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What Is a Trailer Hitch Lock?

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What is a Trailer Hitch Lock?

A hitch lock (sometimes called”trailer lock”) “trailer lock”) can allow the trailer to be tied to an automobile in a manner to stop theft. A sturdy, high-quality hitch lock can stop potential thieves from getting a trailer separated from a vehicle , or from moving a trailer that is disconnected onto a vehicle for the purpose of taking the trailer. (More on this subject in one minute.)

A good hitch lock should keep anyone who doesn’t have an access key from disconnecting the trailer by lifting the receiver from the hitch, or getting away with your unconnected trailer.

Apart from preventing theft There are plenty advantages of a high-quality locking device for a trailer’s hitch.

Let’s review of some of the top advantages of using one.

How do I lock down an unconnected trailer?

A quality trailer hitch lock can be used for locking down the trailer even if it’s not connected to the vehicle. This stops thieves from connecting an additional vehicle to your trailer, and then driving away using it.

Very difficult to unlock without an Key

High-end locking mechanisms for the trailer are extremely difficult to open or break without a key, making it more difficult for potential thieves to gain access. This is, naturally the most important feature (sorry! LOL) in these crucial devices.

Discourages the possibility of thieves

A majority of thieves are able to identify a quality hitch lock. It could be the only thing they require to consider rethinking their plans to steal your trailer.

Could Save a Significant Sum of Money

A potential burglar is prevented from trying get access into your vehicle and get it stolen, it means that they won’t trying to break the lock, causing damage to your hitch and lock. Even more, they may succeed in damaging your trailer.

It’s essential to do everything you can to stop potential thieves from turning your trailer as an easy for them to attack. A high-quality trailer hitch lock will not break the budget.

However, the possibility that someone tries to gain access to your trailer and your hitch lock stops theft of the trailer you’ll have helped yourself save thousands dollars.

Peace of Mind

With a high-quality locks for trailers, ensure that your trailer is tightly attached to the tow vehicle and will be better protected from the theft.

Increased Safety While Towing

If you’re towing a trailer connecting your car and trailer is extremely vital.

A quality hitch lock will add an additional layer of security when your trailer and vehicle are moving along the road.

Are all trailer Hitch Locks the same?

No. There are many different kinds of hitch locks that are available and the best part is that, as important as they are they’re not usually very costly (especially when compared to the worth that your truck has)!

Let’s look at these briefly and give an example of each at the end of this section. kind of lock.

Later on in the article we’ll include a brief section that will point you to a variety of the top trailer hitch locks available on the market in the present.

Locking the Receiver Hitch for Locking

You might be aware that the trailer towing vehicle has receiver holes that extend above the ball mount to the vehicle towing it. (For additional information you can learn all about the specifications for trailer hitches). The receiver lock is placed through the holes in the receiver on the vehicle to be tow.

Locks for receivers have steel pins, with locks at both ends. (Some locking mechanisms for the receiver come with two locks, while others come with one lock that has the curve at one end to prevent it from slipping across the other.)

This is an example of a hitch for a receiver lock:

Lock Latch Pin

The latch pin locks prevent the latch of the trailer hitch from being lifted, and connected to another vehicle than your own.

This kind of trailer hitch lock slide into the latch, and locks in place. It also provides security when you’re towing your trailer.

This is an illustration of the latch pin lock.

Hitch Pin Lock

The point where the hitch connects to the frame of your vehicle, there is an attachment. A locking pin for the hitch works by sliding into the fastener, which stops the hitch from being removed by the car.

Here’s an example of a hitch-pin lock:

Coupler Hitch Lock

If you’ve seen the U-lock used for bicycles you’ll be able to be able to recognize that lock for trailers that you use for your hitch, which is identical in appearance.

An universal coupler lock generally includes a ball at the top. This ball can be inserted inside the tongue of the hitch. The bar then rests on the top of the tongue and joins both sides of the base of the lock.

One of the advantages of this kind of hitch is the fact that it gives safety even if the trailer isn’t attached to the tow vehicle.

What to look for in the trailer Hitch Lock

There are a variety of features that you need to think about when you’re looking for an hitch lock.

Here are a few things you’ll need to think about in your mind:

Is the lock on your hitch compatible with the hitch on your trailer?

Certain types of hitch locks are available in various sizes and distinct weight capacities. It’s crucial to know prior to purchasing one.

What is the Hitch Made of?

The long-term durability of any kind of lock is vital. This is true especially for locks that will constantly be exposed to elements as well as the dangers on the roads.

The best hitch locks made from steel are usually coated with the anti-corrosion finish to protect them.

What type of locking mechanism is used?

A few locks are vulnerable of being picked by appropriate tools, or they can even be damaged. The lock for your trailer hitch is more secure if its design has a robust or sophisticated locking mechanism.

Do you think the lock is obvious for Potential Thieves?

Numerous manufacturers include the bright color of their lock for their trailers in order to deliberately draw attention to the presence of a quality lock on the premises. The reason for this is to discourage potential thieves from messing on your trailer hitch.

Does the lock have an Almost Universal Fit?

If you plan to utilize your lock on multiple trailers You might want to think about the universal lock for your hitch.

Latch pin locks and coupler locks usually have more universal fitting and are often utilized on a variety of trailers.
What are the most effective trailer Hitch Locks There are many options available.

Let’s look at the top-rated hitch locks for sale currently.

Reese Towpower Heavy Loader Lock

It is the Reese Towpower is an example of the trailer hitch lock which has universal fitting. It is compatible with all couplers and comes with 11 locking positions.

While it will fit all couplers this lock will fit trailers that measure 1 7/8, 2 or 2 5/16.

It is equipped with two anti-theft square keys, and is coated with bright silver to increase visibility.

Note: This kind of hitch lock protects the trailer, even when it’s not being used for towing.

Master Lock Universal Coupler Trailer Lock

The universal lock for couplers works with most trailer couplers with dimensions of 1 7/8″ 2” and 2 5/16 1 7/8”, 2”, and 2 5/16”..

The lock for the trailer hitch is resistant to corrosion and rust and features an attractive red finish to increase clarity. It also features an sophisticated locking mechanism, which is specifically designed to withstand picking.

With more than 13,000 reviews on Amazon the vast majority of them positive and we decided to include it.

REESE Towpower 72783 Coupler Lock

This lock by Reese is constructed of high-quality steel. It is bright yellow to increase the best visibility.

It provides adjustable security for storage and a universal anti-theft design and is adjustable by 11 locking positions.

This lock is compatible with couplers of 1 7/8′ 2” and 2 5/16 1”, 2”, and 2 5/16”. It’s simple to install, but it’s difficult to pick and drill out.

CURT 23518 Black Trailer Hitch Pin Lock

This pin lock for hitches can be used with any 2-inch two-inch receiver. The pin’s size is 5/8”, which means it can fit into a 5/8” hole and comes with 2.85 inches of pin length that is usable. (Note the lock will not work for double-walled tube receivers.)

The lock is water-resistant and has the dust cap which keeps the internal components secure. The lock itself is an extremely durable, powder-coated and anti-corrosion finish.

Two keys are provided and 1/4 turn unlocks the lock making it easy to make use of.

Master Lock 377DAT Trailer Hitch Lock

The lock is made from zinc, which helps to prevent corrosion from rust. It is front-accessible with three positions that can be adjusted. The installation is easy.

This lock is compatible with the majority of couplers that measure 1 7/8″ 2” or 2”. It comes with a sophisticated locking mechanism to further prevent theft.

Important Information About Locks on Trailer Hitch for Hitch.

It’s important to mention that a lot of trailer hitch locks are accessible by anyone with the lock in question and keys to open the lock. The keys in their lock could unlock the lock on your trailer.

This is an important piece information you could need to research further by reading reviews prior to buying.

The locks that we’ve highlighted in this article are backed by a large number of reviews that are positive, and give you plenty of information to look through.