Guides

Troubleshooting Common Problems

Something not working right? Here are the usual suspects.

Hitch is Noisy

Clunking, squeaking, popping

Clunking When Starting/Stopping

Cause: Slack between kingpin and jaws. Normal with some hitches, but excessive play means wear.

Fix: Check jaw adjustment if your hitch has it. Some hitches have lash adjusters. If jaws are worn, may need replacement.

Squeaking When Turning

Cause: Dry skid plate. Metal-on-metal contact.

Fix: More grease on the hitch plate. Apply liberally and re-check after a trip.

Popping/Snapping Sound

Cause: Usually the pin box pivoting on a dry hitch plate, or the trailer's front cap flexing.

Fix: Grease the skid plate. If it persists, the sound may be from the trailer, not the hitch.

Chucking / Bucking

Jerky ride, especially on rough roads

Chucking is that jarring back-and-forth motion you feel when the trailer and truck aren't moving together smoothly. It's uncomfortable and hard on your truck.

Cause 1: Kingpin Play

Fix: Tighten jaw adjustment if available. Some play is normal, but excessive play causes chucking.

Cause 2: Standard Pin Box

Fix: Upgrade to a cushioned or air-ride pin box. These absorb the motion before it reaches your truck. Popular solution for chucking.

Cause 3: Trailer Suspension

Fix: Sometimes it's the trailer, not the hitch. Have the trailer suspension checked.

Pro Tip

Air-ride pin boxes (like MORryde or Reese) are the most effective solution for chucking. They're not cheap ($800-1,500) but they transform the ride.

Hitch Won't Release

Kingpin stuck in jaws

Don't Panic

This is almost always fixable at the campsite. Don't try to drive or drag the trailer — you'll damage something.

Step 1: Check the Obvious

  • • Is the safety pin/clip removed?
  • • Is the handle fully in the release position?
  • • Is there weight on the hitch? (jacks not supporting trailer)

Step 2: Remove Weight from Kingpin

Lower your trailer's front jacks to lift the pin box off the hitch plate. This removes binding pressure from the jaws.

Step 3: Rock the Trailer

With jacks supporting the weight, have someone gently rock the trailer while you work the release handle.

Step 4: Drive Forward Slightly

With jacks down and release handle in position, inch forward to change the angle. Sometimes that's all it takes.

Step 5: Lubricate

Spray lubricant on the jaw mechanism. Work the handle back and forth.

Still stuck? Call a mobile RV tech. Don't force it and break something.

Hitch Won't Lock

Indicator doesn't show locked

Kingpin Not Fully Seated

Fix: Lower trailer jacks more. The kingpin needs to drop fully into the jaws. Sometimes it catches on the edge.

Debris in Jaws

Fix: Check for rocks, sticks, or ice in the jaw area. Clean it out.

Mechanism Stuck

Fix: Work the handle several times. Apply lubricant. Check for rust or binding.

Worn Components

Fix: If nothing else works, the locking mechanism may be worn. Time for service or replacement.

Never Tow Without Verified Lock

If you can't get a solid lock indication, don't tow. Period. Fix it first.

Slider Won't Move

Stuck forward or back

Pin Not Released

Make sure you've fully released the locking pin. Some have two — check both.

Weight on Slider

The trailer's weight can bind the slider. Use the trailer's jacks to lift some weight off before sliding.

Dry Rails

Slider rails need lubrication. Apply grease and work the slider back and forth.

Rust/Corrosion

If stored outside without cover, rails can rust and bind. Clean with wire brush, apply rust inhibitor, then grease.

Need a New Hitch?

Sometimes it's time to replace rather than repair.

Find Hitches for My Truck