The right towing accessories keep you and your cargo safe and secure. Some are practical, while others add style and fun to your ride.
These trailer hitch accessories fit on your truck’s receiver (the square opening of the ball mount fits). They include weight distribution kits that stabilize the load and anti-sway bars to reduce sway.
Pin & Clip
This standard steel bent hitch pin with a clip helps prevent trailer theft. It easily inserts into your vehicle’s receiver hitch hole to connect a ball mount or other removable accessory. It’s durable and made to withstand extreme weather conditions.
To receive hitch, these locking pins help prevent accidental detachment of your trailer from. They also discourage trailer theft by making it more difficult for thieves to break open the plug and detach a trailer from the vehicle.
These are more versatile than cotter pins and are designed to be tethered for extra security. They are available in steel zinc and stainless steel for corrosion resistance. They are easy to install and remove using specialized circular pin pliers. They are also made more robust and more durable than traditional cotter pins.
Coupler Lock
The right trailer lock can offer an added layer of security to prevent the theft of your trailer and its contents. There are different types of locks, including cable locks, deadbolt locks, and more advanced options that use a combination or keyless entry. If your trailer is frequently parked outside or at public places, such as a campsite, boat landing, or rest stop, look for a weather-resistant option that can withstand rain, snow, road grime, and other outdoor elements.
A coupler lock features a bar that locks above the trailer’s coupler space to prevent its removal from the hitch receiver. Some models also have a locking mechanism that requires a quarter turn to activate and unlock. This is an easy way to deter thieves from removing your trailer.
Safety Chains
A pair of safety chains crisscrossed under the trailer tongue help prevent it from breaking loose and running off the road. A safety chain can also help keep the trailer hooked to the towing vehicle in case the hitch connection fails.
These sturdy steel chains secure your trailer and towing vehicle together in case of an unforeseen detachment or failure. They’re crucial to your towing setup and should always be checked and re-fastened before each drive.
Curt’s selection of safety chains offers various sizes to fit varying trailer heights and weight ratings. These chains are easy to install and provide a high-quality, long-lasting performance. They’re also road-legal and reflect responsible towing practices for increased stability on the highway and adherence to state-specific requirements.
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Hitch Ball Cover
A hitch ball cover protects and keeps the trailer ball clean when not used. Some bodies cap the receiver tube, while others insert it into it and lock it in place. They can even be color-matched to your vehicle and come in various designs.
Hitch pin locks keep your trailer and equipment secure when unhitched from your truck. They also prevent theft, making them a must-have for anyone who hauls. And safety chains provide an extra layer of security by keeping the trailer and towing vehicle together if the trailer becomes disconnected. Consider adding a breakaway kit to your towing package for added peace of mind. It includes a switch that activates the brakes on your towing vehicle if the trailer breaks away from the hitch.
Hitch Ball Grease
Besides ensuring that your trailer hitch is adequately secured to the coupler, it’s also essential to grease the ball and coupler regularly. Grease is a dry lubricant that repels dirt and reduces friction. It’s an effective alternative to motor oil, which could dribble and create a mess when it heats up.
Another hitch accessory to consider is a cushion hitch kit, which helps to reduce jarring and jolting while towing. This is particularly helpful for hauling heavier loads or for those who often drive over bumpy terrain.
Remember that many of these accessories require an adapter to be compatible with your vehicle’s hitch receiver. Be sure to check the size of your hitch receiver tube and the shank diameter of your trailer ball to ensure compatibility with any accessories you choose.
