Replacement Trailer Hitch Coupler

[iceintheveins]

I need a replacement tongue coupler for my trailer hitch. Will this type do provided it's the right size and weight class?

[InfantryMP]

Here is one of the newer model tongue's

 

https://www.pacifictrailers.com/products/ufp-a-60-inner-member-slide-7500lb-1-axle-disc-brakes-34043?currency=USD&variant=37152282634&utm_medium=cpc&utm_source=google&utm_campaign=Google Shopping&utm_source=google&utm_medium=shopping&utm_term=&utm_content=340182651085&keyword=&utm_campaign=smart-all-test&gclid=Cj0KCQiA1pyCBhCtARIsAHaY_5e6kmQvKRKt7QtfNdXCjRPHygJzcKKyxgEpM6obeL9iFQevX_LD28IaAoeAEALw_wcB

[Jigfishn10]

Honestly, without knowing what you have currently it's hard to answer this question.

 

If it were me and I was unsure as you are, I would take it to a place like U-Haul and let them repair/replace it knowing that it will be done right. May cost a few extra dollars, but it's a small insurance policy and piece of mind knowing it got done right.

 

I wouldn't want to be traveling down the road and finding out my boat let go 5 miles back. ?

[Way2slow]

For the average 17' or smaller boat, that will work fine.  I've used a bunch of them over the years.  

Now, if you are wanting something for a boat that has more than about 2,400 pounds of tow weight, I would go with a heavier duty hitch.   Something similar to what 's show above but that one is for trailer brakes, a master cylinder mounts inside of it.  Unless you have brakes, you don't need that particular model.

[J Francho]

It would help if we knew what was on there, and what your towing.  What you show is what was on my trailer for an 18' aluminum boat.  The link in the later post is for a trailer that has brakes, and was on my trailer for the Bullet.  It was a PITA being more than 20 years old.

[iceintheveins]

I have a 19 foot nitro to answer the question. My current coupler is 3.5" across and rated for 6000 pounds max GVWR and 600 pounds tongue load.  It does have a hydraulic brake. Is the brake a must?

[slonezp]

In some states brakes are the law. Secondly, if you reengineer the trailer and something bad happens, you could be liable in this litigious world we live in.

[Jigfishn10]

9 hours ago, slonezp said:

In some states brakes are the law. Secondly, if you reengineer the trailer and something bad happens, you could be liable in this litigious world we live in.

Sorry, I had look up that big word. 
You just taught something. ?

[Way2slow]

Depends on what you are towing it with.  Something like a full size, 3/4 ton pickup, 99% of the time, trailer brakes are probably not needed, it's the one percent on a boat that size that will make you regret doing away with them.  As the old saying goes, it's not if, it's when you have to make a panic stop.  That's when the fecies hits the rotating oscillator. 

 

[MN Fisher]

12 minutes ago, Way2slow said:

Depends on what you are towing it with.  Something like a full size, 3/4 ton pickup, 99% of the time, trailer brakes are probably not needed, it's the one percent on a boat that size that will make you regret doing away with them.  As the old saying goes, it's not if, it's when you have to make a panic stop.  That's when the fecies hits the rotating oscillator. 

 

Ya - my 1/2 ton Silverado is equipped with the tow package...and I'd want the brakes hooked up on that rig...just in case.

[TOXIC]

Take it to a trailer shop and have the whole system checked.  Since your trailer has brakes, they should be functional and if you can’t handle a rebuild associated with a new coupler, let a pro do it since a new coupler will involve the braking system.  

[Jigfishn10]

5 minutes ago, TOXIC said:

Take it to a trailer shop and have the whole system checked.  Since your trailer has brakes, they should be functional and if you can’t handle a rebuild associated with a new coupler, let a pro do it since a new coupler will involve the braking system.  

Can't agree more

[J Francho]

13 hours ago, iceintheveins said:

It does have a hydraulic brake. Is the brake a must?

My sketchy answer: Mine was disconnected, and the trailer passed NYS inspection every year.  The boat hull was only 1280 lbs. though.  I'd think if it has brakes, and the tongue is need of service, a trailer shop is where to go.  

[slonezp]

Installed a new coupler with brake  actuator, and bleed the brakes a few years ago. I think the trailer shop charged me under $400 parts and labor.