So... I got a "nice" drawbar when I got my new trailer back in November. I also got a Master Lock trailer set, 3 piece set so I can lock the trailer and the drawbar. This set was like $80, not exactly cheap, and it's Master Lock, a well known brand. The damn thing is frozen and I can't get it off the truck. I've been soaking it in PB Blaster for a couple days, the key will turn but the two pieces will not seperate. I haven't tried banging on it too much with a BFH, but I will, and if that doesn't work I'll just take a grinder to it.

First and foremost I need someone to recommend a locking hitch pin that will NOT self destruct in 6 months. I have a threaded lock that I use with my bicycle rack that is 8 years old and has been on this truck and my old van for months at a time. So I know it's possible to make one. But NO WAY am I plunking down $$$ on something without a GLOWING review from some current owners.

Second, anyone have any luck with Master Lock? I know they're just going to say I neglected it by leaving it on the truck but isn't the whole POINT of a locking pin to give you the ability to leave the drawbar on the truck without worrying about it being stolen? If I wanted to take the pin out and clean it every time I used the hitch I would just use a standard cotter pin..

-Jay

 

I feel you frustration. I too had one that I could not remove, and I never installed a locking one again. I needed to get it off, and change the hitch for a different trailer, and was not very happy when it happened. PLus I always seem to hit my knee or shin on it when I leave it on. Anyway, are you removing it correctly? I seem to remeber having to twist until it was aligned for removal.

 

Now you know the reason I use a standard pin.

I had to pay a mechanic to torch off the ^%$# pin lock.

 

I have used this one for years and it never lets me down. I wont touch it for over sixth months and it works everytime. http://www.rvlifestyles.net/ItemPage...c-54747a74049e The rubber cap is the key.

 

Dang! I guess I'd better go check mine. IF I can get it off...I guess I'll add a little anti-seize and hope for the best. Thanks for lettin' us know!

 

Yup Yamaguy, I have a set very similar to that, except I got the two different locks separate. I like the idea of one key for both. I think I got mine at Wally World. Been using them both for over 2 years now with no problems, except finding the right key to the right lock.

 

I use a double nutted 5/8 bolt. That way I always have the keys, 2 15/16 wrenches in the pickup. Never had one taken, and never had one lock up.

 

Visually that looks identicle to mine.. I got this set here:

http://www.etrailer.com/pc-L~3774DAT.htm

What is the brand name on the set you posted?

-Jay

 

the key is definitely the rubber cap over the end. Used mine on a few different trucks now, just use some WD-40 every now and then, and no worries.

 

+1 on the one with the rubber cap. Mine is 5 yrs old and never been lubricated. Lives in the hitch.

 

I got mine at Uhaul and it works extremely well and very reasonably priced. Had it thru 3 trucks. Bought another for my wifes SUV too. I recommend going there. If you ever have trouble, which I doubt, they will cut it off for you and they are everywhere.

Here is link to Uhual site with all the options. I got the one for $10.95!
http://store.uhaul.com/product.aspx?id=133&sid=135

 

I just went and looked at mine. No name brand on it. Used to have rubber cap, gone years ago. No problems at all. I back trailers into salt water, get the usual sand,mud dirt,,, junk splased on it. I have the quick change 2" and 2 5/16 ball mounts, I think I even have a 1 7/8 for it some where, just push the pin out with a pen swap ball, push in pin with finger and away you go.

 

Not everyone has their location in their profiles, or their driving conditions. I see TX and AZ talk about how much they like their rubber caps.. I HAVE a rubber cap, it's always been closed. My good friend has the exact same Master lock which also has the cap. Both of our's are rusted shut. He spoke with a friend of his who cut off a third Master from his truck, and he said it has to do with some little tooth inside that rusts in place. I bet it has to do with the salt on the roads.

I'd pay $100 for a completely stainless/sealed unit. I hate maintenace.. lol.

-Jay