How to Clean and Lubricate a Difficult to Open Trailer Coupler
Updated 04/28/2025 | Published 04/12/2025
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Question:
I have a Travel trailer that is hard to close the coupler latch. This is both with and without a ball. It appears to be similar to this A frame coupler. A-Frame Trailer Coupler - Underslung - Thumb Latch - Black - 2-5/16 Ball - Weld On - 14K Part Number: CA-5335-B. Any recommendation on how to improve the latching? Replace latch parts?
asked by: John P
Expert Reply:
Hey John hopefully it just needs a good cleaning and lubrication. It would be noticeable if something was bent or broken and even then it probably wouldn't work at all. I recommend dousing your coupler in WD-40 a couple times. Open the latch and spray as much as possible inside the mechanism. Just keep working it over and opening and closing the latch while you're doing it.
Coupler's like item # CA-5335-B aren't the easiest to operate because they get all kids of gunk and road grime in them. You'll also want to lubricate the ball with grease like item # 58117. This will help to reduce friction and make the ball and coupler slide off of each other easier.
If this doesn't work we can try to find a replacement latch kit but I wouldn't have high expectations to find one. I'll need to know exactly what manufacturer your coupler is though. Coupler's like item # CA-5335-B are so inexpensive they don't make replacement parts for them.
If you have any additional questions go ahead and throw them into the comment box below and I'll be happy to help you.
Product Page this Question was Asked From
A-Frame Trailer Coupler - Underslung - Thumb Latch - Black - 2-5/16" Ball - Weld On - 14K
- A-Frame Trailer Coupler
- Standard Coupler
- 50-Degree Frame
- Weld-On
- 14000 lbs GTW
- 2-5/16 Inch Ball Coupler
- Thumb Latch
- Standard Grade
- etrailer
more information >
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on A-Frame Trailer Coupler
John P.
4/15/2025
I have been using a ball grease. I will try cleaning it. Would PB Plast be good to use followed by WD-40? Thanks for the help. John