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tphan · 01-01-2009, 08:17 AM

It seems there are quite a few options for hitch locks, but not all of them work on the AS couplers with the big, rolled flange, like on my '72 OL. The Gorilla Lock, for example, only accepts the smaller flat-flange style coupler.
As far as locks that block access to the ball socket (mine is 5/16"), with the aforementioned rolled-flange all around it, what do you all think is the best coupler lock?
Happy New Year!!

goransons · 01-01-2009, 10:22 AM

We have one of these on each of our trailers. Fit really well, and pretty hard to get around. Search DT Maximum Security Lock. Ebay has them, as well as a number of rv dealers. Fit large couplers really well.

Mikethefixit · 01-01-2009, 12:16 PM

tphan
The lock that I have to use is like the pic above. With the rolled lip of the coupler its about all U can use. I had about 3 different ones and had to take or send them all back because they did not fit.
They only slow down the bad guys.I do suggest that you do use something. If they are determined to take off with your trailer they will have enough equipment with them to get the job done.I even carry tools to open just about any lock in case I should become my own worst enemy and lock myself out.
One could also purchase a boot or roll control device which goes between the tires,some are locking so the trailer cannot be dragged away.
Roger

AirsDream · 01-01-2009, 01:04 PM

Roger's got it right: if "they" really want it, "they" will get it ... what we're into here is "target hardening" - making your trailer less desirable in terms of ease of theft, enough of a PITA that they'll consider taking someone else's instead. So, as many locks, chocks, tiedowns, thingamajiggers as you can come up with that will slow / deter / frustrate the bad guys are all good, in my estimation.

At least, as Curly said, "It couldn't hoit!" ... that is, unless YOU forget about one of those deterrents and try to tow your trailer away yourself with some device still installed. Now, no one I know would do that of course, but I've heard tales! Good luck.

utee94 · 01-01-2009, 01:30 PM

I have one of these on my boat trailer:

And I have this one on my Airstream:

They both fit and work well enough, but as has been stated, they are merely a deterrent.

And I use these on all of my trailers too through the holes on the hitch lever, both when in storage and when towing:

You can buy these at places like Northern Tool or Academy.

Lothlorian · 01-01-2009, 01:33 PM

I have mine up on Jacks and one axel off. I hope that keeps them away because I bought a universal lock at Northern Tool and it did not fit.

Lothlorian

Mikethefixit · 01-01-2009, 01:46 PM

Brian
It should keep em away ,unless they come equipped wiffa tire and wheel and a jack to raise it off the jackstand.

But that ought to keep em busy while U get the shotgun

. HEY Brian/// Lead em alittle till they clear the Airstream,don't need no buckshot holes in er.

A little levity to start a new year
HAPPY NEW YEAR
Roger

Excella CM · 01-01-2009, 02:05 PM

You can take a spare ball with the shank cutoff and lock it in the hitch.

Mexray · 01-01-2009, 02:14 PM

This one works rather well...the other end of the chain has a hitch ball that fits right into the coupler...

WK57ABF · 01-01-2009, 02:47 PM

The folks here that "borrow" your trailer leave the hitch locks on and couple up with chains.

I prefer tracker devices - you get your trailer back and the bad guys get caught.

John

BillTex · 01-01-2009, 03:09 PM

I use one of these; http://www.lifelonglocks.com very well made, with a cutoff ball in the couple.

We often leave the AS in remote NF campgrounds and go up backpacking for a few days...
If I really get concerned I take the Cobra lock from the Harley and put that through a wheel...but mostly just the LL lock and a ball.

Bill

cosmotini · 01-01-2009, 04:23 PM

This one was posted by Pahaska quite awhile ago. I got one shortly after getting our first trailer and have been happy with it. It's a Blaylock.

hshovic · 01-01-2009, 09:14 PM

I have a hitch lock like Scott and Megan's, and use a cable in the wheels when in remote areas. Just to make a hard target. I have no illusions that if someone wanted it bad, they would get it. So I have insurance. And an extra set of keys.

ROBERTSUNRUS · 01-01-2009, 10:23 PM

Hi, I like the Guardian G-37 best. But I did make, and glue in place, a "U" shaped piece of tire side wall to make it fit tightly without damaging the paint on the coupler. The latch lock is a Smith & Wesson. [same as Gorilla, but different name stamped into it] Also make sure your receiver lock [not pictured] is 5/8" diameter solid shaft, not sleeved.

tphan · 01-02-2009, 08:20 AM

Wow- thanks for all the good ideas! I wonder if the DT Max Security is somewhat invulnerable to bolt-cutters? Or, if Mexray's idea would work with our cat? And if the Guardian G-37 accomodates the big, rolled flange of these '70's couplers? Kinda looks like it might. Will also check out the ones Utee94 posted pics of. PM me if anyone has a flat-flange coupler that my Gorilla would work on, it's $30 plus postage. Otherwise I'm returning it.

reddogfox · 01-02-2009, 11:33 AM

I am using the Master Lock Universal Trailer Coupler Lock Model 379DAT on my 2008 Safari SE. It was the only hitch lock the Dealer stocked that would fit over the big rolled flange on the Airstream couplers.

http://www.etrailer.com/pc-CL~379DAT.htm?utm_source=dealtime&utm_medium=ppc&A ffiliate=deal

I also secure the coupler latch with a Commercial grade long shackle pad lock.

http://www.masterlock.com/apps/catal...ubId=HSL_1_2_3

tphan · 01-03-2009, 10:44 AM

So are these pretty much the choices for a durable coupler lock?

purman · 01-03-2009, 11:59 AM

Man I will say it again. I'm glad I live where i live. You could always jack it up and take the tires off. That would stop them from towing it away...

tphan · 01-10-2009, 09:18 AM

OK- decided to give the DT Max. Security a try- seem to be popular, widely available, and they fit the wide, rolled flange couplers. Thanks for all the advice!!