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Fulton
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Fulton has produced marine and utility trailer hardware for more than a century, and its jacks, winches and couplers are a standard for light and medium-duty trailering. The XLT and F2 series cover swivel and fixed jacks, hand and powered winches from 1,500 to 3,200 pounds, and couplers built to keep working in wet, salty conditions.
With more than a hundred years of production behind it, Fulton has become the reference point for light and medium-duty trailer hardware, particularly on the marine side. That environment is the toughest test a trailer component faces. A boat trailer is reversed into fresh or salt water on every launch and left to sit wet, which finds every weakness in plating, sealing and material choice. Fulton's stated position is that the brand performs best when the weather is at its worst, and its product engineering reflects that. It sits within the Horizon Global towing group alongside Reese, Draw-Tite, Bulldog, Tekonsha and Wesbar.
Marine and utility jacks anchor the line. The XLT Series marine jack uses a bolt-through swivel mount built from three-dimensionally formed heavy-gauge steel stampings with a proprietary bushing material, a combination chosen to minimise deflection under tongue load while keeping the swivel action working after years of exposure. The F2 Series takes corrosion resistance further as the industry's only extruded aluminium marine jack with an anodised finish, which removes the rust problem at its source rather than coating over it. The wider trailer jack range covers topwind, sidewind and drop-leg configurations.
Trailer winches pull boats onto bunks and rollers. XLT Series winches use efficient gear ratios, full-length drum bearings, oil-impregnated shaft bushings and a Comfort Grip handle that makes the last few turns under load bearable, in 1,500 and 1,800 pound capacities. F2 Series winches use an enclosed frame for a cleaner look and added protection, in 1,600, 2,000 and 3,200 pound models, including two-speed options that trade line speed for cranking effort.
Couplers complete the range, including A-frame couplers matched to common tongue sizes and load ratings, serving boat owners, utility trailer users and trailer manufacturers.
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A stamped coupler is a trailer hitch coupler that connects a trailer tongue to a towing vehicle's hitch ball. This manual covers both bolt-on and weld-on installation methods for Class 1, 2, 3, and 4 couplers. The coupler must be properly installed and maintained to safely support the trailer load during towing.
This coupler is designed for two tongue types: straight tongue couplers (Class 1, 2, 3, or 4) and A-frame couplers (Class 1, 2, 3, or 4). A-frame couplers can only be used with 50-degree trailer tongues. Straight tongue couplers work with standard straight tongues. Confirm your trailer tongue type before selecting the coupler.
No. A-frame couplers can only be used with 50-degree trailer tongues. Using this coupler on any other tongue angle will not provide proper fit or safety. Verify your trailer's tongue angle before purchasing or installing an A-frame coupler.
For Class 1 straight tongue couplers, the preferred method is to use four (4) 3/8" grade 5 bolts through the side holes. An alternate method is to use two (2) 3/8" grade 5 through bolts and locknuts, provided they can be torqued to the appropriate SAE proof load specification (23 ft. lbs.). The trailer manufacturer must specify the exact number and size of fasteners required. No deformation of the trailer tongue end is allowed.
For Class 2, 3, and 4 straight tongue couplers, the preferred method is to use four (4) 1/2" grade 5 bolts through the side holes. An alternate method is to use two (2) 1/2" grade 5 through bolts and locknuts, provided they can be torqued to the appropriate SAE proof load specification (55 ft. lbs.). The trailer manufacturer must specify the exact number and size of fasteners required. No deformation of the trailer tongue end is allowed.
A-frame couplers use the available mounting holes in the coupler housing and are bolted to the tongue members using grade 5 hardware with locknuts. For couplers using 1/2" hardware, washers must be placed beneath all bolt heads and locknuts. Torque grade 5 bolts with locknuts to the appropriate SAE proof load specification (1/2" = 55 ft. lbs.). No deformation of the trailer tongue end is allowed.
The adjustable height channel (mounting bracket) is secured using two sets of holes. Two (2) 5/8" x 5" grade 5 bolts are provided with the mounting bracket. These bolts are inserted through the desired mounting bracket holes and the coupler holes, then secured with locknuts torqued to 100–110 ft. lbs.
Yes. The manual specifies that only grade 5 hardware must be used for all bolt-on installations. This applies to all fasteners, including bolts, locknuts, and washers. Using hardware of a lower grade will not meet the safety and load-bearing requirements of the coupler.
The coupler's internal stop is a feature that must be butted (pressed firmly) against the end of the trailer tongue to ensure maximum overlap during installation. This positioning is critical for both bolt-on and weld-on installations to achieve proper load distribution and safety. The manual emphasizes this requirement for both installation methods.
Yes. Before mounting the coupler, you must confirm that 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 open and closed positions before installation. After installation is complete, check for interference again. If any interference is found, do not use the coupler.
A minimum coupler/tongue overlap of 6.5 inches is required for weld-on installations. The coupler's internal stop must be butted against the end of the trailer tongue to achieve maximum overlap. This overlap is essential for proper load distribution and structural integrity.
Gussets are required if the tongue height is 6 inches or less. If your trailer tongue is taller than 6 inches, gussets are not required. The mounting bracket must be centered on the tongue and remain vertical after installation.
Yes. The adjustable height channel (mounting bracket) must be centered on the tongue and remain vertical after installation. This is a critical requirement for proper coupler operation and load support.
Welding is required only for weld-on coupler installations. Bolt-on couplers do not require welding. If you choose the weld-on method, all welding must be performed by an AWS-certified welder. The manual states this requirement multiple times as a critical safety measure.
No. The purchaser/owner must not alter or modify the product. The manual explicitly prohibits any modifications to the coupler itself. The only permitted alterations are those made pursuant to the product instructions and in a workmanlike manner (such as welding by a certified welder). Any other modification will void the warranty and may compromise safety.
3/8" grade 5 bolts must be torqued to 23 ft. lbs. This applies to Class 1 straight tongue coupler installations using the preferred method of four 3/8" bolts through side holes.
1/2" grade 5 bolts must be torqued to 55 ft. lbs. This applies to Class 2, 3, and 4 straight tongue coupler installations and A-frame coupler installations using 1/2" hardware.
5/8" grade 5 bolts with locknuts must be torqued to 100–110 ft. lbs. These are the two (2) 5/8" x 5" bolts that secure the adjustable height channel (mounting bracket) to the coupler.
A minimum 1/8" fillet weld is required for straight tongue coupler weld-on installations. The weld must be applied on both sides and the top of the coupler as shown in the weld-on detail diagram.
A minimum 3/16" fillet weld is required for A-frame coupler weld-on installations. The weld must be applied on both sides and the top of the coupler as shown in the weld-on detail diagram. A-frame couplers require a larger weld than straight tongue couplers.
A 1/4" minimum fillet weld is required all around the adjustable height channel (mounting bracket). This weld must be applied to secure the bracket to the trailer tongue.
The proper ball size for this coupler is indicated on the coupler body itself. If you are uncertain about the correct ball size, contact Cequent Performance Products at 1-800-632-3290 or www.cequentgroup.com. Using an incorrect ball size will compromise safety and may prevent proper coupling.
No. Do not tow if the ball is not fully seated and/or the coupler is not closed. Before towing, close the coupler securely by ensuring that the hitch ball is fully seated in the coupler ball pocket and the handle or latch is in the closed position. Failure to do so is a serious safety hazard.
Always secure the load, vehicle, and trailer by blocking the wheels before latching or unlatching the coupler. This prevents the trailer from moving unexpectedly during the coupling or uncoupling process.
Use caution when uncoupling as the tongue may rise suddenly due to negative tongue load. Always block the trailer wheels before uncoupling. After opening the locking lever and raising the trailer off the hitch ball, return the handle to the closed position.
Do not exceed the lesser of the weight ratings for the mounting bracket, coupler, hitch, vehicle, ball, or trailer (including load). You must weigh your trailer plus any added load and ensure the total does not exceed any of these individual component ratings. Exceeding weight limits is a serious safety hazard.
Yes. The operator and bystanders should never position any part of the body under any portion of the coupler or the load being supported. Additionally, do not allow children to play on or around the coupler or the load being supported. These are critical safety requirements.
Yes. All welding must be performed by an AWS-certified welder. This is a mandatory requirement stated multiple times in the manual. Using an uncertified welder or performing welding yourself will compromise the structural integrity and safety of the coupler installation.
After installation is complete, check that the coupler operation has not been impaired in any way. Verify that the coupler handle opens and closes freely, the ball pocket is clear, and the latching mechanism functions properly. If coupler operation has been impaired, do not use it. Also check for any interference with the tow vehicle, tongue, ground, or other accessories in both open and closed positions.
Before towing, perform these checks: (1) Check the vehicle, mounting bracket, hitch, hitch ball, and coupler for signs of wear or damage. (2) Verify the coupler handle opens and closes freely. (3) Close the coupler securely, ensuring the hitch ball is fully seated in the ball pocket and the handle or latch is in the closed position. (4) Check mounting bracket hardware for wear and proper tightness; tighten to appropriate SAE proof load specifications. (5) Verify trailer safety chains are properly connected per SAE J684. (6) Confirm all trailer lighting is hooked up and working properly.
If the coupler is to be primed or painted after installation, make sure excess paint or primer buildup is removed from the ball pocket and latching mechanism. Paint buildup in these areas can impair coupler operation and prevent proper seating of the hitch ball.
The following maintenance procedures should be performed at least annually: (1) Check welds and mounting bolt torque. (2) Grease the ball pocket. (3) Oil pivot points with SAE 30 wt. motor oil. Regular maintenance helps ensure safe operation and extends the life of the coupler.
Keep the ball pocket and mechanism clean at all times. When parking or storing your trailer, keep the coupler off the ground so dirt and other foreign material will not build up in the coupler ball pocket. Regular cleaning prevents debris from interfering with coupler operation.
Oil pivot points with SAE 30 wt. motor oil. This should be done at least annually as part of regular coupler maintenance.
The manual specifies that the ball pocket should be greased as part of annual maintenance but does not specify the type of grease. Use a general-purpose lithium-based grease suitable for trailer applications.
Yes. As part of annual maintenance, check welds and mounting bolt torque. Retorque all bolts to their appropriate SAE proof load specifications: 3/8" bolts to 23 ft. lbs., 1/2" bolts to 55 ft. lbs., and 5/8" bolts to 100–110 ft. lbs. This ensures the coupler remains securely fastened.
This coupler is designed for straight tongue or 50-degree A-frame trailers in Class 1, 2, 3, or 4 ratings. Verify your trailer tongue type and angle. For A-frame couplers, the tongue must be exactly 50 degrees. Contact Cequent Performance Products at 1-800-632-3290 if you are unsure.
For bolt-on installation: Class 1 requires four 3/8" grade 5 bolts (or two through bolts with locknuts); Class 2/3/4 requires four 1/2" grade 5 bolts (or two through bolts with locknuts). For A-frame: grade 5 bolts with locknuts and washers (if 1/2"). For mounting bracket: two 5/8" x 5" grade 5 bolts. The trailer manufacturer must specify exact fastener requirements.
Welding is required only for weld-on installations and must be performed by an AWS-certified welder. Bolt-on installations do not require welding. Minimum fillet weld sizes: 1/8" for straight tongue, 3/16" for A-frame, 1/4" for mounting bracket.
3/8" bolts: 23 ft. lbs. | 1/2" bolts: 55 ft. lbs. | 5/8" bolts: 100–110 ft. lbs. All bolts must be grade 5. Torque to SAE proof load specifications.
No. Do not tow if the hitch ball is not fully seated in the coupler ball pocket or if the coupler is not closed. Always verify full seating and proper closure before towing.
Verify coupler operation is not impaired: handle opens and closes freely, ball pocket is clear, latching mechanism works properly. Check for interference in open and closed positions. If operation is impaired, do not use the coupler.
Perform annually: check welds and mounting bolt torque, grease the ball pocket, and oil pivot points with SAE 30 wt. motor oil. Keep the ball pocket and mechanism clean. Store the coupler off the ground to prevent dirt buildup.
If the coupler handle does not open and close freely, this indicates impaired operation. Do not use the coupler. Check for dirt, debris, or paint buildup in the ball pocket and latching mechanism. Clean these areas thoroughly. If the problem persists, the coupler may be damaged and should be replaced. If the coupler was recently painted, ensure all excess paint and primer buildup has been removed from the ball pocket and latching mechanism.
If the hitch ball does not seat fully, do not tow. First, verify you are using the correct ball size for the coupler (size is indicated on the coupler body). Clean the ball pocket and latching mechanism of any dirt or debris. Ensure the coupler is in the fully open position before attempting to seat the ball. If the problem persists, the coupler or ball may be damaged. Contact Cequent Performance Products at 1-800-632-3290 for assistance.
If the coupler will not close or the latch will not engage, do not tow. Clean the ball pocket and latching mechanism of any dirt, debris, or paint buildup. Verify the hitch ball is fully seated in the ball pocket. Check that the coupler is not deformed or damaged. If the problem persists after cleaning, the coupler may be damaged and should be replaced. Do not attempt to force the coupler closed.
Loose mounting bolts indicate improper installation or vibration during use. Stop using the coupler immediately. Retorque all bolts to their appropriate SAE proof load specifications: 3/8" to 23 ft. lbs., 1/2" to 55 ft. lbs., or 5/8" to 100–110 ft. lbs. Use a torque wrench to ensure proper tightness. Check bolts again after the first tow and then annually as part of maintenance. If bolts repeatedly loosen, the coupler may not be properly secured to the trailer tongue.
If interference is detected, do not use the coupler. Check for interference in both open and closed positions. Possible causes include: incorrect mounting height, coupler not centered on tongue, mounting bracket not vertical, or tow vehicle geometry incompatibility. Verify the mounting bracket is centered on the tongue and remains vertical. If using an adjustable height channel, ensure it is at the correct height. If interference persists, the coupler may not be compatible with your specific tow vehicle and trailer combination.
If coupler operation is impaired in any way after installation, do not use the coupler. Impaired operation may include: handle not opening or closing freely, ball not seating fully, latch not engaging, or any other malfunction. Inspect the coupler for damage, deformation, dirt, or debris. Clean the ball pocket and latching mechanism. If the coupler or mounting bracket is deformed or damaged, replace the complete coupler and mounting bracket. Do not attempt to repair a damaged coupler.
Ann
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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