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Fulton

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Always the correct part
We know our products
Quality Products
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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 hitch component that connects a trailer tongue to a towing vehicle's hitch ball. It secures the trailer to the vehicle and allows coupling and uncoupling. The manual covers both bolt-on and weld-on installation methods for Class 1, 2, 3, and 4 couplers with straight or A-frame (50-degree) tongues.
No. The coupler must match your trailer's tongue type and class rating. Straight tongue couplers work with standard straight tongues. A-frame couplers can only be used with 50-degree trailer tongues. The coupler class (1, 2, 3, or 4) must match your trailer's weight rating. Contact Cequent Performance Products at 1-800-632-3290 or www.cequentgroup.com if you are uncertain which coupler is correct for your trailer.
The manual does not specify the weight or capacity differences between coupler classes. It only states that Class 1 couplers use 3/8-inch bolts, while Class 2, 3, and 4 couplers use 1/2-inch bolts. Contact the manufacturer at 1-800-632-3290 for detailed class specifications and weight ratings.
The preferred method is (4) 3/8-inch grade 5 bolts through the side holes. An alternate method is (2) 3/8-inch grade 5 through bolts with 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.
The preferred method is (4) 1/2-inch grade 5 bolts through the side holes. An alternate method is (2) 1/2-inch grade 5 through bolts with 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.
Use grade 5 bolts with locknuts through the available mounting holes in the coupler housing to bolt the coupler to the tongue members. For couplers using 1/2-inch hardware, use washers beneath all bolt heads and locknuts. Torque grade 5 bolts with locknuts to the appropriate SAE proof load specification (1/2-inch = 55 ft. lbs.). No deformation of the trailer tongue end is allowed.
Yes, if your trailer tongue height is 6 inches or less, gussets are required. The mounting bracket must be centered on the tongue and remain vertical after installation. A 1/4-inch minimum fillet weld is required all around the gussets.
A minimum coupler/tongue overlap of 6.5 inches is required. The coupler's internal stop must be butted against the end of the trailer tongue for maximum overlap.
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 open and closed positions before installing. Check for interference again after installation is complete. If coupler operation has been impaired in any way after installation, do not use it.
1. Assure the coupler's internal stop is butted against the end of the trailer tongue for maximum overlap. 2. For Class 1 couplers, use (4) 3/8-inch grade 5 bolts through side holes (preferred) or (2) 3/8-inch grade 5 through bolts with locknuts. For Class 2, 3, and 4 couplers, use (4) 1/2-inch grade 5 bolts through side holes (preferred) or (2) 1/2-inch grade 5 through bolts with locknuts. 3. Torque to appropriate SAE proof load specifications (3/8-inch = 23 ft. lbs.; 1/2-inch = 55 ft. lbs.). 4. No deformation of the trailer tongue end is allowed.
1. If tongue height is 6 inches or less, gussets are required. 2. Center the mounting bracket on the tongue and ensure it remains vertical after installation. 3. A 1/4-inch minimum fillet weld is required all around. 4. Secure the coupler using two sets of holes in the mounting bracket. 5. Insert the two (2) 5/8-inch × 5-inch grade 5 bolts through the desired mounting bracket holes and the coupler holes. 6. Tighten locknuts to 100–110 ft. lbs. 7. After installation, check that coupler operation has not been impaired.
The manual does not specify whether drilling is required. It states that fasteners must be inserted through existing holes in the coupler and mounting bracket, but does not confirm whether these holes are pre-drilled or require drilling. Contact the manufacturer at 1-800-632-3290 for clarification on whether drilling is needed for your specific coupler model.
No. The purchaser/owner must not alter or modify the product. The coupler must be installed exactly as specified in the instructions. Modifications made by anyone other than the manufacturer will void the warranty, with the sole exception of alterations made pursuant to product instructions and in a workmanlike manner.
3/8-inch grade 5 bolts must be torqued to 23 ft. lbs. according to SAE proof load specifications.
1/2-inch grade 5 bolts must be torqued to 55 ft. lbs. according to SAE proof load specifications.
5/8-inch grade 5 bolts with locknuts on an adjustable height channel (mounting bracket) coupler must be torqued to 100–110 ft. lbs.
Grade 5 hardware only. The manual explicitly states this requirement multiple times. Using any other grade will not meet SAE proof load specifications and may result in coupler failure.
A 1/8-inch minimum fillet weld is required on both sides and the top of the coupler.
A 3/16-inch minimum fillet weld is required on both sides and the top of the coupler. A-frame couplers can only be used with 50-degree trailer tongues.
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) If the coupler or mounting bracket is deformed or damaged, replace the complete coupler and mounting bracket. (4) Replace bent, broken, or worn parts. (5) 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. (6) Check mounting bracket hardware for wear and proper tightness; replace bent, broken, or worn hardware and tighten to appropriate SAE proof load specifications using only grade 5 hardware. (7) Ensure trailer safety chains are properly connected to the towing vehicle and trailer according to SAE J684. (8) Ensure all trailer lighting is hooked up and working properly.
Use only the proper ball for your coupler as indicated on the coupler body. If uncertain, contact Cequent Performance Products at 1-800-632-3290 or www.cequentgroup.com. Using an incorrect ball size or class will compromise safety and may result in coupler failure.
Weigh your trailer plus added load. Do not exceed the lesser of the mounting bracket, coupler, hitch, vehicle, ball, or trailer weight ratings (including load). Exceeding any of these ratings may result in coupler failure, property damage, or serious injury.
No. Do not tow if the ball is not fully seated and/or the coupler is not closed. Before towing, verify that the hitch ball is fully seated in the coupler ball pocket and the handle or latch is in the closed position.
Use caution when uncoupling as the tongue may rise suddenly due to negative tongue load. Always block the trailer wheels before uncoupling. Open the locking lever and raise the trailer off the hitch ball. Return the handle to the closed position.
All welding must be performed by an AWS (American Welding Society) certified welder. Non-certified welding will compromise the structural integrity of the coupler and may result in failure during towing.
Never position any part of your body under any portion of the coupler or the load being supported. Do not allow children to play on or around the coupler or the load being supported. Always secure the load, vehicle, and trailer (by blocking wheels) before latching or unlatching the coupler.
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 and that the latch mechanism functions properly. If coupler operation has been impaired, do not use it. 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.
The following 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. Additionally, 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.
Check mounting bracket hardware for wear and proper tightness at least annually. Tighten hardware to appropriate SAE proof load specifications (3/8-inch = 23 ft. lbs.; 1/2-inch = 55 ft. lbs.; 5/8-inch = 100–110 ft. lbs.). Use only grade 5 hardware. Replace bent, broken, or worn hardware.
The coupler must match your trailer's tongue type (straight or A-frame 50-degree) and class rating (1, 2, 3, or 4). Contact Cequent Performance Products at 1-800-632-3290 or www.cequentgroup.com to confirm fitment.
Class 1 straight tongue: (4) 3/8-inch grade 5 bolts (preferred) or (2) 3/8-inch through bolts with locknuts. Class 2, 3, 4 straight tongue: (4) 1/2-inch grade 5 bolts (preferred) or (2) 1/2-inch through bolts with locknuts. A-frame: grade 5 bolts with locknuts through available mounting holes. The trailer manufacturer must specify exact requirements.
Yes, if your trailer tongue height is 6 inches or less. Gussets are required, and a 1/4-inch minimum fillet weld is required all around.
3/8-inch bolts: 23 ft. lbs. | 1/2-inch bolts: 55 ft. lbs. | 5/8-inch bolts (mounting bracket): 100–110 ft. lbs. All bolts must be grade 5.
Verify the hitch ball is fully seated in the ball pocket, the coupler handle is closed and latched, mounting hardware is tight, safety chains are connected per SAE J684, and all trailer lights work. Replace any bent, broken, or worn parts.
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 at all times.
Do not use the coupler. Check the coupler for signs of wear or damage. If the coupler is deformed or damaged, replace the complete coupler and mounting bracket. If the coupler is not deformed but the handle is stiff, keep the ball pocket and mechanism clean and oil pivot points with SAE 30 wt. motor oil. If the problem persists, contact the manufacturer at 1-800-632-3290.
Do not tow. Repeat the coupling steps for your coupler style (Fas-Lok®, Yoke-style, or Low-Latch). Verify that the hitch ball is the correct size and class for your coupler as indicated on the coupler body. Check that the ball pocket is clean and free of dirt or debris. If the problem persists, the coupler may be damaged or the ball may be worn. Contact Cequent Performance Products at 1-800-632-3290 to confirm the correct ball size or to report a defective coupler.
Do not use the coupler. Check for interference from the tow vehicle, tongue, ground, or other mounted accessories in both open and closed positions. Verify that the coupler is rigidly attached to the trailer and that no deformation of the trailer tongue end has occurred. If the coupler was welded, check that the welds are complete and properly sized (1/8-inch minimum for straight tongue, 3/16-inch minimum for A-frame). If the coupler was bolted, verify that all bolts are present and torqued to specification. If painting was performed, ensure excess paint/primer has been removed from the ball pocket and latching mechanism. If the problem cannot be identified and corrected, contact the manufacturer at 1-800-632-3290.
Stop towing immediately. Check all mounting bracket hardware for wear and proper tightness. Tighten hardware to appropriate SAE proof load specifications (3/8-inch = 23 ft. lbs.; 1/2-inch = 55 ft. lbs.; 5/8-inch = 100–110 ft. lbs.). Replace any bent, broken, or worn hardware with grade 5 fasteners only. Perform this check at least annually and before each towing trip.
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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