Inspection, Service & Maintenance
The coupler handle lever must be able to rotate freely and automatically snap into
the latched position. Oil the pivot points, sliding surfaces, and spring ends with
SAE 30W motor oil. Keep the ball pocket and latch mechanism clean. Dirt or
contamination can prevent proper operation of the latching mechanism.
When replacing a ball, the load rating must match or exceed the GVWR of the
trailer.
10.2.1.12 Ring and Pintle
The ring on the trailer connects to the pintle attached to the hitch on the tow
vehicle. The ring, pintle and hitch transfer the towing forces between the tow
vehicle and the trailer. Before each tow, coat the ring with a thin layer of
automotive bearing grease to reduce wear and ensure proper operation; and check
the locking device that secures the pintle to the ring for proper operation.
See the pintle manufacturer’s manual for other inspection and maintenance
activities. If you do not have this manual, contact your dealer for assistance.
If you see or feel evidence of wear, such as flat spots, deformations, pitting or
corrosion, on the ring or pintle, immediately have your dealer inspect them to
determine the proper action to prevent possible failure of the ring and pintle
system. All bent or broken coupler parts must be replaced before towing the trailer.
The pintle handle lever must be able to rotate freely and automatically snap into
the latched position. Oil the pivot points, sliding surfaces, and spring ends with
SAE 30W motor oil. Keep the ring pocket and latch mechanism clean. Dirt or
contamination can prevent proper operation of the latching mechanism. When
replacing a ring, the load rating must match or exceed the GVWR of the trailer.
10.2.1.13 Gooseneck Ball Receiver
The gooseneck receiver on the trailer connects to a hitch-mounted ball on the
towing vehicle. The receiver, ball and hitch transfer the towing forces between the
tow vehicle and the trailer. Before each tow, coat the ball with a thin layer of
automotive bearing grease to reduce wear and ensure proper operation; and check
the locking device that secures the receiver to the ball for proper operation.
See the gooseneck ball receiver manufacturer’s manual for other inspection and
maintenance activities. If you do not have a manual for the receiver, contact your
dealer for assistance.
If you see or can feel evidence of wear, such as flat spots, pitting or corrosion, on
the ball or receiver, immediately have your dealer inspect them to determine the
proper action to prevent possible failure of the ball and receiver system.
When replacing a ball, the load rating must match or exceed the GVWR of the
trailer.
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