Trouble with Locking Handle Engaging on the Curt A20 5th Wheel Trailer Hitch

Updated 06/12/2025 | Published 07/23/2018

Products Featured in This Question

Curt A20 5th Wheel Trailer Hitch - Dual Jaw - 20,000 lbs

(526)

$999.95

LubriMatic White Lithium Grease - 14 oz. Cartridge

(78)

$12.72

Question:

I occasional have an issue when I back into my camper to hook up the jaws close but the release arm/lever does not move to the locked position. I have pulled forward and backed into the camper rather firm when this happens with no change. Any ideas as to why or what I can do to remedy the issue? Thanks

asked by: Bryan

Expert Reply:

I spoke to my contact at Curt about your Curt A20 5th Wheel Trailer Hitch part # C16140 and they informed me that the locking handle issue is likely a result of improper lubrication. For starters, I would take some brake parts cleaner and spay down the jaws and the locking handle to ride any debris. Once you have let the jaws and handle mechanism dry then you can take some LubriMatic White Lithium Grease part # L11354 and work it onto these components while moving them back and forth to let the grease get everywhere it needs to be.

I have attached a photo that shows the grease maintenance schedule for you as well.

expert reply by: Conner L

click to enlarge

Jm C.

5/28/2025

I have a Curt A30, bought used, it is really been greased up and maybe it has too much but the handle will not pull out the 1/2 inch to open the jaws. it has a goose neck ball plate in the jaws that I need to remove. also can not take the bottom plate of the handle off to unlock as the hex heads are rounded out.`

Jameson C.

5/28/2025

@JmC Something is currently lodged in the jaws? Is there play in between the ball and the jaws or is it potentially binding up and that's why it won't release?

Jmc

5/30/2025

@JamesonC That is what I thought, something jammed but apparently was dried old grease that was more like a glue. after digging out old grease and a lot of pb blaster, I was able to get it opened. Then yesterday used a can of brake cleaner and gasoline got 95% of the old gunk out. Seems to be working now.