Trailer Coupler Will Not Release Hitch Ball Even After Lubrication

Updated 08/20/2024 | Published 11/07/2017

Products Featured in This Question

1-7/8" Hitch Ball - 3/4" Diameter x 1-9/16" Long Shank - Chrome - 2,000 lbs

(2634)

$17.00

Question:

I just went and got another pop up trailer b/c I needed two. Just got home and cannot get it off the ball. I tried cranking it and releasing the latch at the same time but as I crank, it is lifting the back end of the car along with the coupler. I tried moving the car a little forward and reverse. Still stuck. I tried prying it off with a bar. It just stays stuck. Tried spraying it on top and underneath with WD-40. I really need my car. Hope you can answer this soon.

asked by: Tracy C

Expert Reply:

I see you have tried the usual fixes for a coupler that won't release the hitch ball - moving the vehicle slightly to potentially release excess tension on the ball, lubrication with WD-40 and even a little brute force with the pry bar.

You can also first make sure the trailer is supported, and then remove the hitch pin from the ball mount and move the truck forward. This will ensure there is little or no tension on the ball/coupler.
This will also give you more room to work and free up the vehicle for use.

We have also seen the need to use a screwdriver and a hammer to knock the wedge backwards/up while someone else holds the lever in the open position or while they also pulled on the lever.

Once you get the ball free of the coupler I recommend that you apply ball grease # 58117.

Naturally, be sure to use the correct matching hitch ball size for the coupler. Some couplers will not have an issue using a 2-inch ball like # 63845 even if they are intended for a 1-7/8-inch size like # 19256, but others may not function properly.

expert reply by: Adam R

Mel S.

8/18/2024

Hi I have the same problem as above, I have taken the coupling off the caravan and then taken my removable towbar off the car, with coupling still attached, if I manage to part them surely using grease will affect the Alco pads as the golden rule is to keep the ball lubricant fre at all times, have you any advice as to how to part them please Mel Smith

Bryce D.

8/19/2024

@MelS Mel, have you tried moving the truck forward a little and see if it frees up? It's a little unconventional but you can also try jumping on the bumper and wiggling the trailer from side to side. Sometimes that will help free it up as well.

Mel S.

8/20/2024

@BryceD Thanks for the reply,tried all the usual to no avail, my Landrover is only 3 years old so jumping on the bumper is not an option, it would probably come off I took coupling head off caravan and on inspection in my garage the front alco pad had broken and dropped down preventing the separation of the coupling, when I turned the coupling head upside down in trying to release the ball the broken piece fell back into place allowing the ball to be released. Ordered new set of pads and all will be good when fitted

Bryce D.

8/20/2024

@MelS Glad it all worked out, Mel.