Installation Recommendation for Titan Zinc-Plated Trailer Coupler T4853100

Updated 02/03/2012 | Published 01/31/2012

Question:

My trailer is a 7x14foot RNR enclosed all aluminum trailer with tandem Dexter torsion 3500lbs axles. Originally it came with a 5000lbs 2inch coupler with two through bolts holding it on. I am putting the Titan Coupler # T4853100 on to bring it to a higher capacity. How many of the five holes do you reccomend using on an aluminimum tounge? I fear drilling more holes would cause a weakness in the tounge. There are already 2 1/2inch holes 3inch apart. Should I use the 5/8inch holes or just the extra 1/2inch hole at the end of the coupler to bring it to the 7000lbs to 8000lbs range?

asked by: Myles S

Expert Reply:

The Titan Zinc-plated trailer coupler # T4853100 is designed to be mounted using all five bolt holes, and I would strongly recommend doing so. There is not really a way to know what the weight capacity would be, depending on the number and placement of bolts you would use otherwise. I am including a link to a video review going over the features of the coupler for you to reference if needed.

The most important thing to note would be that upgrading to a heavier duty trailer coupler is only going to increase the trailer capacity if the rest of the components have a similar weight rating. In a towing system, you must stick to the lowest rating, whether it is on the axles, the coupler, the tires, etc. In order to up the capacity of the system to 7000 or 8000lbs, you would need to make sure that all of the components are rated at a capacity that matches. If one part of the system is rated for 5000lbs and the rest are rated for 7000lbs, you would still need to stick with the 5000lb rating because that would be the weakest component in the system.

Have you switched out any other components on the trailer yet? If you need help locating suitable replacements, I would be glad to make some recommendations for you. Just let me know the axle capacity, the current tire size and load rating, and the bolt pattern on your wheels. I am including a link to some information that will help you determine the bolt pattern.

expert reply by: Sarah L