Should Adding a Padlock to a Yoke Style Coupler Keep the Coupler from Coming Off of the Tow Vehicle

Published 08/20/2018

Question:

Dear E-trailer, I have a 2008 Fleetwood E2 tent trailer with a 2-5/16 Yoke coupler. This style of coupler is a bit new to me and I have just been learning about it. The previous owner gave me a padlock to act as the coupler locking pin however I have since noticed that neither this lock nor any other pin act as a secondary mechanism to lock the trailer coupler to the tow ball. I am not sure if my coupler is at fault or this is by design. please see my photos and annotated photo. I also watched a youtube video here that described replacement parts in a Atwood yoke coupler and it appears to be similar to mine with no additional holes. There was a brief mention that sounded like no coupler lock or pin was required but I felt the need to clarify this.

asked by: David C

Expert Reply:

I only had one photo of yours come through so it is a little hard to tell but you should be able to add your padlock style coupler lock, like the Master Lock # 605DAT, to keep your coupler from opening.

Attached is a review video of the discontinued Atwood Yoke style coupler AT80072 where you can see that the padlock would attach to. I'm guessing you've already tried attaching the lock and you are still able to open up the coupler with the trailer coupled to your tow vehicle? If that is the case then it does sound like your coupler may be broken and you will want to find a replacement.

A coupler lock typically is not required for standard use of a trailer, but it is nice to install for peace of mind when you need to make a stop while towing your trailer.

expert reply by: Jon G