Coupler won't release ball!

El Wood · Oct 29, 2012

Thanks for the comments guys, I got it off. i wonder if the cold weather had something to do with it. I parked it in that same spot all summer long with no problems. What I found was if the ball was touching the front or rear of the coupler even a tiny bit, it wouldn't come off. I tried pulling back and forth ( with tires choked) and sprayed a bunch of WD-40 up there but it didn't help. It's almost like there is a collar up in the coupler. I wonder if I need a new one?

I finally got it off when I jacked the trailer up until my rear bumper started to rise. I then rocked back and forth till I felt my rear end drop. What a pain in the ***!

Thanks again for the help!

George2615 · Oct 30, 2012

Like Chris said, on the bottom side of some hitches there is an adjustment nut. I had this problem with both my 1 7/8" trailer and 2" trailer hitches. I had replaced both hitches with new ones and found the nut was too tight. I loosened the nut a half turn on each and haven't had the problem since. Sometimes the Mfg. may have the nut a little too snug. Also, use plenty of grease or lube on the ball. I use spray grease on all moving parts of the trailer hitch.

ultrarunner · Nov 4, 2012

Always happens when I take the enclosed trailer to storage... combination of steep driveway and terrain.

Decided long ago not to fight it.

Disconnect the Wire Plug, Pull the Pin on the drawbar and pull forward... of course, I have the trailer wheels blocked and tongue jack set...

Never have a problem hitching in that spot... only unhitching.

daugen · Nov 4, 2012

I loosened the nut a half turn on each and haven't had the problem since.

same here, drives you nuts, throws out your back...etc. etc. And then you stick your fingers in there trying to figure out what's hanging up and usually all you get
is a greasy hand for your troubles. Once I adjusted the nut a little looser, it got better, but on any kind of slope you'll likely fight with it a bit.
Funny how there seems to be only one kind of ball hitch. Someone ought to invent a better mousetrap.

bullbreaker · Nov 4, 2012

Greatlakes37 said:
What I thought would be a quick trailer drop at my father's place turned into a long ordeal...
Even had my wife jump on the rear bumper. I ended up bringing the trailer home and am getting ready to go out now and spend some time on it. Can you guys offer any suggestions on how to deal with this?
Thanks!

Glad you got it off and no-one hurt ! :thumbsup:
By you stateing you had wife jump on rear bumper were you trying to tell us she weighs more than you ? Watch your words lots of TBN members wifes read their post here !

Boone