Forum Discussion

kramer45011's avatar
kramer45011
Explorer
Aug 29, 2019

Snap up handle

I have lost the snap up handle you use to pull the chains up for the weight distribution hitch. Any suggestions for something to use as an alternative??
  • Most brands sell replacement handles and they're generally available at Amazon or etrailer for fast delivery. If you need something immediately a length of pipe, a cheater bar, or a broom handle will probably work.
  • After you hitch to the trailer coupler, raise both trailer and tow vehicle high with the tongue jack. If you raise it high enough you'll never need to use a cheater bar. You may have to put blocks under the tongue jack before you start so the tongue jack will raise high enough.

    When unhitching, do the same thing. Raise the tongue jack high lifting both tow vehicle and trailer, and bars (and in your case, the chains which which catch on that snap up device), come right off with no force or effort at all. Once off, then lower and finish unhitching.

    The higher you jack up the tongue, the easier they install-remove.
  • Piece of pipe maybe, keep in mind we have no idea what system you have.

    I haven't used the handle for mine in years. I have an electric tongue jack and just run it up until I can do it by hand.
  • I'm on the jack it up higher bandwagon. Crank up the tongue jack to lift the tongue and the rear of the tow vehicle. Once up high enough you can just slip the chains on my hand.

    Otherwise a piece of thick pipe or a replacement handle from the manufacturer or Amazon are your options.