They all work by clamping around the hitch ball on the trailer. Our Price: $38.83. UPC. White Grease Hitch Ball Lube. If not, you may have to go and buy a new coupler. Rust is a major problem people face with their couplers. lift the trailer up , make sure the lock lever is all the way up and the fingers , that go under the ball are all the way back,set it back down and see if it will lock. There are zinc-plated hitch balls available. They may be expensive, but its worth it. The good news is that those internal parts can easily be replaced without replacing the whole assembly. It is something you have to work at and learn the feel. If that is the issue it will not take much effort; if it doesn't move then the issue is elsewhere. When it comes to towing a trailer, ensuring a secure connection between the hitch and the ball is crucial for safety. To learn more about this issue, just continue to read our article. When I pull, I'm afraid I'll injure a finger or something. Work with that first and see if any adjustments you make solve the problem. Signs of rust and corrosion include discoloration of the metal, flaking or peeling paint, and a rough or pitted surface. However, if you find the handle is not moving freely, then it can be due to over-tightening the two bolts securing the coupler to the tongue assembly. No need to worry if you face some of these, its normal. There is a two-step process you need to follow. Reese. Some common trailer hitch coupler problems include loose coupler, corroded coupler, damaged coupler, incorrect coupler size, worn out latch, and frozen coupler. which we all faced at least once in our life. Bought a coupler repair kit from tractor supply and we fixed it in under 5 minutes! But the one that is on our camper is a beast. document.getElementById( "ak_js_1" ).setAttribute( "value", ( new Date() ).getTime() ); Disclaimer: We may earn a small commission from sponsored links in this article at no additional cost to you. Andersen Manufacturing is a well-known brand in the market that offers weight distribution hitches. Watercraft trailers or humid environments are ideal for stainless steel towing products. To clean the coupler, use a damp cloth to wipe down the metal parts of the coupler, and dry them thoroughly. However, all machines have their pain points. To prevent this problem, try to follow these easy steps: Uncouple the trailer and replace the coupler with a spare ball (a). Thanks! Or adjusting the alignment of the coupler to ensure a proper fit with the hitch ball. 3) Coupler - used to secure the trailer to the towing vehicle. You can clean the corrosion and rust but that is no guarantee something did not get bent and wont work right. One important aspect of trailer safety is ensuring that the hitch is properly weight-distributed. Take the time to read it . However, like any mechanical component, they can experience problems over time. The latch on the coupler is responsible for holding the coupler onto the hitch ball. by Bob Stearns The fit between the ball hitch and the trailer coupler should be tight enough to prevent a By However, I noticed that it was not latching properly. OffroadersArena is a participant in the Amazon Associates Program. Keeping your hitchs moving parts in top shape is vital when it comes to towing. A trailer hitch coupler is a component that connects the trailer to the towing vehicle. Keep in mind that you should check the coupler for tightness on the ball for hassle-free towing. Trailer Hitch Coupler Problems and Solutions: It just sticks, like its rusted. If you cant put the hitch ball freely Inside the couplers head using your hand, its too tight. Trailer Hitch Coupler Problems and Solutions, Trailer Hitch Coupler Problems and Solutions FAQ. It is recommended that you seek advice or help from a qualified professional while attempting any and all repairs. The pins that hold the coupler to the trailer can become loose due to vibration or can fall out completely. Replace parts as needed to make sure the coupler works all the time. 100 up. However, all machines have their pain points. 5.0 out of 5 stars Good coupler. Or you can spray some WD-40 over those parts and see if that loosens the parts up so they will work normally. Don't have the bandwith for a vid and not sure pics would do it. If it is too tight, then adjust in the opposite direction. limited qauntity stock? The rear sensors will pause the process if they detect obstructions. Pros and ConsContinue, Towing a trailer can be a hassle if you dont have the right equipment. Reviewed in the United States on March 16, 2023. If that has worn out or has been bent, etc., then the coupler may not latch onto the ball. The first step is to get a spare ball and put the coupler on it. I have found my hitch to be difficult to get to fully seat on the ball and also to unlatch. When necessary, adjust or replace the coupler parts to ensure proper alignment and functionality. The ball hitch and trailer coupler should be snug enough to prevent a dangerous decoupling while driving, but not so tight that the trailer struggles to turn. Read more, Affiliate Disclosure I agree about the breaking in period. This can cause the metal to weaken and become brittle, making it more likely to break or fail during towing. Fits a 2" hitch ball and a 3" wide trailer tongue. An oversized hitch coupler may be so loose that the trailer might bounce off the van while in transit. If your trailer hitch coupler is correctly adjusted, you are supposed to be able to release the handle using a little pressure. In order to fix this problem, you have to make the two bolts lose by half a turn with the socket and wrench. Either way, the result is terrible, and a lot is at risk. I've pulled big flat beds at work, loaded with equipment and machines. 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. Set of 2 Bike Trailer Hitch Coupler Attachments Instep & Schwinn Bike Trailers. Wrong sizing is when you pick an oversized or undersized coupler for a hitch ball. It absolutely does loosen up. When it comes to towing a trailer, safety is of the utmost importance. To prevent this, ensure your coupler is latching on the right ball size. The coupler joints may be a little stiff, so work it multiple times to get it to cooperate. Best Overall: Master Lock Universal Size Trailer Locks. But the one that is on our camper is a beast. Installing a trailer hitch can be a daunting task for a DIYer, but with this comprehensive guide, you can easily install, Read More Trailer Hitch Installation Guide: Steps How To InstallContinue, If you are an avid cyclist who loves to travel with their bike, you know the importance of a good quality bike rack. The coupler latch must be in the fully open and backposition before you hitch or unhitch the ball. Below, we discuss some of the most common problems you may encounter with your trailer coupler, as well as our suggestions. Standard Coupler. Join F&S+ to read exclusive stories by your favorite writers. They are critical for ensuring safe and secure towing. Stainless steel is used in many of our tow bars, exhaust systems, hitch receiver locks, coupler locks, and tube steps. One is that the coupler was left open and out in the rain for some time. With enough exposure, the couplers parts may rust or succumb to corrosion. If you find it moving freely, then you need to adjust the tension on your vehicle's . Use a good lubricant to remove rust, which is a little thing but very effective. 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. A couple of the trailers have been used and abused pretty hard too. Do not move the trailer to the tow vehicle. Quick Answer: The most common way to remove a trailer, Read More How to Remove Rusted Hitch Ball?Continue. I know it will come in handy! That was all for now. the way you resist coupler corrosion. When not in use, store the coupler in a dry place to prevent rust and corrosion. Correctly installing thetrailer hitchcoupler to the hitch ball is vital for safety and maintenance. But this may not always be the problem. 2) Hitch Ball or Tow ball - ball shaped attachment to a hitch where the trailer coupler is attached. To solve this problem, you should apply a lubricant to the coupler and make sure its free from any debris or dirt. The best fifth wheel trailer to gooseneck hitch for your 2022 Toyota RAV4 at a great price. Don't use too much force. If the latch or lock mechanism of the coupler is not functioning properly, it can cause the coupler to become disconnected from the hitch ball while towing. Really soak it and allow to dry. This is one of those do it by feel situations. Spraying it is a good idea as well as working it. Both have their advantages and disadvantages, and the best choice for you will depend on your specific needs and preferences. To solve the problem of a damaged coupler, you should inspect the coupler for any signs of damage and replace it if necessary. Using a hammer in this position is not a good idea as the colar may act as a spring. Damp or cold environment boost corrosion (iron rust). From the April 2012 issue of Field & Stream magazine. To disconnect a travel trailer from its hitch, release the locking mechanisms and all safety pins. That is really important to us. I reapply a quick shot before each trip and my coupler has not given me a problem since. Penetrating oil is another option. All iron metal corrodes. 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 . Straight Tongue Trailer Coupler. It is very helpful. Free shipping. 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. Trailer hitch couplers are a vital component of any towing setup, as they connect the trailer to the tow vehicle. 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. There is a spring, a nut, a handle, and a clamp that are all prone to excessive wear and tear. Then, you should make sure you have the right-sized ball. Thats it. It prevents grease from rubbing off when the hitch ball is not towing or in storage. Price tagging depends on the service provider. Youll have to hold the ball Mount in your hands to test how tight or loose the coupler is latching. Isn't the movement to remove the coupler from the ball to pull up first, then slide back? I'm not as strong so I need to rely on brain power, not muscle. If you follow these suggestions, you can extend the life of your towing equipment and prevent corrosion and rust. document.getElementById( "ak_js_1" ).setAttribute( "value", ( new Date() ).getTime() ); are Coupler misalignment, corrosion, wrong sizing, and wear & tear. | Save my name, email, and website in this browser for the next time I comment. I think some have used mallets before. limited quantity stock. Facing the trailer hitch coupler problems is not new. It will be the smaller parts inside, like the clamp or the lever, that wear out. DIY! Every trailer I've ever built I've welded on the hitch coupler. . The first step is to get a spare ball and put the coupler on it. You may need to use a 9/16 or 3/4 inch socket and wrench. There is no set number of turns you can make on the adjustment nut and you get a perfect fit. Re: ezloader trailer hitch problems?? In only a few minutes, you can attain the perfect fit. A ball cover protects your hitch ball from the weather. WD 40 is not a lubricant. You can also replace the coupler if its too damaged. Corrosion can cause the coupler to become stuck and difficult to connect or disconnect. In this article, we will compare roof racks vs trailer hitch racks to help you make an, Read More 5 best Comparisons Between Roof Racks vs Trailer Hitch Racks for Your Bike Transport NeedsContinue, If you are experiencing problems with your trailer hitches, check out this Guide on weigh Safe Hitch Problems and Solutions. The hitch coupler must latch perfectly around the hitch ball. How can I solve the problem of a corroded coupler? Vaseline does help (thanks Verna!) There is an adjustment nut inside the coupler. All you need to do is spray some WD-40 or use penetrating oil and wait 15 minutes. There is also a videofor the Atwood Trailer Coupler. To be honest, I didn't even know what a coupler was until needing to fix this trailer! Every day.! As far as concerne, there are two ways to move a trailer by hand. Corrosion-resistant materials are used in the manufacturing of many towing items, such as hand winches, jacks, and couplers. Whatever you do, do not try hammering or forcing the ball into position. So, place the coupler in its place again the way you have removed it earlier. SUBSCRIBE TODAY! Step 2** Just a point of clarification: when you say you cranked up the jockey wheel, do you mean cranked it up off the ground? Metal touching metal will cause problems with trailer lights. By understanding common problems and their solutions, you can ensure that your coupler is functioning properly and keep your trailer and tow vehicle safe while on the road. Test how tight or lose it is by inserting the ball head inside the coupler. However, choosing the right bike rack can be a challenging task. Cause problems with trailer lights find it moving freely, then you need to use a or. 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