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Old 06-24-2018, 09:20 AM   #1
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Coupler latch locking pin

Saw a video the other day on trailer safety and what happens if the chains aren't connected or the coupler not seated correctly. The video said to make sure the coupler latch is secured and a pin attached. In my WDH installation and maintenance manual it states: "Ensure the coupler latch is closed and locked with a pin."

During our PDI this was never mentioned nor was a pin provided.

No one, ever in my 67 years, told me about this latch pin when towing any trailer either construction equipment or uhaul rentals or farm equipment trailers. Who was the 'Keeper of this Knowledge" and why have I not heard this until recently.
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Old 06-24-2018, 09:28 AM   #2
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No idea how you missed out on that, I’ve been using a pin or lock since the beginning of time. U-Haul trailers have a locking coupler that doesn’t need a pin, it’s threaded with a locking tab.

Our current trailer came with a simple pin that I replaced with a “Bolt” locking pin that utilizes my truck’s ignition key.
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Old 06-24-2018, 09:41 AM   #3
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It is possible to "High Ball" a hitch and install the Pin/Bolt/Lock! After lowering hitch on Ball install the Device of Choice and Raise Towed Vehicle until the Tow Vehicle ALSO Raises! This is done anyway if your unit has WD system! Youroo!!
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Old 06-24-2018, 09:54 AM   #4
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Skip the pin and buy a lock instead!

You can get a pin lock or a padlock.

Just make sure that the padlock's shank is small enough for the pin hole.

If you go to Camping World or Walmart in the hitch section they'll have them.
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Old 06-24-2018, 09:58 AM   #5
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This is what I use. You’d have to make sure and get the model that matches your ignition key type for this to work.

BOLT 7025287 Trailer Coupler Pin Lock for Chevrolet, GMC, Buick and Cadillac Center Cut Keys https://www.amazon.com/dp/B00K9Z3LNY..._wf7lBb98H4NMQ
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Old 06-24-2018, 01:30 PM   #6
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I've always gotten a coupler latch pin with my trailers. It's also used to thread the 7pin cord and brake wire through so they don't get tangled in anything or hit the ground.
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Old 06-24-2018, 01:42 PM   #7
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I have a locking hitch pin and coupler pin that use the same key. Keeps the # of keys down.

https://www.etrailer.com/Hitch-Locks/DeadBolt/7685.html

Several manufacturers make them.
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Old 06-24-2018, 03:03 PM   #8
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I've never been given or offered to sell me a lock pin by a dealer. They just pointed out and recommended some type of security lock or pin be used.

But I was raised on chains a lock pins. That was my job as 4 year old helping to hitch up. Attached chains and lock pin and help with trailer plug hookup.
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Old 06-24-2018, 03:09 PM   #9
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I wasn't provided with a pin when I bought my trailer. I also never asked about one, because I brought my own lock with me. This is just common trailer knowledge, whether you tow a travel trailer, utility trailer or tiny Harbor Freight trailer.
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Old 06-24-2018, 03:11 PM   #10
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Quote:
Originally Posted by rockfordroo View Post
I have a locking hitch pin and coupler pin that use the same key. Keeps the # of keys down.

https://www.etrailer.com/Hitch-Locks/DeadBolt/7685.html

Several manufacturers make them.
Same here, but I also use the same key for my receiver lock. One key...three locks.
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Old 06-24-2018, 06:44 PM   #11
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Originally Posted by AlaskaErik View Post
Same here, but I also use the same key for my receiver lock. One key...three locks.
Don't understand 3 locks. Need one to lock the hitch into the receiver. Need one to lock the coupler to the hitch.

Where's the 3rd one?
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Old 06-24-2018, 07:16 PM   #12
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It sounds like he is talking about a different locking pin than most of you. You are showing receiver locking bolts. He is talking about the coupler latch, the part that grips the tow ball. A padlock or hitch pin can be used there.
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Old 06-24-2018, 07:47 PM   #13
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Thanks

I guess I must have slept in the day they taught about the coupler latch pin. I don't remember my Dad ever locking his trailer couplers. And grandpa didn't when we farmed together and we hauled an awful lot of hay.

So, Thank You for your input and advice. I WILL be getting either a pin or a lock.
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Old 06-24-2018, 09:20 PM   #14
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Originally Posted by CedarCreekWoody View Post
It sounds like he is talking about a different locking pin than most of you. You are showing receiver locking bolts. He is talking about the coupler latch, the part that grips the tow ball. A padlock or hitch pin can be used there.
Maybe you didn't look at my link in Post #7. Link shows both receiver lock and coupler latch lock.

Here's another pic from another website that shows them installed:

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Old 06-24-2018, 10:11 PM   #15
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Originally Posted by rockfordroo View Post
Maybe you didn't look at my link in Post #7. Link shows both receiver lock and coupler latch lock.

Here's another pic from another website that shows them installed:

Thanks. I did see it earlier. I already have a hitch lock so will probably will only get the latch lock.
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Old 06-24-2018, 11:15 PM   #16
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Originally Posted by revbilly View Post
Thanks. I did see it earlier. I already have a hitch lock so will probably will only get the latch lock.
The point of my Post #7 was you can get both keyed the same. But since you've already got one, unless you get lucky, you would probably have to buy a new pair to have both keyed the same.
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Old 06-25-2018, 02:28 AM   #17
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Quote:
Originally Posted by rockfordroo View Post
Don't understand 3 locks. Need one to lock the hitch into the receiver. Need one to lock the coupler to the hitch.

Where's the 3rd one?
Quote:
Originally Posted by rockfordroo View Post
Maybe you didn't look at my link in Post #7. Link shows both receiver lock and coupler latch lock.

Here's another pic from another website that shows them installed:

The third lock is for the coupler when it's not hooked up to my TV. Whether I'm hooking up or unhooking, I'm usually dealing with all three locks. One key simplifies things.
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Old 06-25-2018, 05:47 AM   #18
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For short trips....non-stop to CG, I just use my latch pin. For longer trips where stops are made and TT and TV left unattended I use a keyed locking pin for security.
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Old 06-25-2018, 09:32 PM   #19
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I use a master lock.

I have several all keyed alike.

1 for the coupler
2 to lock my x chocks in places
1 to lock my generator view steel cable
1 to lock my gas grill via cable.

All simple master lock pad locks.
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Old 06-26-2018, 01:22 PM   #20
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I'll have to try the Master lock, I bought a latch lock but it didn't fit. The shaft fit fine barrel of the lock was too thick I couldn't slide it all the through.
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