Can You Tighten An A-Frame Coupler Or Must It Be Replaced

Published 10/08/2019

Products Featured in This Question

A-Frame Trailer Coupler - Thumb Latch - Black - 2-5/16" Ball - Weld On - 14,000 lbs

(142)

$40.14

Demco 50-Degree A-Frame Trailer Coupler w/ Jack Hole - eZ-Latch - Primed - 2-5/16" Ball - 21K

(215)

$153.82

Question:

I have a coupler like this A-Frame Trailer Coupler - Thumb Latch - Black - 2-5/16inch Ball - Weld On - 14,000 lbs Item # CA-5400-B I am new to trailering and it seems loose to me. I can get it to come off the ball but it seens very loose to me. Is there a way to tighten it or do I need to replace the whole coupler??

asked by: David

Expert Reply:

If you feel the connection point between your trailer coupler and hitch ball is too loose then the trailer coupler will need to be replaced because there is no way to tighten this. The connection point does need to be loose enough for the coupler to rotate on the hitch ball but not loose enough where you have a bunch of play. If you are in doubt it would be wise to replace the entire trailer coupler for both peace of mind and security. In some cases, you can obtain a trailer coupler repair kit but you would need to know the exact model number of your coupler in order to see if this is an option and most of the time it is not.

I recommend the Demco 50-Degree A-Frame Trailer Coupler part # 12660-97SP as the eZ latch system is fool-proof and very secure. The A-Frame Trailer Coupler part # CA-5400-B is a good cost effective alternative as well.

expert reply by: Conner L