Torklift Lock and Load

I highly recommend this for a locking hitch pin. Make sure to order the one that is for your vehicle (Chevy/Ford/Dodge/Toyota.) Once in use, it is one less key for you to have to worry about (it keys to your existing vehicle key), and it does a good job, even when coated in road grime. I give the bearings on the lock the PTFE oil treatment come winter, and it works without issue, even in sub-freezing temperatures.

There are other trailer locks I've tried. Some are decent. Others I worry about since they can be easily picked. Still others tend to have bad Amazon reviews because they break and won't come off without the subtle persuasion of an angle grinder. I've also had some which had no protection for the lock cylinder, which got full of road dirt that it took some time to flush that out in order to operate the lock.

I do like the Lock and Load, which is a definite purchase for a generator like my Yamaha 3000 watt model. For peace of mind, I'd probably consider a security chain through the generator handles that would lock to the tow chain areas on the vehicle. That way, there are two different locking mechanisms in place that don't depend on each other.

Like others have said just removing the bolt does not allow the gen to be removed. I use a bolt instead of the Tee nut because of clearance problems with my bumper. I also just use the Honda cover as it allows the upper strap to go thru the handle. That makes the gen as safe as any system I have used in the past.

I have suggested to TL they provide a pocket in the foreward corners to insert a wand to remind you just how far the unit sticks out front. I also have clearance lights on the front of the sides to let others know there is a extra lenght in front of the bumper at night. The wand also helps keep people from walking into the carrier in low light. I only carry a Honda 2000 right now but by the time I will need a AC I hope to have either another 2000 or a 3000. I think at some point TL will make a smaller carrier that will hold just a single 2000 and not stick out so much.

You can also use a upside down plastic tote for a cover. Just cut two thin slots in it for the lock bar to go thru.

About the locking hitch pin. A very good and cheap one can be made by drilling and tap a blind hole in a 5/8 bolt with a clearance on in one side of a nut.Insert a set screw that protrudes into the nut Once in place it isn't going to removed unless the thief has a hex wrench in his pocket. Not too much chance of that unless they have been peeking at your pin before hand.

You could use an outboard motor cover.

jamminalong wrote:
I plan on using a bag of some sort, maybe a bbg cover. Also plan on rigging a foldable cover for use in the rain. PVC & tarp comes to mind right now, lol.

Let me know what you come up with in terms of a cover, it would be nice to have something easy off/on that looks good vs the tarp wrapped around with a wad of bungee cords....

ford truck guy wrote:
I use a locking hitch pin , like this --locking hitch pin

just remember.. locks keep honest people honest.....

That's what I was thinking. Thanks!
Thought maybe it would come with the unit but alas...what's another $20 bucks. :R

Now I wonder if I should install a dash cam with a sign on the windshield...
SMILE! YOU'RE ON CAMERA! ~ just kidding!!!! :B

I use a locking hitch pin , like this --locking hitch pin

just remember.. locks keep honest people honest.....

Great, thanks for the info! Oh forgot to ask what about the cotter pin? How did you lock that so the thieves don't walk off with the whole thing?

BurbMan wrote:

SIDE NOTE: What do you guys do for weather protection when using the Lock n Load? How do you keep the generator dry and out of the weather when on the road?

I plan on using a bag of some sort, maybe a bbg cover. Also plan on rigging a foldable cover for use in the rain. PVC & tarp comes to mind right now, lol.

Exactly right, the bar is slotted just like the other one you can see in the photo so it can't be removed without twisting it, which is impossible with the lock installed. The know simply holds that one bar in place while you load the gen to keep it from being a three-handed job.

SIDE NOTE: What do you guys do for weather protection when using the Lock n Load? How do you keep the generator dry and out of the weather when on the road?

I have one and they are fantastic... the knob just keeps the bar tight... that bar has a T on the bottom of it.. there is no way to get it out with the lock on.. Once it is in the slot on the rack , and the generator is in , and the lock is on,, Its virtually Fort Knox....
I was skeptical at first when putting it together , but once completed I was extremely happy with it.. Go for it , you will not be upset when it is all said and done.. ! Joe

Just from that picture, the lockdown bar slotted top is prevented from twisting by the cross bar. The bottom of the slotted bar can't be removed because it is inserted at 90, initially, and the base prevents it's upward removal.

The owner's manual should explain the installation and security, I would think. Torklift makes excellent product, BTW. I wouldn't be hesitant about buying anything from them.