Fulton 3,500 lbs Straight Coupler, 2 in. Diameter, 3 in. Channel Width FL22300 0317Fulton$37.23Out of Stock
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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. It is available in Class 1, 2, 3, and 4 ratings for different towing capacities. The coupler can be installed using either bolt-on or weld-on methods, and is available in straight tongue or A-frame (50-degree) configurations. The coupler must be properly secured to the trailer tongue and kept clean to ensure safe towing.
The manual specifies Class 1, 2, 3, and 4 couplers. Class 1 couplers use 3/8 inch grade 5 bolts (preferred method with 4 bolts through side holes, or alternate method with 2 through bolts and locknuts). Class 2, 3, and 4 couplers use 1/2 inch grade 5 bolts (preferred method with 4 bolts through side holes, or alternate method with 2 through bolts and locknuts). The class rating determines the fastener size and towing capacity. Consult the coupler body or contact Cequent Performance Products at 1-800-632-3290 for the correct class for your application.
No. A-frame couplers can only be used with 50-degree trailer tongues. Do not attempt to use an A-frame coupler on any other tongue angle. If you are uncertain whether your trailer has a 50-degree tongue, contact Cequent Performance Products at 1-800-632-3290 or www.cequentgroup.com.
Use only the proper ball size indicated on the coupler body itself. The coupler body will display the correct ball size specification. If you are uncertain about the correct ball size, contact Cequent Performance Products at 1-800-632-3290 or www.cequentgroup.com before towing.
For Class 1 couplers, the preferred method is to use four (4) 3/8 inch grade 5 bolts through the side holes. An alternate method is to use two (2) 3/8 inch grade 5 through bolts and locknuts, provided they can be torqued to the appropriate SAE proof load specification of 23 ft. lbs. No deformation of the trailer tongue end is allowed. The trailer manufacturer must specify the exact number and size of fasteners required.
For Class 2, 3, and 4 couplers, the preferred method is to use four (4) 1/2 inch grade 5 bolts through the side holes. An alternate method is to use two (2) 1/2 inch grade 5 through bolts and locknuts, provided they can be torqued to the appropriate SAE proof load specification of 55 ft. lbs. No deformation of the trailer tongue end is allowed. The trailer manufacturer must specify the exact number and size of fasteners required.
For A-frame couplers (50-degree tongues only), use the available mounting holes in the coupler housing and bolt the coupler to the tongue members using grade 5 hardware with locknuts. 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: 55 ft. lbs. for 1/2 inch bolts. No deformation of the trailer tongue end is allowed.
The adjustable height channel mounting bracket is secured using two (2) 5/8 inch by 5 inch grade 5 bolts and locknuts, which are provided with the bracket. These bolts are inserted through the desired mounting bracket holes and the coupler holes, then tightened to 100-110 ft. lbs.
Yes, gussets are required if the trailer tongue height is 6 inches or less. If your tongue height is greater than 6 inches, gussets are not 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 bracket.
For weld-on couplers, 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 to achieve maximum overlap. For bolt-on couplers, the internal stop must also 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. After installation is complete, check for interference again. If any interference is found, do not use the coupler.
The manual does not specify whether drilling is required for bolt-on installation. The manual states that bolts are inserted through side holes in the coupler and trailer tongue, but does not clarify whether these holes are pre-drilled or must be drilled during installation. Contact the trailer manufacturer or Cequent Performance Products at 1-800-632-3290 for clarification on your specific trailer.
Yes. Weld-on couplers must be welded to the trailer tongue. All welding must be performed by an AWS (American Welding Society) certified welder. For straight tongue couplers, weld on both sides and the top using a 1/8 inch minimum fillet weld. For A-frame couplers (50-degree tongues only), weld on both sides and the top using a 3/16 inch minimum fillet weld. The coupler's internal stop must be butted against the end of the trailer tongue, and a minimum 6.5 inch coupler/tongue overlap is required.
Yes, you can paint or prime the coupler after installation. However, you must remove all excess paint and primer buildup from the ball pocket and latching mechanism. Failure to remove excess paint can impair coupler operation. After painting, verify that coupler operation has not been impaired in any way before using it.
The torque specification for 3/8 inch grade 5 bolts is 23 ft. lbs. This applies to Class 1 coupler installations using 3/8 inch fasteners.
The torque specification for 1/2 inch grade 5 bolts is 55 ft. lbs. This applies to Class 2, 3, and 4 coupler installations using 1/2 inch fasteners, and to A-frame coupler installations using 1/2 inch hardware.
The torque specification for 5/8 inch grade 5 bolts is 110 ft. lbs. This applies to adjustable height channel mounting bracket installations using 5/8 inch by 5 inch bolts and locknuts.
Tighten the two (2) 5/8 inch by 5 inch grade 5 locknuts to 100-110 ft. lbs. This is the torque specification for the adjustable height channel mounting bracket installation.
For straight tongue weld-on couplers, use a 1/8 inch minimum fillet weld on both sides and the top of the coupler. All welding must be performed by an AWS certified welder.
For A-frame weld-on couplers (50-degree tongues only), use a 3/16 inch minimum fillet weld on both sides and the top of the coupler. All welding must be performed by an AWS certified welder.
For an adjustable height channel mounting bracket, a 1/4 inch minimum fillet weld is required all around the bracket. The bracket must be centered on the tongue and remain vertical after installation.
Before towing, perform the following checks: (1) Check the vehicle, mounting bracket, hitch, hitch ball, and coupler for signs of wear or damage, and verify that the coupler handle opens and closes freely. (2) Replace bent, broken, or worn parts before using the product. (3) Close the coupler securely by ensuring the hitch ball is fully seated in the coupler ball pocket and the handle or latch is in the closed position. (4) 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. (5) Ensure trailer safety chains are properly connected to the towing vehicle and trailer according to SAE J684. (6) Ensure all trailer lighting is hooked up and working properly.
Weigh your trailer plus any 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 weight ratings can result in failure and serious injury or death.
Always secure the load, vehicle, and trailer by blocking the wheels before latching or unlatching the coupler. Use caution when uncoupling as the tongue may rise suddenly due to negative tongue load.
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. If the ball is not fully seated with the coupler in the closed position and latch engaged, do not tow. Repeat the coupling steps until the ball is properly seated.
Do not use the coupler if its operation has been impaired in any way. After installing the mounting bracket and/or coupler, check that coupler operation has not been impaired. If coupler operation has been impaired, do not use it. Contact Cequent Performance Products at 1-800-632-3290 or www.cequentgroup.com for assistance.
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. Failure to follow these safety requirements can result in serious injury or death.
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. Also check for any interference from the tow vehicle, tongue, ground, or other mounted accessories in both open and closed positions.
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 weight motor oil. Additionally, keep the ball pocket and mechanism clean at all times. When parking or storing the trailer, keep the coupler off the ground so dirt and other foreign material will not build up in the coupler ball pocket.
Maintenance procedures should be performed at least annually. These include checking welds and mounting bolt torque, greasing the ball pocket, and oiling pivot points with SAE 30 weight motor oil. Additionally, keep the ball pocket and mechanism clean at all times.
Oil pivot points with SAE 30 weight motor oil. This should be done at least annually as part of regular maintenance.
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. Keep the ball pocket and mechanism clean at all times.
The manual covers Class 1, 2, 3, and 4 couplers in straight tongue and A-frame (50-degree only) configurations. Consult the coupler body for the class rating and tongue type, or contact Cequent Performance Products at 1-800-632-3290 or www.cequentgroup.com to confirm fitment for your specific trailer.
Fastener requirements depend on coupler class: Class 1 uses 3/8 inch grade 5 bolts (4 preferred or 2 through bolts with locknuts); Class 2, 3, 4 use 1/2 inch grade 5 bolts (4 preferred or 2 through bolts with locknuts); adjustable height channel uses two 5/8 inch by 5 inch grade 5 bolts with locknuts. Use only grade 5 hardware. The trailer manufacturer must specify exact fastener requirements.
Welding is required only for weld-on couplers. Bolt-on couplers do not require welding. If welding is required, all welding must be performed by an AWS certified welder. For straight tongue couplers, use 1/8 inch minimum fillet weld; for A-frame couplers, use 3/16 inch minimum fillet weld.
Torque specifications: 3/8 inch grade 5 bolts = 23 ft. lbs.; 1/2 inch grade 5 bolts = 55 ft. lbs.; 5/8 inch grade 5 bolts = 110 ft. lbs. (or 100-110 ft. lbs. for adjustable height channel locknuts). All fasteners must be grade 5 hardware.
Before towing: (1) Check coupler, mounting bracket, hitch, and ball for wear or damage. (2) Verify coupler handle opens and closes freely. (3) Ensure hitch ball is fully seated in ball pocket and coupler is closed. (4) Check mounting hardware is tight and use only grade 5 hardware. (5) Verify safety chains are properly connected per SAE J684. (6) Confirm all trailer lights work. Do not tow if any issues are found.
Perform annually: (1) Check welds and mounting bolt torque. (2) Grease ball pocket. (3) Oil pivot points with SAE 30 weight motor oil. Keep ball pocket and mechanism clean at all times. Store trailer with coupler off the ground to prevent dirt buildup.
If the hitch ball is not fully seated in the coupler ball pocket with the coupler in the closed position and latch engaged, do not tow. Repeat the coupling steps. Ensure the trailer wheels are blocked, align the hitch ball directly beneath the coupler ball pocket, and lower the coupler carefully over the ball. Verify that the latch is fully engaged and the ball clamp is below the ball. If the problem persists, check that you are using the correct ball size for the coupler (as indicated on the coupler body) and contact Cequent Performance Products at 1-800-632-3290.
If the coupler handle does not open and close freely, do not use the coupler. This indicates that coupler operation has been impaired. Check for the following: (1) Excess paint or primer buildup in the ball pocket or latching mechanism (if recently painted—remove excess paint). (2) Dirt or foreign material in the ball pocket or mechanism (clean thoroughly). (3) Damage or deformation to the coupler housing or latch mechanism. If the coupler cannot be restored to proper operation, contact Cequent Performance Products at 1-800-632-3290 or www.cequentgroup.com for warranty service.
If the coupler and/or mounting bracket is deformed or damaged after installation, do not use it. Replace the complete coupler and mounting bracket. Do not attempt to repair a deformed coupler. Contact Cequent Performance Products at 1-800-632-3290 or www.cequentgroup.com for replacement options and warranty service.
If mounting bracket hardware is loose or worn, do not tow. Replace bent, broken, or worn hardware with grade 5 fasteners only. Tighten all hardware to the appropriate SAE proof load specifications: 3/8 inch bolts to 23 ft. lbs., 1/2 inch bolts to 55 ft. lbs., or 5/8 inch bolts to 110 ft. lbs. Check hardware tightness before each towing trip.
Use caution when uncoupling as the tongue may rise suddenly due to negative tongue load. To minimize this risk: (1) Always block the trailer wheels before uncoupling. (2) Open the locking lever slowly and carefully. (3) Raise the trailer gradually off the hitch ball. (4) Keep hands and body clear of the tongue area. If the tongue rises unexpectedly, do not attempt to catch it. Ensure the area is clear of people and objects before uncoupling.
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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