Trailer Coupler Trigger Latch Position and Ensuring Correct Fit

Updated 06/10/2019 | Published 06/08/2019

Question:

Trigger Latch hold-own location. Does the trigger latch latch under the ball? My latch works. That is, it folds down and I can the keeper pin or lockable bar to hold it in place. But... I dont feel it down low beneath circle of the ball. Can the latch fold down and not work, like it is too high? The ball has a wear pattern above center around the ball. I checked the wear pattern on a neighbors hitch ball and it too is above the center. I am probably not understanding what causes the wear pattern and there is more of it underneath but not touching. How do I check that its secure? Can you show me a drawing of a correct positioned trigger latch?

asked by: Dan

Expert Reply:

The Fulton Fas-Lok Coupler - 2" Ball - 3" Channel - 6,000 lbs # F346000301 will not be under the ball all the way to the hitch ball shank but it will be on the under side of center. It is possible for a latch to be installed incorrectly and not hold the ball while the trigger latches. I recommend checking it to make sure it is installed correctly and that you can't physically lift the trailer off the ball while latched. The wear on the ball should be above center from the tongue weight of the trailer resting on the ball and not from the latch/locking system. The lock doesn't need to be so tight to cause any friction on the ball but rather just to make sure the coupler can't lift off the ball.

I don't have a drawing of the latch positioning, but the latch when locked should keep the coupler on the ball, not tight causing more friction, but allowing movement side to side without allowing much vertical movement.

expert reply by: Jason S