Safe towing starts with a solid connection. A well-matched coupler keeps your trailer secure, level, and easy to hook up. Whether you’re replacing a worn latch, switching styles, or adjusting for height, the right fit makes towing smoother and safer. Match your coupler to your trailer tongue and hitch ball size so your setup locks in tight and stays steady on every trip.
Hey Daniel. To convert your surge brake trailer over to electric over hydraulic system you'll need the Hydrastar Vented Marine Electric Over Hydraulic Actuator for Disc Brakes item #HS481-8067. The Hydrastar item #HS481-8067 works with factory…
The channel of the Demco 21K #DM16080-52 coupler is 3 inches deep. The distance from the center of where the trailer ball would sit to the first 5/8 inch hole is 7 inches, and 12 inches to the second hole. The Titan #T4853100 dimensions are a little…
I would use a protractor, see photo, place the protractor on the edge of the inside of one side of the trailer frame and the other inside edge of the trailer frame should be parallel with the 50 degree line on the protractor. Another way to verify…
First I want to make sure you verify your channel mount for the Demco Trailer Coupler #DM14040-81 has a 21K or larger capacity as often times they are less like the Demco #DM15349-52 which often times people look at and think it is a channel mount…
Hey Jon, welcome back! Those are indeed for safety chains. The chain anchor holes are 1/2" in diameter on the Demco 50-Degree A-Frame Trailer Coupler w/ Jack Hole item #DM13205-95. To attach a set of safety chains like the item #BPH94MR to them…
Hey James, The Hydrastar Vented Marine Electric Over Hydraulic Actuator for Disc Brakes #HS481-8067 does work with the integrated brake controller of your 2019 Silverado as-is and does not require any additional adapter as this comes with one…
In order to replace the Dexter 023-359-00 left hand and 023-360-00 right hand braking assemblies you will want to use the Dexter Nev-R-Adjust Electric Trailer Brake Kit part #23-464-465 which will replace both sides and it's a direct bolt-on…
The etrailer A-Frame Trailer Coupler w/ Round Jack Hole #CA-5280-RB uses the standard a-frame angle of 50 degrees. The length from the rear of the coupler to where the coupler meets its narrowest point is approximately 9" long. I have include…
Hey Cody. I have attached a diagram below for the Dexter Self-Contained Hydraulic Jack- Square Tube -item #DX72CR. It has every measurement we have for this jack. What kind of trailer are you looking to install this on?
The HydraStar Marine Electric Over Hydraulic Actuator w/ Breakaway and 7-Way RV Harness item #HS381-9067 is designed to work with an aftermarket electric over hydraulic brake controller. The HydraStar Vented Marine Electric Over Hydraulic Actuator…
Trailer or automotive wheels can have a positive or negative offset. The offset refers to the distance between the mounting surface of the wheel that touches the hub and the center line of the wheel, as shown in the diagram I have edited for you. A…
That is correct the inner dimension of the Demco A-Frame Trailer Coupler item #DM14793-95 is 10 3/4 inches. I have attached a picture that breaks down the measurements. You would need to fabricate a spacer on either side to attach this coupler to…
Your Towing Setup Isn’t Complete Without a Good Trailer Coupler.
For more than 75 years, etrailer has helped people tow with confidence. We carry trusted brands, test every coupler we sell, and show real installation photos so you know what to expect before you buy. From gooseneck and a frame couplers to surge actuators and off road options, you will find strong, long lasting parts and the know how to help you build a setup that fits your trailer and the way you tow.
What kind of trailer couplers are out there?
There are a few main types to choose from, depending on your trailer. For straight tongue trailers, you’ve got couplers that bolt right onto the frame. A-frame trailers need, well, A-frame couplers—they can be bolted or welded on. If you’re towing a gooseneck trailer, those couplers connect to a ball in the bed of your truck and often let you adjust the height. And then there are adjustable channel-mount couplers, which give you flexibility for leveling your setup.
How do I know what ball size and weight capacity I need?
First, check your trailer’s specs or your current coupler for the right ball size—most common sizes are 1-7/8", 2", and 2-5/16". Then make sure the coupler’s weight rating matches or exceeds your trailer’s gross weight. For example, some couplers can handle up to 21,000 lbs, so you’ve got options no matter what you’re towing.
Picking the right trailer coupler is crucial for safe and smooth towing. If you’re unsure where to start, check out our article: How to Choose the Right Trailer Hitch Coupler . It walks you through everything from matching the coupler to your trailer type and ball size to considering features like weight capacity and ease of use.
What should I look for in a user-friendly trailer coupler?
Look for features that make your life easier, like auto-latch mechanisms. Those let you hook up or disconnect without fiddling with the latch—it’s so convenient. If you’re in a wet or coastal area, go for couplers with corrosion-resistant finishes, like zinc-plated ones. And if you need flexibility, adjustable channel-mount couplers let you tweak the height to keep your trailer level.
Can I replace my old trailer coupler, or do I need a whole new setup?
You can totally replace just the coupler if the rest of your trailer setup is in good shape. Just make sure the new one matches your trailer’s tongue type and ball size. It’s a relatively straightforward swap, and it can make towing safer and easier.
Are there couplers made for off-road trailers?
Yep, there are off-road couplers designed for extra articulation, so they perform better on uneven terrain. These are perfect for adventure trailers or anyone heading off the beaten path. They’re rugged and give you more flexibility when towing over rough ground.
How do I keep my trailer coupler in good shape?
Regular maintenance is key. Grease the latch mechanism occasionally to keep it moving smoothly, and check for any rust or wear. If you’re using a coupler in a marine environment, rinse it off after exposure to saltwater and keep it coated with a rust-resistant spray.
What’s the best way to lock my coupler for security?
A coupler lock is the way to go! It prevents anyone from hitching up your trailer when you’re not around. They’re super easy to use and give you extra peace of mind, especially when parking in public places.
