Options for a Pintle Hook to Connect to a Trailer with 8 Inches of Rise

Question:

I am build an offroad camping trailer and in my design a chose to go with a pintle hitch for the offroad conditions i will be in. During the build a few thing changed and the height of the trailer is now more than i expected. So now Im looking to correct some fitment issues until i can lift the truck more in the future. You can see the attached pic that with the trailer level the ring hits 6-8 in above my current truck hitch height. I already have the straight Curt Pintle hook for the truck item C48004 and would like to use it instead of using some thing as unsafe looking as what Ive seen online. Im thinking making the pintle ring on the trailer side adjustable down is the best option. You can see in my picture attached that i have it set up currently with a straight lunette ring. I was hoping to keep the tounge easy changeable and not weld a adjustable plate on I was thinking i could use something like Item # RP45294 with Item # C48550 This is my first use of a pintle setup and would appreciate your help and product recommendation

asked by: Kyle W

Expert Reply:

As you obviously have already learned there are a lot of variables into building a trailer. And I can't tell you what is or isn't completely safe in your exact circumstances. I highly recommend having your setup evaluated by a professional welder who has experience with trailers. Some of the components you're trying to combine may be just fine but only someone with experience and ability to test such products can really tell you that.

I can't recommend using # RP45294 with # C48550. That's not how they are designed to be used. This, to me, is an unsafe option. Trailer parts are designed for a specific application and when you deviate from that you're going into unchartered territory.

Using a pintle mounting plate, like # BWPMHD14004, with a pintle hook, like # C48205, that you believe to be unsafe is a good option and the most common to accomplish what you're trying to do. It also gives you the ability to change the trailer's tongue from one type to another. However, then you'd have no purpose for # C48004.

The other option is to use an adjustable lunette ring, like you said. A part like # 337B18135. This will also likely be an option however you won't be able to switch the tongue since it will be welded to the trailer. You'll also need to find a way to additional support.