Ball vs Coupler adjustment

[whistler66]

What is the proper adjustment for a coupler to the ball? I guess you want some slack (just guessing) but not too much, how much is too much? What is proper? I've never had one so loose it came off but I have had them so loose there was noticeable play. Do you lube the trailer ball regularly?

 

[Frank Acampora]

Re: Ball vs Coupler adjustment

Personally, I'm not a big fan of slack or grease on the ball and coupler. I set my coupler so the spring under the tongue of the coupler compresses slightly when I lock down the handle. Helps to keep it from popping open, but I still use a lock for this purpose.

My take is that unless you clean the grease every use, it will collect grit and accelerate wear of the ball and coupler.

I'll bet you get hundreds of answers both pro and con on this one too. Like what's the best outboard oil or use of seafoam.

 

[smokeonthewater]

Re: Ball vs Coupler adjustment

there should NEVER be ANY slack in the coupler.... grease in the coupler IS recommended as the trailer will behave a little better with it BUT I NEVER grease em... Can't stand it.... dang grease gets everywhere... I leave em dry and rusty and wouldn't have it any other way.... If they start getting worn I'll throw em away.... haven't had to throw away anything yet in 20 years of towing tho

 

[AZSenza]

Re: Ball vs Coupler adjustment

My coupler is tight and I use trailer grease. I clean and regrease a few times each year. I just dont like the squeaking!

 

[cribber]

Re: Ball vs Coupler adjustment

At the most/least I'll spray the ball with WD-40 when I remember. I usually pull the ball mount at the end of the day to save my shins so rust isn't a real problem.

 

[smokeonthewater]

Re: Ball vs Coupler adjustment

now that I think about it there are a few types of coupler that are not adjustable and those may have a little slop but VERY little.... If you have very much at all you have a problem

 

[robert graham]

Re: Ball vs Coupler adjustment

If your coupler and ball match up, say both 2"diameter, then they should be about right. A dab of grease helps stop any squeaking!

 

[smokeonthewater]

Re: Ball vs Coupler adjustment

to give you an idea.... from a 2" coupler on a 1 7/8" ball would have only 1/8" of slack and be totally unacceptable....

 

[oldjeep]

Re: Ball vs Coupler adjustment

Don't want to see anything you would describe as slack. I've never greased trailer balls,but the ones on my adjustable are self lubricating (some kind of black layer on the aluminum)

 

[Prophammer]

Re: Ball vs Coupler adjustment

Couple trailer to the ball, if in doubt lower your landing gear and jack it down untill it starts raising your tow vehicle, if it isn't on there right it won't lift the tow vehicle it will pop off the ball. Don't get in the way if it does that. Just my thoughts, hope it helps.