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Bulldog
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Always the correct part
We know our products
Quality Products
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Designed for utility, horse/livestock, cargo, and construction trailer applications, BULLDOG Collar-Lok are the strongest in the industry. The BULLDOG design features th eonly automatic and continuously tight ball fit in the industry. A variety of coupler styles, tongue mounts, and latches allow configurations to match virtually any trailer. Adjustable couplers assure level operation for trailers when pulled by a variety of different vehicles.
| BRAND: | BULLDOG |
| PART NUMBER: | 028444 |
| WARRANTY: | LIMITED 5 YEAR WARRANTY |
| WEIGHT: | 14 LBS |
| CAPACITY: | 12,500 LBS. |
| COLOR: | GRAY |
| MODEL NUMBER: | 4B4M |
| MATERIAL: | STEEL |
| BALL DIAMETER: | 2.313 IN. |
| MOUNTING HARDWARE INCLUDED: | NO |
| CHANNEL WIDTH: | 3 IN. |
| 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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Minimum tongue overlap varies by model: 2B, 4B, and 5B models require 8.5"; 3B model requires 6.5"; and one model requires 7". One model allows 2.5" minimum overlap with the tongue fitting over or into the coupler. Ensure the coupler internal stop is butted against the end of the trailer tongue for maximum overlap before securing.
Installation depends on the coupler type. Weld-on couplers require welding by an AWS certified welder, with a 3/16" weld around the interface between coupler and tongue with no undercut or washout. Bolt-on couplers use grade 5 bolts with locknuts torqued to SAE proof load specifications. The number and size of fasteners for bolt-on installation must be specified by the trailer manufacturer.
The coupler includes a retaining pin. A 3.0" channel is not included and must be obtained separately. For bolt-on installation, grade 5 bolts with locknuts are required; the specific number and size must be specified by the trailer manufacturer.
Torque grade 5 bolts with locknuts to the following SAE proof load specifications: 3/8" diameter bolts to 23 ft. lbs.; 1/2" diameter bolts to 55 ft. lbs.; 5/8" diameter bolts to 110 ft. lbs. Channel hardware should be tightened to 75–100 ft. lbs. according to SAE specifications.
Before towing, verify: the hitch ball is fully seated in the coupler ball pocket and the coupler is closed with the retaining pin in place; the coupler handle opens and closes freely; the vehicle, channel, hitch, ball, and coupler show no signs of wear or damage; channel hardware is tight and not bent or worn; safety chains are properly connected per SAE J684; and all trailer lighting is hooked up and working. Do not tow if the ball is not fully seated or the coupler is not closed.
Perform the following procedures at least annually: check welds and mounting bolt torque; grease the ball pocket; oil pivot points with SAE 30 wt. motor oil; inspect retaining pins and replace if necessary. Keep the ball pocket and mechanism clean. When parking or storing the trailer, keep the coupler off the ground to prevent dirt and foreign material from building up in the ball pocket.
The Bulldog Collar-Lok coupler is a trailer tongue coupler that connects a trailer to a towing vehicle via a hitch ball. It is available in multiple models (2B, 3B, 4B, 5B) and can be installed either by welding or bolting to the trailer tongue. The coupler features a collar mechanism that secures the hitch ball in the ball pocket and is held closed by a retaining pin. It is rated according to SAE J684 standard.
Cequent Performance Products provides a limited five-year warranty covering material defects and workmanship, excluding normal wear and tear. The warranty applies only to the original consumer purchaser and requires installation and use according to the product instructions. The warranty does not cover damage from abuse, neglect, misuse, accidents, overloading, improper installation (including welds), improper maintenance, or product alterations by anyone other than Cequent. The sole remedy is replacement or refund at Cequent's option. Purchaser is responsible for return shipping costs.
The proper ball size is indicated on the coupler body itself. Always use only the ball size specified on your coupler. If you are uncertain which ball is correct, contact Cequent Performance Products at 1-800-632-3290 or www.cequentgroup.com.
No. The purchaser/owner must not alter or modify the product in any way. Modifications will void the warranty and may result in coupler failure or safety hazards. If you need to modify the coupler for your application, contact Cequent Performance Products at 1-800-632-3290 for guidance.
Before mounting the coupler, confirm there will be no interference from the tow vehicle, tongue, ground, or any other mounted accessories while stationary or in motion. Check for interference in both the open and closed positions before installation. After installation is complete, check for interference again to ensure the coupler operates freely without obstruction.
All welding must be performed by an AWS certified welder. Ensure the coupler internal stop is butted against the end of the trailer tongue for maximum overlap. Weld 3/16" around the entire interface between the coupler and tongue. Do not create undercut or washout while welding. The coupler must be rigidly attached to the trailer to support its maximum rated load.
Ensure the coupler internal stop is butted against the end of the trailer tongue for maximum overlap before securing. Use grade 5 bolts with locknuts only. Torque the bolts to the appropriate SAE proof load specifications: 3/8" to 23 ft. lbs., 1/2" to 55 ft. lbs., 5/8" to 110 ft. lbs. No deformation of the trailer tongue end is allowed. The number and size of fasteners required must be specified by the trailer manufacturer.
1) Block the trailer wheels. 2) Align the hitch ball beneath the coupler. 3) If the coupler is closed, open it by removing the pin behind the collar and sliding the collar away from the ball pocket. Ensure the coupler cap is open and holds the collar back. 4) Lower the trailer onto the hitch ball. 5) Visually check that the hitch ball is fully seated in the coupler. 6) Carefully close the coupler cap, ensuring the collar springs toward the ball pocket and captures the cap. 7) Reinsert the pin behind the collar. Do not tow without the pin in place. 8) Always secure safety chains to the vehicle before towing according to SAE J684.
1) Block the trailer wheels. 2) Align the hitch ball beneath the coupler. 3) If the coupler is closed, open it by removing the pin in the latch and lifting the latch. Ensure the coupler cap is open and holds the collar back. 4) Lower the trailer onto the hitch ball. 5) Visually check that the hitch ball is fully seated in the coupler. 6) Carefully close the coupler cap and lower the latch, ensuring the collar springs toward the ball pocket and captures the cap. 7) Reinsert the pin in the latch. Do not tow without the pin in place. 8) Always secure safety chains to the vehicle before towing according to SAE J684.
1) Block the trailer wheels. 2) Open the coupler by removing the pin behind the collar and sliding the collar away from the ball pocket. Ensure the coupler cap is open and holds the collar back. 3) Raise the trailer from the hitch ball. Use caution when uncoupling as the tongue may rise suddenly due to negative tongue load.
1) Block the trailer wheels. 2) Open the coupler by removing the pin in the latch and lifting the latch. Ensure the coupler cap is open and holds the collar back. 3) Raise the trailer from the hitch ball. Use caution when uncoupling as the tongue may rise suddenly due to negative tongue load.
Do not exceed the lesser of the mounting bracket, coupler, hitch, vehicle, ball, or trailer weight ratings, including the load. Never exceed the maximum rated capacity. The specific capacity rating is stamped or decaled on the product itself. If you are uncertain about the capacity, contact Cequent Performance Products at 1-800-632-3290 or www.cequentgroup.com. Weigh your trailer plus added load before towing to ensure you do not exceed the rating.
Always block the trailer wheels before latching or unlatching the coupler. Never position any part of your body under the coupler or the load being supported. Use caution when uncoupling as the tongue may rise suddenly due to negative tongue load. Do not allow children to play on or around the coupler or load. Always secure safety chains to the towing vehicle and trailer according to SAE J684 before towing.
Do not use the coupler if its operation has been impaired in any way. If the coupler becomes deformed or damaged, or if the handle does not open and close freely, replace the complete coupler and bracket. Do not attempt to repair or continue using a damaged coupler, as this may result in failure during towing.
After installation, verify that the coupler operation has not been impaired in any way. Check for interference in both open and closed positions. Inspect the coupler, channel, and mounting bolts for proper fit and tightness. Ensure the hitch ball is fully seated in the coupler ball pocket and the coupler closes and locks properly with the retaining pin in place. If any issues are found, do not use the coupler until they are corrected.
Maintenance procedures should be performed at least annually. These include checking welds and mounting bolt torque, greasing the ball pocket, oiling pivot points with SAE 30 wt. motor oil, and inspecting retaining pins for wear or damage and replacing them if necessary. Additionally, keep the ball pocket and mechanism clean at all times, and when parking or storing the trailer, keep the coupler off the ground to prevent dirt and foreign material from accumulating.
Grease the ball pocket regularly. Oil pivot points with SAE 30 wt. motor oil. Keep the ball pocket and mechanism clean to ensure proper operation and prevent corrosion.
Keep the ball pocket and mechanism clean by regularly removing dirt and debris. When parking or storing your trailer, keep the coupler off the ground so that dirt and other foreign material will not build up in the coupler ball pocket. This prevents corrosion and ensures smooth operation of the coupler mechanism.
Replacement parts are available through Cequent Performance Products' Customer Service Department at 1-800-632-3290. When ordering, please specify the product model number. Use only Cequent Performance Products' parts or parts of equal quality for repair and replacement.
Contact Cequent Performance Products at 1-800-632-3290 or visit www.cequentgroup.com. They can answer questions about proper ball size, weight capacity, installation procedures, maintenance, replacement parts, and warranty claims. Have your product model number available when you contact them.
A coupler handle that does not operate freely indicates impaired operation. Check for dirt, debris, or corrosion in the mechanism. Clean the ball pocket and mechanism thoroughly. If the handle still does not move freely after cleaning, the coupler may be deformed or damaged. Do not use the coupler. Replace the complete coupler and bracket. Do not attempt to force the handle or lubricate excessively, as this may mask a structural problem.
Before towing, visually verify that the hitch ball is fully seated in the coupler ball pocket. If the ball is not fully seated: 1) Open the coupler completely and remove the ball. 2) Clean the ball pocket and the ball of any dirt or debris. 3) Verify you are using the correct ball size as indicated on the coupler body. 4) Reposition the ball and lower the trailer carefully, ensuring the ball seats fully. 5) Close the coupler cap and insert the retaining pin. Do not tow if the ball is not fully seated or the coupler is not closed.
If the coupler cap does not close or the collar does not spring toward the ball pocket and capture the cap: 1) Open the coupler fully and inspect for dirt, debris, or damage. 2) Clean the ball pocket and mechanism thoroughly. 3) Check that the hitch ball is fully seated. 4) Verify the coupler is not deformed or bent. 5) Ensure the collar moves freely on its pivot. If the coupler is deformed or the collar does not move freely after cleaning, the coupler operation is impaired. Do not use the coupler; replace the complete coupler and bracket.
If the retaining pin is loose or does not stay in place: 1) Remove the pin and inspect it for bending or wear. 2) Check the pin holes in the collar or latch for damage or enlargement. 3) If the pin is bent or broken, replace it with a new retaining pin. 4) If the pin holes are enlarged or damaged, the coupler operation is impaired. Do not use the coupler; replace the complete coupler and bracket. Do not tow without the pin in place, as the coupler may open unexpectedly during towing.
If the coupler ball pocket is leaking grease or appears dry: 1) Clean the ball pocket and mechanism thoroughly to remove old grease and debris. 2) Apply fresh grease to the ball pocket. 3) Oil pivot points with SAE 30 wt. motor oil. 4) Operate the coupler several times to distribute the lubricant. If grease continues to leak excessively, the coupler seals may be damaged. Contact Cequent Performance Products at 1-800-632-3290 for guidance on repair or replacement.
| Part Number | Model Number | Capacity (lbs.) | Overall Length (in.) | Latch | Ball Size (in.) | SAE Class |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| 028382 | 2B4H | 5,000 | 16.25 | High Profile | 2 | III |
| 028444 | 2B4M | 5,000 | 16.25 | Pin Style | 2 | III |
| 028387 | 3B4H | 7,000 | 16.25 | High Profile | 2 | IV |
| 028243 | 3B4M | 7,000 | 16.25 | Pin Style | 2 | IV |
| 028462 | 4B4H | 12,500 | 16.50 | High Profile | 2-5/16 | V |
| 028444 | 4B4M | 12,500 | 16.50 | Pin Style | 2-5/16 | V |
| Replacement Parts | ||||||
| 024200 | High Profile Coupler Repair Kit | |||||
| 500354 | Coupler Cap Spring | |||||
Sam
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
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