Cut dump trailer coupler, weld on adjustable height coupler (w/pics)

[Sodo]

My dump trailer coupler was damaged a little and was difficult to get it coupled. The locking mechanism didn't want to slide into the closed/locked position. From looking at the scars below, I thik the trailer was backed over an embankment, and the ball or tongue bent the mechanism.

Anyway, I decided to replace it, AND instead of the same type, with an adjustable height coupler. Got this adjustable kit for $58 on Amazon. It's rated for 14,000 lbs.
Welded with a Miller MultiMatic 200 wire feed (portable MIG TIG Stick) on 240v.

Cut it off with a steel-cutting skilsaw.

Why not tie it in top and bottom?

Added some more steel to top and bottom (like 'wrapping the ends'). Just to be sure it was over-done.

All done! OK there it is.

 

[Rock knocker]

Looks good, looks like you MIG'ed it between squalls and before the wind?

Now you'll be able to use a pintle if you wish.

 

[dragoneggs]

Hey Sodo, looks nice! Long time no hear... how is your shop? All ready for winter?

 

[downsizingnow48]

Nice!

 

[TractorGuy]

What grade are those bolts? Did they come with the coupler?

 

[Big Barn]

Nice, Sodo! How long for the cut with that metal cutting skil saw?

 

[Sodo]

Looks good, looks like you MIG'ed it between squalls and before the wind?
Now you'll be able to use a pintle if you wish.

I did it the night before last. A little wind but I turned up the gas to 30CFH plus I'd wait for calm before pulling the trigger. Someone can use a pintle hitch if I sell it but it's still a 10,000lb GVWR trailer (6x10). If you have a pintle hitch prob wouldn't look at 10k trailer. I think of its resale value but not selling for awhile. This thing has really been performing for me, it hauls 2.5yds maybe 3 yds.

Hey Sodo, looks nice! Long time no hear... how is your shop? All ready for winter?

Yeah shops all done insiode (just one wide bay of a 3-car). Now I wanna tear it down and make it bigger (8 ft high doors).

Nice!

Thx dsn48, I painted if for you!

What grade are those bolts? Did they come with the coupler?

5/8" Grade 5 - came with the $58 kit.

Nice, Sodo! How long for the cut with that metal cutting skil saw?

Maybe 3x as long as if it was wood.

 

[flyerdan]

I have a Porter Cable metal saw that looks just like the one in Pic 2, they do a great job at making nice clean cuts where you can use them.

 

[downsizingnow48]

That hitch looks darn nice but I am still fretting about your excavator thumb that needs to be Kubota Orange II. Or Rustoleum Lobster Red.

 

[Sodo]

.....i do have 3 cans of Lobster Red.....

But I'd have to prep that thumb. Not sure I can get myself to do that unless it was time to sell.
It's not bare. The guy painted it brown/gold.