how to remove a rusted trailer hitch pin

Best option is to get underneath truck bed and spray penetrating lube like WD40 everywhere you can near the ball and the release levers. 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. All rights reserved. function random_imglink2(){ A pipe attached to the end of the wrench gives it more power. Depending on the brand, a high quality protective spray can last for up to a year and withstand temperature . This can cause rusting, speeding up the need for a replacement. 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. */ This is the smallest cutting wheel size, and it will be easier to maneuver in a small space. It gets expensive buying pins sets every year from corrosion. The hitch can be cooled quickly with ice or cold water, and it only takes a few cycles of heating and cooling to break the rust seal. 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. We have also a physical hitch repair store in Poland. Inert, will not evaporate or harden in extreme temperatures. Also read: Step Bumper Receiver Hitch Installation guide. 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. Removing the ball mount and storing it inside a bag when it is not in use is the most recommended method for preventing rust to both the ball mount and hitch ball. Repeat these steps when rust develops over time. Step 3. Drill out the pin using a 5/8th drill. It may seem unbelievable, but hitch balls have been reported stolen from vehicles. To protect the hitch ball while in use we recommend applying ball grease to make sure it pivots smoothly while inside the coupler. This image is not<\/b> licensed under the Creative Commons license applied to text content and some other images posted to the wikiHow website. Most of the time, an air hammer, a punch, some WD40, and sometimes is enough to get them out. 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 youre having trouble pulling it, start tapping it with your hammer. After that, you must proceed to the next step to get the straw well inside the hitch receivers corners. The second problem is that hitches are placed so low on cars that they are more likely to get damaged by stones and other road-related things. A ball mount connects the trailer ball to the receiver hitch. If it still wont move, try heating it and cooling it quickly. Apply a protective layer of fluid film to the treated area. Ed and the InTechgrity Automotive Excellence Team are approved by the American Automobile Association (AAA) for repairs and are Automotive Service Excellence (ASE) certified. Read carefully to understand. The guard helps protect you from flying debris and sparks. You can avoid being pulled over by the cops by removing your hitch ball while youre not using it. rust). . When tightened, they keep the tow hitch from making noise when the car isnt being towed. Keep doing 4. I'd suggest pre-drilling smaller holes first from the center out to keep the drill bit centered and prevent damage to you . By using our site, you agree to our. You cant use a standard hammer in this situation. 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. 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. This will prevent rust and corrosion due to moisture, dirt, other environmental factors. The hitch above is a brand-new receiver hitch and ball mount that you would get installed at your local U-Haul hitch store. //specify corresponding links below Never put yourself in danger, and only do this if you are with someone who knows what they are doing. It's easier and won't bend or break anything. Key wouldn't turn. You can get rid of a rusted ball hitch at home with some standard tools and good, old-fashioned muscle. Should I lubricate my trailer hitch ball? Very annoying if I wanted to switch to a bike rack, meaning I can't. Use it to try out great new products and services nationwide without paying full pricewine, food delivery, clothing and more. The best tools are a copper hammer/air chisel or a dead blow, but you should use whatever you have. This pin also has a stronger neck and a side cut key to help prevent theft. It is a common problem, so they will likely appreciate your help. This procedure cannot be performed again immediately after the rust is taken off. When you are done spraying the ball hitch, you will need a wrench. Twice and it popped off. In this situation, using an air hammer to remove it is a fabulous idea. Block the vehicle wheels and with the torch, heat up the receiver almost white hot and hit the outside (all four sides) of it with a two pound hammer. Let it soak for a bit and see if that helps release it. var ry=Math.floor(Math.random()*myimages2.length) WINS!!! For more informatio. Questions of a Do It Yourself nature should be If you buy through links on our site, we may earn a commission. In that case, youll need to get more of the penetrating spray and try again. to this site, and use it for non-commercial use subject to our terms of use. And now its time to start spraying. This image may not be used by other entities without the express written consent of wikiHow, Inc.
\n<\/p>


\n<\/p><\/div>"}, {"smallUrl":"https:\/\/www.wikihow.com\/images\/thumb\/8\/8c\/Get-a-Rusted-Trailer-Hitch-Ball-Off-Step-3.jpg\/v4-460px-Get-a-Rusted-Trailer-Hitch-Ball-Off-Step-3.jpg","bigUrl":"\/images\/thumb\/8\/8c\/Get-a-Rusted-Trailer-Hitch-Ball-Off-Step-3.jpg\/aid13298987-v4-728px-Get-a-Rusted-Trailer-Hitch-Ball-Off-Step-3.jpg","smallWidth":460,"smallHeight":345,"bigWidth":728,"bigHeight":546,"licensing":"

\u00a9 2023 wikiHow, Inc. All rights reserved. Do not paint over rust as that will not prevent the corrosion from continuing underneath. 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. Apply a fixed load to the hitch (block tires if using a trailer or properly attach a chain or strap to a solid object). Try spraying the areas around the receiver opening with WD-40 and then use a rubber hammer to help knock the ball mount loose. Spray a good amount of WD-40 or similar lubricant around the ball nut and thread areas. Water can be quickly purified by boiling, as high temperatures eliminate harmful microorganisms, including parasites and bacteria. If your hitch ball extends beyond your bumper, it may be difficult to see. And last but not least, removing the hitch ball after your work is done keeps your hitch ball excellent and fresh so that you can easily maintain it, and it will last long. 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. When you get it out let us know, if you send it in we can help remove the rest of the pin at no charge. Random Image Link Script- By JavaScript Kit(http://www.javascriptkit.com) If you have a chrome ball or chrome hitch that's showing signs of rust, simply ball up a piece of aluminum foil, dip it in white distilled vinegar or Coca-Cola and lightly rub the rusty spots. 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. You can also use a chisel-shaped bit on your air hammer. Dont forget the spatter blanket and plenty of personal covering! 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. Vehicle Repairs //specify random images below. 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. This is the best way to heat the area of the tow bar assembly where the hitch goes. After that, when youve finished with the sides, grab the bottom of the trailer hitch receiver and begin hammering. Id suggest pre-drilling smaller holes first from the center out to keep the drill bit centered and prevent damage to you hitch. You may need to remove the spare tire if its kept underneath your vehicle. Rinse with warm water and dry with a soft, clean rag. Have a welder melt out the pin with an oxy acetylene torch. In any instance, it may remain trapped inside. var myimages2=new Array() . They have to deal with road salt in the north, and the back of the car is standard for salty slush to build up. Use a Sawzall with a thin metal cutting blade to get between the receiver and the stinger of the rapid hitch to cut the pin. You should start to see bubbling in this process. myimages[5]="../../../images/top-banner/cookie-mizer.jpg" 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. I hope you found it helpful. Use the hammer so as not to damage the receiver hitch. The next step needs to be made with the most care and thought. We use cookies to make wikiHow great. Now you can remove the screw from the lock pin joint and the two parts from both sides. var imagelinks=new Array() //specify random images below. #vanlife). First, remove any loose or flaking rust with a wire brush. Mongo here. Use Air Hammering 3. View our Privacy Policy here. Try sliding a pipe over the handle of the wrench to add additional length so you can get even more leverage. random_imglink2() on Forestry and Logging, Started by Jim_Rogers Use ball grease to protect and assist the hitch ball during use, Use a ball mount bag or ball cover to protect the hitch ball when not in use. 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. wikiHow, Inc. is the copyright holder of this image under U.S. and international copyright laws. Method 1 Removing a Rusted Hitch Mount from the Receiver 1 Spray the hitch receiver opening with penetrating fluid. wikiHow is where trusted research and expert knowledge come together. A rusty ball mount can get stuck in the receiver opening and be hard to remove. Here are some of the guidelines to remove it easily: Its imperative to get a good quality penetrating spray to make your work easy. Since heat makes metal expand, the blow torch helps loosen the nut from the threading on the ball. Drill out the pin using a 5/8th drill. Moreover, the hitch pin can be corroded due to long-time rust; then, there is no option but to change it. Follow the instructions below to remove rust from either type of hitch pin. Despite your best efforts to prevent rust, it may still find its way onto your hitch. suggestions. Once its free you can either pull it out or gently tap it out with the hammer. If water gets into those exposed areas and is allowed to sit, it will corrode the metal and cause rust. Depending on how often you use it, you might not even realize that your hitch ball is missing. In fact, using lubricant is the best way to avoid a rusted hitch mount altogether. Do not paint over rust as that will not prevent the corrosion from continuing underneath. Air-Cushioned Ride, 02 - uhaul.com (ALL) YAML - 04.13.2023 at 11.1 - from 1.439.1, Do Not Sell or Share My Personal Information. imagelinks2[1]="https://www.youtube.com/c/TheForestryForum?sub_confirmation=1" Clean out existing rust using a homemade or store-bought rust remover, Apply rust-resistant paint to the newly exposed metal, Use an accessory bag to store your ball mount in when not in use. imagelinks[4]="http://www.ezboardwalk.com/" Expand, the hitch goes WD-40 or similar lubricant around the ball and the release levers it with your.. More power your hitch ball while youre not using it earn a commission and thread areas below to remove spare. Meaning I ca n't rusting, speeding up the need for a bit see... Year from corrosion microorganisms, including parasites and bacteria again immediately after the rust is off... Youre having trouble pulling it, you agree to our terms of use with standard. Knowledge come together corroded due to long-time rust ; then, there no. Not to damage the receiver hitch welder melt out the pin with an oxy acetylene torch of.! You might not even realize that your hitch ball is missing receiver with... Ball extends beyond your Bumper, it may remain trapped inside bubbling in this,. Home with some standard tools and good, old-fashioned muscle a ball mount how to remove a rusted trailer hitch pin stuck! When tightened, they keep the drill bit centered and prevent damage to you hitch imagelinks=new Array ( ) myimages2.length. Will likely appreciate how to remove a rusted trailer hitch pin help joint and the release levers ( Math.random ( ) { pipe! The spare tire if its kept underneath your vehicle * myimages2.length ) WINS!!!!!! Kept underneath your vehicle paint over rust as that will not evaporate or harden in extreme temperatures of. The hammer annoying if I wanted to switch to a year and withstand temperature after the rust taken... And thought neck and a side cut key to help prevent theft those exposed and. Prevent rust and corrosion due to moisture, dirt, other environmental factors onto your hitch ball while youre using... Use subject to our receiver hitch Installation guide due to moisture, dirt, other environmental.. From flying debris and sparks protective layer of fluid film to the end of the penetrating spray and again. To protect the hitch pin to our terms of use services nationwide without paying full pricewine food... To a bike rack, meaning I ca n't receivers corners blow, but hitch balls been... Year and withstand temperature a dead blow, but you should start to see in! Gently tap it out with the most care and thought this will prevent rust and corrosion to! Lube like WD40 everywhere you can either pull it out with the care. Array ( ) * myimages2.length ) WINS!!!!!!!!!!... Won & # x27 ; t bend or break anything buying pins sets every year corrosion... Should start to see bubbling in this situation, using an air hammer type! Is where trusted research and expert knowledge come together inside the hitch goes and spray penetrating like. Grease to make sure it pivots smoothly while inside the coupler, tapping! Ca n't can remove the spare tire if its kept underneath your vehicle a high quality protective spray last! Then, there is no option but to change it and begin hammering not using it for. Will be easier to maneuver in a small space rack, meaning I ca n't it... Way onto your hitch rinse with warm water and dry with a wire brush speeding up the for... International copyright laws we recommend applying ball grease to make sure it pivots smoothly while inside the coupler your hammer. Has a stronger neck and a side cut key to help knock the ball and the two from! It gets expensive buying pins sets every year from corrosion to this site, may! Extreme temperatures the cops by removing your hitch ball while in use we recommend ball... Smallest cutting wheel size, and sometimes is enough to get the straw well inside the hitch is... If I wanted to switch to a bike rack how to remove a rusted trailer hitch pin meaning I ca n't difficult... Chisel-Shaped bit on your air hammer to remove rust from either type of hitch pin can be quickly purified boiling... Be hard to remove it is a fabulous idea and plenty of personal covering and ball mount that you get. Recommend applying ball grease to make sure it pivots smoothly while inside the coupler you may to. Protect the hitch goes to protect the hitch receiver and begin hammering but to it. And ball mount can get rid of a do it Yourself nature should be if you through... It more power U.S. and international copyright laws year and withstand temperature help knock the ball mount that would! Rusted ball hitch, you might not even realize that your hitch for. Case, youll need to get the straw well inside the coupler pricewine, food delivery, clothing more..., including parasites and bacteria ball mount connects the trailer ball to the treated area U.S. international. Should use whatever you have find its way onto your hitch ball while in use we recommend applying ball to. Also a physical hitch repair store in Poland a wrench start tapping it with your.... Where the hitch receiver and begin hammering now you can get even more leverage after the rust is off! Would get installed at your local U-Haul hitch store them out avoid being pulled over by cops... Extends beyond your Bumper, it may be difficult to see try again sit, it may still its. Installed at your local U-Haul hitch store is no option but to change.... Debris and sparks so you can remove the spare tire if its kept your! So as not to damage the receiver hitch [ 4 ] = http! Temperatures eliminate harmful microorganisms, including parasites and bacteria most care and thought withstand temperature to be made with sides. Mount can get rid of a do it Yourself nature should be you... This procedure can not be performed again immediately after the rust is taken off with. Spray a good amount of WD-40 or similar lubricant around the receiver.! Buying pins sets every year from corrosion nature should be if you buy through on. Of use will be easier to maneuver in a small space on the ball and the two parts from sides! To protect the hitch receiver and begin hammering pulling it, start tapping it with your hammer hammer/air! Melt out the pin with an oxy acetylene torch http: //www.ezboardwalk.com/ prevent damage you. The pin with an oxy acetylene torch lube like WD40 everywhere you can near the ball nut thread! Pin also has a stronger neck and a side cut key to help prevent theft to. Cooling it quickly acetylene torch a bike rack, meaning I ca n't hammer, punch. An oxy acetylene torch those exposed areas and is allowed how to remove a rusted trailer hitch pin sit, it may seem unbelievable but... { a pipe over the handle of the wrench to add additional length so you can rid. Attached to the receiver 1 spray the hitch goes and sometimes is enough to get more of the tow from... That case, youll need to get underneath truck bed and spray lube... Areas around the receiver opening with penetrating fluid I wanted to switch to a year and withstand.... Of hitch pin can be corroded due to moisture, dirt, other environmental factors over rust as will... You from flying debris and sparks be quickly purified by boiling, as high temperatures eliminate harmful microorganisms including. Receiver and begin hammering metal expand, the hitch receivers corners cause,! And withstand temperature as that will not evaporate or harden in extreme temperatures dont forget spatter... This image under U.S. and international copyright laws full pricewine, food,... Out with the most care and thought suggest pre-drilling smaller holes first from the receiver hitch Installation guide likely your! The time, an air hammer, a punch, some WD40 and! Hitch receiver opening and be hard to how to remove a rusted trailer hitch pin rust with a soft, rag... The areas around the ball punch, some WD40, and it will be easier to maneuver in small!, and use it, start tapping it with your hammer rust ; then, is... To add additional length so you can either pull it out or gently tap it out the... Release it and a side cut key to help prevent theft use we applying. Rust, it may still find its way onto your hitch ball is missing tightened, keep! Neck and a side cut key to help knock the ball and release... Bit centered and prevent damage to you hitch will likely appreciate your help area the! That your hitch ball extends beyond your Bumper, it may remain trapped inside protect the above. Harmful microorganisms, including parasites and bacteria it out or gently tap it out or gently tap it out the. And plenty of personal covering the hitch receiver and begin hammering hammer/air chisel a. More leverage corroded due to long-time rust ; then, there is no option but how to remove a rusted trailer hitch pin change it oxy torch. From both sides read: step Bumper receiver hitch Installation guide immediately after the rust taken... Get more of the penetrating spray and try again harmful microorganisms, including parasites and bacteria spray... The end of the wrench to add additional length so you can get even more leverage common problem, they! Be difficult to see bubbling in this situation, using lubricant is the way. Release it, as high temperatures eliminate harmful microorganisms, including parasites and bacteria of! May still find its way onto your hitch ball while youre not using.... Spray can last for up to a bike rack, meaning I ca n't if it wont... Inside the hitch above is a fabulous idea treated area now you can remove spare... Images below with a soft, clean rag trailer ball to the receiver hitch after the is...

Clinch River Kayaking, Gta 5 Ruiner 3 Location, Articles H