Does etrailer.com Hitch Lock e98886 Really Prevent Theft of Trailer

Published 01/25/2018

Products Featured in This Question

etrailer Trailer Coupler Latch Lock - 2" Span - 1/4" Diameter - Chrome

(266)

$21.35

Fastway Universal Coupler Lock for 1-7/8", 2" and 2-5/16" Couplers - Key 318

(986)

$56.09

Question:

I would think installing the coupler lock like we do in the installation photos is technically incorrect because someone could still hitch up your trailer it just wouldnt be secure on the ball correct?

asked by: Jay-Queline

Expert Reply:

The Trailer Coupler Lock # e98886 prevents the latch of the coupler from opening. So if you installed this lock on the latch of your trailer like in the picture attached to this page someone could lower the coupler onto their ball and the ball would support the weight of the trailer, but the coupler would not be able to secure to the ball.

So basically if the thief were to hit a big enough bump to unload the tongue weight of the trailer it would fall right off. Or if they drove up a steep enough hill it would fall as well.

A Fastway lock like part # FA86-0015-318 would block the ability of the coupler from being able to rest on a ball so this might be more what you'd want. If that's what you're in to.

expert reply by: Jameson C