Will Fulton Fold-Away Coupler Hinge Kit Work to Add 24" Extension to Boat Trailer?

Updated 09/05/2025 | Published 08/13/2025

Question:

The tongue on my trailer is too short to allow easy launch and retrieval. I am considering using a swing-away hinge and a separate section of galvanized steel tongue to effectively extend it about 24. This seems like a simpler solution than trying to replace the whole tongue. I dont see a real difference in splicing in a longer tongue piece and cutting and splicing a longer tongue. Is this foolish or would this work? Its a small 15foot aluminum boat with a 15hp outboard so not really heavy.

asked by: Kevin P

Expert Reply:

Hey Kevin, thanks for reaching out!

The Fulton Fold-Away Coupler Hinge Kit # FHDPB230101 is definitely a good way to fix your situation and keeping the total storage size of your trailer down. The 24" length will limit you to a max 5K trailer 500 lb tongue weight so as long as your boat trailer stays under that then you'll be good to go.

Do you normally use your boat for fishing, or do you enjoy just floating and enjoying the water?

expert reply by: Jon G

Weight Ratings for Trailer Tongue Coupler Hinge
(click to enlarge)

Kevin P.

8/19/2025

Fishing boat mostly.

Kevin P.

9/5/2025

So...now the question is where to get that 24" extension.

Jon G.

9/5/2025

@KevinP Try reaching out to a trailer shop or a welder. They should have some metal you can buy off of them, or even see if they can do the work for you (if you'd rather not do it yourself).