Couplers
The coupler is a connection point that is mounted to a trailer allowing it to connect to the ball mount hitch of a tow vehicle. Couplers come in several different variations, but all of them mechanically operate in the same fashion by clamping around a hitch ball. Some couplers lock onto a ball mount by tightening a hand wheel while the more common design is a lever or toggle lock.
Safely operating a trailer also means selecting the right coupler and properly attaching it to your hitch. It is important to know the gross trailer weight (GTW) and tongue weight (TW) of your trailer when choosing the right trailer coupler. Trailer hitch couplers are rated by weight class and range from Class I for trailers up to 2,000 pounds and Class V for trailers up to 17,000 pounds. One other factor to consider when choosing a coupler is the towing capacity of your towing vehicle.
Once you have determined the gross trailer weight, trailer tongue weight and towing capacity of your towing vehicle, it is much easier to choose the right hitch coupler. Channel or A-frame couplers are the most commonly used for Class I, II and III trailers. Lunette ring couplers are designed to couple with a pintle hitch and are ideal for heavy-duty, off-road towing capability. Gooseneck couplers work in conjunction with a gooseneck hitch and are commonly used on heavy trailers for hauling livestock.
No matter what kind of coupler you need for towing, Southside Hitch has it. We offer couplers from the best brand names like Fulton, Ram and Bulldog. Our professional technicians can properly install your trailer hitch coupler so you can be certain you are towing safely every time you hook up.
If you need assistance replacing or choosing the right coupler for your trailer, call Southside Hitch at 804-378-1992 today. Our professional team will be glad to serve you. We can also handle all of your hitch repair and replacement needs too.