Some major trailer hitch coupler problems are Coupler misalignment, corrosion, wrong sizing, and wear & tear.
A trailer hitch coupler is a mechanism that latches on the hitch ball of a towing van. It’s the control mechanism that holds a trailer to a van.
Correctly installing the trailer hitch coupler to the hitch ball is vital for safety and maintenance.
Occasionally, you’ll be faced with one mechanical problem. Your ability to solve these problems when they arise or prevent them from happening will save you time and money.
Here, you’ll learn how to solve common trailer hitch coupler problems and prevent them from happening.
Trailer Hitch Coupler Problems & Solutions
Here are Four major trailer hitch coupler problems and all-time solutions that work.
#1. Wrong sizing
Wrong sizing is when you pick an oversized or undersized coupler for a hitch ball.
The undersized hitch coupler will be too tight, which may cause significant damage to the entire hitch system.
An oversized hitch coupler may be so loose that the trailer might bounce off the van while in transit. Either way, the result is terrible, and a lot is at risk.
Do these:
- At the top of the hitch ball, you’ll find the maximum weight the ball can pull and the size of the ball. On the hitch coupler, you’ll find the ball size that fits that coupler, and This is a sure way to pick the suitable coupler for the right ball. However, this method tolls on time at unorganized rentals.
- Use a ruler: Measure the opening of your coupler with the ruler. The result is the size of your hitch ball to fit in the coupler.
- Colour code: to save time, give similar colours to a ball size and a fitting coupler to a ball size and a suitable coupler. This method will enable you to notice a coupler-to-ball mismatch from a distance.
#2. Coupler Misalignment
The hitch coupler must latch perfectly around the hitch ball. Too tight may lead to the wear and tear of the coupler’s head, breakage of the hitch ball, or worse. To prevent this, ensure your coupler is latching on the right ball size.
Do the following:
- Lose the ball Mount from the hitch receiver. You’ll have to hold the ball Mount in your hands to test how tight or loose the coupler is latching.
- Unlock the coupler hatch, and loosen or tighten the adjustment bolt to lower or lift the ball wedge.
- Test how tight or lose it is by inserting the ball head inside the coupler.
If you can’t put the hitch ball freely Inside the coupler’s head using your hand, it’s too tight.
If the ball mount can’t stay in position after the coupler hatch has been locked, it’s too loose.
#3. Coupler’s Corrosion
All iron metal corrodes. Corrosion is a significant trailer hitch coupler problem because they’re usually made of iron metal.
When you expose your hitch coupler to causative elements such as wetness, harsh weathering, and more, you’ll risk Corrosion which may lead to difficulty in hitch movement and trailer control.
It may result in your trailer parting from the van during a turn and may hit badly on you.
Do the following:
Alloy Metal: Stainless steel has a track record of slowing down Corrosion with high compatibility and adaptability to humidity and harsh weather conditions. They may be expensive, but it’s worth it.
- Paint the hitch Coupler: painting hides the metal from direct exposure to wetness, other weather conditions, and causative elements. It is an ideal and economical way to prevent or slow down Corrosion.
- 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.
- Proper Storage: Keep your trailer Hitch Coupler in a dry environment. Damp or cold environment boost corrosion (iron rust)
#4. Wear & Tear
Wear and tear are caused by abrasion, erosion, and chemical reactions like Corrosion.
Though wear and tear take time nevertheless, if it’s overlooked, it can be disastrous as this may cause damage to the hitch system.
How to Prevent wear and tear:
- Lubrication: friction. It causes metal to expand and wear off. Use quality oil with additives to sustain your coupler.
- Keep your Hitch system in a dry environment. Do not expose the metal directly to wetness or other weather conditions that may cause Corrosion.
You fight coupler wear and tear the way you resist coupler corrosion. One(Coupler corrosion) always leads to the other (wear and tear).
FAQs
#1. What is the equipment needed to install the trailer Hitch?
- Wire tube brush
- Lubricant
- C-clamp
- Torque wrench
- Wheel chocks
- Pin and clip
- Power drill if necessary.
#2. How much does it cost to have my trailer hitch professionally installed?
Price tagging depends on the service provider. However, budget at least $150 – $300 for professional installation.
Final Note
A healthy towing system saves time and money, which improves your overall well-being.
However, all machines have their pain points. Trailer hitch coupler problems are included.
Just make sure that your coupler is well-fitted with the hitch ball. Also, protect your hitch coupler and hitch ball from wetness and corrosion-causing weather conditions.
Make sure you choose the right coupler size for the hitch ball diameter.