Sticking Hitch

[rgamble3]

Is there some way to free up a sticking hitch on a small utility trailer, or does it need to be replaced. The trailer is only used a couple times a year?
Thanks

Rpy

 

[texasjohn]

need more info...what kind of hitch...bulldog or ?? What part is sticking...photo? Some types of hitches have an adjustment nut, does yours, have you tried that??

 

[SSdoxie]

Sray it with some lubricating, rust inhibiting fluid. WD-40, PB Blaster, Fluid Film, etc. When the hitch is open, unlocked spary down from the top on the lever linkage then up from the ball side. Work the lever a couple times and it should be good to go. I carry a can of PB Blaster in every vehicle that has a ball hitch on it just for this purpose.

 

[kneedeep]

always put grease on trailer ball before hitching up. after unhooking, wipe off trailer ball, keeps them working good

 

[bigdad]

Is there some way to free up a sticking hitch on a small utility trailer, or does it need to be replaced. The trailer is only used a couple times a year?
Thanks

Rpy

I like spray Graphite. Not near so messy as grease/oil.

 

[joe t]

I use a liberal amount of grease. I'm pretty sure you are supposed to, that is why it is sticking. I'd lube it like mentioned above and work it loose rather than beating the crap out of it, fyi.

 

[megaboz]

I have seen certain hitch balls do this. When I have a certain friend borrow my trailer he usually has to pull the ball mount out of the receiver. I have never had the issue with the same trailer.

So my guess there is something weird about the ball. Grooved? Or egg shaped? Don't know, but he is the only one to ever have a problem.

I use a product called Dri-Plate for my ball. A lot less mess because it dries on the ball and works better than wd40 or that pb garbage.

 

[joe t]

Also, simple suggestion but you may have to rock the trailer to get it to want to latch. That is how my utility trailer is. If it is heavy enough I have to jump in the truck and put it in gear and budge it and it will drop into the right spot. Latches easy after that. Also taking it off it can stick especially if there is no grease on it. I have to jump on the bumper to get it to pop loose, definatly needs grease if it does this at least on mine.

 

[rgamble3]

Thanks for all the help. I'll give then a try.

Roy

 

[Reyer Farms]

Some hitches have an adjustment inside. I opinion they are not as robust as a hammer blow / bulldog. PB is some good stuff, so is grease wd40 last resort. Probably just because it sits up so much, good luck.