Pat's Easy Hitch Repairs

AchingBack · Feb 25, 2022

Has anyone who owns one of these ever had the need to remove the roll pins that secure the latch mechanism? I bought a repair kit which necessitates driving them out. I'm wondering if once I obtain the correct size punch, does it matter from which side the pin should be driven out? Does it come out more easily from one side or the other. The pins are not tapered.

AchingBack · Feb 25, 2022

AchingBack said:
Has anyone who owns one of these ever had the need to remove the roll pins that secure the latch mechanism? I bought a repair kit which necessitates driving them out. I'm wondering if once I obtain the correct size punch, does it matter from which side the pin should be driven out? Does it come out more easily from one side or the other. The pins are not tapered.

After more research I was blown away to see this great demonstration on pin removal. Thankfully I already own a palm nailer. Now to find the correct punch.

ljjhouser · Feb 25, 2022

I have used pats for about 5 years. I don't think it makes any difference what direction. But I have not had to do it. I'm wondering what actually wore out of yours?

AchingBack · Feb 25, 2022

ljjhouser said:
I have used pats for about 5 years. I don't think it makes any difference what direction. But I have not had to do it. I'm wondering what actually wore out of yours?

Nothing has worn out in the 16 years since installation. I have the first generation with the 'T' handles. One handle somehow broke in two. Also one of the U bolts bent at a 45 degree angle right at the attachment point above the nut, and when I attempted to straighten it, it snapped off.
I was pleased to see the repair kit came with the new style latch handle mechanism, but no new U bolt.

ljjhouser · Feb 25, 2022

Good to know. Thanks. That Sq U bolt may be hare to find. Good Luck.

AchingBack · Feb 25, 2022

ljjhouser said:
Good to know. Thanks. That Sq U bolt may be hare to find. Good Luck.

Their customer support is awesome. I've inquired about availability. Each new hitch comes with one per side. I wouldn't be surprised if they just sent me a free one.

TCowner · Feb 26, 2022

AchingBack said:
Their customer support is awesome. I've inquired about availability. Each new hitch comes with one per side. I wouldn't be surprised if they just sent me a free one.

I agree. A few years ago I bought a used "Pat's Hitch" from a private party that was missing a one of the pins. I called the customer support folks and had one sent out the same day, at no cost, for a used hitch. Can you imagine any other company doing this?