Hitching a trailer
Thursday, September 17th, 2009A trailer coupler is used to secure the trailer to the towing vechicle. The trailer coupler attaches to the trailer ball. This forms a ball and socket connection to allow for relative movement between the towing vehicle and trailer while towing over uneven road surfaces. The trailer ball is mounted to the draw bar, which is usually removable. The draw bar is secured to the trailer hitch by inserting it into the hitch receiver and pinning it. The three most common types of couplers are Straight Couplers, A-Frame Couplers, and Adjustable Couplers. Another type of hitch is known as a “fifth” wheel. Fifth wheel coupling is used with gooseneck style trailers to attach the trailer to the bed of the towing vehicle, ahead of the rear wheels. This type of hitch is used for larger trailers and provides considerably more stability than does a traditional bumper-pull hitch.