Forum Discussion

Explorer

Oct 21, 2019

Really scary incident tonight - almost lost my tow!

We had just driven about 500 miles and were about 2 miles from home. Pulled off I-35, made a right-hand turn and just about lost the Subaru. The hitch pin was completely gone, and it was a brand new pin that I installed this trip. I usually eyeball the cotter pin along the trip, but didn't this time...

I don't know if I lost the cotter pin then the hitch pin pulled out, or if the hitch pin sheared off...no idea!

One of the Blue Ox safety chains broke right at the hook, while the other stayed intact. The hitch in pulling away damaged the underside panel on the rear of the motorhome, but no big deal.

We got LUCKY!

Needless to say, I'm in the market for better tow chains/safety cables and the best hitch pin available!

ryan

Class C

25 Replies

Rolin
Explorer
Oct 21, 2019
I heard of one person who had damage to tow car and motorhome because someone sabotaged the tow connections. I now use padlocks in place of cotter pins just to be sure now one can sabotage the connections to my tow vehicle.

Sorry for your difficulties.
Rolin
ron_dittmer
Explorer III
Oct 21, 2019
Oasisbob wrote:
I wonder if someone just removed it?
X2

I always inspect my tow vehicle setup for tampering. That is why I use common-key padlocks in places instead of pins (where possible)
Lwiddis
Explorer II
Oct 21, 2019
A locking hitch pin is my choice.
Oasisbob
Explorer
Oct 21, 2019
Very scary indeed. Glad you are OK. Was the pin locked on? I wonder if someone just removed it? The safety chain breakage should be reported.
MDKMDK
Explorer
Oct 21, 2019
Out of curiosity what brand or where did you get the hitch pin? The Blue Ox stuff did it's thing, I would stick with it but that's just me.
I'd say your new pin was the root cause.