Fulton Straight Coupler Installation and Torque Specifications

Question:

Hi there, Im in the process of installing a new straight coupler on my galvanized trailer. It requires a 2 inch ball and has a 3 inch tongue/channel. I torqued the two bolts to 55lbs as per this guide which caused the channel to compress some: Later I read this guide which says Torque to at least 35 ft-lbs. without excessive deformation of coupler or trailer tongue Will this amount of compression be okay. Hoping you can tell me how to proceed.

asked by: Josh

Expert Reply:

Thanks for the pictures. Torque specs on couplers, like the Fulton Fas-Lok Coupler item # F346000301, are changed all the time by the manufacturers. It doesn't look like you damaged the coupler by torqueing it to 55 lbs. I recommend keeping the bolts at 55 lbs and not trying to go back to 35 lbs.

expert reply by: Jerred H