Want Folding Coupler for Performance Brand Boat Trailer with 2-1/2-inch x 2-3/8-inch Trailer Tongue

Updated 12/26/2013 | Published 12/22/2013

Question:

My trailer tongue measures exactly 2 1/2 x 2 3/8. What size Fulton coupler should I use. It is a performance brand trailer and holds a 1520 key west flats boat..

asked by: Justin

Expert Reply:

Thank you for providing a photo of your trailer tongue to help illustrate its dimensions which you measured as 2-1/2-inches tall x 2-3/8-inches wide. This is an unusual tongue size and we do not offer any folding couplers in this size. Since Performance Trailer is no longer in business I was not able to find out what materials they used in construction of their trailers; please note that foldaway couplers such as the unit you referenced, part # FHDPB330301 from Fulton, cannot be used on aluminum trailer frames. Also the tongue material thickness must be between 0.188 inches and 0.120 inches.

Please note also that the exact placement of a foldaway coupler on a trailer tongue will reduce both its tongue weight and gross trailer weight ratings. The longer the pivot distance the lower the weight capacity.
For example, with the 3-inch coupler you referenced a pivot distance of 48-inches results in a maximum trailer weight rating of 2600-lbs. Please refer to the chart included. You will need to make sure the full weight of your boat and trailer will be within the new capacity after the folding coupler is installed in your chosen position.

Since we do not have a bolt-on folding coupler of the size you need I suggest that you have a weld-on type installed by a qualified welder. A skilled welder should be able to attach additional steel spacer blocks at the time of installation to allow a 3 x 3-inch coupler like Fulton # FHDPW330300 to work on your smaller trailer tongue, as long as it does not have an aluminum frame. My contact at Fulton confirmed that this is perfectly acceptable if the work is done by a qualified welder.

expert reply by: Adam R