Safety chain clevis hooks too tight on F150

Ford makes it tough to get the hooks hooked because of the way they designed the hitch. I had the same problem. I learned that I have to invert the hook and put it on the hitch backwards. Then they slide on and off much easier. I think they make you do it that way to insure that the hook doesn't slide off during travel. Once you get use to it it's not too bad.

Ozlander wrote:
Take the chains off before you unhitch.

I leave my chains on while I unhitch. The chains were the only thing that kept my trailer from rolling away when I forgot to chock the wheels one time.

Take the chains off before you unhitch.

I hook mine from the back. Makes it much easier to hook and unhook. I also put a spring clip on for my brake-away cable. The spring clip stays on the truck and I just slide the cable on and off. And for those technical types, it is an appropriately strong enough one. I got it in the hitch dept of Tractor Supply.

Try hooking the safety chains from underneath the hitch instead of on top before spending the money on new ones.

I have the same problem with my new to me 2008 F150. I have to line up the hooks in just the right spot to get them off and on. I am thinking of adding something to make this easier.

mrkoje wrote:
It's because you need a smaller trailer with smaller hooks for the Ford. Now if you had a Dodge ... well just sayin :)

If you re arrange your letters in your name, you get Mr Joke. For that reason alone you get a pass for the disrespect of the owners of longest lasting most dependable trucks on the road today. :p

The easiest thing to do is replace the hooks.

I like the grab hooks so I rounded the tips a bit so they slip on easier.

It's because you need a smaller trailer with smaller hooks for the Ford. Now if you had a Dodge ... well just sayin :)

Most of the big-box stores sell different chain connectors, hooks, and clevi (sp?). I bought a couple of new attachment hooks for my F250 at Home Depot.