Coupler - Receiver Combo Locks

TNOutback

After 12+ years, my coupler pin lock is getting difficult to unlock/remove, and I know I’m a trip or few away from having to remove it with a hacksaw.  When it goes, so does the receiver pin since they are keyed alike.  In the market for a new set of robust, stainless steel keyed-alike locks, and wondering what others can recommend.  I realize this is sort of like asking what your favorite dog breed is, but oh well.  Lots of options out there, lots of no-name knockoffs too. I’m more concerned about the receiver pin since it secures a B&W hitch that stays in the receiver; it needs to be somewhat theft-deterrent. The coupler pin is really just to ensure the coupler stays secured while traveling.

Bayliss

@TNOutback, this is what I have been using since Jan 2019 on my 320 S.  So far, so good.  I try to take extra care not to lose the rubber covers, because they are what keep dirt, etc., out of the barrel-key entry.

The coupler lock is the Trimax SXTC2 (2 1/2" span.)  The receiver lock is the Trimax SXT5 (3 1/2" span.)  Both are stainless steel.

NOTE:  I originally wanted a "keyed-alike" set, so I purchased the Trimax "SXTM32" set.  Actually, that set is depicted in the photo below, but the appearance and design of the locks is identical to what I am using.  However, when I received the set, I discovered that the included receiver lock was the model #SXT3, which has a shorter span (3".)  That was too short to work with my particular receiver.  It appears that my OEM receiver that came with my Toyota Tundra tow package is probably about 1/2" wider than other receivers.

Therefore, I had to return the set and separately order the SXT5 version (which has a 1/2" longer span) and SXTC2 coupler lock.  Unless things have changed since Jan 2019, Trimax does not sell a keyed-alike set for my particular application.

Keeping the above in mind, it is possible that you might be able to use the keyed-alike set, but you would need to measure the outer width of the receiver where the coupler lock pin will be inserted to make that determination.

N7SHG_Ham

I 2nd the Trimax sets, I have two sets and they are good but after a few years the SS they use rusts a bit. I think I replaced one set after around 10 years.

Hobie

Is it safer to use a coupler pin lock when towing, or a spring clip? I read about some of the locks falling apart after a time.

jkjenn

I also like the Trimax locks.

TNOutback

Hobie said:

Is it safer to use a coupler pin lock when towing, or a spring clip? I read about some of the locks falling apart after a time.

@hobie I’ve used a lockable coupler pin for years, but I’ve recently gone away from that, instead using the spring clip used to hold on the jack wheel.  When I remove the jack wheel for towing, that spring clip then is used as my coupler pin.  If I was ever away/out of sight from my vehicle while towing for period of time, I would probably go with a lockable pin.  Those occasions are rare though, so a spring clip is good enough for most occasions.

Denny16

If you do not leave your rig unattended for any length of time, or out of eye sight, than a spring clip pin works fine, never had one fall off.  A locking pin, offers some security whilst parked or away from the rig, but it only takes 30- seconds for some one to snap one off with a small bolt cutter. 

Cheers

Hobie

@TNOutback @Denny16 Thanks. It sounds like the spring clip pin might be best for on the road and the lockable coupler pin might be handy for short-term parking out of eyesight. Then maybe a ball-type coupler lock for the longer-term storage yard.

Denny16

For a max security lock, you have two choices, Proven industries Puck trailer lock and Ft. Knox Lock setup.  A lock that just goes into the ball, and around the trailer hitch (yoke style) can be removed with a hammer or pry bar in less than a minute.  They only act as a deterrent for a casual thief, someone looking to remove a trailer from a storage facility will have tools to remove most locks, except the two security locks cited above.
cheers

Hobie

@Denny16 Got it. Thanks.

jkjenn

IMHO, there isn't a lock on the market that can stop a skilled and determined their. Most thefts happen in storage.

I insure my trailer and use locks for storage and when I travel. A bolt cutter or other apparatus will draw attention and probably dissuade someone from trying to snag it from my vehicle. Of course they can cut it, but a lock helps keep honest people, honest.

TNOutback

Agree.  I use the Proven hitch lock when parked and disconnected from my TV.  I kind of like using the spring clip from the jack wheel as the coupler pin, since it forces me to remember to remove the jack wheel before towing!  I will likely though get a keyed-alike set for those occasions when I will be away from the coupled vehicle and trailer while traveling.

ChanW

I just bought one of these...
It'll "automatically" key to use your tow vehicle key!

https://www.boltlock.com
Nice quality too.

TNOutback

@ChanW what if your TV is keyless  . . .

ChanW

Yeah, good point!

Keyless. I'm not sold on those. Dead battery? No getting in!

TresK3

I was at the U-Haul place, getting the hitch ball turned upside down, and saw a set of Master locks all keyed alike.  It included a hitch pin, a receiver lock, and a lock for the hitch.  About $60 for all three.  I realize that Master may not be the best security, but I agree with jkjenn that the goal is to keep honest people honest.  If someone really wants my (insured) Tab 400, they'll figure out a way to take it.

Note: I didn't get the 3 lock set yet, because I wanted to see what else was out there - but I DO like the idea of everything keyed alike.

N7SHG_Ham

Professional thief's come equipped with cut off saws. A friend had a large flatbed trailer stolen from his office with a a number of ATV's and a cargo trailer full of equipment (surveying business). It was locked up with a very heavy chain, they figure about 30" and gone. They did end up recovering a good amount of the stuff and busted the ring that had been operating around Oregon. This was a number of years ago. Even the heavy hitch locks and Brahma wheel locks, etc. Are no match for a portable cut off saw. Do what you can and then buy insurance and hope you don't need it.

Mellow_Yellow

I just ordered the same Trimax coupler and receiver locks (separately) that @Bayliss recommended, as well as a Trimax UMAX100 for the ball and chains. I previously bought some other brands that seemed solid, but the locks seized up after only 1 month in west coast 'winter' - almost no freezing temps, just lots and lots of rain was enough to do them in. I was lucky to get the crappy one off but it took lots of WD-40.

Tampakayaker

The biggest deterrent to theft after the locks/security, is having the trailer located where there are people around.

If it's in a residential neighborhood, I'm sure someone would notice a gas powered cut off saw cranking up at 3 in the morning.

The bigger problem is security at a boondock spot if you leave the site for the day to go hiking, kayaking, etc.

I lock the hitch at Disney's Fort Wilderness after we get set up, just to be on the safe side.