Recommended Channel Mount Coupler/Brake Controller Installation for Trailer Towed By 2010 Tacoma

Question:

I have a few questions. I am in need of an adjustable 2inch channel coupler 3inch wide with 2inch bolt spacing. The trailer is not very heavy. A little under 3K little guy rough rider however I do want a good quality safe coupler with a reliable latch. What would you recommend to be the best quality for latching. I looked up the demco on their site and the cut away of the latching mechanism in the locked position looks to be sketchy to me. it does not appear to have a latch under the round portion of the ball. Likely due to the ez latch function. Looks to be held by pressure. I may be wrong. The bulldog BDA200C0317 looks like good quality. I do like the four bolt inplace of two to prevent movement. The four bolts versus the two bolt models may prevent movement which I like. The Pintle hook I have moves around a little in the channel two bolt like the bulldog Am I missing something on the Demco or the others? Any others you would recommend. I am probably over thinking this for such a small trailer. The latch is my biggest concern with any of them. Just dont it coming off. Not sure I want the sliding bull dog type. I'm interested in the Curt Echo brake controller for my Tacoma Truck without the tow package. It appears I do need a 12V wire ran from my TV battery back to the 7 pin I will be ordering. Thanks

asked by: John

Expert Reply:

The Demco # DM12688-95 you've looked at would be a good choice. The 2 inch channel mount coupler is compatible with a 3 inch channel, and has bolt spacing of 2 inches on center. Demco is known for high quality products, you'll get years of service out of the coupler. With a 10K capacity it'll be a lot stronger than you really need, but whenever you're talking weight capacities and safety, a little overkill is a good thing.

I've heard of absolutely no problems with the Demco Ez-Latch system. If it'll make you feel better, you could always use a trailer coupler latch lock like # e98887 while towing. The Bulldog # BDA200C0317 coupler would also be a fine choice, but to be honest, I prefer the EZ-Latch system. The Demco coupler also attaches with 4 bolts, available as part # DM6166.

The # C51180 Curt Echo would be a great choice for you. Rather than the # 30717, I'd recommend you go with the # ETBC7L installation kit. The mounting bracket is included, and if you were wanting to mount the 7-way to the hitch crossbar, you'd use the # C57202.