Can The Grade 8 5/8" Channel Coupler Bolts Be Replaced With Locking Pins?

Updated 09/12/2025 | Published 05/26/2025

Question:

On the adjustable height couplers can I use like hitch pins for quick removal? All the couplers I see have bolts. I would love to have pins so I can remove the coupler to help prevent theft. They should make a strong enough pin for this. I would use it on my 6x12 Hawke dump trailer 10k gvwr.

asked by: Tommy J

Expert Reply:

Hello Tommy, good question. So the channel mount couplers like the Trailer Coupler # CTA-400 use grade 8 5/8" bolts to attach to the channel. It is not recommended to replace the bolts with pins, since there would be no way to add torque. You would have to stick with the 5/8" bolts. The minimum torque value is 159 and the max is 212 (foot pounds) so they would be tough to remove but there would be no good way of adding a lock to this.

expert reply by: Jesse M

Trailer Coupler - Adjustable Channel Mount
(click to enlarge)

Jesse M.

9/12/2025

Hey Tommy, did you find a way to secure your trailer coupler to prevent theft? I'm asking because your experience could help others looking for similar solutions.