how to remove a rusted trailer hitch pinhow to remove a rusted trailer hitch pin

\u00a9 2023 wikiHow, Inc. All rights reserved. These are sometimes taken, and it can be hard to get them back. random_imglink() expert reply by: Mike L When you heat the steel, it will expand, but as it cools, the expansion should stop, and the hitch should come off. It w adjustable height trailer hitch ball mount. If these pins get rusted, they will get stuck in the hole, and you will face much trouble trying to remove them. var myimages=new Array() If it still wont move, try heating it and cooling it quickly. Sponsored. If you notice spots that have worn out the powdered coating, you will want to touch those up with a rust stopping paint to reseal the metal underneath. . DoItYourself.com, founded in 1995, is the leading independent We also share information about your use of our site with our social media, advertising and analytics partners. Any suggestions. I have an SUV. If thats the case, youll have to get the spray again and try again. Ed and the InTechgrity Automotive Excellence Team are approved by the American Automobile Association (AAA) for repairs and are Automotive Service Excellence (ASE) certified. Over 200+ free JavaScripts here! wikiHow is where trusted research and expert knowledge come together. Rust is the chemical reaction that occurs when iron, steel or other alloys are exposed to oxygen and air moisture and become corroded. Page created in 1.508 seconds with 40 queries. For a better experience, please enable JavaScript in your browser before proceeding. . Also read: Step Bumper Receiver Hitch Installation guide. Allow to sit for approximately ten minutes. Subscribe to learn more about how our products can take the work out of your workshop!http://www.youtube.com/user/metalrescue?sub_confirmation=1Still not convinced? $35.72. Last post: September 21, 2014, 02:16:09 PM. After that, when youve finished with the sides, grab the bottom of the trailer hitch receiver and begin hammering. 25 pcs 1/4 x 1-1/2 Round Canopy PTO Trailer Hitch Pin Awning Zinc Clear. Have a welder melt out the pin with an oxy acetylene torch. This image is not<\/b> licensed under the Creative Commons license applied to text content and some other images posted to the wikiHow website. If you are storing it in your vehicle, we suggest using an accessory bag to protect the vehicle and the ball mount. imagelinks[3]="https://woodmizer.com/Store/Shop/Portable-Sawmills/LX25-Portable-Sawmill?utm_source=forestryforum.com&utm_medium=banner&utm_campaign=lx25&utm_term=2023-02-10&utm_content=800x160" It gets expensive buying pins sets every year from corrosion. If you tow a camper, boat, or trailer you may notice your trailer hitch rusting. Random Image Link Script- By JavaScript Kit(http://www.javascriptkit.com) document.write('') First, remove any loose or flaking rust with a wire brush. Dry the metal and paint with an oil-based paint within 24 hours to prevent the return of the rust. What is an Air hammer? Handle Hitch Pin Bargain 1 x 6 New But Little Rusty (Pack 5 Pcs) Tractor Trailer. With more than eight years of experience, he specializes in providing maintenance and repair services for both individuals and companies. if youre facing the same problem still, then all you have to do now is keep hammering until you see the trailer hitchs ball mount loosening. 4 Simple ways to Remove Rusted or Stuck trailer hitch ball 1. //specify random images below. Dry the metal and paint with an oil-based paint within 24 hours to prevent the return of the rust. So you want to take a trailer hitch off your vehicle or change the size of the hitch ball, but the rusted metal wont even budge. *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. First, we wrapped a long strap around a strong tree. If youre able to get underneath your vehicle, check if the back of the receiver is hollow. When tightened, they keep the tow hitch from making noise when the car isnt being towed. Anti-rattle bolts are standard on tow bars these days. All is not lost however, and with these tips you can fight the rust and prevent it from happening again in the near future. I simply used a 3lb sledge and beat the sucker apart when the locking mechanism on mine siezed up. To do this, youll need WD-40, BOESHIELD T-9, or any other suitable lubricant. When you leave your hitch ball on your vehicle, it becomes more exposed to the elements. 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. You should start to see bubbling in this process. Insert a screwdriver into the lock hole and press down to remove the inner mechanism. Apply a little penetrating fluid every day if you arent able to pull your hitch out right away. If you have an iron trailer hitch or hitch ball that's beginning to rust you can remove the rust with Naval Jelly. //specify corresponding links below Save my name, email, and website in this browser for the next time I comment. Lets address the hitch being stuck in the truck. Use the small paint brush to apply a coat of naval jelly over the rusted area. One way to protect your hitch is to coat it with a protective agent such as a trailer hitch gel or spray. imagelinks2[2]="https://www.youtube.com/c/TheForestryForum?sub_confirmation=1" Apply the wire brush on any part of the hitch in order to brush off any excess rust or rust flakes. You can do it yourself or, if needed, take the help of a friend, and thats it. Ive seen all 4 options work for different people. This is the smallest cutting wheel size, and it will be easier to maneuver in a small space. This image is not<\/b> licensed under the Creative Commons license applied to text content and some other images posted to the wikiHow website. If you see a small space to work with, use a reinforced inox cutting wheel size of 4.5 inches. Spray a good amount of WD-40 or similar lubricant around the ball nut and thread areas. var myimages2=new Array() With this in mind, I have compiled a detailed article on how to remove a rusted trailer hitch pin.if(typeof ez_ad_units!='undefined'){ez_ad_units.push([[250,250],'toolsjoint_com-box-3','ezslot_6',170,'0','0'])};__ez_fad_position('div-gpt-ad-toolsjoint_com-box-3-0'); The problem of hitch pins corroding is common, and it is understandable that the issues caused by rust would make anyone anxious. Do not use powdered graphite as it will eventually harden. For this, youll need WD-40, BOESHIELD T-9, or another lubricant that can get the job done. ry=1 It may take some time to come out. This site uses cookies to help personalise content, tailor your experience and to keep you logged in if you register. We tested it out and found that it worked; therefore, I wont recommend it. The hitch ball is the portion of the hitch system that is most likely to see a lot of wear and tear from the elements and general use. There are a several different options: If you heat the hitch and pin using a torch a lot of times it will break the materials free and you can use a hammer and punch to remove the pin. The wrench will assist you in removing the nut that is causing you problems. However, after repeated use and exposure, areas like the inside of the receiver and the hitch pin holes see frequent use and friction which can cause the coat to wear away, exposing the steel to the elements. This includes the top, sides, and bottom, as well as the hole where the pin goes. Rinse with warm water and dry with a soft, clean rag. Either way, pretty easy to "bump". /* Spray (WD40, BOESHIELD T-9, Permatex is recommended). 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? If left exposed to the air, metal will eventually rust over time. To accomplish so, keep an eye on the ball mount and follow the steps outlined above simultaneously and with the same amount of effort. The Forestry Forum is sponsored in part by: 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. Free . You can heat the nut with a blow torch so it's easier to unscrew. You can do that by using a product like BoeShield T-9 to protect and lubricate the internals of the lock system. All information is provided "AS IS." This can cause rusting, speeding up the need for a replacement. You can usually access it from the back side of the hitch. Spray approximately 4-6 inches away from the hitch. Were committed to providing the world with free how-to resources, and even $1 helps us in our mission. That way, it will loosen up and be easier to remove with other methods too. My fear is if i use a sawsall the blade will rub on the bumper.help:help: Mods: 20x9 Wheels 275/55/20 Falken ST04 Prevent this with proper maintenance, regular use, and wax or paint. A rusty ball mount can get stuck in the receiver opening and be hard to remove. But if you have an existing hitch that's rusted, there are several ways to remove the rust. Finally had an opportunity to tow my trailer and UTV with the new car. The appropriate gears are required, and the rest is a piece of cake. Allow to sit for approximately ten minutes. And that shall make the lock's end section loosen up and separate from the rest of the body. var ry=Math.floor(Math.random()*myimages.length) Big hammer and a piece of metal to put against the lock portion. 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. imagelinks[1]="http://www.ezboardwalk.com/" function random_imglink(){ Key wouldn't turn. Most of the time, an air hammer, a punch, some WD40, and sometimes is enough to get them out. Twice and it popped off. This article was co-authored by Ed Beery and by wikiHow staff writer, Hunter Rising. 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. To remove a corroded receiver lock hitch pin, you will need to destroy the lock. This image is not<\/b> licensed under the Creative Commons license applied to text content and some other images posted to the wikiHow website. Jim Buis Peterson 10" WPF swingmill. hmmm, locksmith? Its not that hard to remove a rusted hitch ball. myimages[1]="../../../images/top-banner/ez50-banner.jpg" Keep reading for the best ways to remove a rusted hitch mount or trailer ball so you can start towing again. After that, you must proceed to the next step to get the straw well inside the hitch receivers corners. #vanlife). You can get rid of a rusted ball hitch at home with some standard tools and good, old-fashioned muscle. This procedure cannot be performed again immediately after the rust is taken off. If you buy through links on our site, we may earn a commission. Do not paint over rust as the corrosion will continue underneath. The 2inch ball is stuck on with presumably being rusted on, thinking about 10 years. A thief might steal your hitch ball in a matter of seconds if you dont use a hitch lock. Should I lubricate my trailer hitch ball? Sign up for wikiHow's weekly email newsletter. Method 1 Removing a Rusted Hitch Mount from the Receiver 1 Spray the hitch receiver opening with penetrating fluid. Website operating I'd guess he'd be cutting for a year using a sawzall.my guess is the pin is hardened steel, which would be a royal ***** to cut. Watch for things that could fall behind you, and be ready to avoid getting hit. Its better to maintain your stuff so that it wont create a hassle in the future. If it is, fit a pipe in the hole and tap it with your hammer to push the hitch out. Rust tends to accumulate faster in coastal areas with a large body of saltwater nearby. A small amount can also be applied to the key before it is inserted. Thanks to all authors for creating a page that has been read 8,929 times. 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. In fact, using lubricant is the best way to avoid a rusted hitch mount altogether. Be careful on your backswing so you dont accidentally hit or damage your vehicle. Tool Joint is a website dedicated to providing information about fasteners and Joint Tools. imagelinks[5]="https://woodmizer.com/Store/Shop/Sawmill-Options/CookieMizer-Clamping-Jig?utm_source=forestryforum.com&utm_medium=banner&utm_campaign=cookiemizer&utm_term=2021-03-09&utm_content=800x160" Basically, you need to put the key to widen the lock core for unlocking the hitch lock. Use the hammer so as not to damage the receiver hitch. (You won't need a sledge hammer when doing this) All the time keeping a lot of tension on the come-along. Hitch pin and clip or hitch lock sold separately; Made in the USA; Specs: Application: 3" x 3" trailer hitch receivers; Gross towing weight: When used with 1-7/8" ball: 3,500 lbs; When used with 2" ball: 7,500 lbs; When used with 2-5/16" ball: 21,000 lbs; Distance from center of hitch pin hole to center of hitch ball: Hitch pin hole closest to . I'd suggest pre-drilling smaller holes first from the center out to keep the drill bit centered and prevent damage to you . 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. You could use a ARC stick welder and just burn through it on a high setting. Drill out the pin using a 5/8th drill. Use a hand hammer to hit it until the head of the screwdriver is completely inserted. U-Haul International, Inc.'s trademarks and copyrights are used under license by Web Team Associates, Inc. If your hitch mount or trailer ball has rusted, keep reading to find out different ways to get rid of it so you can get back to towing. imagelinks[6]="http://www.ezboardwalk.com/" $60.78. Its only a matter of striking! Use the small paint brush to apply a coat of naval jelly over the rusted area. This image is not<\/b> licensed under the Creative Commons license applied to text content and some other images posted to the wikiHow website. The most likely cause for a stuck trailer hitch is rust between the ball mount and the hitch receiver. Take the wet paper towel and wipe off the naval jelly on the hitch. How do you get a rusted hitch out of a receiver if nothing else works? if (ry==0) 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 >> If you still have your hitch tied down, it will be hard to take it off. If water gets into those exposed areas and is allowed to sit, it will corrode the metal and cause rust. Click to expand. You'll also need to spray the threaded holes in addition to the ball mount. It will gradually emerge. Hammering has a set time limit. Put the edge of the chisel bit between the hitch and the receiver and turn it on to cut through the corroded metal. Keep doing 4. rust). We use cookies to make wikiHow great. You must pull out the ball mount when it begins to loosen. Make sure that the area in range of the hitch popping out under pressure is clear and protected as neededparticle board or something similar can be used behind the chained hitch to protect the area from the hitch. Youll also need to spray the threaded holes in addition to the ball mount. By using our site, you agree to our. To loosen the inside of the lock hitch pin, use a hammer to hit it around the face side several times. (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). Its everything you need to know about any kind of hitches. You want your hitch ball to be in the most outstanding possible condition while its connecting thousands of pounds to your tow vehicle. In this situation, using an air hammer to remove it is a fabulous idea. Using the wrench will make it easier to take off the nut that is giving you trouble. myimages2[1]="../../../images/top-banner/behindtheforum.jpg" By signing up you are agreeing to receive emails according to our privacy policy. Insert a screwdriver into the lock hole and press down to remove the inner mechanism. The problem of hitch pins corroding is common, and it is understandable that the issues caused by rust would make anyone anxious. Wait to put the grinder down until the disc has stopped rotating. A pipe attached to the end of the wrench gives it more power. 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. 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. Bring along anything you can that will fit in the hitch. Never put yourself in danger, and only do this if you are with someone who knows what they are doing. } References. /* Just put some grease or WD-40 on the hitch where contact is made with the receiver before sliding the hitch into the receiver. var imagelinks=new Array() 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. USF Sarasota-Manatee, Team S1-G1, Stewart Spring 2019. You must also ensure that you spray the thread areas in addition to the ball nut. JavaScript is disabled. Include your email address to get a message when this question is answered. A ball mount connects the trailer ball to the receiver hitch. Updated: 00/04/25 After reading our article, we anticipate you will be able to properly execute your preferred way to eliminate this problem. wikiHow, Inc. is the copyright holder of this image under U.S. and international copyright laws. It's easier and won't bend or break anything. Sorry to hear about the corroded pin, this does happen when the pin is left in place for a long time, especially in areas where they salt or chemical spray the roads in the winter. Using grease or a hitch ball cap is recommended. Follow the instructions below to remove rust from either type of hitch pin. How to Tighten the Hitch Ball (Step by Step)? on General Board, Started by flatrock58 The materials used for this fix, especially the naval jelly, need to avoid skin contact at all times. Enjoy! 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! The hitch above is a brand-new receiver hitch and ball mount that you would get installed at your local U-Haul hitch store. We aim to provide an online resource for anyone interested in learning about or finding the right fastener for their project. 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. ry=1 You cant use a standard hammer in this situation. Check out some more of our videos! 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. Uh, yeah, don't force it, just get a bigger hammer. Remember to use caution/gloves when handling the naval jelly. When you are done spraying the ball hitch, you will need a wrench. Use a spray 2. Keep in mind that when the ball mount is not in use, it is best to remove it. Spray as much as you believe you need fluidly. just another beaver with a chainsaw & it's never so bad that it couldn't get worse. Read more, Affiliate Disclosure Attempt to dislodge the nut using a wrench. There are 11 references cited in this article, which can be found at the bottom of the page. After youve finished spraying, youll need a wrench. The number one enemy of rust is moisture combined with oxygen over a long period of time. Try sliding a pipe over the handle of the wrench to add additional length so you can get even more leverage. Youll be able to do what needs to be done once that is out of the way. Coating Your Hitch with a Protective Agent. This website is owned and operated by Web Team Associates, Inc. Remove the hitch mount from the receiver if you can so you dont have to cut the ball off while its attached to your vehicle. My friend Chuck told me about a simple method that only requires a screwdriver and hammer. By purchasing your hitch, ball mount and hitch ball through U-Haul ensures that you will be protecting your investment and continuing your towing adventures. How about freezing it with freon or liquid Nitro and then hitting it with a hammer? 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. It would help if you had these tools readily available to remove your rusted trailer hitch ball, which is sufficient to do it appropriately. Do not paint over rust as that will not prevent the corrosion from continuing underneath. This image is not<\/b> licensed under the Creative Commons license applied to text content and some other images posted to the wikiHow website. This will prevent rust and corrosion due to moisture, dirt, other environmental factors. suggestions. on Forestry and Logging, Started by Jim_Rogers We have also a physical hitch repair store in Poland. wikiHow, Inc. is the copyright holder of this image under U.S. and international copyright laws. Despite your best efforts to prevent rust, it may still find its way onto your hitch. And now its time to start spraying. Choose a size and copy the code below to embed this guide as a small widget on your site / forum. To remove it, all you have to do is use the wrench. You can also use this method with a hitch pin with a clip. I got the pin out that goes through the ball with no problem , but cant get the ball off of the stem on a convert a ball hitch, to switch the ball size. Has anyone made removable hitch for WM trailer? Re: How to free a rusted trailer hitch ?? Diamond T trucks. Save my name, email, and website in this browser for the next time I comment. An Official Website ofAndersenHitches.com. When driving down the road, always check to see if your vehicles license plate is visible. Vehicle Repairs Ed Beery is an Automotive Specialist and the Owner of InTechgrity Automotive Excellence based in Denver, Colorado. Hitch pins can become corroded over time due to exposure to the elements, making them difficult to remove. Remove a rusted trailer hitch with penetrating fluid and an air chisel, not a sledgehammer. This image is not<\/b> licensed under the Creative Commons license applied to text content and some other images posted to the wikiHow website. This is the finished, rust-free, product. 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. The trailer hitch pin should be loosened with a hammer. First, remove any loose or flaking rust with a wire brush. imagelinks2[3]="https://www.youtube.com/c/TheForestryForum?sub_confirmation=1" If you don't know what I'm talking about, feel free to shoot me a pm. document.write('') myimages2[2]="../../../images/top-banner/behindtheforum.jpg" Preventing this type of rust is as simple as removing the ball mount when it is not being used and storing it inside your home or vehicle. Penetrating fluid acts as a lubricant that works well for eating through rusted metal. In that case, youll need to get more of the penetrating spray and try again. You may need to remove the spare tire if its kept underneath your vehicle. Depending on how often you use it, you might not even realize that your hitch ball is missing. myimages[6]="../../../images/top-banner/EZ-junior.jpg" //specify corresponding links below