Readily Demountable Hitch Patents (Class 280/491.5)
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Patent number: 8162290Abstract: The hitch mounted jack adapter device provides for removable insertion into an existing receiver hitch. The device receives the jack I-beam of an existing hi-lift jack. The smooth use of the device is provided by the spaced apart first rollers and second rollers that guide the existing jack I-beam through the I-shaped jack notch of the device. The vertically spaced apart first rollers and second rollers further provide defined vertical guidance of the jack I-beam. By negating binding and significantly reducing friction, combined with the gusset disposed between the hitch insert and the riser of the jack receiver, the device further provides for safe operation through strength coupled with frictional reduction. Of importance is that the device provides for easy, uncomplicated use.Type: GrantFiled: March 7, 2011Date of Patent: April 24, 2012Inventor: Clint E. Tracy
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Patent number: 8079612Abstract: A trailer hitch receiver tube comprising a hollow tubular member adapted to receive a hitch bar, the tubular member including a free end, the free end defining a notch. The tube may be fitted with a lip to create a receiver box. The lip includes a tab which is positioned within the notch and accommodates tightening of an inserted bar within the tube cavity.Type: GrantFiled: February 22, 2007Date of Patent: December 20, 2011Inventor: Curt Tambornino
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Patent number: 8079613Abstract: A hitch pin securing system for receiver mounted accessories. The present invention provides a device for securely clamping a shank tube to a receiver tube. This securing device minimizes the rattling and relative movement of the shank tube and the receiver tube due to the clearance between the shank tube and the receiver tube. The securing device includes a threaded nut or bushing mounted within the shank tube. A hitch pin is inserted through the receiver tube and shank tube and engages the shank tube nut. A locking handle is used to tighten the hitch pin relative to the shank tube nut. Once the hitch pin is tight, the handle is pivoted relative to the hitch pin to cause a cam surface to tighten the shank tube nut against the shank tube which forces the shank tube in tight engagement against the receiver tube.Type: GrantFiled: May 11, 2006Date of Patent: December 20, 2011Inventor: Marty Williams
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Patent number: 8079611Abstract: Disclosed is an apparatus and method for an adjustable tow bar caddy for stowing a tow bar. The apparatus having a cross member having opposite ends; a tow bar; and a tow bar caddy selectively mounted to the cross member, the longitudinal axis of the tow bar caddy being perpendicular to the longitudinal axis of the cross member. The tow bar caddy being adjustable commensurate to the type of tow bar used and obstructions created by the vehicle frame. A method including the steps of providing a trailer hitch assembly comprising a cross member, a tow bar, and a tow bar caddy; mounting the tow bar caddy to the cross member; and selectively adjusting the longitudinal axis of the tow bar caddy to be horizontally perpendicular or vertically perpendicular to the longitudinal axis of the cross member.Type: GrantFiled: December 30, 2009Date of Patent: December 20, 2011Inventor: Vern Schroeder
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Patent number: 8011685Abstract: An interchangeable hitch ball assembly that may be easily interchangeable with the hitch of a towing vehicle and that may prevent a trailer socket from being connected to the hitch ball prior to securing the hitch ball to the hitch bar. The hitch ball assembly may include a ball member, a body, a passageway, at least one locking member, an elongated member located within the passageway and biased toward the at least one locking member, and a plunger capable of being moved by the elongated member between a locked position and an unlocked or release position. The plunger may be moved toward the locking member to force at least a portion of the locking member outside of the body to lock the assembly. The plunger may be moved away from the locking member to allow the locking member to retreat into the body and unlock the assembly.Type: GrantFiled: April 7, 2009Date of Patent: September 6, 2011Assignee: Cequent Towing Products, Inc.Inventors: Jack Belinky, Neal Weipert
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Patent number: 7988176Abstract: An adaptive fifth-wheel hitch system operable with a vehicle hitch coupling system, the fifth-wheel hitch assembly comprising a fifth-wheel hitch assembly configured to removably couple a fifth-wheel trailer to a vehicle; an adapter configured to operably relate and to removably couple the fifth-wheel hitch assembly to the vehicle hitch coupling system, the fifth-wheel hitch assembly and the vehicle hitch coupling system otherwise being inoperable with one another, the adapter comprising a mounting component having a first interface operable to relate and secure the adapter to the fifth-wheel hitch assembly, and a coupling component having a second interface operable to relate and secure the adapter to the vehicle hitch coupling system, the coupling component corresponding to a receiving component of the vehicle hitch coupling system.Type: GrantFiled: March 12, 2008Date of Patent: August 2, 2011Assignee: Camco Manufacturing, Inc.Inventors: Gregory J. Colibert, Jackie Colibert-Clarke
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Patent number: 7971895Abstract: A trailer hitch is disclosed, which is configured to be provided at a rear part of a vehicle. The trailer hitch of the invention includes a pair of hitch side members. Each of the hitch side members including a mounting part and a cross member installation part. The mounting part is configured to be connected to a support portion of a rear side member of the vehicle, and the cross member installation part is configured to protrude from a rear end of the rear side member. The trailer hitch further includes a cross member and a hitch ball support member. The cross member extends in a widthwise direction of the vehicle, and having ends connected to the cross member installation part, and the hitch ball support member has a hitch ball. The upper end of the hitch ball support member is provided on the cross member so as to suspend therefrom.Type: GrantFiled: February 6, 2009Date of Patent: July 5, 2011Assignee: Fuji Jukogyo Kabushiki KaishaInventor: Kenichi Kozuka
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Patent number: 7963545Abstract: An interchangeable hitch ball assembly is provided having hitch post, a removable hitch ball, and a connector pin. The hitch post defines an annular groove proximate to the top end that is sized to receive spaced-apart prongs of the connector pin along opposing sides of the hitch post. Removable hitch ball defines a pin recess aligned with the annular groove of the hitch post. The user can remove the hitch ball by extracting the connector pin. In this manner, the user can utilize hitch balls of different sizes, as needed.Type: GrantFiled: June 5, 2009Date of Patent: June 21, 2011Inventor: Thomas Coy
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Patent number: 7938431Abstract: A coupling system that uses a standard receiver box found on most new vehicles to attach a coupler with a universal joint allows full movement between the vehicle and the trailer, including vertical, lateral and rotational motion. The device also incorporated lubrication fittings so that it can be lubricated in the field. The rear of the universal joint has a spindle that extends rearward. The spindle fits through a sleeve that is used to attach the unit to the trailer. The spindle is rotatable secured in the sleeve with a nut and a pin, to provide the 360 degrees of rotation. A limiter plate can be installed to limit the rotation of the trailer in use. The sleeve has two flat side plates that are bolted to the trailer tongue. The unit provides a strong, compact functional hitch system.Type: GrantFiled: April 16, 2009Date of Patent: May 10, 2011Inventor: Samuel M. Snyder
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Patent number: 7926829Abstract: A trailer hitch includes multiple hitch connectors for connecting the trailer to a towing vehicle in different ways. The trailer hitch includes multiple connectors at distal ends of the hitch body. The trailer hitch can be position such that either end is facing the towing vehicle. Mounting plates secure the trailer hitch to the trailer frame and may be adjustable vertically to raise or lower the height of the trailer hitch with respect to the trailer frame.Type: GrantFiled: January 29, 2010Date of Patent: April 19, 2011Assignee: Lincoln Global, Inc.Inventor: David J. Bender
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Patent number: 7918476Abstract: A hitch assembly comprises housing that includes a generally cylindrical socket with an inner diameter and a slot along an outer periphery of the socket. A hitch ball includes a base that is selectively received within the socket. The base includes a radial groove that generally aligns with the slot. A sliding member selectively engages the slot and the radial groove to retain the hitch ball within the socket.Type: GrantFiled: June 3, 2005Date of Patent: April 5, 2011Assignee: Valley Towing ProductsInventor: Don F. Linger
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Patent number: 7918475Abstract: Embodiments described herein relate to methods and structures that can be used to quickly disconnect a trailer from a tractor. One embodiment provides a quick disconnect hitch that links a tractor and a trailer. The quick disconnect hitch comprises a tongue attached to the tractor and a body insertable into the tongue. An extension is attached to and projects away from the body. The extension is connectable with the trailer. A pair of lugs is disposed on the body. The lugs are movable between a connected position where the trailer moves responsive to movement of the tractor and a disconnected position where the trailer moves independently of the tractor. A detent is disposed on each of the pair of lugs. A pair of slots is disposed on the tongue. Each of the pair of slots is configured to accept the detent. Each detent is disposed in each of the pair of slots when the lugs are in the connected position, and each detent is dislocated from each of the pair of slots when the lugs are in the disconnected position.Type: GrantFiled: July 2, 2009Date of Patent: April 5, 2011Assignee: International Truck Intellectual Property Company, LLCInventor: Thomas A Musselman
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Patent number: 7878526Abstract: A trailer hitch pin of the present disclosure has a magnet disposed on an end of a shaft for coupling the shaft to an opening in a trailer hitch, the shaft for insertion into the opening to retain the trailer hitch in a receptacle coupled to a vehicle. In addition, the trailer hitch pin has a lever pivotally attached to the shaft for disengaging the magnet and decoupling the shaft from the opening to remove the trailer hitch from the receptacle.Type: GrantFiled: September 26, 2008Date of Patent: February 1, 2011Inventor: James K. Jantzen
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Patent number: 7871097Abstract: A hitch assembly that comprises a coupling tongue with a first end and a second end, a substantially U-shaped clevis that is substantially flat in cross section, pivotally coupled to the second end of the coupling tongue by a hitch pin, and an opening formed by the coupling tongue and the clevis, sized to receive a towing member. The hitch assembly is particularly suited for connecting a tow strap or belt to a commercially available tubular trailer hitch receiver, for use in towing operations.Type: GrantFiled: December 6, 2004Date of Patent: January 18, 2011Inventors: Vernon W. Sparkes, William J. D. Shaw
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Publication number: 20110001302Abstract: Embodiments described herein relate to methods and structures that can be used to quickly disconnect a trailer from a tractor. One embodiment provides a quick disconnect hitch that links a tractor and a trailer. The quick disconnect hitch comprises a tongue attached to the tractor and a body insertable into the tongue. An extension is attached to and projects away from the body. The extension is connectable with the trailer. A pair of lugs is disposed on the body. The lugs are movable between a connected position where the trailer moves responsive to movement of the tractor and a disconnected position where the trailer moves independently of the tractor. A detent is disposed on each of the pair of lugs. A pair of slots is disposed on the tongue. Each of the pair of slots is configured to accept the detent. Each detent is disposed in each of the pair of slots when the lugs are in the connected position, and each detent is dislocated from each of the pair of slots when the lugs are in the disconnected position.Type: ApplicationFiled: July 2, 2009Publication date: January 6, 2011Applicant: International Truck Intellectual Property Company, LLCInventor: Thomas Andrew Musselman
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Patent number: 7850192Abstract: An adjustable ball-type hitch assembly, and a method for using it. The hitch assembly is connected to a hitch receiver of a towing vehicle on one end, and to a vehicle to be towed having a ball receiver, on the other end. In a preferred embodiment, the adjustable hitch assembly may include a base attachable to the receiver, and a sliding element such as a tongue supporting the ball and pivotally attached to the base. The sliding element may include a slot or groove enabling the sliding element to move along its longitudinal axis relative to the base, and to also rotate about a vertical axis perpendicular to a horizontal plane containing at least a portion of the sliding element, enabling the ball to be moved in various directions in a substantially horizontal plane to facilitate connection of the ball to the towed vehicle.Type: GrantFiled: November 13, 2008Date of Patent: December 14, 2010Assignee: Inventive, LLCInventors: Charles J Ceccarelli, Kevin B Haight
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Patent number: 7837216Abstract: A tow bar apparatus has a hitch member, a pair of linkages, and a pair of tow bars. The hitch member has a receiver tube adapted to removably engage a towing vehicle, and a vertical pivot post having a vertical axis that is generally orthogonal to the surface when the hitch member is mounted on the towing vehicle. Each of the pair of linkages connects the hitch member to a proximal end of one of the pair of tow bars. Each linkage includes a vertical aperture that pivotally mounts the linkage on the vertical pivot post, and a horizontal pivot pin attached to one of the pair of tow bars. A towed vehicle attachment element of a distal end of each of the tow bars is adapted to be removably attached to the towed vehicle.Type: GrantFiled: April 6, 2009Date of Patent: November 23, 2010Assignee: Dethmers Manufacturing CompanyInventors: John C. Greaves, Jr., Jason J. Kraai
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Patent number: 7815210Abstract: The present trailer hitch assembly addresses the problem of lost tongue weight support and towing capacity when a person adds an extension to a trailer hitch for adding a slide-in camper to a truck or for moving a trailer back a little to increase the turning radius. Generally, when such an extension is utilized, the towing capacity of the vehicle to which the extension is attached is downgraded, due to the lengthening of the overall trailer hitch assembly and lack of structural support. Disclosed herein is a trailer hitch assembly that addresses this problem by providing extra structural support to boost this lack of structural support.Type: GrantFiled: January 11, 2008Date of Patent: October 19, 2010Inventor: Eric D. Pennal
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Patent number: 7815211Abstract: A hitch storage device for securing a hitch to a vehicle that minimizes risk of accidental painful contact between the hitch and the operator of the vehicle. The hitch storage device includes a connecting member, a male hitch member, a hitch-support bracket, and a male protrusion member. The hitch storage device incorporates an integral passive securing mechanism whereby a hitch is secured without having to use an active hitch-securing device such as a bolt to secure the hitch shaft to the hitch storage device of the present invention. In a further embodiment, the male hitch member and hitch-support bracket are integrated to provide an L-shaped bracket with an integral sidewall.Type: GrantFiled: March 29, 2007Date of Patent: October 19, 2010Inventor: Bryan Witchey
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Patent number: 7793968Abstract: An integrated support structure apparatus is provided for attaching either a fifth wheel trailer hitch or a gooseneck trailer hitch to a truck bed. The integrated support structure comprises an H-shaped body that is attached to at least one truck frame rail below the truck bed. A gooseneck ball receiver is attached to a central portion of the body and aligned with a gooseneck opening in the truck bed. A plurality of mounting pads are formed integrally as part of a plurality of end inserts that are assembled to the body.Type: GrantFiled: June 23, 2009Date of Patent: September 14, 2010Assignee: Ford Global Technologies, LLCInventor: Sean Withers
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Patent number: 7770870Abstract: A portable winch system mounted to a standard trailer hitch tow ball of a vehicle permits steep incline pulling angles of the winch without cutting into the neck portion of the tow ball. To achieve a broad range of inclination angles, the cup plate (socket that fits over the tow ball) and/or the ball-locking portion of the winch system includes relieved neck-clearance areas. In some embodiments, the cup plate and/or ball-locking mechanism includes neck contact points that are softer than the material of the tow ball.Type: GrantFiled: August 22, 2008Date of Patent: August 10, 2010Inventor: David E. Fly
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Publication number: 20100127478Abstract: A trailer hitch includes multiple hitch connectors for connecting the trailer to a towing vehicle in different ways. The trailer hitch includes multiple connectors at distal ends of the hitch body. The trailer hitch can be position such that either end is facing the towing vehicle. Mounting plates secure the trailer hitch to the trailer frame and may be adjustable vertically to raise or lower the height of the trailer hitch with respect to the trailer frame.Type: ApplicationFiled: January 29, 2010Publication date: May 27, 2010Applicant: LINCOLN GLOBAL, INC.Inventor: David J. Bender
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Patent number: 7717455Abstract: A drawbar assembly includes a shank that can slidingly engage a first hitch receiver having an interior opening with a first size, which may be a class I receiver with a one and one-quarter inch square opening and provisions for a one-half inch hitch pin. First and second adapter parts, each having two sides forming a right angle, are removably coupled to the shank on opposite sides. The drawbar assembly can slidingly engage a second hitch receiver having an interior opening with a second size, which may be a class III receiver with a two inch square opening and provisions for a five-eighths inch hitch pin. A threaded hitch pin may clamp the drawbar assembly to the receiver.Type: GrantFiled: July 8, 2008Date of Patent: May 18, 2010Assignee: Danik Industries Ltd.Inventor: James C. Morris
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Publication number: 20100084837Abstract: The Temporary Single Arm Adjustable Goose Neck Hitch system allows for a traditional tow behind trailer that has been constructed with a straight tongue or an A frame style trailer hitch, to be converted into, and function as a temporary single arm, adjustable goose neck style trailer, that can be attached to and towed by an independent self propelled vehicle such as, but not limited to, a small utility truck, an All Terrain utility Vehicle, a 5th wheel dolly assembly, or the rear hitch device of a towing vehicle such as a pickup truck by using a standard 5th wheel coupling device, the fore said hitch system uses a quick connect receiver coupler device that attaches to the traditional trailer frame hitch tongue, for the accepting of and locking in place the temporary, single arm adjustable goose neck, with the use of a temporary fastener that is inserted through the matching pre-drilled holes in the receiver coupler and the adjustable, insertable connector tube portion of the invention.Type: ApplicationFiled: September 21, 2009Publication date: April 8, 2010Inventor: Richard L. Quiring
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Patent number: 7673894Abstract: A trailer hitch includes multiple hitch connectors for connecting the trailer to a towing vehicle in different ways. The trailer hitch includes multiple connectors at distal ends of the hitch body. The trailer hitch can be position such that either end is facing the towing vehicle. Mounting plates secure the trailer hitch to the trailer frame and may be adjustable vertically to raise or lower the height of the trailer hitch with respect to the trailer frame.Type: GrantFiled: August 6, 2007Date of Patent: March 9, 2010Assignee: Lincoln Global, Inc.Inventor: David J. Bender
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Patent number: 7661693Abstract: A combined vehicle tow and step assembly in which a trailer hitch and step platform are interconnected with each other and function as a unit so as to provide both towing and step functions without the need of removal from the vehicle high mount to achieve such functions.Type: GrantFiled: January 14, 2008Date of Patent: February 16, 2010Inventor: John A Lipski
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Patent number: 7631817Abstract: A lock assembly operable to secure a lift linkage associated with moving a boom assembly between a lowered, operative position and a raised, inoperative position is provided. The lock assembly includes a lock pin mounted at a carrying frame interconnected between a lift linkage and the boom assembly. The lock assembly also includes a lock plate mounted at the lift linkage. In the raised position of the lift linkage, the lock plate includes a slot configured to align so as receive the lock pin. Once aligned, the boom is pivoted toward the folded, stowed position. As the boom pivots, the boom pushes the lock pin through the slot. The lift linkage is then lowered to seat the lock pin in the slot and thereby secure the lift linkage and supported boom in the raised, folded position.Type: GrantFiled: April 1, 2005Date of Patent: December 15, 2009Assignee: CNH Canada, Ltd.Inventors: Dennis G. Thompson, Dennis W. Chahley
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Publication number: 20090218787Abstract: A faux vehicle bumper component includes an elongated body panel having a pair of receivers or connectors at spaced apart locations therealong adapted to engage a pair of spikes or prongs from a tow bar connecting system protruding generally from the grill area of an associated vehicle to be towed. The receivers or connectors are adjustably secured to the body panel in order to accommodate different or varied spacings of the spikes or prongs and/or different types and styles of vehicles. Releasable fasteners are used for selectively securing the associated spikes or prongs to the receivers or connectors. Installation of the faux bumper component eliminates a potentially hazardous condition that exists when the spikes or prongs are exposed during a non towed condition of the vehicle.Type: ApplicationFiled: February 26, 2009Publication date: September 3, 2009Inventors: Wallace R. Jones, David A. Higley
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Publication number: 20090184493Abstract: A removable tow device and tow device receiver is provided having lugs upon the removable tow device that engage lug pockets within the tow device receiver for secure engagement. The removable tow device and receiver are simple to use, requiring a minimal of manipulation to install. Installation is reduced to insert, twist, and release. It is emphasized that this abstract is provided to comply with the rules requiring an abstract that will allow a searcher or other reader to quickly ascertain the subject matter of the technical disclosure. It is submitted with the understanding that it will not be used to interpret or limit the scope or meaning of the claims.Type: ApplicationFiled: January 18, 2008Publication date: July 23, 2009Applicant: International Truck Intellectual Property Company, LLCInventors: Michael J. Eifert, Kevin L. Grady, Matthew D. Friede, Blaine L. Hershberger
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Patent number: 7530590Abstract: The hitch locking and alarm mechanism comprises a hitch member for attachment to the towing vehicle, a tow vehicle mount for attachment to the towed vehicle, a locking pin, and a locking pin housing assembly with an alarm. A drawbar of the hitch member is insertable into a receiver tube of a tow vehicle mount secured to the undersurface of the towed vehicle. The drawbar and the receiver tube each have cross bores that are alignable with each other. The hitch member has a drawbar, and the drawbar has a cross bore. The tow vehicle mount comprises a receiver tube secured to a vehicle guide plate. The hitch member is engageable within a receiver tube positioned within the tow vehicle mount. A locking pin is insertable through the two cross bores, and the end of the locking pin connects with the locking pin housing assembly. The alarm switch is mounted within the locking pin housing assembly.Type: GrantFiled: May 26, 2006Date of Patent: May 12, 2009Inventor: Arnol Staggs
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Patent number: 7510203Abstract: A hitch release system for releasing the locked engagement of a hitch, the hitch having a manually operable release bar coupled to a locking mechanism, the hitch release system includes a selectively actuatable power assist system, the power assist system being releasably, operably coupled to the release bar, wherein actuation of the power assist system acts to translate the release bar in a first axial direction, such translation acting to release the locking mechanism. A method of release is further included.Type: GrantFiled: August 25, 2006Date of Patent: March 31, 2009Assignee: Towmaster, Inc.Inventor: Michael C. Domine
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Patent number: 7506888Abstract: A safety latch system for towing dollies has a frame that is comprised of front, rear, right, left, and internal frame members. A hitch point on the front frame is used to attach to the tow vehicle. Cable and cylinder ports are on, and extend through the front frame. The cable has two ends, and can have end loops, where the first loop encloses a handle and the second loop is connected to an engagement device. A spring-loaded cylinder has a first end attached to the cable, and a second end with a pin that extends through the cylinder port. The hitch point can be two pieces with a tow bar member attached to the front frame and a towing hitch that slides into the tow bar member. The cable can route through a cable retention member attached to the internal frame, and can also be plastic coated. The engagement device can be a S-hook, a coupling link, a twin clevis, a carabineer, a connecting link or an eyehook.Type: GrantFiled: April 10, 2006Date of Patent: March 24, 2009Inventors: Derome Stovall, Erica King
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Patent number: 7503549Abstract: Disclosed is a device for lifting and storing 5th wheel hitches from pickup truck beds. The 5th wheel hitch lifting device consists of modified kingpin hitch, a hoist, and a support structure for the hoist. The modified kingpin hitch utilizes a detachable or integrated loop that allows the hook on a hoist to lift the hitch. Also described is a method for using the 5th wheel hitch lifting device.Type: GrantFiled: February 20, 2007Date of Patent: March 17, 2009Inventor: Steve Maturino
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Publication number: 20090039616Abstract: A trailer hitch includes multiple hitch connectors for connecting the trailer to a towing vehicle in different ways. The trailer hitch includes multiple connectors at distal ends of the hitch body. The trailer hitch can be position such that either end is facing the towing vehicle. Mounting plates secure the trailer hitch to the trailer frame and may be adjustable vertically to raise or lower the height of the trailer hitch with respect to the trailer frame.Type: ApplicationFiled: August 6, 2007Publication date: February 12, 2009Applicant: LINCOLN GLOBAL, INC.Inventor: David J. Bender
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Patent number: 7458597Abstract: The present invention provides a multiple use adjustable trailer for use in transportation, storage and housing, comprising: a substantially Y-shaped tongue (18) which pivots on a frame (2) into a perpendicular position where the lower portions of the side arms of the tongue (18) function as support legs for the frame (2), enabling the frame (2) to store and display materials or house equipment in the trailer bed. The tongue (18) is further secured vertically by hitch pins (8) in brackets (28) on the frame (2) that can be locked in place as a deterrent to theft. Two flip-down legs (30) pivotably mounted on the side of the frame (2) are used as temporary support legs before the lower portions of the side arms of the tongue (18) are fully engaged. The flip-down legs (30) are engaged when a hitch pin (8) is released from a hitch means on each side of the frame (2), enabling each flip-down leg (30) to freely pivot downward to contact the ground.Type: GrantFiled: March 3, 2005Date of Patent: December 2, 2008Inventor: Kenneth L. MacDougall
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Patent number: 7431319Abstract: The hitch assembly comprises a hitch member, a shank assembly for attachment to the towing vehicle, a tow vehicle mount for attachment to the towed vehicle, and a hitch alarm. The hitch member comprises a drop ball mount, and a drawbar. The drawbar is secured to the undersurface of the drop ball mount. The shank assembly includes a shank, a ball mount, a pair of ballasts, and a coupling member. The shank extends through the opening of the drop ball mount. The ball mount has a threaded engagement with one end of the shank. Interchangeable ball mounts and the use of one or two ballasts enable the same hitch assembly to be used to tow varying loads. The tow vehicle mount is secured to the undersurface of the towed vehicle. The tow vehicle mount comprises a receiver tube secured to a vehicle guide plate. The drawbar is inserted into and through the receiving tube. The hitch alarm detects an unauthorized removal of either the hitch member or the towed vehicle from the towing vehicle.Type: GrantFiled: March 10, 2005Date of Patent: October 7, 2008Inventor: Arnol Staggs
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Patent number: 7431321Abstract: A trailer hitch assembly includes a receiver portion including a cylindrically-shaped cavity, a bushing member received within the cavity of the receiver portion, and a hitch member that includes a shaft pivotally received within the bushing member. At least a selected one of the bushing member and the shaft is constructed of a material that substantially eliminates the need for using a separately applied lubricant during use of the trailer hitch assembly.Type: GrantFiled: May 27, 2004Date of Patent: October 7, 2008Assignee: SAF-Holland, Inc.Inventors: Eric M. Terpsma, David O. Roe, Richard T. Polanic, Rudolph A. Bahnsen
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Patent number: 7390007Abstract: A towbar for flat-towing a vehicle, including two telescoping arms each pivotally attached at a pivot end having a heavy-gauge eyelet for attaching to a pintle hitch on the rear of a towing vehicle, with each arm having a gear element at the pivot end, in gear engagement with the gear element of the other arm. The telescoping arms automatically lock at a predetermined length.Type: GrantFiled: June 5, 2006Date of Patent: June 24, 2008Assignee: IBIS TEK, LLCInventors: James Helms, Thomas G. Buckner
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Patent number: 7364180Abstract: A hitch assembly for coupling a trailer to a tow vehicle includes a number of assemblies, including converging links and a slide assembly, that effectively places the pivot point for the trailer ahead of the actual hitch assembly, which in turn enhances the stability of the combination tow vehicle and trailer, rendering it less susceptible to swaying or fishtailing.Type: GrantFiled: December 29, 2004Date of Patent: April 29, 2008Assignee: James C. Hensley Revocable Living Trust AInventor: James C. Hensley
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Patent number: 7275754Abstract: Support structure (1) for a hitch ball (61) and a depressor (62), wherein a fastening mechanism (2) is provided for securement to a carrier (81) by means of quick-action coupling.Type: GrantFiled: July 13, 2004Date of Patent: October 2, 2007Inventor: Josef Scharmüller
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Patent number: 7258359Abstract: A trailer hitch assembly is removably attachable to a receiver connected to a towing vehicle. The receiver has a rectangular port defining a receptacle. The trailer hitch assembly includes a support arm assembly and at least one hitch ball. The support arm assembly has a first support arm and a second support arm. Each of the first and second support arms are sized and dimensioned to be disposed in the receptacle for attachment to the receiver. The at least one hitch ball is supported by the support arm assembly.Type: GrantFiled: January 24, 2005Date of Patent: August 21, 2007Assignee: Wooten Metal, Inc.Inventor: Donald W. Wooten
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Patent number: 7255362Abstract: A tiltable trailer hitch for assisting in the loading and unloading of a trailer. The hitch includes a shank adapted to be received within a conventional trailer hitch and a ballmount pivotally mounted on the shank. An adjustment bracket is carried by the shank and is adapted to attach a ballmount. The adjustment bracket defines cooperating pairs of first openings and cooperating pairs of second openings. The second openings are radially spaced apart about a first of the first openings. The first openings are radially spaced apart about a first of the second openings. The ballmount defines first and second openings for cooperatively receiving the first and second ballmount locking pins. The trailer is tilted up or down by moving the first and second ballmount locking pins up and down within the cooperating pairs of first and second openings.Type: GrantFiled: June 17, 2005Date of Patent: August 14, 2007Inventor: Lane Smith
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Patent number: 7229130Abstract: Disclosed is a hitch adaptor adapted to engage a tow plate via a tow ball skirt or base, a tow ball shaft or fastener and a nut or locking device and adapted to receive support structures such as stanchions having deployable panels as seats.Type: GrantFiled: November 2, 2004Date of Patent: June 12, 2007Inventors: Alan Conrad Holly, Wesley Gene Wegner
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Patent number: 7219915Abstract: A trailer ball raising and lowering apparatus includes vehicle attachment means, a first hitch-support unit connected to the vehicle attachment means, a raisable and lowerable second hitch-support unit, continuously movable first-to-second connector means connected between the first hitch-support unit and the raisable and lowerable second hitch-support unit, unit-to-unit lock means for locking the raisable and lowerable second hitch-support unit to the first hitch-support unit, and a hitch member connected to the raisable and lowerable second hitch-support unit. An important feature of the present invention is that the interconnection between a trailer-mounted ball connector and a hitch ball unit on the motor vehicle is not disconnected during raising and lowering of the respective ends of the trailer.Type: GrantFiled: March 12, 2005Date of Patent: May 22, 2007Inventor: Craig A. Christensen
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Patent number: 7195270Abstract: A support device is provided to accept hitch mounted bicycle carriers and other hitch accessories with the device being capable of being supported on the ground or against either a vertical or a horizontal surface. The support device is part consists firstly of a support receiver that accepts a wide range of commercial carriers built for 2 inch or 1¼ inch diameter square tongues and for those that bolt directly to fixed hitches. The support receiver connects to a frame of the support device which supports the receiver on various surfaces.Type: GrantFiled: November 25, 2003Date of Patent: March 27, 2007Inventor: Ian Norquay
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Patent number: 7168727Abstract: An invertible gooseneck trailer hitch mechanism is provided. A frame supports a housing having an opening therein for receiving a hitch member in an upright use position or in inverted storage position. A base portion of the hitch member has a circumscribing groove therein to permit cooperation with a pin of a retaining assembly. A user may selectively extend or retract the pin from receipt in the groove by rotating a spaced apart handle when the ball is in either the use or storage positions to retain the hitch member in the opening.Type: GrantFiled: February 19, 2003Date of Patent: January 30, 2007Assignee: Popup Industries, Inc.Inventor: Bernard L. Dick
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Patent number: 7131659Abstract: The present invention is a hitch for coupling a towing vehicle to a vehicle to be towed. In one embodiment, the hitch comprises a receiver portion having a channel operably configured to receive an insert member and a connection portion disposed adjacent to the receiver portion and having a chamber with an orifice extending through the chamber, an edge defining an opening of the chamber, first and second notches disposed opposing each other along the edge, and first and second coaxial opposing flanges disposed about the orifice, within the chamber and apart from each other at a predetermined distance. Further the hitch may comprise a shaft having first and second ends, where the second end inserts into the orifice of the connection portion and the first end having a diameter larger than the shaft such that it forms a plate surface on the connection portion. In an alternative embodiment, the hitch includes a receiver portion having an integral ball mount.Type: GrantFiled: May 13, 2004Date of Patent: November 7, 2006Inventor: Roddy M. Gomez
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Patent number: 7114741Abstract: The present invention relates to a trailer hitch receiver including a cross member, a first mounting flange carried on the cross member between the midpoint and a first end thereof and a second mounting flange carried on the cross member between the midpoint and a second end thereof. The trailer hitch receiver also includes a pair of opposed mounting brackets. Each of the opposed mounting brackets includes a first mounting arrangement or series of apertures that secures the mounting brackets to the cross member in a first position and a second mounting arrangement or second set of mounting apertures for securing the mounting brackets to the main frame member in a second position.Type: GrantFiled: December 2, 2003Date of Patent: October 3, 2006Assignee: Cequent Towing Products, Inc.Inventors: Hanson Marvin L., Richard W. McCoy, Mark P. Scruggs
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Patent number: 7100936Abstract: A trailer hitch (20) for attachment onto a motor vehicle for pulling a trailer. The hitch (20) consists of a pair of forward and aft mounting brackets (22 and 24) that are connected into existing holes in the vehicle's frame. Each mounting bracket has flanges (22? and 24?) with the aft brackets (24) having thru-holes (26) arranged in a bolt circle array. The pair of forward mounting brackets (22) are connected to the aft mounting brackets (24) for length adjustment of the trailer hitch relative to the hitch position on the motor vehicle. The height of the trailer hitch (20) is regulated by the right side up or upside down position of the aft mounting brackets (24) properly orienting the thru-holes. A box hitch (44) is adjustably attached for width regulation onto the thru-holes of the aft mounting brackets (24) by inserting arms (30) into a tubular sleeve (50) of the box hitch at an appropriate distance.Type: GrantFiled: December 13, 2004Date of Patent: September 5, 2006Inventors: John C. Cheng, Zhen Quin Huang, Sam Fu
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Patent number: 7055844Abstract: A trailer hitch storage apparatus designed to carry a removable trailer hitch used in receiver type hitches. The apparatus consists of a frame comprising a mounting plate, at least one bracket for supporting the trailer hitch extending from the mounting plate, a center hanger that extends through the hitch pin hole on the trailer hitch, and a mounting arrangement for attaching the mounting plate to the vehicle. Alternative embodiments accommodate attachment to a truck or a vehicle such as an SUV having an enclosed compartment. A quick-folding collapsible apparatus having the same general structure is also described.Type: GrantFiled: March 23, 2004Date of Patent: June 6, 2006Inventor: Thomas Bostedt