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Lists all components required for the gooseneck hitch installation, including part numbers and descriptions.
Details the steps for installing the turnover gooseneck hitch after the cross arm sub-kit is in place.
Provides instructions on how to correctly attach safety chains to the gooseneck hitch.
Guides on the process of installing the locking mechanism and handle for the gooseneck ball.
Explains how to properly operate the gooseneck hitch after it has been installed.
Outlines essential checks to perform once the hitch installation is complete.
Provides guidance on regular upkeep and checks required for the gooseneck hitch.
Provides a method and formula to calculate clearance between the truck cab and trailer.
The CURT Double Lock Gooseneck hitch is a robust towing product designed for heavy-duty applications, primarily for two-wheel drive trucks. Its main function is to provide a secure connection between a truck and a gooseneck trailer, allowing for the safe transport of heavy loads. The design emphasizes both strength and ease of use, incorporating features that facilitate installation, operation, and maintenance.
The core function of the Double Lock Gooseneck hitch is to enable the towing of gooseneck trailers. It achieves this through a central ball mechanism that can be engaged or disengaged, providing a secure coupling point. The "Double Lock" aspect refers to the mechanism that ensures the gooseneck ball is firmly held in place during towing, minimizing movement and enhancing safety. When not in use, the gooseneck ball can be inverted and stored within the hitch assembly, creating a flat truck bed surface for other uses. This design is particularly beneficial for trucks that frequently switch between towing and hauling other cargo.
The hitch system includes safety chain attachment points, which are crucial for maintaining a connection between the truck and trailer in the event of a primary coupling failure. These attachments are designed to be integrated into the truck bed, providing strong and reliable anchor points. The overall structure of the hitch involves a center section, cross arms, and side plates, all designed to distribute towing forces effectively across the truck's frame, ensuring structural integrity and stability during operation.
The CURT Double Lock Gooseneck hitch is engineered for user-friendly operation, from installation to daily use.
Installation: The installation process involves mounting the hitch assembly to the truck's frame. This typically requires drilling holes in the truck bed for the gooseneck ball and safety chain attachments. The manual provides detailed instructions for locating these holes precisely, emphasizing the importance of measuring from the tailgate and between wheel wells to ensure correct positioning. Special attention is given to avoiding interference with fuel lines, brake lines, and electrical wires, which may need to be loosened or repositioned. The use of a lifting device or an install tool is recommended to ease the placement of the center section, especially if the truck bed has been distorted from heavy use. The system is designed to accommodate various truck models, including specific instructions for Ford Super Duty trucks from different model years, addressing variations in exhaust systems and frame configurations.
Gooseneck Ball Operation: The gooseneck ball features a "turnover" mechanism. To engage the ball for towing, the user pulls a handle, rotates it clockwise to disengage a locking pin, and then inserts the ball into the cylinder in the tow position. The ball has a groove that must align with a cylinder pin for proper seating. Once aligned, the ball drops into place, and the handle is rotated counter-clockwise, allowing the locking pin to snap back into position, securely locking the ball. This double-locking action provides an extra layer of security, ensuring the ball remains engaged during towing. When the ball is not needed, it can be inverted and stored flush with the truck bed, and a supplied rubber cover can be inserted to protect the opening and create a clean, flat surface.
Safety Chain Attachments: The safety chain loops are installed through pre-drilled holes in the truck bed, using U-bolts, washers, and nylock nuts. The manual specifies drilling these holes in the lower rib section of the truck bed for optimal strength and integration. These attachments are designed to be robust, providing reliable secondary connection points for the trailer's safety chains.
Clearance Considerations: A critical aspect of using this hitch is ensuring adequate clearance between the truck cab and the trailer, especially during turns. The manual includes a "Cab to Trailer Clearance Calculator" to help users determine if their trailer will interfere with the truck cab. This calculation considers the cab-to-ball center distance, trailer width, and any coupler overhang. This proactive check is vital to prevent damage to both the truck and trailer during maneuvering.
Regular maintenance is essential to ensure the longevity, safety, and optimal performance of the CURT Double Lock Gooseneck hitch. The manual outlines a maintenance schedule, recommending checks every 30 days or prior to each use.
Lubrication: The hitch ball requires regular lubrication to prevent wear and rust. Silicone spray or an equivalent lubricant is recommended for this purpose. Proper lubrication ensures smooth operation of the ball mechanism and protects against corrosion, which can compromise the hitch's integrity.
Cleanliness: Keeping the hitch assembly free of dirt and other foreign debris is crucial. Accumulation of debris can interfere with the locking mechanism, cause premature wear, and potentially lead to malfunctions. Regular cleaning helps maintain the hitch's operational efficiency.
Torque Checks: All nuts and bolts in the hitch assembly, including those for the side plates, cross arms, and center section, must be checked for proper torque before each use. The manual provides specific torque values for different fastener sizes (e.g., 1/2" hardware to 110 ft-lbs, 3/8" to 45 ft-lbs, etc.). Maintaining correct torque ensures that all components remain securely fastened, preventing loosening that could lead to structural instability or failure during towing.
Wear Inspection: Users are instructed to check for excessive wear on the hitch ball and other components. Any signs of significant wear, damage, or deformation indicate that parts may need to be replaced. The manual explicitly warns against towing a trailer with worn or damaged parts, as this can pose a serious safety risk. Regular visual inspection helps identify potential issues before they escalate.
By adhering to these usage and maintenance guidelines, users can ensure the safe and reliable operation of their CURT Double Lock Gooseneck hitch for many years.
General| Part Number | 60607 |
|---|---|
| Brand | Curt Manufacturing |
| Category | Locks |
| Lockable | Yes |
| Keyed Alike | No |
| Material | Steel |
| Finish | Black Powder Coat |
| Includes Keys | Yes |
| Quantity | 1 |
| Hitch Type | Receiver |
| Diameter | 0.625 inch |
| Usable Length | 3.5 inch |
| Type | Hitch Lock |
| Lock Type | Receiver Lock |
