Troubleshooting Latch Not Fully Engaging on Ram Coupler

Published 06/07/2019

Question:

My travel trailer has an A-frame mounted wrap-around yoke style coupler, RAM SAE CSA CLASS 4 DO NOT EXCEED 8000 LBSinch stamped on top. When the yoke drops over the nose of the coupler and the latch handle is pulled down to secure the yoke, the latch tips do not fully seat into the corresponding slots on top of the coupler. This causes a misalignment in the latch handle holes and hole in the tab on the top of the coupler see image, and as such the locking bolt cannot pass though. The part underneath the coupler that slides to engage the hitch ball dont know the name of the part appears to obstruct the free range of the locking tips. Notes: this problem is a recent development, until recently the bolt passed through the holes properly with this coupler model, there doesnt appear to be provisions for adjustments. I am at a loss how the problem occurred or how to correct it without removing the entire coupler from the trailer A-frame and re-welding a replacement. Any insights would be appreciated.

asked by: Don B

Expert Reply:

The first thing that comes to mind is that there might be some debris or corrosion that's preventing the latch handle from fully engaging when pulled down. I recommend giving the coupler a thorough inspection, both on top of the unit around the latch and inside the coupler, cleaning out as best you can any debris and corrosion that could be causing the issue.

If this doesn't resolve the problem then something may have gotten bent somehow on the mechanism. I can't be sure as to what would have actually caused it but if this is the case then I do recommend replacing the coupler altogether to ensure a safe attachment with the tow vehicle.

To replace your existing Ram coupler the etrailer.com # CA-5210-B will work perfectly.

expert reply by: Chris R