Is It Ok To Remove 9" From A Trailer Tongue When Replacing A Coupler?
Updated 06/17/2026 | Published 06/09/2026
Products Featured in This Question
Question:
I have a 5 x 8 utility trailer that came with an 1 7/8” coupler…. And it’s welded on to 2” channel. I also have a boat trailer that has a 2” coupler. Was thinking about changing out the 1 7/8” coupler to 2” so I can eliminate the need to swap out hitches, and maybe even upgrade my hitch to a with a sliding /raising design. And most all of those are dual ball 2” and 2 5/16”…..so eliminating the 17/8” coupler would make sense. So. My question is, with the welded on coupler, can I cut the coupler off, losing about 9” of the channel, install a new 2” coupler onto the “shortened” channel and not create an issue with the trailering of my utility trailer ? Thank you for your help and support. Sincerely
asked by: Ed C
Expert Reply:
Hi Ed!
Losing 9" off the front of your trailer is a bummer, but there is no reason you couldn't. That said, you will definitely want to keep an eye on how the tongue weight changes after doing so and how your turning radius changes as well. I don't think being 9" shorter is going to mess with anything too terribly much, just be aware of it the first couple time you tow.
Now to get the coupler, the Trailer Valet Channel Tongue Trailer Coupler - Trigger Latch - 2" Ball - Bolt On - 3,500 lbs # TV47ZR you were looking at isn't a bad choice. But, it is for a 2-1/2" channel and you will need to use some spacers to fill the gap. If I were doing this, I would go with the etrailer Channel Tongue Trailer Coupler - Trigger Latch - Zinc - 2" Ball - Bolt On - 3,500 lbs # CT-3001-Z. Yes, it is more expensive, but you wouldn't need any spacers for the install, which I thing is a big plus.
If you were wanting to get the new ball mount moving, our etrailer Adjustable 2-Ball Mount - 2" Hitch - 6" Rise, 6" Drop - 10K # e66PR is also a pretty nice and inexpensive option. It has 6" of drop or rise and has those 2" and 2-5/16" balls you are looking for. We have a ton of options for this kind of thing, but figured I would throw this one out for you to check out.
What are you typically carrying in your utility trailer?
(click to enlarge)
Product Page this Question was Asked From
Trailer Valet Channel Tongue Trailer Coupler - Trigger Latch - 2" Ball - Bolt On - 3,500 lbs
- Straight Tongue Trailer Coupler
- Standard Coupler
- 2 Inch Ball Coupler
- Bolt-On
- 3500 lbs GTW
- Trigger Latch
- 4-Bolt
- Standard Grade
- Trailer Valet
more information >
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Ed C.
6/17/2026
Thank you VERY much for your advice and suggestions. I thought I had chosen/been looking at a coupler that was a 2” channel, and the minor increase in cost is not a factor when getting the correct, better option. I mostly just haul light brush, and weekly trips to the dump transfer station. Never really heavy loads any longer. Will definitely go with your advice and suggestions. Thanks again for all your help ! Sincerely Ed C.