Replacing a trailer coupler, shim and go up a size, or grind off, bolt and reweld?

[ModMech]

None of the boat or utility trailers we have ever bought new came with welded couplers, they were all bolted on with two bolts thru the side holes as in your photo.

I am unaware of any failures of a bolted coupler which was installed correctly with good hardware, I see no reason to weld one on, especially since heat cycling metal can affect it's strength; which is why I suspect all were bolted.

 

[aczlan]

None of the boat or utility trailers we have ever bought new came with welded couplers, they were all bolted on with two bolts thru the side holes as in your photo.
I am unaware of any failures of a bolted coupler which was installed correctly with good hardware, I see no reason to weld one on, especially since heat cycling metal can affect it's strength; which is why I suspect all were bolted.

My current plan is to grind the old hitch off, then use two Grade 5 (or possibly Grade 8) bolts through new hitch to hold it in, then a 3rd bolt through the tongue behind the hitch to bolt the new chains on with (the current chains are very small and have a pair of 1/4 or 3/16 "snap links" (like these: Stainless Steel Spring Snap Hook Carabiner 3/16" to 5/16" - 50mm to 80mm - Grade 316 SS | Amazon.com: Outdoor Recreation) to attach them to the tow vehicle).
All three bolts will have a sleeve on the inside so they don't crush the tongue (which sleeve I might tack in so it doesn't move if I need to replace the bolt down the road).
While I have the welder out to tack in the sleeves, I may run a bead around the hitch as a backup but time will tell.

I plan to use Reese Towpower Towing Safety Chains, 5,000 lb., 72 in. Long - Tractor Supply Co. for chains and put a pair of spring hooks (Carry-On Trailer® S Hook, 3-3/4 in. x 6-3/4 in., Pack of 2 - Tractor Supply Co.) on the chains so they dont come loose (that will also allow shortening the chains as needed depending on the tow vehicle).

Aaron Z

 

[Diamondpilot]

So you would replace it with another 2 1/2" coupler?

Aaron Z

I see no problem shiming it as long as it's even side to side. The best option though would be getting the right size coupler for the tongue.

Chris

 

[crazyal]

A 4 1/2" grinder with the thin cut off wheels will easily cut the welds. I guess you could even just cut the square tube off if it's plenty long enough. You most likely would never miss the 4" to 6".

 

[aczlan]

I wont be taking any length off, its barely long enough as it is, leaning towards just removing the existing coupler and installing a new 2.5" coupler.

Aaron Z