Trailer Coupler Does Not Fit Securely Around Hitch Ball

Updated 10/21/2019 | Published 10/19/2019

Question:

What if u don’t have anyone else to help u holding the lever up and also my hitch u can take your hand and move the hitch and move it up and down and side way lot of free play should it be able to do that

asked by: Curtis C

Expert Reply:

It sounds like you need to replace your trailer coupler as there should not be excessive up and down or side to side play on the hitch ball. If you do have too much play or the latching mechanism is not functioning properly like you said then you are at risk of the trailer coupler becoming detached from the hitch ball which I am sure I do not have to tell you is very bad. The loose fit around the hitch ball is a tell-tale sign the coupler needs to be replaced.

In order to replace the trailer coupler you will need to remove the old one which usually entails grinding down the welds but I have replacement options for you that can simply be bolted on so you don't have to then re-weld a new coupler. The Demco A-Frame Trailer Coupler part # DM14793-81 is a great option and so long as you trailer is under 10,000 lbs will work for you. I have attached a list of our other options below as well.

expert reply by: Conner L