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Bulldog
Always the correct part
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Always the correct part
We know our products
Quality Products
Free Shipping!
You won't find a coupler that's faster or easier to use than the BULLDOG square gooseeneck. Its user-friendly design makes hookup and release swift and secure.
| BRAND: | BULLDOG |
| PART NUMBER: | 0289800300 |
| WARRANTY: | LIMITED 5 YEAR WARRANTY |
| WEIGHT: | 65 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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The Bulldog Gooseneck Coupler is a hitch coupler designed to connect a gooseneck trailer to a towing vehicle. It features a ball pocket that accepts a 2 5/16" hitch ball, locking plates, and a load bearing pin to secure the connection. The coupler is available in four models: 20K Round, 25K Round, 25K Square, and 30K Round, with different weight capacities.
The Bulldog Gooseneck Coupler is available in four models: 20K Round, 25K Round, 25K Square, and 30K Round. The numbers indicate the weight capacity rating, and the shape describes the ball pocket design. Each model is shown in the product diagrams with its specific components labeled.
The coupler requires a 2 5/16" hitch ball rated equal to or greater than the capacity of the coupler. If you are uncertain about the correct ball rating, contact Cequent Performance Products at 1-800-632-3290 or www.cequentgroup.com.
The manual identifies four models by capacity: 20K Round, 25K Round, 25K Square, and 30K Round. The numbers represent the weight rating (20,000 lbs, 25,000 lbs, or 30,000 lbs). However, the manual does not provide detailed specifications for each model. Contact Cequent Performance Products at 1-800-632-3290 for specific capacity information for your model.
No. The coupler is designed exclusively for a 2 5/16" hitch ball. The manual states: "Use only a 2 5/16" ball rated equal to or greater than the capacity of this coupler." Using a different size ball will prevent proper seating and operation.
The maximum extension is 8 inches. This is measured as the difference between the fully retracted and fully extended positions. The manual states: "Do not exceed the 8" maximum extension for this gooseneck coupler." Couplers with properly installed load bearing pins and square adjustable gooseneck couplers only extend within this range.
Measure the coupler extension as the difference between the fully retracted position and the fully extended position. The diagram on page 2 shows the measurement: the maximum extension is 8 inches from the fully retracted position. Do not exceed this 8-inch limit.
The coupler includes set bolts, jam nuts, and locking nuts (depending on model). The exact quantity and specifications are not detailed in the manual. All hardware must be torqued to 125 ft. lbs. minimum. For a complete parts list, contact Cequent Performance Products at 1-800-632-3290.
The manual requires that all welding be performed by an AWS certified welder, which indicates professional expertise is necessary for at least part of the installation. The manual states: "All welding must be performed by an AWS certified welder." Whether other aspects of installation require professional help is not specified. Contact Cequent Performance Products at 1-800-632-3290 for installation guidance.
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 the extended and retracted positions before installation. After installation is complete, check for interference again. The manual states: "Before installing, check for interference in extended and retracted positions. Check for interference again after installation is complete."
The set bolts must be facing the towing vehicle. The manual states: "The set bolts(s) must be facing the towing vehicle." This orientation is critical for proper operation and must be verified before installation.
No. The manual explicitly states: "Avoid heat damage to coupler during welding, and do not weld over or near any holes or hardware on the coupler." Welding over or near holes and hardware can damage the coupler and compromise its structural integrity. All welding must be performed by an AWS certified welder.
Gussets are reinforcement plates that must be welded to the outer tube of the coupler to support its rated load. The manual states: "The outer tube must be supported completely by attaching gussets as low as possible to the outer tube." For adjustable couplers, reinforcements must extend down to within 3 inches above the bottom of the outer tube. For non-adjustable couplers, reinforcements must be within 20 inches above the locking plates. The outer tube must be rigidly attached to the trailer to support the coupler's maximum rated load according to SAE J2638.
For adjustable couplers, reinforcements must extend down the outer tube to within 3 inches above the bottom of the outer tube. For non-adjustable couplers, reinforcements must be within 20 inches above the locking plates. Both types require gussets to be positioned as low as possible on the outer tube to provide maximum support and ensure the coupler can support its rated load.
Yes. The manual states: "To reduce stress concentrations in high load, high mileage or rough service applications, gussets & banding that tie trailer framing to the coupler are required." This modification is the responsibility of the trailer manufacturer. These additional reinforcements help distribute stress and prevent failure under demanding conditions.
All hardware must be torqued to 125 ft. lbs. minimum. This includes set bolts, jam nuts, and locking nuts. The manual states: "All hardware must be torqued to 125 ft. lbs. minimum." Hardware must be periodically checked for proper torque and retightened if necessary.
The manual states: "Periodically check for proper torque and tighten if necessary." More specifically, the maintenance section requires that hardware torque be checked at least annually. Additionally, check for wear on the inner tube if retightening is needed, as wear may indicate a problem that requires further inspection.
SAE J2638 is the standard to which the Bulldog Gooseneck Coupler is rated. The manual states: "This product rated according to SAE J2638." The coupler's outer tube must be rigidly attached to the trailer in order to support its maximum rated load according to this standard. SAE J2638 is the industry standard for gooseneck couplers.
A load bearing pin is a component that must be fully inserted through both the inner and outer tubes of the coupler to enable it to support its rated load. The manual states: "If equipped with a load bearing pin, it must be fully inserted through both the inner and outer tubes in order for the coupler to support its rated load." The load bearing pin must be fully inserted and the retaining pin must be installed before towing. Do not tow unless both are properly installed.
Yes. The manual explicitly states: "Coupler must remain vertical after installation to ensure proper operation." The coupler's height, orientation, and gusseting requirements depend on trailer design and customer requirements, but vertical alignment is mandatory for correct function.
Do not use the coupler. The manual states: "After installation, check to make sure that coupler operation has not been impaired in any way. Do not use coupler if its operation has been impaired." If operation is impaired, contact Cequent Performance Products at 1-800-632-3290 for troubleshooting and repair options.
Labels must be affixed after assembly and painting, but before the coupler is used. The manual states: "After assembly and painting, but prior to being used, any enclosed labels must be affixed to the coupler and premask removed." This ensures that all warning, caution, and capacity labels are visible and readable to users.
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. The manual states: "Weigh your trailer plus added load. Do not exceed the lesser of coupler, hitch, vehicle, ball, or trailer weight ratings (including load)." Exceeding any of these limits can cause failure and serious injury.
No. The manual explicitly warns: "Operator and bystanders should never position any body part under any portion of this product or the load being supported." This is a critical safety requirement to prevent serious injury or death from falling loads or equipment.
No. The manual states: "Do not allow children to play on or around this product or the load being supported." The coupler and its load present serious hazards to children.
Yes. The manual states: "Always secure load, vehicle and trailer (by blocking wheels) before latching/unlatching coupler." Blocking the wheels prevents the trailer from rolling and causing injury or damage during the coupling and uncoupling process.
No. The manual explicitly states: "Do not tow unless the load bearing pin is fully inserted and retaining pin is installed." Towing without these components properly installed will prevent the coupler from supporting its rated load and can result in trailer separation, property damage, and serious injury or death.
Before towing, perform these checks: (1) Check the 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) 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 the 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.
Only people who are familiar with the coupler's instructions should use it. The manual states: "Never allow anyone unfamiliar with these instructions to use this product." All operators must read, understand, and follow all instructions before installing and using the coupler.
After installation, verify that: (1) there is no interference from the tow vehicle, tongue, ground, or other accessories in both extended and retracted positions; (2) the coupler operation has not been impaired in any way; (3) the coupler remains vertical; (4) all labels have been affixed and premask removed. Do not use the coupler if operation is impaired.
Visually check that the hitch ball is fully seated in the coupler ball pocket. The manual states in the coupling procedure: "Visually check that the hitch ball is fully seated in the coupler." This check is performed after lowering the trailer onto the hitch ball and before sliding the locking plate into the closed position.
The following procedures should be performed at least annually: (1) Check hardware torque and tighten to 125 ft. lbs. minimum if necessary. (2) Grease the ball pocket. (3) Oil pivot points with SAE 30 wt. motor oil. (4) Inspect the retaining pin and replace if necessary. Keep the ball pocket, latch, and handle clean at all times.
Use SAE 30 wt. motor oil on pivot points. The manual states: "Oil pivot points with SAE 30 wt. motor oil." This maintenance should be performed at least annually.
Keep the ball pocket, latch, and handle clean. The manual states: "Keep the ball pocket, latch, and handle clean." Regular cleaning helps prevent wear and ensures proper operation. The operation section also states: "Keep ball pocket and mechanism clean."
Inspect the retaining pin at least annually and replace it if necessary. The manual states: "Inspect retaining pin and replace if necessary" as part of the annual maintenance procedures. If the retaining pin is bent, broken, or worn, replace it before using the coupler.
When retightening hardware, check for wear on the inner tube. The manual states: "Check for wear on inner tube if retightening is needed." Wear on the inner tube may indicate a problem that requires further inspection or replacement of components.
Use only Cequent Performance Products' parts. Replacement parts are available through Cequent Performance Products' Customer Service Department at 1-800-632-3290. Please specify the product model number when ordering. You can also visit www.cequentgroup.com for more information.
This indicates a problem with the coupler. The manual states that before towing, you should "Ensure that the coupler opens, closes, and the handle springs closed when released." If the handle does not spring closed, replace the coupler or contact Cequent Performance Products at 1-800-632-3290 for repair options. Do not tow with a malfunctioning coupler.
This indicates a problem with the coupler. The manual states that before towing, you should "Ensure that the coupler opens, closes, and the handle springs closed when released." If the coupler does not open or close properly, replace bent, broken, or worn parts before using the product. If the problem persists, contact Cequent Performance Products at 1-800-632-3290 for troubleshooting and repair.
If the hitch ball is not fully seated, do not proceed with coupling. Ensure that: (1) the hitch ball is the correct size (2 5/16"); (2) the ball is properly aligned beneath the coupler; (3) the locking plate is in the open position; (4) the trailer is lowered fully onto the ball. If the ball still does not seat properly, check for damage to the ball pocket or ball, and replace any damaged parts before towing.
Excessive vibration indicates loose hardware. The manual states: "Tighten the set bolt(s) and nut(s) to minimize vibrations in the coupler during towing." Stop towing immediately and check that all hardware is torqued to 125 ft. lbs. minimum. Retighten any loose bolts and nuts. If vibration persists after retightening, inspect for wear or damage and contact Cequent Performance Products at 1-800-632-3290.
Do not use the coupler if it extends beyond 8 inches. The manual states: "Do not exceed the 8" maximum extension for this gooseneck coupler." Measure the extension as the difference between the fully retracted and fully extended positions. If the coupler extends beyond 8 inches, it may be damaged or improperly installed. Contact Cequent Performance Products at 1-800-632-3290 for inspection and repair.
Cequent Performance Products warrants the coupler to be free from defects in material and workmanship for three years under normal use and service, ordinary wear and tear excepted. If the product does not comply with this warranty, Cequent will replace the product without charge within a reasonable time or refund the purchase price, at Cequent's option. This warranty is not transferable. The warranty does not cover normal wear and tear, damage from abuse, neglect, misuse, accident, misapplication, overloading, improper installation, improper maintenance, or products altered by anyone other than Cequent.
To make a warranty claim, contact Cequent Performance Products at 47912 Halyard Dr. Suite 100, Plymouth, MI 48170, or call 1-800-632-3290. Identify the product and follow the instructions provided. You will be responsible for shipping costs to Cequent. Retain your purchase receipt to verify the date of purchase, as this must be produced to honor the warranty claim. Any returned product that is replaced or refunded becomes the property of Cequent.
| Part Number | Description | Capacity (lbs.) | Retracted Height (in.) | Extended Height (in.) | Adjustment (in.) | Ball Size (in.) |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| 0289600300 | Adjustable Gooseneck Coupler, 4.5 in. x 20 in. Length Square Outer Tube, 4 in. x 30.75 in. Square Inner Tube, with Cast Locking Plates, 3/4 in. Load Bearing Bolt, [1] Set Bolt, Raw, Labels Applied | 25,000 | 32.00 | 40.00 | 8.00 | 2-5/16 |
| 028900 | Adjustable Gooseneck Coupler, 4.5 in. x 20 in. Length Square Outer Tube, 4 in. x 30.75 in. Square Inner Tube, with Cast Locking Plates, 3/4 in. Load Bearing Bolt, [2] Set Bolts, Raw, Labels Applied | 30,000 | 32.00 | 39.00 | 7.00 | 2-5/16 |
| 0289800300 | Topwind Crank Adjustable Gooseneck Coupler, 4.5 in. x 20 in. Length Square Outer Tube, 4 in. x 30.75 in. Square Inner Tube, with Cast Locking Plates, 3/4 in. Load Bearing Bolt, [1] Set Bolt, Raw, Labels Applied | 25,000 | - | - | - | 2-5/16 |
| 0288660300 | Adjustable Gooseneck Coupler, 4.0 in. x 30.75 in. Square Inner Tube Only, with Cast Locking Plates, Raw, Labels Applied | 25,000 | - | - | - | 2-5/16 |
Jennifer
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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