[IMG]http://i1357.photobucket.com/albums/q752/CamperDude/hitch%20pin_zps6gyruicz.jpg[/img]
Most of us have a receiver hitch on our vehicle and are familiar with the parts in this picture. The hitch, the ball, the pin. Some use a locking pin, Some remove the hitch after every use, Some (me) leave the hitch in all the time.
There are weight ratings on the receiver attached to your Tow Vehicle, a weight rating on the hitch, and a weight rating on the ball. Is there a weight rating on the pin? I have been towing for many years and I don't recall a discussion on the pins used except if they are locking or not. Wouldn't this be THE WEAKEST link in the set up? This is what really holds everything connected between the trailer and the TV. If this pin wasn't there then the trailer would be hanging by the chains. I don't think I have paid over $3 for a pin....I have one in each hitch and an extra in the truck because I found one at a yard sale for $1.
Should the pins be replaced as a wear part? Have you ever had a pin fail on you?
Matt O 2006 Skyline Nomad 27' travel trailer. Previously owned 1986 Coleman Columbia / 1992 Coleman Senecca / 1989 Born Free Class C RV.
Here is a picture of my spare hitch pin I keep in my truck...I noticed it getting out at work today. So I looked it over. No markings, numbers, bars, anything that might be thought of as a "rating" for it.
What does your hitch pin look like? is there any wear on it?
[IMG]http://i1357.photobucket.com/albums/q752/CamperDude/Hitch%20pin%202_zpsaizo1ixw.jpg[/img]
Matt O 2006 Skyline Nomad 27' travel trailer. Previously owned 1986 Coleman Columbia / 1992 Coleman Senecca / 1989 Born Free Class C RV.
I never thought of this and have never heard of anyone having a pin fail. Not saying it hasn't happened but I believe a failed pin would be extremely rare.
They are solid metal (steel?) and the receiver and draw bar put pressure on the pin on 4 spots. 2 on each side of the draw bar/receiver. With the pressure points being so close it is almost like trying to cut the pin in 2 places at the same time.
*hope I labeled the parts of the hitch, receiver, etc. correct.
I found this on the E-trailer web site.
I never thought much about it. I do inspect it with each use.
Expert Reply:
Hitch pins are not given weight ratings because they are built with such extreme weight bearing capabilities that the trailer hitch, ball mount or trailer coupler is more likely to fail than the hitch pin.
Interesting point about it being like cutting the pin in 2 places at once.
I like the response from e-trailer, but I wonder why they wouldn't at least put the "-" marks on them like a graded bolt to show that it is super strong. I bought one of those hitch racks from Harbor Freight to put a cooler or 2 on. Did that come with a hitch pin that is just as heavy duty as my 10,000# rated weight distribution hitch?
Matt O 2006 Skyline Nomad 27' travel trailer. Previously owned 1986 Coleman Columbia / 1992 Coleman Senecca / 1989 Born Free Class C RV.
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