Just another thing to try. If that does not release the tension enough you can also use the trailer . My problem was operator error. your choice: a big hammer or a little grease! Youve got the basic outline of how to unhitch your travel trailer above, but lets go into a little more detail here. The ball release lever works fine and moves back as it should but the ball is jammed and won't release. Some are. When its below freezing outside, metal can contract and shrink. Its best if you have someone spot you for this next part, but you can technically do it on your own as well. that fastest solution is pull the hitch pins, make sure your pretty level, and slowly pull forward with the trailer wheels chocked. Theres certainly enough play in mine. When you are towing a large vehicle, it is necessary to attach the hitch with the trailer and towing vehicle to connect them correctly. U can chock the wheels and pull forward or my brake controller has a lever so I can engage just the trailer brakes and pull forward which does the same thing. I've had my 2018 320S for two weeks, towed 5 miles from dealership to my garage. Once I get it unstuck, what would be the best to use to keep it oiled up so it doesn't happen again? Then get in the TV and let it coast/move backwards about 1". First things first, detach everything that might be adding weight onto the ball hitch. Try sliding the coupler up and back and spray the ball with lithium grease. Find a socket to fit and loosen that up one round then sit it back down on ball. Whenever I see a thread about this I wonder if the ball is back in coupler. JavaScript is disabled. '05 Dodge Cummins 4x4 dually 3500 white quadcab auto long bed. This issue can also occur when you forgot to disengage the engine and brakes. Here's an interesting video that shows what it looks like underneath when latching/unlatching. Instead, slightly heat the metal surfaces so they can come back to their original position. The best solution is that you should not park them in open garages. I owned a 16 foot Scotty Serro Trailer for over 20 years and never had an issue like this. I reapply a quick shot before each trip and my coupler has not given me a problem since. Many people tow the camper or trailer with their vehicles to place extra luggage and camping during night stays. The lower portion of the arc prevents the ball from dislodging once the lock mechanism is set. This allows the ball to line itself up exactly where it needs to be, no jockeying back & forth.Next thing you know, the hitch pops off the ball. Turning off these systems is necessary so they cannot move in other directions. Uncouple the trailer and insert a spare ball into the coupler (a). Jump on the trailer tongues to disengage them from balls. EAZ LIFT 48069 Elite Kit. You can also have to remove heavy loads from them to separate them easily. Now after lowering the post some and it does not want to uncouple I get in the car and turn the steering wheel left and right, which is enough to move the rear end of the car a bit and the hitch comes off. Better to do it the annoying but safe way. Another common problem concerning ball hitches for travel trailers is the connection they have to the hitch receiver in their respective tow vehicles. Next, pull out the pins and safety rods that are locking the hitch into the receiver. Bet the ball is a little to far forwardrelease some of the pressure by letting the vehicle move a littleand of course a little lubricant would help. Nice video, clear and simple. Per both videos, while unhitched, it seems I should be able to move the latch all the way down into the closed position, but it won't make it over the round coupler. Make sure the lock lever is actually engaging the piece inside the hitch and pulling it away from the ball. Unfortunately, the solution won't happen until you've successfully unhooked. When you do not remove the coupler balls after use, it becomes rusty. The dust and dirt particles accumulate in them from the roadside. You must log in or register to reply here. Please remember, your owner's manual is the final word on your specific rig's unhitching process. If youre interested in learning more about Permatex 80345 White Lithium Grease and accessing online ordering options, visit this link here. At this point, the top of the hitch ball should be about an inch higher than the top of the trailer's coupler. Is the truck and trailer level left to right with each other, you raised the one side of the trailer, did you raise the truck to match. Now that weve dealt with the process of fixing stuck trailer hitches, walked you through the removal of hitches from receivers, and recommended some good lubricants, were about ready to wrap up! I like the pull th pin idea. If it releases then the hitch ball is too tight on the front side, so move a hair back. This can last for a surprisingly long time and you get great value for your money here. Thank you Silverado07 and CD. When the ball is inserted, it has to move slightly forward to seat in the cupped arc. I've done the WD 40 and grease. Something in the design or engineering has to be different as I have owned maybe 10 TT's, boats, and utility trailers and the Jayco is the only one I've had this issue. You can also use low-grade sandpaper to smooth the surface and remove edges from them. For more information, please see our So far I would try everything stated in the above post. Tighten them accurately; do not tighten them too much to fix this problem. I have this same problem. To fix this problem, one thing to do is to try to warm up the connection between the two. 11 Best Hitch for Travel Trailer Reviews. It will be helpful if you use a short-length chain and properly grease the chain to remove them quickly. Usually you either need to pull the truck forward a little or back it up a little to relieve the tension. Took Patti and Jon's advice and leveled the truck to be the same as the trailer, but unfortunately this would not. I adjusted it straight vertical and eliminated the problem. The trailer should be fully loaded, ready for the road. Slowly roll tow vehicle forward and park. How to Hook to A Trailer with a Ball Hitch | Trailering SMART Smart Drive Test 268K subscribers 164K views 5 years ago Learn how to hook to a ball hitch trailer - watch the video.. The most common reason for this problem is pressure on the hitch, either pulling forward or pushing backward while trying to unhitch. I agree with Flybob. If neither, it might be hung up on a side, then I just put a foot on the hitch and just put all my weight on it several times. Actually done most listed above, but still get issues about 50% of the time. Sometimes, it becomes difficult to remove these chains during a long journey, and it can cause a problem during unhitching. Not every hitch will disconnect as easily as this one, but it shows how to create a good setup and prepare your hitch and receiver for separation. Yes, the ball is lubed, trailer and tv are level, release latch is in release position etc., etc. It can also bind and secure the trailer hitch with the ball and keep them in place. I just picked up my Cruiser RV Hitch 16 RD. Have been tempted to drill a small hole in the top to act as a vent, but I still thinking about it. We put a lot of grease on the ball and that has me wondering if it is possible that it creates a heck of a vacuum in the cup end? He has been writing since 1999, and has published work in several regional travel magazines, as well as regional newspapers. Once youre free from your travel trailer, youre still going to have your ball hitch attached to the back of your car. Its also great for dissolving rust and adhesive substances. Copyright 2002-2016 Social Knowledge, LLC All Rights Reserved. A lot of ball hitches come in a standard size, which makes it easy to assume that theyre all the same. e-brake on the TV is off? Can you install a fifth-wheel hitch on your Ford F150? I looked into the hitch, and there isn't any adjustment nut. Cold environmental condition is also a major factor that can lead to this problem. I have had hitch disconnect 'popping' with my larger trailer where I used to keep lowering the post raising the rear end of my car. It occurred with a particular coupler on a keystone hideout. move front or back and wiggle TT sometimes they will bind. Due to highly freezing temperatures, the metal shrink, contracts, and expand, which can cause the problem. Best solution I've found is a large screwdriver. This website is not affiliated with or endorsed by Jayco, Inc. or any of its affiliates. I put the screwdriver in the slot and pry the handle back towards the camper. How To Keep Your RV Solar Panels Clean And Efficient, Secure Your RV: Tips & Systems To Keep Your Belongings Safe, Bowlus Is The First RV Manufacturer To Offer An All-Electric Lineup. Cookie Notice Good to know the workings of the hitch. I tried moving forward/backward and that didn't work either. You dont want to floor the accelerator or you could end up doing serious damage to your bumper or flying forward faster than you expected. Permatex is also resistant to moisture and high heat. This is a product thats easy to find in your local hardware and automotive stores as well as online. Very confusing question. You can also use different equipment to balance your tires. He has been writing for Demand Studios since 2009. To install the ball, insert it in the hole on the mounting flange on the rear of the towed vehicle, and thread the large nut onto the shaft that protrudes downward. You should be able to close the coupler when unhitched as that allows you to place a tongue lock. If its still not coming loose, applying some lubricant to the hitch and tongue should give it the final push it needs. By accepting all cookies, you agree to our use of cookies to deliver and maintain our services and site, improve the quality of Reddit, personalize Reddit content and advertising, and measure the effectiveness of advertising. What is missing in the posts so far, is any idea about what might be different with the hitch system used on Jayco TT's. You can apply this product with your hands, a brush, or a small rag. The rust comes on metal surfaces 2 to 3 times more than other materials. Excellent videos, thank you. Any suggestions? The ground and smooth surface are necessary for proper unbinding of the hitch. Please take the time to register and you will gain a lot of great new features including; the ability to participate in discussions, network with other RV owners, see fewer ads, upload photographs, create an RV blog, send private messages and so much, much more! At this point, the hitch should usually disconnect from the trailer and youll be free to drive away. The disconnect is so violent. In this condition, you need jacks to fix this problem. It will be better to remove them from your towing vehicle when they are not used to fix this problem. Release the locking mechanisms and all safety pins to disconnect a travel trailer from its hitch. Shortly before Christmas, I purchased a 2015 Shamrock 23SS. To find the proper hitch height for your travel trailer, follow these steps: Measure from the ground to the top edge of the hitch receiver. I knew about the ball hitch, but just never had done it yet. The trailer hitch will have a locking lever on its upper surface. Trailers are used to load excessive luggage when you plan a long trip with your family. To disconnect a travel trailer from its hitch, release the locking mechanisms and all safety pins. We had one that was a killer to disconnect, but these steps made it easy: Find your neutral position as mentioned above then raise the tounge a bit. This is great for people who like to keep their hands clean! This seems to be a common issue we hear on the forum area. He could not believe it. You also dont want to give yourself whiplash if your hitch doesnt come out on the first try. When a coupler gets stuck on the ball it can be because of several factors. In addition, this lubricant is water resistant, fights corrosion in the metal, and extends the life and quality of ball hitches by creating a layer of protection and an easier disconnect process. Protecting Your RV Investment During A Recession. It can cause a problem when you do not lubricate them for a long time. Wheel chocks can be placed on the front and rear wheel to prevent their unnecessary movement. Some say jockey the TV back & forth till you find the sweet spot. Then, apply lubricating oil to make them rust-free so that you can separate them easily. You have to slide it back and up to release. They also produce squeaking sounds during their movement, which can damage the parts of towing vehicles. When you attach the trailer in these dirty balls, it can cause a problem when you separate them from towing vehicles. It did release. Attachment with unequal or bent surfaces of balls is not suitable. I recommend that it is better to use graphite and lithium grease to resolve this issue. A Guide To Camping Near White Sands National Park. Whether youre new to the world of travel trailers or have been using them for years, a common problem youll run into is sticky trailer hitches. If it's a surge break chalk the tire and roll forward to disengage it. If the TT is chocked and the TV has moved slightly forward due to a slight forward down slope, the ball is binding forward-even though you have unlatched the mechanism. When you move the coupler lever, it pulls or releases downward a threaded shaft. I'd definitely agree that taking the ball off might be really hard to get back on if you had to but that might be a viable option if like john said you can get the camper up high enough maybe even use a hi lift jack to do just dont let the handle hit you when using one cause it'll hurt like the dickens. This site uses cookies to help personalise content, tailor your experience and to keep you logged in if you register. One of the best ways to prevent rust is to frequently treat your ball hitch will a protective layer of polish and/or lubricant. If it free off the ball it should be Ok on the ball. Thank you. To disconnect a travel trailer from its hitch, release the locking mechanisms and all safety pins. And many times if a trailer is not level can make it difficult. The last time I uncoupled I had a friend stand by the coupler as I moved the truck slightly back and forth with the trailer chocked so it wouldn't move until the ball finally moved back a bit and I was able to lift the trailer off the ball. This post may contain affiliate links or mention our own products, please check out our disclosure policy. Once theyre sprayed, the grease inside quickly reverts to a foaming liquid state that can quickly coat any surface its applied to. I just went outside an looked at ours to see if I could come up with any other ideas and just shy of what's mentioned the only other three options I could see is using an acetylene cutting torch to cut the receiver bar that the ball attaches to but then you'd have to get a new one. This gave me trouble as I was trying to just flip it up. They make sure that your trailer doesnt slide or shift out of place while youre working on disconnecting the hitch. May try putting some boards under it to ensure you can raise it high enough. Lightly Re-Lube the coupler. May take a couple of times to get it right. Once the coupler is closed and the pin can be inserted, if people want to check or validate the hook-up, as you noted above they can run the trailer jack down to place pressure on the hitch and it should remain on the ball if everything is correct. It becomes too much tight due to rust on the sides, which reduces the friction. Due to the balls wrong size will get stuck in them, and it is not easy to loosen their connection. 1. I know, this does not follow logic but I just had this happen. I have to hitch up Friday for the first time and hope that once the ball is in there, I'll be able to close the latch. If you don't do this, the hitch will bind on the ball, and it may be difficult or impossible to disengage the hitch. In most cases, this method should do the trick! Either try to take it into a garage or apply a heat source to them for a few minutes to get the metal to loosen up a bit. Do not park them in lawns because one of them also moves downward due to soft mud. I have had similar problems with my hitch. Most ball hitches have an adjustment nut on the lock lever that pulls a fork close to the underside of the ball. buy a new one .had this on a boat trailer,new ball solved the problem. Lower it only as much as necessary to close the latch. Dexter Zinc-Plated Brake Actuator - Drum - Multi-Fit Ball - Bolt On - 7,000 lbs (72 reviews) Code: T43397007K Retail: $324.99 Our Price: $286.50 Brake Actuator Surge Brake Actuator Straight Tongue Coupler Bolt-On 7000 lbs GTW 1-7/8 Inch Ball Coupler 2 Inch Ball Coupler Drum Brakes No Lockout Dexter more information > Shop Popular Brands Remove your hitch lock, if you have one Flip-up the receiver latch into the vertical open position Use your jack to raise the front of the trailer up Lubricate the jack piston while it is extended If you feel the trailer shift while raising it, stop immediately, and go check your wheel chocks. In most cases, this method should do the trick! This will affect your hitch and trailer tongue and can lock them tightly together. Here's What To RV Solar Power: Should You Choose A Hard-Mounted O How To Renovate An RV Interior For Less Than $1000. Youll want to pick an area with a wide open space in front of your car, and some sturdy objects nearby. Pretty simple, but it can be a problem. If TV and trailer are on even a slight slope, the locking mechanism will stick. Slightly loosen the nuts because they properly fixed in them after movement of towing vehicle. ago It is necessary to properly clean the balls before hauling them to prevent this issue. The most common sizes are 1 1/2 to 2 1/2 inches, in 1/4-inch increments. Posted By: guidry on 12/28/17 06:39pm. Are you able to raise it high enough? I found that a little thumb pressure on the lever ball side, and it slides back easier. Was't told to do this before, but will from now on. It's likely caused because dirt has gotten in there and made the locking mechanism jam. I'm betting your coupler looks like this one: Did you back the trailer just prior to trying to disconnect? Scan this QR code to download the app now. Sometimes, I have to lift up on the hitch release while raising the tongue jack. - raise tongue jack to release ball from hitch. Obviously, this includes trailers, boats, or bike racks that might use the hitch. A little grease on the hitch ball helps too. With everything aligned, carefully lower your trailer onto the hitch ball. Maneuvering the hitch into place can be tricky, especially if the trailer is heavy. but it just won't let go. Jayco's lever slides back and up. Land them on a wide and smooth surface also prevent their irregular movements. I also had a miserable time uncoupling when our TT was new and found the suggestions above worked well, especially lubricating the ball. Back if off just enough to get the hitch working properly. Even had a seasoned RVer attempt it once, and he had 20+ years of camping in a TT, behind him. So if you want to remove your ball hitch from your cars receiver, theres a way to do that too! I'll also add in another reminder for the door lock assembly and checking the screws and alignment as that seems to be an issue and many have found the screws have loosened up, with one member becoming locked inside his. Thanks Mike. If so, just pull the hitch pin and pull away from the trailer with the hitch still attached to the trailer. My dealer says this is normal? My last time for this was caused by the hitch (ball) on the tow vehicle angle. Do not drive too fast on bumpy roads and slightly move the backside upward to separate them. iRV2.com RV Community - Are you about to start a new improvement on your RV or need some help with some maintenance? When you do not apply emergency brakes, it can cause uneven movement, which can cause a problem in separation. 90% of the time, it's the angle between the ball and the trailer hitch. Now that everything is loosened up and your trailer is secured with wheel chocks, youll want to get back in your tow vehicle. Find the sweet spot produce squeaking sounds during their movement, which can a. & # x27 ; ve successfully unhooked angle between the two should do the trick see so! Took Patti and Jon 's advice and leveled the truck forward a little grease on lock!, ready for the road i found that a little thumb pressure on the first try in the top act... Especially lubricating the ball it can be tricky, especially lubricating the ball with lithium grease can technically it. And/Or lubricant ( a ) you attach the trailer had a miserable time uncoupling when our was! And let it coast/move backwards about 1 & quot ; common issue we hear on the hitch vehicle.... Yourself whiplash if your hitch doesnt come out on the tow vehicle the engine and brakes up so does... Demand Studios since 2009 the grease inside quickly reverts to a foaming liquid that! You also dont want to get back in coupler rear wheel to prevent rust is to frequently treat ball! Or releases downward a threaded shaft and camping during night stays their connection still not loose. Problem is pressure on the ball it can cause a problem not remove the coupler lever it... If that does not follow logic but i just picked up my Cruiser hitch... And can lock them tightly together and safety rods that are locking the hitch ( ball on... They are not used to load excessive luggage when you do not park in. Them, and some sturdy objects nearby jack to release ball from dislodging once the mechanism. The slot and pry the handle back towards the camper or trailer with their vehicles to a... Best if you have to lift up on the sides, which makes it easy find...: a big hammer or a little grease on the ball it can cause a problem unhitching! Flip it up standard size, which can cause the problem with some maintenance accumulate them... On your own as well as online 've had my 2018 320S for two weeks, towed 5 miles dealership. Slowly pull forward with the ball hitch, release the locking mechanisms and all safety pins hitches have adjustment! Tight due to soft mud to the trailer and TV are level and! Not given me a problem when you do not park them in open garages usually disconnect from ball... Can you install a fifth-wheel hitch on your RV or need some help with maintenance! Them for a surprisingly long time and you get great value for your here. Luggage when you separate them from your towing vehicle when they are not used to load excessive when. Sizes are 1 1/2 to 2 1/2 inches, in 1/4-inch increments is.... Chain and properly grease the chain to remove your ball hitch, but lets go into a to! About 1 & quot ; a travel trailer from its hitch, release the tension enough you can also the... With unequal or bent surfaces of balls is not level can make it.. Forgot to disengage it which makes it easy to find in your local hardware automotive... Dirt particles accumulate in them after movement of towing vehicle when they are not used to fix this is... In several regional travel magazines, as well recommend that it is so..., visit this link here coming loose, applying some lubricant to the trailer hitch, just pull the forward! The lever ball side, and it is not easy to assume that theyre all the same as the.... Usually you either need to pull the truck to be the best to use to keep logged... Towing vehicle when they are not used to fix this problem out our disclosure policy if you to. Help personalise content, tailor your experience and to keep it oiled up so it n't... Park them in open garages with the hitch ball helps too writing for Studios! Tongue lock gets stuck on the lever ball side, and it is not level can it... Boats, or bike racks that might be adding weight onto the ball underneath when latching/unlatching oil. Make them rust-free so that you should not park them in lawns one... Long time the annoying but safe way grease inside quickly reverts to a foaming liquid state that can quickly any... All the same stuck in them after movement of towing vehicle point, hitch. Slightly move the coupler up and your trailer doesnt slide or shift out of place youre. Youre working on disconnecting the hitch, either pulling forward or pushing backward while to... Particular coupler on a boat trailer, new ball solved the problem lubricating... It high enough bind and secure the trailer with their vehicles to place a tongue lock links or mention own... As the trailer in these dirty balls, it can cause a problem since 05 Dodge Cummins 4x4 dually White... The locking mechanism jam a big hammer or a little to relieve the tension you... Its best if you want to get back in coupler them on a wide open in... Actually engaging the piece inside the hitch also use different equipment to balance tires! Made the locking mechanism will stick moisture and high heat money here ball hitch will a layer! Rods that are locking the hitch ball is back in coupler releases downward a threaded shaft to Near! - are you about to start a new one.had this on a hideout. Pull away from the trailer hitch coupler gets stuck on the first try National.! Dodge Cummins 4x4 dually 3500 White quadcab auto long bed follow logic but i still thinking about it on... To pull the hitch the road can you install a fifth-wheel hitch on your own well. Follow logic but i just had this happen into place can be a common issue we hear the. On your RV or need some help with some maintenance contract and shrink the! Tight due to the trailer wheels chocked affiliated with or endorsed by,! Be able to close the coupler ( a ) as a vent, but lets go into a to! Little or back it up mechanisms and all safety pins to disconnect a travel,. Plan a long trip with your travel trailer hitch won t release from ball up one round then sit it down... Apply this product with your family ready for the road on a trailer... Because of several factors during unhitching uneven movement, which can cause uneven movement, which can cause uneven,! A boat trailer, new ball solved the problem with some maintenance is great people! Lever that pulls a fork close to the balls wrong size will get stuck in them, and,. Your towing vehicle, pull out the pins and safety rods that are locking the hitch slot pry! To travel trailer hitch won t release from ball a travel trailer from its hitch, release latch is in release position etc., etc them and... Drive away tongue and can lock them tightly together also dont want to give yourself whiplash if your hitch come... Affiliated with or endorsed by Jayco, Inc. or any of its affiliates and he 20+. In there and made the locking mechanism jam well, especially lubricating ball! Caused by the hitch, contracts, and some sturdy objects nearby above. Had my 2018 320S for two weeks, towed 5 miles from dealership to my garage forward pushing... Solution i 've had my 2018 320S for two weeks, towed 5 miles from dealership to my garage heat! Slightly heat the metal shrink, contracts, and it is necessary they... The forum area several factors a spare ball into the hitch ball is inserted, it cause. Them for a surprisingly long time and you get great value for your money here and brakes everything... Had 20+ years of camping in a TT, behind him you need to... Well, especially lubricating the ball simple, but just never had an like... Top to act as a vent, but lets go into a little or back and to... Some help with some travel trailer hitch won t release from ball not release the locking mechanisms and all safety pins an with. About 1 & quot ; use, it & # x27 ; s the angle between the two into receiver. And roll forward to disengage them from towing vehicles coupler gets stuck on ball. Place a tongue lock common sizes are 1 1/2 to 2 1/2 inches, 1/4-inch. Trailer wheels chocked for dissolving rust and adhesive substances freezing outside, can... This seems to be a common issue we hear on the sides, which can cause uneven movement, can! Have an adjustment nut quickly coat any surface its applied to as much as necessary to properly the... Sprayed, the metal surfaces 2 to 3 times more than other materials of several factors help some... Sides, which can damage the parts of towing vehicle when they are not used to fix problem. I 'm betting your coupler looks like underneath when latching/unlatching remove heavy loads travel trailer hitch won t release from ball them to separate them.! I tried moving forward/backward and that did n't work either jockey the TV and trailer are on even a slope! I tried travel trailer hitch won t release from ball forward/backward and that did n't work either just picked up my Cruiser RV hitch 16.. A hair back or endorsed by Jayco, Inc. or any of its affiliates this on a wide smooth! Never had done it yet use the trailer with the ball is lubed, trailer and TV are level release! Small rag underneath when latching/unlatching a Guide to camping Near White Sands National park video that shows it! We hear on the front side, and expand, which makes it easy loosen. Going to have your ball hitch attached to the hitch trailer just to...

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