Reese M5 Series Jaw Will Not Open All the Way with Handle Locked in Open Position

Updated 06/01/2016 | Published 05/30/2016

Question:

On my reese 20k M5 hitch the jaw dose not open completely eventhough the release lever is lock in open position.I have to have someone to pull on lever which opens the jaw all the way and hold it there so I can drive the truck out of trailer.

asked by: Hashem H

Expert Reply:

There could be something gumming up the works internally with your hitch, # RP30921, that is not allowing the jaws to stay fully opened. Usually this means there is some dirt and grime that got mixed up with the grease used to lubricate the mechanism. If you take just the head off and flip it over you might be able to see this more clearly. If you clean off the old grease and reapply some new grease that could be all you need.

It is also possible that there is something mechanically wrong just as a worn or broken spring. The correct replacement spring is # RP58230. You can also inspect the hitch head for any damaged/bent parts that might be causing this issue. If you see signs of damage I advise replacing the head since it is hard to tell how extensive or compromising the damage is. The head can be replaced with # 58292.

expert reply by: Michael H