Can I Remove A Weld-On Trailer Coupler and Replace it With A Bolt-On Coupler?

Updated 11/15/2016 | Published 11/14/2016

Question:

I have 2 trailers. One with 1 7/8 coupling and the other one with a 2 inches coupling. I would like to change everything to 2 inches. The coupling on the 1 7/8 is welded. Can I just remove it and install a new 2 inches drilling the holes?

asked by: Lisandro A

Expert Reply:

Yes, you can remove your weld-on coupler and install a new bolt-on coupler that fits a 2 inch ball. There is just a few things you need to do to before and when installing.

You need to know what channel size and the weight capacity you will need for the new coupler. The most common sizes are the 2, 2-1/2 and 3 inch channels. Coupler, # CT-3001-Z , can be used if you have a 2 inch channel and a weight capacity of 3,500 lbs. If you need a coupler for a 3 inch channel, the Fulton # F343000301 would will work for this application and has a 5,000 lbs capacity.

When you go to remove the weld-on coupler you need to make sure you break the welds and do not cut into the trailer frame. Place the new coupler on the channel and use a marker to mark through the bolt holes on the frame to show where you will need to drill. You will need a drill bit that will make a 1/2 inch hole in the frame to install the coupler.

Drilling new holes in the frame will be okay because you will be reinforcing the structure by the addition of bolts. You should use bolts that go through the trailer frame. You will need two 1/2 inch diameter grade 5 bolts about 4 inches long and nuts to install the coupler to the trailer.

expert reply by: Jared P