Help Understanding and Achieving the 21K Weight Capacity of Demco Trailer Coupler # DM14040-81

Question:

Hi, Im looking for more information explaining achieving the 21,000-lb weight capacity on the Demco Trailer Coupler - Cast - Adjustable Channel - eZ-Latch - Black - 2-5/16 Ball - 21K using the 4 5/8 grade 5 mounting bolts.

asked by: Tracy

Expert Reply:

First I want to make sure you verify your channel mount for the Demco Trailer Coupler # DM14040-81 has a 21K or larger capacity as often times they are less like the Demco # DM15349-52 which often times people look at and think it is a channel mount like the coupler so it has to be rated the same. The other big hang up most people have is the see the Hardware # DM6166 only being grade 5 instead of grade 8 which should be stronger. The big difference is while grade 8 bolts allow for more torque to tighten and clamp they will snap when they fail rather than flexing like a grade 5 bolt. This is the difference from a bit of play in the coupler which you notice and change out the damaged hardware versus the trailer completely disconnecting while you are driving on the highway.

expert reply by: Bud M

Tracy

3/13/2024

Hi Bud, I appreciate the quick response. Can you explain why going with the 4 bolts will give you more in achieving the 21,000 weight capacity instead of 2 bolts going all the way through the channel mount?

Bud M.

3/13/2024

@Tracy That information comes directly from Demco. I can't say for sure if the 2 bolts aren't strong enough so they require 4 or it came down to the cost being cheaper for the 4 shorter bolts. As I have no way to know what the exact composition of the bolts are or if they are needed for strength we always go with the fact of the manufacturer says to do it this way so that is the way we do it. This ensures you do not have any warranty issues and are not held liable in the event of a failure due to negligence of improper installation.

Tracy

3/13/2024

Thank you Bud.