how to remove a rusted trailer hitch pin
We use cookies to make wikiHow great. If your trailer hitch ball is rusted and youre tensed, how to remove it as it is poorly stuck, or you may think you should call a mechanic, then just relax. While all U-Haul hitches come with a protective coating, it can still be worn away over time with heavy usage, improper care and overexposure to the elements. Ok, so the PO of our Sportsmobile had a locking hitch pin in the 2" receiver and he gave me the keys, but they seem to be the wrong set of keys for it. Watch for things that could fall behind you, and be ready to avoid getting hit. Every day we fix different hitches for our clients. wikiHow, Inc. is the copyright holder of this image under U.S. and international copyright laws. When driving down the road, always check to see if your vehicles license plate is visible. DoItYourself.com, founded in 1995, is the leading independent etrailer Trailer Hitch Receiver Lock for 2" Hitches - Flush - 2-5/8" Span - Chrome (1240 reviews) Code: e98880 Retail: $30.00 Our Price: $20.69 Trailer Hitch Lock Standard Pin Lock Keyed Alike Chrome Fits 2 Inch Hitch Flush Pin 2-5/8 Inch Span etrailer more information > See More Q&A Expert Answers >> Website operating The materials used for this fix, especially the naval jelly, need to avoid skin contact at all times. Also read: Step Bumper Receiver Hitch Installation guide. imagelinks[4]="http://www.ezboardwalk.com/" on Forestry and Logging, Started by Jim_Rogers Sponsored. You can usually access it from the back side of the hitch. Use the air hammer on the top area of the receiver after youve finished tapping the bottom and sides. Over 200+ free JavaScripts here! For this, youll need WD-40, BOESHIELD T-9, or another lubricant that can get the job done. References. This article was co-authored by Ed Beery and by wikiHow staff writer, Hunter Rising. If you have an iron trailer hitch or hitch ball that's beginning to rust you can remove the rust with Naval Jelly. If these pins get rusted, they will get stuck in the hole, and you will face much trouble trying to remove them. If you get the pins out, or have to cut the nipples off, I would recommend using a wet hinge pin, like part # HP412G which will hopefully prevent this from happening in the future. Save my name, email, and website in this browser for the next time I comment. Keep in mind that you are spraying liberally while spraying. Almost all mechanical and engineering problems can be solved with a sawzall or duct tape. Do not paint over rust as that will not prevent the corrosion from continuing underneath. Fit the straw of the penetrating fluid into one of the corners between the hitch and the receiver. Its disconcerting to remove the hitch ball once its stuck. The problem of hitch pins corroding is common, and it is understandable that the issues caused by rust would make anyone anxious. This image is not<\/b> licensed under the Creative Commons license applied to text content and some other images posted to the wikiHow website. First, remove any loose or flaking rust with a wire brush. With more than eight years of experience, he specializes in providing maintenance and repair services for both individuals and companies. In that case, youll need to get more of the penetrating spray and try again. You may freely link How to Roll Down the Windows With Your Key Fob, Running Out of Gas: What Happens to Your Car & How You Can Get Help, How to Pull a Dent Out of a Quarter Panel, How to Get a Rusted Trailer Hitch Ball Off, https://suncruisermedia.com/Home/tech/the-importance-of-hitch-care/, https://www.powerequipmentdirect.com/manuals/cp717manual_2.pdf, To pull out a hitch mount rusted into the receiver, try tapping it out with a, For a stuck trailer hitch ball, turn the mounting nut with a long-handled. myimages2[1]="../../../images/top-banner/behindtheforum.jpg" var imagelinks=new Array() Now you can remove the screw from the lock pin joint and the two parts from both sides. myimages[3]="../../../images/top-banner/LX25-FreeShipping.jpg" Be careful on your backswing so you dont accidentally hit or damage your vehicle. This image is not<\/b> licensed under the Creative Commons license applied to text content and some other images posted to the wikiHow website. ry=1 An Official Website ofAndersenHitches.com. Take It to the hitch ball on the trailer and start spraying it. You could use a ARC stick welder and just burn through it on a high setting. myimages2[3]="../../../images/top-banner/behindtheforum.jpg" USF Sarasota-Manatee, Team S1-G1, Stewart Spring 2019. Apply a protective layer of fluid film to the treated area. This will prevent rust and corrosion due to moisture, dirt, other environmental factors. Its only a matter of striking! Use the small paint brush to apply a coat of naval jelly over the rusted area. Coating Your Hitch with a Protective Agent. Penetrating fluid acts as a lubricant that works well for eating through rusted metal. In Florida, we are one of the most tropical states this includes heavy rainfall. My friend Chuck told me about a simple method that only requires a screwdriver and hammer. You cant use a standard hammer in this situation. Its everything you need to know about any kind of hitches. if (ry==0) If left inside the receiver, ball mount vibration can begin to erode the protective coating and allow for rust inside the receiver tube. Here are some of the guidelines to remove it easily: Its imperative to get a good quality penetrating spray to make your work easy. Page created in 1.508 seconds with 40 queries. Don't wait 'til both feet are in hot water before you decide to put your best foot forward. rust). This image is not<\/b> licensed under the Creative Commons license applied to text content and some other images posted to the wikiHow website. Find many great new & used options and get the best deals for Handle Hitch Pin 6" x 1" (Pack 2 Pcs) Tractor Trailer at the best online prices at eBay! This image may not be used by other entities without the express written consent of wikiHow, Inc.
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\u00a9 2023 wikiHow, Inc. All rights reserved. Copyright I hope you found it helpful. Choose a size and copy the code below to embed this guide as a small widget on your site / forum. If water gets into those exposed areas and is allowed to sit, it will corrode the metal and cause rust. Allow the fluid film to sit for about 5 minutes. There are two types of hitch pins commonly used in trailers: receiver lock hitch pins and hitch pins with clips. Last post: November 30, 2014, 07:27:31 AM, Last post: September 08, 2012, 06:53:05 PM. myimages[2]="../../../images/top-banner/BladesFreeShip.jpg" https://youtu.be/u31SJzLVIFILike what you see? Despite your best efforts to prevent rust, it may still find its way onto your hitch. It also helps to do this from the top of the hitch as well. Set a flathead screwdriver inside the lock hole of the receiver lock hitch pin. This image is not<\/b> licensed under the Creative Commons license applied to text content and some other images posted to the wikiHow website. We have also a physical hitch repair store in Poland. If it still wont move, try heating it and cooling it quickly. Bring along anything you can that will fit in the hitch. That way, it will loosen up and be easier to remove with other methods too. First, we wrapped a long strap around a strong tree. Method 1 In the first method, you will need, Mini Hacksaw Frame with HSS Blade Claw Hammer (Alternative- flat prybar) Knife or chisel (Optional) Step - 1 The first step is to start cutting the protruding part of the body of the Hammer Drive Anchor with the Mini Hacksaw Blade. You can spray a bit of aerosol white lithium grease into the lock. random_imglink2() In any instance, it may remain trapped inside. U-Haul International, Inc.'s trademarks and copyrights are used under license by Web Team Associates, Inc. It will gradually emerge. Remember to use caution/gloves when handling the naval jelly. You can have as many as you wish If you see a small space to work with, use a reinforced inox cutting wheel size of 4.5 inches. This image may not be used by other entities without the express written consent of wikiHow, Inc.
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\u00a9 2023 wikiHow, Inc. All rights reserved. % of people told us that this article helped them. This is the finished, rust-free, product. When you leave your hitch ball on your vehicle, it becomes more exposed to the elements. Its better to maintain your stuff so that it wont create a hassle in the future. If you are struggling with this issue, the information in my article can help you. How to Tighten the Hitch Ball (Step by Step)? Remove the rust with homemade or store-bought cleaners. And then you should be able to eliminate the end part of the hitch lock. Spray the liquid on the ball mount, then spray your hands and respray the nut. He had it off in about 2 minutes and I think it costs around $10. Basically, you need to put the key to widen the lock core for unlocking the hitch lock. Youll also need to spray the threaded holes in addition to the ball mount. (You won't need a sledge hammer when doing this) All the time keeping a lot of tension on the come-along. Dont go overboard! Even better, get rid of them altogether. Last post: September 21, 2014, 02:16:09 PM. 25 pcs 1/4 x 1-1/2 Round Canopy PTO Trailer Hitch Pin Awning Zinc Clear. One standard anti-rattling device looks like a bolt put into the receiver hitch. submitted to our "DoItYourself.com Community Forums". You will need a 4.5-inch angle grinder for this project. We use cookies to personalise content and ads, to provide social media features and to analyse our traffic. Diamond T trucks. If its still stuck then you can try using another round of WD-40 and even a pipe on the end of the wrench to give yourself more leverage. Insert a screwdriver into the lock hole and press down to remove the inner mechanism. If you're going to break a law.. make sure it's Murphy's Law. From that point of view, you should be gentle and use the right tool for the job. So we thought why not create an informational blog for the hitch users from all over the world. Yes, the simplest way to get rid of it is to pull it out. Store ball mount indoors and away from corrosive weather. If left exposed to the air, metal will eventually rust over time. Depending on how often you use it, you might not even realize that your hitch ball is missing. If you are storing it in your vehicle, we suggest using an accessory bag to protect the vehicle and the ball mount. These are sometimes taken, and it can be hard to get them back. wikiHow is where trusted research and expert knowledge come together. ry=1 Started by FarmingSawyer How To Remove Rust From A Rusted Trailer Hitch - YouTube 0:00 / 2:08 How To Remove Rust From A Rusted Trailer Hitch Blaster Products 10.7K subscribers Subscribe 95 26K views 2 years ago *BUY. There are a lot of things that can cause rust in trailer hitches. Prevent this with proper maintenance, regular use, and wax or paint. A ball mount connects the trailer ball to the receiver hitch. When you heat the steel, it will expand, but as it cools, the expansion should stop, and the hitch should come off. Never put yourself in danger, and only do this if you are with someone who knows what they are doing. problems contact webmaster@doityourself.com. Keep doing 4. Absolutely! //-->. You should start to see bubbling in this process. So besides running our Hitch store here in Poland, we also write the hitch accessories tips and guidelines on this website. This image may not be used by other entities without the express written consent of wikiHow, Inc.
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\u00a9 2023 wikiHow, Inc. All rights reserved. Removing a Rusted Hitch Mount from the Receiver, {"smallUrl":"https:\/\/www.wikihow.com\/images\/thumb\/3\/33\/Get-a-Rusted-Trailer-Hitch-Ball-Off-Step-1.jpg\/v4-460px-Get-a-Rusted-Trailer-Hitch-Ball-Off-Step-1.jpg","bigUrl":"\/images\/thumb\/3\/33\/Get-a-Rusted-Trailer-Hitch-Ball-Off-Step-1.jpg\/aid13298987-v4-728px-Get-a-Rusted-Trailer-Hitch-Ball-Off-Step-1.jpg","smallWidth":460,"smallHeight":345,"bigWidth":728,"bigHeight":546,"licensing":"

\u00a9 2023 wikiHow, Inc. All rights reserved. } Rusted parts can be restored in 5 minutes to 24 hours, depending upon the amount of rust, type of metal (iron and steel), and temperature of the solution. Apply the wire brush on any part of the hitch in order to brush off any excess rust or rust flakes. You should never use them while towing a trailer. myimages2[2]="../../../images/top-banner/behindtheforum.jpg" You can have as many as you wish myimages[6]="../../../images/top-banner/EZ-junior.jpg" Every time we return from a trip lasting more than a few days, we have to move our Dmax because it is too big to fit in the garage. Re: How to free a rusted trailer hitch ?? Once the rust has been removed, continue to liberally re-apply ball grease during use and use a ball cover or hitch bag to protect it when its not being used. This procedure cannot be performed again immediately after the rust is taken off. expert reply by: Mike L Since heat makes metal expand, the blow torch helps loosen the nut from the threading on the ball. Use a non-solvent based product like Fluid Film to add additional protection to the receiver hitch and receiver opening from rust causing agents like moisture and debris, Use a hitch cover to prevent water and dirt from getting into the receiver opening. home improvement and repair website. Ed and the InTechgrity Automotive Excellence Team are approved by the American Automobile Association (AAA) for repairs and are Automotive Service Excellence (ASE) certified. Look for corrosion or wear around the hitch pin hole and receiver opening, Cover exposed metal with a rust stopping paint, Use a hitch cover to prevent dirt and water from getting inside your hitch. If your hitch ball extends beyond your bumper, it may be difficult to see. Hitch pins can become corroded over time due to exposure to the elements, making them difficult to remove. There are 11 references cited in this article, which can be found at the bottom of the page. The Forestry Forum is sponsored in part by: You must log in or register to reply here. In this situation, using an air hammer to remove it is a fabulous idea. Smooth and finish the cut from the starting edge of the receiver lock hitch pin. *BUY NOW-https://www.metalrescue.com/buy/In this video, we show you how to easily and safely remove rust from your rusty trailer hitch in 3 easy steps using our water based rust remover, Metal Rescue Rust Remover Bath. We are a participant in the Amazon Services LLC Associates Program, an affiliate advertising program designed to provide a means for us to earn fees by linking to Amazon.com and affiliated sites. Brian Brian McVickers Administrator Staff member Jul 30, 2008 #5 computeruser said: With a thin .040" wheel? Spray the stuck area well with WD40 or Inox. And that shall make the lock's end section loosen up and separate from the rest of the body. Metal Rescue removes the iron oxide and holds it in solution, leaving the base part and other materials safely unaffected. You must also ensure that you spray the thread areas in addition to the ball nut. When it comes to removing corroded trailer hitch balls, a rubber hammer is one of the best investments you can make. var myimages2=new Array() You might also hit the ball shank with a rubber mallet to help try and break it free as well. With a few tools and a little bit of elbow grease, you can easily remove the rusted hitch or ball at home. */ Twice and it popped off. Determine the Best Car Wax for Your Vehicle, How to Repair Peeling Paint on Steel Garage Doors. This image may not be used by other entities without the express written consent of wikiHow, Inc.
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\n<\/p><\/div>"}. wikiHow, Inc. is the copyright holder of this image under U.S. and international copyright laws. If youre going to leave the mount attached to your hitch, be sure to continually reapply ball grease and use a ball cover to protect it when not in use. What is an Air hammer? By signing up you are agreeing to receive emails according to our privacy policy. If you buy through links on our site, we may earn a commission. Water can be quickly purified by boiling, as high temperatures eliminate harmful microorganisms, including parasites and bacteria. How about a jewlers torch - easier to control in a tight space. Ive seen all 4 options work for different people. Uh, yeah, don't force it, just get a bigger hammer. Questions of a Do It Yourself nature should be I have an SUV. Check out some more of our videos! If you find dents or spots that are starting to rust, clean them thoroughly with a homemade or store bought rust remover and then apply rust-resistant paint to the area. You want your hitch ball to be in the most outstanding possible condition while its connecting thousands of pounds to your tow vehicle. This includes the top, sides, and bottom, as well as the hole where the pin goes. A powder or zinc coat will protect hitch components for a long time. Dry the metal and paint with an oil-based paint within 24 hours to prevent the return of the rust. Boiling water does not eliminate rust because rust particles are not living beings. Hammering has a set time limit. We are a participant in the Amazon Services LLC Associates Program, an affiliate advertising program designed to provide a means for us to earn fees by linking to Amazon.com and affiliated sites, Affiliate Disclosure We are a participant in the Amazon Services LLC Associates Program, an affiliate advertising program designed to provide a means for us to earn fees by linking to Amazon.com and affiliated sites, A Cost Breakdown of Moving a 5th-wheel Trailer (Per mile), EAZ LIFT Weight Distribution Hitch Reviews: Things You Must Know, Subaru Outback Trailer Hitch Installation Guide and Cost Breakdown, Step Bumper Receiver Hitch Installation guide, https://www.wikihow.com/Get-a-Rusted-Trailer-Hitch-Ball-Off, https://www.familyhandyman.com/project/removing-a-trailer-hitch-ball/, 4 Types of Travel Trailer Hitch Ball Sizes (A Complete Guide), Can I back up with the Weight Distribution bars? Hitch Pin With the Clip Removed: All our hitches are powder coated and our ball mounts are either powder coated or zinc finished (galvanized) to protect them from the elements and prevent rust. This image may not be used by other entities without the express written consent of wikiHow, Inc.
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\u00a9 2023 wikiHow, Inc. All rights reserved. This image may not be used by other entities without the express written consent of wikiHow, Inc.
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\u00a9 2023 wikiHow, Inc. All rights reserved. If you find dents or spots that are starting to rust, clean them thoroughly with a homemade or store bought rust remover and then apply rust-resistant paint to the area. (Explained), Step Bumper Receiver Hitch Installation (Step by Step), Types of 5th Wheel Hitches: A Guide to Choose The Correct One, 12 Best Weight Distribution Hitches Review 2023 (With Sway Control), Andersen vs Equal-i-zer Weight Distribution Hitch: Find the Differences, Spray / penetrating fluid (WD40, BOESHIELD, Permatex can be considered). You can heat the nut with a blow torch so it's easier to unscrew. If it has started to rust already you want to remove that rust with a homemade or store-bought rust remover and then apply the paint over it. Follow up by polishing with two coats of carnuba car wax. Updated: 00/04/25 Do not paint over rust as the corrosion will continue underneath. Last Updated: November 2, 2022 After inserting the key, rotate it in a counterclockwise manner. You can also use a chisel-shaped bit on your air hammer. Pick a jug up at your local Home Depot, AutoZone, or Canadian Tire today! Keep in mind that when the ball mount is not in use, it is best to remove it. Id suggest pre-drilling smaller holes first from the center out to keep the drill bit centered and prevent damage to you hitch. There are dozens of commercial rust removers, but acids in everyday kitchen staples like vinegar, lemon juice, and potatoes will loosen even stubborn rust from some metals. A rusty ball mount can get stuck in the receiver opening and be hard to remove. Should I lubricate my trailer hitch ball? Always wear appropriate safety gear, including eye and ear protection, when using an angle grinder. The appropriate gears are required, and the rest is a piece of cake. If you still have your hitch tied down, it will be hard to take it off. For those items that you can't soak, check out our Metal Rescue GEL! Have a helper signal the driver as the driver slowly uses the tow vehicle to pull away from the fixed load to remove the hitch. 0 Members and 1 Guest are viewing this topic. Insert a screwdriver into the lock hole and press down to remove the inner mechanism. With the amount of moisture we endure, it is important to remove, as well as prevent, rust on our material objects and personal belongings. Dont worry, if a ball mount is rusted in your hitch and you cant remove it, U-Haul will still replace your receiver hitch under the $5 warranty.The best form of maintenance is prevention. Method 1 Removing a Rusted Hitch Mount from the Receiver 1 Spray the hitch receiver opening with penetrating fluid. Save my name, email, and website in this browser for the next time I comment. Have someone get into the vehicle, put it in drive and put tension on the chain (steady pressure - do not go overboard and try to force it out - you could end up bending something). 4 Simple ways to Remove Rusted or Stuck trailer hitch ball, Andersen: the best Weight Distribution Hitch in the market, Eaz lift Recurve r6 weight distribution hitch Review, Types of trailer hitches and Hitch classes, 5 Best Trailer Hitch for Subaru Crosstrek, 5 Best Hitch for Boat Trailer: A full guide, Best Adjustable Drop Hitches For Lifted Trucks in 2022. Once its free you can either pull it out or gently tap it out with the hammer. Very annoying if I wanted to switch to a bike rack, meaning I can't. If the trailer ball spins when you turn the wrench, grip it with a second wrench and turn it in the opposite direction. Over 200+ free JavaScripts here! https://youtu.be/8Ik0L0DL-uM?list=PLCkV34WXIYtRfn2cooMnQTdvOsiw-FVcz But it also builds up if you live in a wintery region where they apply salt to the roads throughout the winter to melt ice and provide a safer driving . To ensure our content is always up-to-date with current information, best practices, and professional advice, articles are routinely reviewed by industry experts with years of hands-on experience. The keys themselves sometimes will benefit from a bit of fine (500 grit) sandpaper rubbed on their surfaces. You can avoid being pulled over by the cops by removing your hitch ball while youre not using it. Use Air Hammering 3. You can get rid of a rusted ball hitch at home with some standard tools and good, old-fashioned muscle. Most of the time, an air hammer, a punch, some WD40, and sometimes is enough to get them out. A bit of borax, baking soda, or salt can provide abrasive action, and you might never have to repurchase a professional remover. It's going to take lots of 'elbow grease' but it will come apart. This image is not<\/b> licensed under the Creative Commons license applied to text content and some other images posted to the wikiHow website. We are a participant in the Amazon Services LLC Associates Program, an affiliate advertising program designed to provide a means for us to earn fees by linking to Amazon.com and affiliated sites, We are an affiliate website that is the best resource for anyone looking to buy, maintain or modify their hitch or trailer. var imagelinks2=new Array() If just the hitch ball needs replacing but its stuck inside the ball mount then youll want to follow a similar strategy to the ball mount. Read more, Affiliate Disclosure suggestions. //-->,