Can Grade 8 Bolts on an Adjustable Trailer Coupler Be Replaced with Hitch Pins

Updated 06/04/2024 | Published 05/26/2018

Question:

I have a bulldog style coupler on my equipment trailer and need to adjust the height. Cant I just use grade 8 hitch pins instead of bolts so its easier to adjust on the fly, much like how the pins are used on adjustable hitches?

asked by: Cody

Expert Reply:

I spoke to my contact at Bulldog and they cannot recommend substituting the grade 8 bolts that came with the coupler for a set of hitch pins. This would void the warranty of the coupler and more than likely a few SAE requirements. If you choose to do so anyway then you would need a hitch pin with a 5/8" diameter and a usable span of at least 3-1/2" for which you can use part # 325-GH-099.

expert reply by: Conner L

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Gary

6/4/2024

I had the same thought.. if someone had an adjustable coupler you could swap couplers very quickly and take a trailer.. Locking pins would negate that.. The adjustable one on my truck can lock.