Can Fulton Fold-Away Coupler Hinge Kit # FHDPB330301 Be Used on Aluminum Watercraft Trailer

Updated 06/30/2014 | Published 06/27/2014

Question:

I am looking at purchasing a Fulton Fold-Away Coupler Hinge Bolt On Kit for 3inch x 3inch Tongue for my jet ski trailer. The description says it should not be used for aluminum tongues. Why is that? Or is that only applicable for the weld on kit?

asked by: Chad H

Expert Reply:

The Fulton Fold-Away Coupler Hinge Kit # FHDPB330301 that you referenced cannot be used with an aluminum-frame trailer. This is true for both weld-on and bolt-on kits. The issue is not due to difficulties related to welding aluminum (though this would be a separate concern) but rather has to do with welding different metals (with different melting points). Steel-frame trailer tongues have the rigidity and strength to allow use of a folding coupler but an aluminum trailer tongue does not.

expert reply by: Adam R