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Bulldog
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Always the correct part
We know our products
Quality Products
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The BULLDOG BX1 coupler is the result of generations of design expertise and field experience. It incorporates innovative features that revolutionize the benefits available from a gooseneck coupler.
| BRAND: | BULLDOG |
| PART NUMBER: | 1289050300 |
| WARRANTY: | LIMITED 5 YEAR WARRANTY |
| WEIGHT: | 29 LBS |
| CAPACITY: | 30,000 LBS. |
| BALL DIAMETER: | 2.313 IN. |
| MATERIAL: | STEEL |
| HITCH CLASS: | V |
| SAFETY CHAINS INCLUDED: | NO |
Founded in 1920, Bulldog has become the standard for heavy-duty trailer connection hardware in agricultural, military and utility service. The line covers gooseneck hitches and couplers, A-frame and channel-mount trailer couplers with the Wedge-Latch mechanism, and heavy-duty jacks, built for unmatched strength, reliability and safety under demanding loads.
Bulldog was founded in 1920 and has spent more than a century supplying the connection hardware that heavy trailers depend on. Its market has always been the demanding end: agricultural, military and utility applications where a coupler failure is not an inconvenience but a serious incident. The brand summarises its position as Tough and Tested, and it sits within the Horizon Global towing group alongside Reese, Draw-Tite, Fulton, Tekonsha, Bargman and Wesbar.
Gooseneck equipment is the brand's signature. Gooseneck hitches mount in the truck bed over the rear axle, which places the load where the chassis can carry it properly and allows far tighter turning than a receiver hitch permits. Matching gooseneck couplers attach at the trailer end, in round tube and square configurations across the capacity range used by livestock, equipment and flatbed trailers.
The conventional trailer coupler range is built around the Wedge-Latch mechanism, which uses a wedge to take up wear between coupler and ball rather than relying on a fixed clamp that loosens over time. That matters on a trailer accumulating hard miles, where slack in the coupling shows up as noise and shock loading. Couplers are offered in A-frame form for standard tongues and in channel-mount form for straight tongue and fabricated frames, with adjustable channel versions that let a coupler be positioned to suit the tongue height.
Heavy-duty jacks complete the line, sized for the tongue weights that gooseneck and equipment trailers generate. Across the range the emphasis is consistent: forged and heavy-section components, load ratings backed by testing, and hardware specified for agricultural, military and heavy-duty commercial use rather than occasional recreational towing.
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BULLDOG® BX1 Gooseneck Coupler
The Bulldog BX1 is a gooseneck coupler designed for use with gooseneck trailers. It couples with a 2 5/16" hitch ball and is rated according to SAE J2638. The coupler features an inner tube and outer tube with a load bearing pin system, a locking handle mechanism, and an optional theft deterrent lock. It is designed to support a maximum rated load, which varies by model and is stamped on the product or shown on decals.
The part number is F3786 (B-18945). The manual revision is dated 5/13.
The coupler requires a 2 5/16" hitch ball. The ball must be rated equal to or greater than the capacity of the coupler. Never exceed the maximum rated capacity. Refer to the stamped markings or decals on the product to obtain the rated capacity, or contact Cequent Performance Products at 1-800-521-0510 or www.cequentgroup.com if uncertain.
Yes, the coupler can be used with a recessed ball. However, when using a recessed ball, you must check to make sure the handle and locking plates are clear of any interference with safety chains and D-rings before towing.
The maximum extension is 8" from the fully retracted position. Extension is measured as the difference between the fully retracted and fully extended positions. Do not exceed this maximum extension. Couplers with properly installed load bearing pins and square adjustable gooseneck couplers only extend within this range.
Yes. Before mounting the coupler, confirm that there will be no interference from the tow vehicle, tongue, ground, and any other mounted accessories while stationary or in motion. Check for interference in both extended and retracted positions before installing. Check for interference again after installation is complete.
The set bolts must be facing the towing vehicle.
Yes. The coupler must remain vertical after installation to ensure proper operation. The outer tube must be rigidly attached to the trailer in order for the coupler to support its maximum rated load according to SAE J2638.
To support the coupler's rated load, reinforcements (gussets) must extend down the outer tube to within 3" above the bottom of the outer tube. The outer tube must be supported completely by attaching gussets as low as possible to the outer tube. The coupler must be held rigid and vertical, and must not be damaged by heat during installation. Weld size and gusseting requirements are dependent on trailer design and customer requirements.
All welding must be performed by an AWS (American Welding Society) certified welder. This is a requirement stated in the warnings and installation instructions.
Avoid heat damage to the coupler during welding. Do not weld over or near any holes or hardware on the coupler. All welding must be performed by an AWS certified welder.
After assembly and painting, but prior to being used, any enclosed labels must be affixed to the coupler and premask removed.
After installation, check to make sure that coupler operation has not been impaired in any way. Do not use the coupler if its operation has been impaired. Also verify that the coupler can reach the towing vehicle to couple with the hitch ball while the load bearing pin is installed properly.
All hardware must be torqued to 125 ft. lbs. (172 N.m) minimum. This includes the set bolts and jam nuts. Tighten the set bolts and jam nuts to minimize vibrations in the coupler during towing.
Periodically check for proper torque and tighten if necessary. The maintenance section specifies that hardware torque should be checked at least annually. Check for wear on the inner tube if retightening is needed.
The load bearing pin is a component that must be fully inserted through both the inner and outer tubes in order for the coupler to support its rated load. If equipped with a load bearing pin, it must be fully inserted. Do not tow unless the load bearing pin is fully inserted and the retaining pin is installed. The load bearing pin must be properly installed to ensure the coupler can support its maximum rated load according to SAE J2638.
1. Block trailer wheels. 2. Align hitch ball beneath coupler. 3. Set coupler into the open position by lifting up on the handle and slide the locking plate into the detent. 4. Lower the trailer onto the hitch ball. 5. Visually check that the hitch ball is fully seated in the coupler. 6. Slide the locking plate over and place handle down into the closed position. When using a recessed ball, check to make sure handle and locking plates are clear of any interference with safety chains and D-rings. 7. Insert (optional) theft deterrent lock through hole in fixed plate.
1. Block trailer wheels. 2. Remove lock (if equipped) and set the handle into the open position. 3. Slide the locking plate into the open position and raise the trailer from the hitch ball.
Do not exceed the lesser of the coupler, hitch, vehicle, ball, or trailer weight ratings (including load). Weigh your trailer plus added load before towing. Refer to the stamped markings or decals on the product to obtain the rated capacity. If uncertain, contact Cequent Performance Products at 1-800-521-0510 or www.cequentgroup.com.
Before towing: Check vehicle, hitch ball and coupler for signs of wear or damage. Ensure that the coupler opens, closes, and the handle springs closed when released. Always replace bent, broken, or worn parts before using this product. Ensure that the hitch ball is fully seated in the coupler ball pocket and the latch is closed. Make sure that the trailer safety chains are properly connected to the towing vehicle and trailer. Make sure that all trailer lighting is hooked up and working properly.
Always secure the load, vehicle and trailer by blocking the wheels before latching or unlatching the coupler.
No. Do not allow children to play on or around this product or the load being supported.
No. The operator and bystanders should never position any body part under any portion of this product or the load being supported.
The following procedures should be performed at least annually: Check hardware torque; Grease all fittings and ball pocket; Inspect retaining pin and replace if necessary. Keep the ball pocket, latch, and handle clean. Use only Cequent Performance Products' parts or parts of equal quality for repair.
Keep the ball pocket, latch, and handle clean. Perform maintenance at least annually: check hardware torque, grease all fittings and ball pocket, and inspect the retaining pin, replacing it if necessary. Check the coupler for signs of wear or damage before each towing use.
A Handle repair kit is available to replace worn or malfunctioning parts. This kit includes the Handle assembly, Locking cam, Groove pin, Bushing and Torsion spring. Replacement parts are available through Cequent Performance Products' Customer Service Department at 1-800-521-0510. Please specify the product model number. Use only Cequent Performance Products' parts or parts of equal quality for repair.
Required tools are a hammer and a 5/32" punch.
1. Loosen set bolts, remove load bearing pin and lower coupler assembly from trailer. With ball pocket facing up, take visual note of the parts and their orientation, paying particular attention to the function of the handle and locking cam. Rotate handle exposing the groove pin. With a punch, remove the groove pin and slide handle from the coupler. Remove and discard all old parts. DO NOT reassemble using any previously existing parts—only use components supplied within the parts kit. 2. Place bushing within coupler body. Assemble the straight leg side of the torsion spring into the locking cam and lower into the casting. Be certain the cam lobe notch rests against inside edge of the coupler casting. Next, insert the bent-leg end of the spring into bushing side of casting and slide the handle through the assembled parts. Lastly, align the hole in the handle with hole in cam, and fix groove pin into place. A properly assembled handle will make a loud "clack" from an open to a closed position when the locking cam hits against the coupler casting.
A Handle repair kit is available to replace worn or malfunctioning parts. The kit includes the Handle assembly, Locking cam, Groove pin, Bushing and Torsion spring. Required tools are a hammer and 5/32" punch. Installation requires loosening set bolts, removing the load bearing pin, and lowering the coupler assembly from the trailer. Contact Cequent Performance Products' Customer Service Department at 1-800-521-0510 to order the kit.
The Bulldog BX1 is designed for gooseneck trailers and is rated according to SAE J2638. Fitment depends on your trailer design and the coupler's rated capacity. Before installation, confirm there will be no interference from the tow vehicle, tongue, ground, or other accessories in both extended and retracted positions. Contact Cequent Performance Products at 1-800-521-0510 or www.cequentgroup.com if you are uncertain about compatibility.
The coupler requires a 2 5/16" hitch ball rated equal to or greater than the coupler's capacity. Refer to the stamped markings or decals on the product for the rated capacity.
Yes. The outer tube must be welded to the trailer using gussets (reinforcements) that extend to within 3" of the bottom of the outer tube. All welding must be performed by an AWS certified welder. Avoid heat damage to the coupler and do not weld over or near any holes or hardware.
All hardware must be torqued to 125 ft. lbs. (172 N.m) minimum. Periodically check for proper torque and tighten if necessary, at least annually.
No. Do not tow unless the load bearing pin is fully inserted through both the inner and outer tubes and the retaining pin is installed. The coupler cannot support its rated load without the load bearing pin properly installed.
Before towing, check the vehicle, hitch ball and coupler for signs of wear or damage. Ensure the coupler opens, closes, and the handle springs closed when released. Verify the hitch ball is fully seated in the coupler ball pocket and the latch is closed. Confirm trailer safety chains are properly connected and all trailer lighting is working.
Maintenance should be performed at least annually: check hardware torque, grease all fittings and ball pocket, and inspect the retaining pin, replacing it if necessary. Keep the ball pocket, latch, and handle clean.
A properly assembled handle should make a loud "clack" sound from open to closed position when the locking cam hits against the coupler casting. If this sound is not present, the handle assembly may not be properly installed. Verify that the cam lobe notch is resting against the inside edge of the coupler casting, and that the torsion spring is correctly assembled with the straight leg side in the locking cam and the bent-leg end in the bushing side of the casting. If the problem persists, the handle repair kit may need to be reinstalled following the complete procedure.
Before towing, ensure that the coupler opens, closes, and the handle springs closed when released. If the handle is not springing closed, this indicates a malfunction. Do not use the coupler if its operation has been impaired. A Handle repair kit is available to replace worn or malfunctioning parts, including the torsion spring which provides the closing action. Contact Cequent Performance Products at 1-800-521-0510 to order the kit and follow the installation instructions provided.
Excessive vibration during towing may be caused by loose set bolts or jam nuts. Tighten the set bolts and jam nuts to minimize vibrations in the coupler during towing. All hardware must be torqued to 125 ft. lbs. (172 N.m) minimum. Periodically check for proper torque and tighten if necessary. If retightening is needed, also check for wear on the inner tube.
Ensure that the hitch ball is fully seated in the coupler ball pocket before towing. Visually check that the hitch ball is fully seated in the coupler during the coupling procedure. If the ball does not seat fully, verify that the coupler is in the open position by lifting the handle and sliding the locking plate into the detent. Lower the trailer slowly onto the hitch ball and check again. If the ball still does not seat fully, do not tow. Check for interference or damage to the ball pocket or coupler mechanism.
Before towing, ensure that the coupler opens, closes, and the handle springs closed when released. If the latch is not closing properly, do not tow. Always replace bent, broken, or worn parts before using this product. A Handle repair kit is available to replace worn or malfunctioning parts. Keep the ball pocket, latch, and handle clean. If cleaning does not resolve the issue, contact Cequent Performance Products at 1-800-521-0510 for assistance.
No. Do not use the coupler if its operation has been impaired in any way. After installation, check to make sure that coupler operation has not been impaired. If you discover that operation is impaired, do not tow. Always replace bent, broken, or worn parts before using this product. Contact Cequent Performance Products at 1-800-521-0510 for assistance with repairs or replacement parts.
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| Part Number | Description | Capacity (lbs.) | Retracted Height (in.) | Extended Height (in.) | Adjustment (in.) | Ball Size |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| 1289030030 | BX1 Coupler, 4.5 in. Diameter x 20 in. Length Outer Tube, 4 in. Diameter x 27.2 in. Inner Tube, with BX1 Cast Coupler Head, 3/4 in. Load Bearing Pin, (2) Set Bolts, Raw, Labels Applied | 20,000 | 27.50 | 35.50 | 8.00 | 2-5/16 |
| 1289003030 | BX1 Adjustable Gooseneck Coupler, 4.5 in. Diameter x 20 in. Length Outer Tube, 4 in. Diameter x 27.2 in. Inner Tube, with BX1 Cast Coupler Head, 3/4 in. Load Bearing Pin, (2) Set Bolts, Raw, Labels Applied | 25,000 | 27.50 | 35.50 | 8.00 | 2-5/16 |
| Short Configuration | ||||||
| 1289070300 | BX1 Coupler, 4.5 in. Diameter x 20 in. Length Outer Tube, 4 in. Diameter x 22.2 in. Inner Tube, with BX1 Cast Coupler Head, 3/4 in. Load Bearing Pin, (2) Set Bolts, Raw, Labels Loose | 20,000 | 22.60 | 30.60 | 8.00 | 2-5/16 |
| 1289040300 | BX1 Coupler, 4.5 in. Diameter x 20 in. Length Outer Tube, 4 in. Diameter x 22.2 in. Inner Tube, with BX1 Cast Coupler Head, 3/4 in. Load Bearing Pin, (2) Set Bolts, Raw, Labels Loose | 30,000 | 22.60 | 30.60 | 8.00 | 2-5/16 |
| Inner Tube Only | ||||||
| 1289020300 | BX1 Coupler, 4 in. Diameter x 27.2 in. Inner Tube Only, with BX1 Cast Coupler Head, Raw, Labels Loose | 25,000 | - | - | - | 2-5/16 |
| 1289050300 | BX1 Coupler, Short Configuration, 4 in. Diameter x 22.2 in. Inner Tube Only, with BX1 Cast Coupler Head, Raw, Labels Loose | 30,000 | - | - | - | 2-5/16 |
| Replacement Parts | ||||||
| 500356 | BX1 Gooseneck Coupler 5/16 in. Locking Pin | - | - | - | - | - |
| 5203310030 | BX1 Gooseneck Coupler Outer Tube, 4.5 in. Diameter x 20 in. Length, Hole for 3/4 in. Load Bearing Pin, (2) Set Bolts | - | - | - | - | - |
George
Ordered online. Shipment arrived on time and with all the correct parts. Great customer service and friendly staff. Also, pricing was great!
May 22, 2023
