Solution for a XL Anti-Rattle Trailer Hitch Receiver Lock that Won't Release

Question:

Ive had this on my Tacoma all summer, holding camper steps I also purchased here. I tried to unlock and remove the hitch pin now that Ive taken the camper off, but the locking portion wont come off. The key turns 90 degrees, and is captive, but the cylinder wont come off.

asked by: Bill

Expert Reply:

It sounds like some corrosion may have worked it's way into the latching mechanism of the XL Anti-Rattle Trailer Hitch Receiver Lock # SHP2040-XL that you have installed on your truck.

The best advice I can give would be to liberally apply a spray lubricant like WD40 to the lock and the locking mechanism so that that it will free it up and allow it to release. Maybe some light tapping with a rubber mallet will help as well.

After letting the lubricant set on the lock for a while I would recommend you try working the key back and forth in the lock several times in hopes that it will free it up.

expert reply by: Jameson C