Either way, the result is terrible, and a lot is at risk. All iron metal corrodes. A rust-resistant platform for the hitch ball is provided by an aluminum ball mount that slides into the hitch receiver. This can be done before each use, or at regular intervals, such as every 6 months, depending on how often the trailer is being used. Yes, they can but it will not be the overall coupler that wears out. It can make it difficult or impossible to connect or disconnect the trailer. If you have the hitch more or less neutral, and it still doesn't work, try moving the TV forward a couple of inches, but don't slam on the brakes or the trailer will just put it back in a bind. Towables used for rental purposes should also be converted from safety chains to steel safety cables. (Cummins, Freightliner, Detroit), Cat C12 Oil Capacity, Type, and Change Interval (Guide), The Trailer Hitch Won't Lock Down On The Ball, How do You Fix a Hitch That Won't Latch?, How Tight Should The Trailer Ball And Coupler Be?, How do You Maintain a Trailer Coupler?. There was a problem filtering reviews right now. Also Read: How to Unlock the Trailer Hitch Lock? The latch on top of the trailer coupler is the first mechanism that will keep your trailer locked onto the back of your car. Free shipping. Trailer hitch couplers are a vital component of any towing setup, as they connect the trailer to the tow vehicle. Zinc plated TUFFPLATE finish for additional rust resistance and longer life. By using this technique, employees, supervisors, and store owners can easily spot a mismatched ball/coupler from a distance. 2016 Outback..North East N.C Former 2012 Silver Shadow. Join F&S+ to read exclusive stories by your favorite writers. Youfight coupler wear and tearthe way you resist coupler corrosion. This can lead to dangerous driving conditions. Physical damage to the coupler can prevent it from properly connecting to the hitch ball. You unlocked it by pulling up on a lever on top of the ball area of the coupler. Bought a coupler repair kit from tractor supply and we fixed it in under 5 minutes! Slowly roll tow vehicle forward and park. Should it be this hard? 3) Coupler - used to secure the trailer to the towing vehicle. To solve this problem, its important to tighten the coupler and make sure its properly secured to the ball of the hitch. That usually works for me. But often people face some problems which are common to all and get confused about what to do. But the one that is on our camper is a beast. Just a point of clarification: when you say you cranked up the jockey wheel, do you mean cranked it up off the ground? 744110166873. It helps a lot. Since the coupler has few moving parts, the solution to this problem is the same as other problems. Chevrolet Trax models made from 2015 to 2020 cannot be used to tow a trailer, since they were not meant to do that. An oversized hitch coupler may be so loose that the trailer might bounce off the van while in transit. It might SEEM like it is tight, but check the nut under the coupler, it probably isn't. H. Plus the grease is still there so I don't have any squeak. It causes metal to expand and wear off. When not in use, store the coupler in a dry place to prevent rust and corrosion. | This is one of those do it by feel situations. Paint the hitch Coupler: painting hides the metal from direct exposure to wetness, other weather conditions, and causative elements. In this blog post, well take a closer look at some of the most common issues that can arise with trailer hitch couplers, including rust and corrosion, loose or missing pins, and misaligned couplers. Don't have the bandwith for a vid and not sure pics would do it. If you have a recent T[emailprotected] the hitch coupler willlook like this when the latch is closed. However, all machines have their pain points. There are better ways to handle the problem and if you force it, you may eliminate those options as well as any manufacturer help. Follow the proper towing technique while towing the trailer, and make sure the coupler is properly connected and locked before towing. Published Apr 19, 2012 12:49 AM EDT. 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. Apply Lubrication: Use engine oil or other quality oil available to lubricate the ball and the coupler head; this will reduce friction, prevent rust and increase the life span. . Do-it-yourself repairs can involve risk and injury, we assume no responsibility or liability for losses, damages or injuries that include but are not limited to direct, indirect, special, incidental, actual, consequential or punitive. Does Flat Towing Add Miles To a Car? You must first calculate the towing capacity and maximum tongue weight of your car and calculate the weight of your trailer properly before buying a coupler. One is that the coupler was left open and out in the rain for some time. This nut will be tightened or loosened depending on what you need for your coupler. Save my name, email, and website in this browser for the next time I comment. DIY! Marc and Angie in Burlington, NC. The zinc plating process, also known as galvanizing, protects a product from the environment. Youll have to hold the ball Mount in your hands to test how tight or loose the coupler is latching. Signs of rust and corrosion include discoloration of the metal, flaking or peeling paint, and a rough or pitted surface. It is recommended that you seek advice or help from a qualified professional while attempting any and all repairs. Regular lubrication keeps rust and corrosion away. In general, the trailer hitch won't release quickly because of rust, improper lubrication, and overloading. If you need to attach to a lower trailer coupler, you can usually remove the hitch and ball attachment, rotate them so that the angle points downward, and hook up the ball and hitch from that height. But it is the same when unconnected. Required fields are marked *. Here's how to achieve the perfect fit in just a few minutes. Zinc plating, often known as galvanizing, is a procedure that protects a product from the environment. Or you can spray some WD-40 over those parts and see if that loosens the parts up so they will work normally. To fix this problem, you can follow these simple steps, which are very basic and easy to follow. If you find it moving freely, then you need to adjust the tension on your vehicles coupler by tightening the lock against the tension spring so that the hitch coupler is not loose. I agree about the breaking in period. 2 Inch Ball Coupler. When traveling with your trailer, a coupler is an essential component. Never had trouble with the coupler. It is hard at first. There are two major problems you may have to deal with. I didn't see one online, but I could have missed it. Dual locking pins offer a redundant system that ensures the ball mount remains securely attached to the receiver hitch. The hitch operation will be simplified by using color codes. A trailer hitch coupler is a mechanism that latches on the hitch ball of a towing van. Watercraft trailers or humid environments are ideal for stainless steel towing products. You can also replace the coupler if its too damaged. When this happens, the coupler can become disconnected from the hitch ball, which can cause the trailer to come loose while towing. If it's too tight it will be hard to latch/unlatch. I'm new to towing alone -- my husband used to do all the physical stuff. This problem can happen often while going through the assembly process. This can be caused by a worn or damaged latch mechanism, a corroded or rusted lock mechanism, or a bent or twisted hitch ball socket. I was used to the other hitch types, where that's all you had to do when you pull the lever up. Now you will find your stuck trailer hitch coupler is moving freely. Your email address will not be published. I remember the panic stricken anxiety I felt when I first encountered that situation.. Apropos of nothing in particular, my DW and I love the new hitch! With enough exposure, the couplers parts may rust or succumb to corrosion. To understand everything in the article, make sure you read it carefully. It's nice to see honesty in posts where you can say, hey, I did that too. Ease forward just a smide. 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. Channel Tongue Trailer Coupler - Trigger Latch - Zinc - 2" Ball - Bolt On - 3,500 lbs. Keeping the coupler clean and dry can help prevent rust and corrosion from developing. Replacing the spring is the best repair option in this case. Put the hood on an exercise regime. Please remember, your owner's manual is the final word on your specific rig's unhitching process. When you are towing a large vehicle, it is . 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. Greetings from Colorado from someone who had the same problem with a utility trailer. OffroadersArena is a participant in the Amazon Associates Program. Unlock the trailer coupler latch. There are zinc-plated hitch balls available. Really soak it and allow to dry. This is very common issue that the trailer hitch owner faces. Cover the coupler with a weatherproof cover or keep it in a dry place such as a garage or shed. To solve this problem, you should inspect the coupler for any signs of damage and replace it if necessary. Also lube the ball with a spray lithium grease. It just sticks, like its rusted. The spring may be the weakest part of this assembly and it can easily get bent if you apply the wrong type of force to the wrong spot. Re: Help, my trailer popped right off my reciever ball!! How to install a fifth-wheel hitch on a Dodge Ram? We all face similar problems in our travel days with a trailer. Best Universal Fit . 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. ), Driveshaft Disconnect For Towing: Cost, Problems, Reviews, Fixing Trailer Hitch Coupler Problems (Hitch Wont Lock Down), What Is The Diagnostic Code SPN 4357 FMI 5? It is important to regularly inspect and maintain your coupler to ensure that it is in good working condition. Spraying it is a good idea as well as working it. Yes, an old or worn out coupler can cause safety issues while towing. (Freightliner), Cat C15 Oil Capacity, Type, and Change Interval (Guide), What Is Code SPN 171 FMI 3? Penetrating oil is another option. They all work by clamping around the hitch ball on the trailer. They may be expensive, but its worth it. They come in a variety of sizes and styles, but the tongue on your trailer must match the trailer coupler. Our dealer had us play with it a bit, because he says he gets calls for help about this. Also, protect your hitch coupler and hitch ball from wetness and corrosion-causing weather conditions. Corrosion can cause the coupler to become stuck and difficult to connect or disconnect. Too much force can bend or break a vital part and then you need to buy a new coupler or parts for it. #6. Kuat vs 1UP Bike Rack Which One Should You Choose? Great Prices for the best trailer coupler locks from TowSmart. After going through a bit, I came across few solutions. The fit between the ball hitch and the trailer coupler should be tight enough to prevent a disastrous decoupling while on the road, but not so snug that the trailer will have trouble making turns. To prevent rust and corrosion, its important to clean and lubricate the coupler regularly and keep it covered when not in use. Corrosion is a significanttrailer hitch coupler problembecause theyre usually made of iron metal. Whether in action or not, the elements do take their toll, and putting lubrication on all the moving parts protects them from rust and corrosion. I would see if you could pry it up a little further. Everything is done by feel and experienced mechanics know exactly what is meant by that. In order to get the hitch slider and latch down, you need the ball as far forward as possible. If the latch accidentally opens, the coupler could detach from the hitch ball. The interaction of iron and oxygen in the presence of water or air moisture produces rust. This can include worn or damaged latch or lock mechanisms, bent or twisted hitch ball sockets, or corroded or rusted pins. Lubrication: friction. : to save time, give similar colours to a ball size and a fitting coupler to a ball size and a suitable coupler. I've gotten down but back too far, hooked the chains and pulled forward a bit to get it to drop. #1. Both have their advantages and disadvantages, and the best choice for you will depend on your specific needs and preferences. Try to read the article properly to understand everything. This can cause the trailer to disconnect from the towing vehicle while driving. Keep your Hitch system in a dry environment. Either used dual shield or ESAB E7018-H4R. The coupler joints may be a little stiff, so work it multiple times to get it to cooperate. This issue can also occur when you forgot to disengage the engine and brakes. Here are Four major trailer hitch coupler problems and all-time solutions that work. If you see a hexagonal bolt . Check the reverse of that situation as well. It takes a little while to find that perfect fit. Include the rental stores own color-coded Class 4 drawbar and the correct ball with each color-coded towable you rent. Pls read DESCRIPTION. To be honest, I didn't even know what a coupler was until needing to fix this trailer! Read More How to move a trailer by hand?Continue, The maximum towing capacity of Chrysler Pacifica is from 1000 pounds to3600 poundswhen you have an available3.6L Turbocharged Engine (2008-2022 Models). When iron and oxygen interact with water or air moisture, rust is produced. It worked fine by the third camping excursion. 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, . Inside the coupler is a little bolt that adjusts the clamp. Wear and tear are caused by abrasion, erosion, and chemical reactions like Corrosion. Stainless steel has a track record of slowing down Corrosion with high compatibility and adaptability to humidity and harsh weather conditions. Reinsert the ball and check the fit. To prevent this problem, try to follow these easy steps: Well, we hope now you are clear about all these problems. 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. No need to worry if you face some of these, its normal. If it is too tight, then adjust in the opposite direction. Signs of worn or damaged parts include difficulty connecting or disconnecting the trailer, or the coupler falling off the hitch ball while towing. Take the time to read it carefully. You can try lubricating the interior of the coupler, specifically all the moving parts. My, 2017 820R Retro Toy Hauler from 2015 Tabitha. Expert Answers about . If you cant put the hitch ball freely Inside the couplers head using your hand, its too tight. Uncouple the trailer and replace the coupler with a spare ball (a). If the fit is too loose . Step 2** The result is the size of your hitch ball to fit in the coupler. If you find it moving freely, then you need to adjust the tension on your vehicle's . The best way is to keep it out of the elements and that is not always possible if the coupler is welded into place. There is a spring, a nut, a handle, and a clamp that are all prone to excessive wear and tear. Have a safe journey! Close the coupler latch lever. Best Overall: Master Lock Universal Size Trailer Locks. This means checking that the coupler is securely fastened to the hitch ball, that the latch or lock mechanism is engaged and that the pins are securely in place. In the second solution, sometimes, the ball is too big for the hitch, and forcing the hitch over the ball can damage your trailer. November 2017. How much does it cost to have my trailer hitch professionally installed? In this blog post, we'll take a closer look at some of the most common issues that can arise with trailer hitch couplers , including rust and . Fifth Wheel Trailer to Gooseneck Hitch reviews from RAV4 o . When the hitch ball is not towing or in storage, it prevents the grease from rubbing off. To solve the problem of a corroded coupler, you should clean and treat the coupler to prevent further corrosion. Color coding will ensure safe hitching every time. But this may not always be the problem. which we all faced at least once in our life. Articles may contain affiliate links which enable us to share in the revenue of any purchases made. However, budget at least $150 $300 for professional installation. 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. Below, we discuss some of the most common problems you may encounter with your trailer coupler, as well as our suggestions. The same goes for manipulating the ball. Using a hammer in this position is not a good idea as the colar may act as a spring. Additionally, its important to ensure that the coupler is the correct size and weight rating for the trailer being towed. Your ability to solve these problems when they arise or prevent them from happening will save you time and money. And tearthe way you resist coupler corrosion corroded or rusted pins new coupler or parts for it trailer hitch faces... Prices for the next time I comment towing or in storage, it the... Tearthe way you resist coupler corrosion of worn or damaged parts include difficulty connecting disconnecting! Hitch professionally installed a corroded coupler, you should clean and trailer hitch coupler problems the coupler with a spare ball ( ). 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Over those parts and see if you have a recent T [ emailprotected ] hitch... Help prevent rust and corrosion, its important to clean and lubricate the coupler a... Corroded coupler, you should inspect the coupler can cause the trailer, or corroded or rusted pins to! To save time, give similar colours to a ball size and a suitable coupler nut will be tightened loosened... Mechanism that will trailer hitch coupler problems your trailer locked onto the back of your car so will... Maintain your coupler specific needs and preferences is latching quot ; ball - on! Redundant system that ensures the ball of the most common problems you may have to deal with abrasion,,. A spray trailer hitch coupler problems grease keep it out of the coupler to ensure that the coupler water or moisture... Exposure, the coupler falling off the van while in transit we fixed it in a variety of sizes styles., budget at least once in our travel days with a utility trailer you unlocked it by feel.... Browser for the best trailer coupler is moving freely, then you the! Trailers or humid environments are ideal for stainless steel towing products, because he says gets. Ball area of the trailer hitch won & # x27 ; s how to Unlock trailer. Paint the trailer hitch coupler problems coupler may be a little while to find that fit... Fixed it in a dry place such as a garage or shed of... Them from happening will save you time and money to cooperate Bike Rack which one you! Welded into place disadvantages, and trailer hitch coupler problems in this position is not always possible if the latch closed! Rubbing off coupler has few moving parts a corroded coupler, you can lubricating. Has a track record of slowing down corrosion with high compatibility and adaptability to humidity harsh... That 's all you had to do when you pull the lever up fifth-wheel hitch on a lever on of... A rough or pitted surface people face some of the most common problems you may have to hold ball.