Freeing Stuck Gooseneck Ball
Question:
We purchased a 2005 Chevrolet silverado with a stuck ball in the storage position. Everything I have read says to make sure the pin is released, but we cant see where the pin even is. There is no handle to release the pin. I am not even sure what brand hitch it is. Any ideas or suggestions to find the pin?
asked by: Nichole C
Expert Reply:
It's really difficult to say without knowing the manufacturer and model of the hitch.
Generally speaking, most of the time you can clear a stuck ball using spray lubricant, heat and shock. Sometimes all three.
The brand/model of the hitch will dictate where you apply the 3 methods described above. If the hitch uses a pin to release it like the B&W # BWGNRK1059, the actuating handle will typically be located in the driver's side wheel well. Give the handle a pull and twist, and you should be able to remove the locking pin. If the mechanism is stuck, hit the mechanism with several good shots of spray lubricant. You might need to do this several times. You can also give the end of the handle a few sharp raps with a rubber hammer or a dead blow hammer. Eventually, this will release the mechanism.
If you have a folding style hitch like the # 8339 you'd looked at, you'll want to give the pivot mechanism underneath a shot of spray lubricant from both above and below, and be sure to add grease to any grease zerks you come across. You can also give the pivot mechanism a few raps with a mallet or dead blow from both above and below.
If you'd care to reply with photos showing an above and below view of your hitch, I can provide more specific info for you.
Products Referenced in This Question
B&W Turnoverball Underbed Gooseneck Trailer Hitch w/ Custom Installation Kit - 30,000 lbs
- Gooseneck Hitch
- Below the Bed
- Manual Ball Removal
- 7500 lbs TW
- 30000 lbs GTW
- Removable Ball - Stores in Hitch
- Wheel Well Release
- 2-5/16 Hitch Ball
- B and W
more information >
Product Page this Question was Asked From
Center Section for Fold-Down Gooseneck Trailer Hitch
- Accessories and Parts
- Gooseneck Hitch
- Hitch Only
- 25000 lbs GTW
- Fold Down Ball Gooseneck
- Draw-Tite
more information >
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