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INSPECTION, SERVICE & MAINTENANCE
WARNING
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may cause brake failure.
TRAILER CONNECTION TO TOW VEHICLE
10.2.1.11 Bumper Pull Coupler and Ball
The coupler on the trailer connects to the ball attached to the hitch on the tow vehicle. The
coupler, 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 coupler to the ball for proper
operation.
See the coupler manufacturer’s manual for other inspection and maintenance activities. If you
do not have this manual, contact your dealer for assistance.
ball or coupler, immediately have your dealer inspect them to determine the proper action to
prevent possible failure of the ball and coupler system. All bent or broken coupler parts must be
replaced before towing the trailer.
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.
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.