strange coupler to me

[tschamp20]

looking for any info on this type of coupler. is it safe,reliable,strong? it hooks up awesome,so smooth. it has the hole that can be seen in the pic that says "lock" but im not sure what to put in the hole. any info is much appreciated.thanks

 

[mike343]

Re: strange coupler to me

If you put a little pad lock through the hole, It will prevent unlatching.

 

[Knot Waiting]

Re: strange coupler to me

Looks just like the style on my friends car/equipment hauler. We've loaded and towed several cars, a farm tractor, and mini excavator with no problems.

 

[CATransplant]

Re: strange coupler to me

That thing will be WAY easier to operate if you get some oil or spray-on grease on it. I had one just like that. I thought it was broken, but a little oil made it work great.

 

[hungupthespikes]

Re: strange coupler to me

Have an old flat trailer with one. I've had it 15 years and it's close to 30 years old. Works good.

 

[Reel Kahuna]

Re: strange coupler to me

It's called an "A" frame coupler rated at 5000# http://www.etrailer.com/Trailer-Coupler/Atwood/80071.html

 

[reelfishin]

Re: strange coupler to me

There's nothing wrong with that style coupler, you lift and pull back a bit to release it. Like mentioned above, it no doubt needs some lube. It looks like someone has been hammering on it. I'd also make sure it's adjusted to fit the ball properly.
Usually when I get one that's all rusted like that I take it apart and clean all the parts up and re-lube it with some grease inside after a fresh coat of paint.

 

[EddiePetty]

Re: strange coupler to me

....I have a very similar one on my tow bar.

On mine, at least, that bolt head behind the latch lever is a locking device the slides forward against the tang and is tightened down to prevent unlatching.

FWIW....Ed in ol' Virginny

 

[JimMH]

Re: strange coupler to me

That is exactly what is on 90% of bumper pull R/V's, cattle and heavy equipment trailers. It is very heavy duty and will be fine if latched and lubed correctly.