Bulldog BX1 Gooseneck Coupler, 2-5/16 in. Diameter, 30,000 lbs. Capacity, Round BD1289050300Bulldog$249.99Out of Stock
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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: | 1289140300 |
| WARRANTY: | LIMITED 5 YEAR WARRANTY |
| WEIGHT: | 65.3 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 to connect a gooseneck trailer to a towing vehicle via a 2 5/16" hitch ball. It features an inner tube that retracts and extends (maximum 8" extension), a load bearing pin for rated capacity support, a locking mechanism with handle and locking plate, and optional theft deterrent lock. The coupler is rated according to SAE J2638 standard.
The part number is F3786 (B-18945), revision 5/13.
Fitment depends on trailer design and customer requirements. Before mounting, you must confirm there will be no interference from the tow vehicle, tongue, ground, or other mounted accessories while stationary or in motion. Check for interference in both extended and retracted positions before installation and again after installation is complete. The coupler's height and orientation are dependent on trailer design, so compatibility must be verified for your specific trailer.
The coupler requires a 2 5/16" hitch ball rated equal to or greater than the capacity of the coupler. Never exceed the maximum rated capacity. Refer to 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.
No. You must use only a 2 5/16" ball rated equal to or greater than the capacity of this coupler. Never exceed the maximum rated capacity.
The maximum extension is 8" from the fully retracted position. Measure coupler extension as the difference between fully retracted and fully extended positions. Couplers with properly installed load bearing pins and square adjustable gooseneck couplers only extend within this range. Do not exceed this limit.
The manual does not provide a detailed parts list or hardware inventory. The coupler includes set bolts, jam nuts, a load bearing pin, a retaining pin, a locking plate, handle assembly, and a fixed plate with a theft deterrent locking hole. For specific hardware quantities and part numbers, contact Cequent Performance Products at 1-800-521-0510.
The manual does not specify general installation tools. However, if you need to replace the handle assembly using the available Handle Repair Kit, you will need a hammer and a 5/32" punch. For welding, an AWS certified welder is required. Contact the manufacturer for a complete tool list for your specific installation.
Yes. All welding must be performed by an AWS (American Welding Society) certified welder. This is a mandatory requirement stated multiple times in the manual. Improper welding can result in coupler failure and safety hazards.
Gussets are reinforcement plates that must be welded to the outer tube to support the coupler's rated load. The outer tube must be supported completely by attaching gussets as low as possible to the outer tube. Reinforcements must extend down the outer tube to within 3" above the bottom of the outer tube. Gusset size and requirements depend on trailer design and customer requirements, but they are essential for the coupler to support its maximum rated load according to SAE J2638.
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. After installation, check to make sure that coupler operation has not been impaired in any way.
No. Avoid heat damage to the coupler during welding, and do not weld over or near any holes or hardware on the coupler. All welding must be performed by an AWS certified welder. Welding in the wrong locations can damage the coupler and impair its operation.
Before installing, check for interference in extended and retracted positions. Confirm that there will be no interference from the tow vehicle, tongue, ground, and any other mounted accessories while stationary or in motion. The set bolts must be facing the towing vehicle. After installation is complete, check for interference again. After assembly and painting, but prior to being used, any enclosed labels must be affixed to the coupler and premask removed.
The load bearing pin is a critical 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 and the retaining pin must be installed. Do not tow unless the load bearing pin is fully inserted and retaining pin is installed. Failure to properly install the load bearing pin will prevent the coupler from supporting its rated capacity.
All hardware must be torqued to 125 ft-lbs (172 N.m) minimum. This includes set bolts and jam nuts. Periodically check for proper torque and tighten if necessary. Check for wear on the inner tube if retightening is needed.
Tighten the set bolts and jam nuts to 125 ft-lbs (172 N.m) minimum to minimize vibrations in the coupler during towing. All hardware must be torqued to this specification.
Weigh your trailer plus added load. Do not exceed the lesser of coupler, hitch, vehicle, ball, or trailer weight ratings (including load). The coupler's rated capacity is stamped on the product or shown on decals. Never exceed the maximum rated capacity. If uncertain about the rating, contact Cequent Performance Products at 1-800-521-0510 or www.cequentgroup.com.
Always secure the load, vehicle, and trailer by blocking the wheels before latching or unlatching the coupler. Never position any body part under any portion of the coupler or the load being supported. Do not allow children to play on or around the coupler or load.
No. Do not tow unless the coupler is in the closed position with the load bearing pin fully inserted and the retaining pin installed. The coupler must be fully closed and latched before towing.
After installation is complete, check for interference again in both extended and retracted positions. 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.
Before towing, perform the following checks: (1) Check vehicle, hitch ball, and coupler for signs of wear or damage. (2) Ensure that the coupler opens, closes, and the handle springs closed when released. (3) Always replace bent, broken, or worn parts before using the product. (4) Ensure that the hitch ball is fully seated in the coupler ball pocket and the latch is closed. (5) Make sure that trailer safety chains are properly connected to the towing vehicle and trailer. (6) Make sure that all trailer lighting is hooked up and working properly.
The following procedures should be performed at least annually: (1) Check hardware torque. (2) Grease all fittings and ball pocket. (3) Inspect retaining pin; replace if necessary. Keep the ball pocket, latch, and handle clean at all times.
Keep the ball pocket and mechanism clean. At least annually: check hardware torque (125 ft-lbs minimum), grease all fittings and ball pocket, and inspect the retaining pin, replacing it if necessary. Periodically check for proper torque and tighten if necessary. Check for wear on the inner tube if retightening is needed.
A Handle Repair Kit is available to replace worn or malfunctioning handle parts. This kit includes the handle assembly, locking cam, groove pin, bushing, and torsion spring. Use only Cequent Performance Products' parts or parts of equal quality for repair. Replacement parts are available through Cequent Performance Products' Customer Service Department at 1-800-521-0510. Please specify the product model number.
A Handle Repair Kit is available. Required tools are a hammer and 5/32" punch. (1) Loosen set bolts, remove load bearing pin, and lower coupler assembly from trailer. With ball pocket facing up, note the parts and their orientation, paying particular attention to the handle and locking cam function. (2) Rotate handle to expose the groove pin. With a punch, remove the groove pin and slide handle from the coupler. Remove and discard all old parts. (3) Place bushing within coupler body. Assemble the straight leg side of the torsion spring into the locking cam and lower into the casting. Ensure the cam lobe notch rests against the inside edge of the coupler casting. (4) Insert the bent-leg end of the spring into the bushing side of casting and slide the handle through the assembled parts. (5) Align the hole in the handle with the hole in the cam and fix the groove pin into place. A properly assembled handle will make a loud "clack" from open to closed position when the locking cam hits the coupler casting. Do not reassemble using any previously existing parts—only use components supplied within the parts kit.
(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.
The set bolts must be facing the towing vehicle. This is a required orientation for proper installation.
Be sure that the coupler will reach the towing vehicle to couple with the hitch ball while the load bearing pin is installed properly. The load bearing pin must be fully inserted through both the inner and outer tubes and the retaining pin installed in order for the coupler to support its rated load. Verify this before finalizing the installation.
Fitment depends on your trailer design. Before installing, confirm there is no interference from the tow vehicle, tongue, ground, or accessories in both extended and retracted positions. Check again after installation. Contact the manufacturer if you need help determining compatibility.
You need a 2 5/16" hitch ball rated equal to or greater than the coupler's capacity. Check the stamped markings or decals on the coupler for its rated capacity.
All hardware must be torqued to 125 ft-lbs (172 N.m) minimum. Check torque periodically and retighten if necessary.
No. Do not tow unless the load bearing pin is fully inserted through both inner and outer tubes and the retaining pin is installed.
Do not exceed 8" maximum extension from the fully retracted position. Measure the difference between fully retracted and fully extended positions.
At least annually: check hardware torque, grease all fittings and ball pocket, and inspect the retaining pin. Keep the ball pocket, latch, and handle clean.
Check the vehicle, hitch ball, and coupler for wear or damage. Ensure the coupler opens and closes properly and the handle springs closed. Verify the hitch ball is fully seated and the latch is closed. Confirm safety chains and lighting are properly connected and working.
This indicates the handle assembly may be worn or malfunctioning. Before towing, always replace bent, broken, or worn parts. A Handle Repair Kit is available that includes the handle assembly, locking cam, groove pin, bushing, and torsion spring. Contact Cequent Performance Products at 1-800-521-0510 to order the kit and follow the installation instructions provided with it.
Keep the ball pocket and mechanism clean. If the coupler still does not operate smoothly after cleaning, the operation may be impaired. Do not use the coupler if its operation has been impaired. Check for wear or damage to the handle, locking cam, or other moving parts. A Handle Repair Kit is available for replacement of worn or malfunctioning parts. Contact Cequent Performance Products at 1-800-521-0510.
Excessive vibration indicates the set bolts and jam nuts may not be properly tightened. Tighten the set bolts and jam nuts to 125 ft-lbs (172 N.m) minimum to minimize vibrations. Periodically check for proper torque and tighten if necessary. Check for wear on the inner tube if retightening is needed.
Ensure that the coupler is in the fully open position before attempting to couple. Align the hitch ball directly beneath the coupler and lower the trailer slowly onto the ball. Visually check that the hitch ball is fully seated in the coupler ball pocket. If the ball does not seat fully, check for debris or damage in the ball pocket. Keep the ball pocket clean. If the problem persists, the coupler operation may be impaired and should not be used.
Before installation, check for interference in extended and retracted positions. If interference is discovered after installation, the coupler may not be properly positioned or the trailer design may not be compatible. Do not use the coupler if its operation has been impaired. Consult with an AWS certified welder or the manufacturer to assess whether the coupler position can be adjusted or if the installation must be modified.
| Part Number | Description | Capacity (lbs.) | Retracted Height (in.) | Extended Height (in.) | Adjustment (in.) | Ball Size (in.) |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| 1289130300 | BX1 Coupler, 4.5 in. x 20 in. Square Outer Tube, 4 in. x 30.75 in. Square Inner Tube, with BX1 Cast Coupler Head, 3/4 in. Load Bearing Bolt, (2) Set Bolts, Raw, Labels Applied | 25,000 | 38.00 | 38.80 | 8.00 | 2-5/16 |
| 1289140300 | BX1 Coupler, 4.5 in. x 20 in. Square Outer Tube, 4 in. x 30.75 in. Square Inner Tube, with BX1 Cast Coupler Head, 3/4 in. Load Bearing Bolt, (2) Set Bolts, Raw, Labels Applied | 30,000 | 38.00 | 38.80 | 8.00 | 2-5/16 |
| 1289200300 | BX1 Coupler, 4.5 in. x 20 in. Square Outer Tube, 4 in. x 18.4 in. Square Inner Tube, with BX1 Cast Coupler Head, 3/4 in. Load Bearing Bolt, (4) Set Bolts, (2) Belly Bands, Raw, Labels Applied | 40,000 | 22.00 | 24.60 | 2.60 | 3 |
| 1289210300 | BX1 Coupler, 4 in. x 22.75 in. Square Inner Tube Only, with BX1 Cast Coupler Head, Raw, Labels Loose | 25,000 | - | - | 8.00 | 2-2/16 |
| 0233120300 | Square Outer Tube, Weld On, 20 in. Length, 4-1/2 in. Tube, with Hex Head Bolt Hole, Dual Set Bolts and Labels, 20.6 lbs. |
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