Replacement 2" Coupler for a Ram CT8003 Coupler

Updated 12/20/2025 | Published 12/18/2025

Products Featured in This Question

Demco Channel Tongue Trailer Coupler - eZ-Latch - Silver - 2" Ball - Bolt On - 10,000 lbs

(276)

$85.52

Question:

I have a Ram CT8003 2in Ball, 3 inch channel, that I would like to replace with a DEMCO. Trailer is a 21foot aluminum enclosed 7K GVWR. My Ram coupler only has 2 holes, where as the Demco has 3. The 3inch channel on the aluminum trailer is absent the 3rd bolt hole, which then would lead me to believe I would have to drill into the channel for the additional/3rd hole? My concern being one of a reduction of the channels rigidness if I needed to drill the 3rd hole. Is/are the use of all the bolt holes necessary, or could I simply only use the existing 2 bolt holes.

asked by: Keith B

Ram CT8003
(click to enlarge)

Expert Reply:

Hey Keith, thanks for the pictures. In order to get the full 10,000 lbs capacity out of the Demco Channel Tongue Trailer Coupler item # DM13689-52 you would need to drill out that third mounting hole. Seeing as how your current Ram CT8003 coupler is rated for 8,000 lbs and is working with only two mounting bolts you should be good.

Just to be safe you may want to reach out to your trailer's manufacturer to see if drilling the third hole will reduce the strength of the tongue and follow their recommendations.

What has you wanting to upgrade your trailer's coupler, it looks brand new?

expert reply by: Jerred H

Glenn C.

12/19/2025

Commenting on the Demco hitch (not the bolt pattern) The Demco coupler is great. Foolproof ball engagement, never a “high hitch”. You will no longer wonder if your trailer is safely connected to your tow vehicle.

Buck

12/20/2025

I used 2 bolts on my galvanized load rite. My concern would be the hardness of the bolts used. Drilling for the third should not affect the tongue integrity. The hitch has operated smoothly since installation.