Is it Safe to Grind Down Crown of Coupler and Hitch Ball To Allow Pintle Hitch Top to Lock?

Updated 03/29/2019 | Published 03/28/2019

Question:

Regarding the original post question-253470 referenced above the expert says the pintle hitch top wont lock down on a ball coupler but I think I have the next logical question following that train of thought Im looking to complete a one time tow of a trailer with a dysfunctional ball coupler and am thinking of using my pintle hitch by grinding off the top of the ball coupler on the trailer so that the top of the pintle hitch will far enough for me to pin it locked. What Im wondering is if the remaining coupler steel will fail without the crown of the steel which I am planning to remove or if it will be strong enough to complete the tow?

asked by: Jake

Expert Reply:

The Curt Pintle Hook with 2-5/16" Hitch Ball - Channel Mount - 20,000 lbs # C45922 would technically be able to lock in place over a coupler if the coupler were reduced in size along with the hitch ball itself. The huge issue is that when you change the coupler and the hitch ball you will drastically change the capacity of both the hitch and the coupler. This in no way is a safe practice as both capacity rated parts would be altered. In addition the hitch ball and coupler wouldn't rotate the way they were intended which could cause further safety issues with binding between the coupler and the hitch ball.

I recommend fixing or replacing your coupler and towing as originally intended.

expert reply by: Jason S