Troubleshooting Curt A16 Hitch Jaws That Will Not Lock

Updated 05/06/2021 | Published 05/05/2021

Question:

I have a new Curt A16 hitch and I am having trouble getting the jaws to lock. I position the lube plate 0.5inch below the hitch plate and then backup under the kingpin. The jaws wrap around, but the locking arm will not engage. If I pull forward, the jaws open up again. I end up having to pull forward and back up into the hitch multiple times changing the angle slightly each time until it the locking arm finally snaps into place. Is this expected behavior? Is there anything I can do to make it work right the first time?

asked by: Scott W

Expert Reply:

For your Item # C16521 I would first start off by greasing the hitch with some White Grease Hitch Ball Lube Item # 58117 and then ensure your hitch is in fully into the yellow triangle coupling mode. It sounds like you might be slightly off of that setting or in the red octagon uncoupling mode. When in the coupling mode once your pin connects the jaws should not be opening back up. You'll want the camper to be as level as possible while hooking up and I recommend having the lube plate level to the hitch plate.

expert reply by: Kevin C