Swing-away hitches

[todda]

Anyone try to modify a single axle trailer with a swing-away hitch? I have a '99 SNOB with DHL trailer, and would like to modify it with a swing-away or some other method of pull-off hitch, but not sure if it is possible with the hard-line that goes from the hitch to the surge brake system. Any Ideas? Thanks-
Todd

[Mikeski]

RE: Swing-away hitches

www.pivithitch.com

I think it's part of Extreme Boat Trailers www.extremetrailers.com

[todda]

RE: Swing-away hitches

Thanks for the quick reply and info Mike, I will look them up

[TylerO]

RE: Swing-away hitches

Todda,

On my old boat I didn't have a break away tongue and needed it. I got a quote from the trailer mfg. (Extreme) @ $550 bucks to convert it. It wasn't worth that much to me so I got it done for less than $20 bucks.

All I did was convert the solid brake line running from the surge mechanism to a longer flexibile brake line and lengthened the ground wire. Then all I had to do was remove the bolts connecting the actuator to the trailer frame and set the acuator on a 5 gallon bucket next to the trailer (pointing backwards of course). It takes me less than 5 minutes to remove the actuator or install it and I saved myself the $550.

-Tyler

[todda]

Thanks for the advice Tyler. I had a local welding shop quote $250, but then again they haven't seen the trailer yet and what may need to be done to do the modification. Thanks for the reply, might have to go your route-
Todd

[Mikeski]

If it's square tube you can also just turn it into a receiver style tongue, you can get the parts brake hoses from DHM trailers in Sacramento, CA. Whatever mod you do, don't forget to change the safety chain attachment point to a permanent part of the trailer.

[todda]

Good point Mike about the safety chain. I was thinking the same as you about the receiver style, and think I may go that way. It is a square tube construction, and I think it would be the easiest to do. Thanks again for the Pivit Hitch contact. They could do it, the kit runs $300.
Todd

[Rick]

Are you sure you don't already have one and it's just bolted down. If you have a pin through the square tube you may already have one Post a picture and we can tell.

[todda]

Thanks Rick, and yeah, I am sure it isn't a swing away. It is a square tube construction, but doesn't have a joint in it, and no bolt. Unfortunately, I don't have a digital camera to snap a shot and shoot it to you. Thanks though, I appreciate all of the input that you guys have given.

[todda]

Hey Rick, I pulled up the pic of your boat/trailer, and from what I can tell, your trailer is pretty darn close to mine, but w/o that pin ahead of where the swing down bow-catch is. Good news is it looks pretty easy to modify none-the-less. Thanks

[Rick]

I would contact DHM The retrofit could be very easy. The pin is pulled and the bolt from top to bottom is loosened. Then the whole tongue slides forward until it hiots the bolt then pushes to the right/ If I get time this week I'll snap a few pix and post them.

[todda]

Thanks again Rick, I appreciate all the help. I will give DHM a ring and get the retro kit from them.
Todd

[Rick]

Here are pictures of mine. For a larger image click on the pictures.

[todda]

Thanks Rick for the PM and the pics. That looks exactly as I had thought, but seeing it does help tremendously (also helps my welder as I will print off these pics for him too.) Yeah, kind of bummed as I went from a 24' garage with garage doors on either end to pull through, to a new home where you are lucky to get 22' of diagonal space in a 3 car garage. Of course, no way the CC is staying outside! Thanks again for all your time Rick, i appreciate it greatly.

Todd