitch again. Use quality oil with additives to sustain your coupler. However, all machines have their pain points. Then the rest was easy. This can cause the trailer to disconnect from the towing vehicle while driving. So today we are here to talk about what are some common hitch coupler problems and how to solve them. The interaction of iron and oxygen in the presence of water or air moisture produces rust. And yes, one thing is its better to be advanced every time. Channel Tongue Trailer Coupler - Trigger Latch - Zinc - 2" Ball - Bolt On - 3,500 lbs. In general, the trailer hitch won't release quickly because of rust, improper lubrication, and overloading. We hope your problem will be solved. This video will show you how to fix a sticky, stuck, rusty trailer coupler or tongue on your trailer.This will work on campers, ATV trailers, boat trailers, . A tow hitch (or tow bar or trailer hitch in North America) is a device attached to the chassis of a vehicle for towing, or a towbar to an aircraft nose gear. PXLated, do you know of anyone who might make a youtube video of this procedure for us newbies? Rust on the hitch ball, rust inside the trailer coupler, paint on the hitch ball, or just caked on dirt these are all common problems that interfere with the grounding process," said Long . 03-31-2009, 09:31 PM. Another problem is that you may find your coupler gets stuck and it does not work properly. All repairs performed by our viewers are at your own risk.While we do review products that we use daily or have even used for years, we also review and test products for companies that have compensated us to try their product out. Check the coupler for signs of wear or damage on a regular basis. Applying a protective coating on the coupler, such as wax or oil can also help slow down the process of rust and corrosion. Disengage vehicle parking brake. There is a two-step process you need to follow. Just make sure that your coupler is well-fitted with the hitch ball. ISBN. All iron metal corrodes. Just a point of clarification: when you say you cranked up the jockey wheel, do you mean cranked it up off the ground? There are better ways to handle the problem and if you force it, you may eliminate those options as well as any manufacturer help. Replacing the spring is the best repair option in this case. Straight Tongue Trailer Coupler. Also, all towable used for rental purposes should be converted from safety chains to coiled steel safety cables. Signs of wear and tear on a trailer hitch coupler include difficulty latching or unlocking the coupler, looseness or play in the coupler, and visible damage or wear on the locking mechanism. A 2 & quot ; ball - Bolt on - 3,500 lbs solutions work. Applying a protective coating on the coupler if its too damaged my hitch judicious. To help you if you are having trailer hitch coupler we all faced at once! You if you cant put the hitch ball and a lot is at.! 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