Readily Demountable Hitch Patents (Class 280/491.5)
  • Patent number: 8162290
    Abstract: 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: Grant
    Filed: March 7, 2011
    Date of Patent: April 24, 2012
    Inventor: Clint E. Tracy
  • Patent number: 8079612
    Abstract: 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: Grant
    Filed: February 22, 2007
    Date of Patent: December 20, 2011
    Inventor: Curt Tambornino
  • Patent number: 8079613
    Abstract: 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: Grant
    Filed: May 11, 2006
    Date of Patent: December 20, 2011
    Inventor: Marty Williams
  • Patent number: 8079611
    Abstract: 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: Grant
    Filed: December 30, 2009
    Date of Patent: December 20, 2011
    Inventor: Vern Schroeder
  • Patent number: 8011685
    Abstract: 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: Grant
    Filed: April 7, 2009
    Date of Patent: September 6, 2011
    Assignee: Cequent Towing Products, Inc.
    Inventors: Jack Belinky, Neal Weipert
  • Patent number: 7988176
    Abstract: 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: Grant
    Filed: March 12, 2008
    Date of Patent: August 2, 2011
    Assignee: Camco Manufacturing, Inc.
    Inventors: Gregory J. Colibert, Jackie Colibert-Clarke
  • Patent number: 7971895
    Abstract: 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: Grant
    Filed: February 6, 2009
    Date of Patent: July 5, 2011
    Assignee: Fuji Jukogyo Kabushiki Kaisha
    Inventor: Kenichi Kozuka
  • Patent number: 7963545
    Abstract: 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: Grant
    Filed: June 5, 2009
    Date of Patent: June 21, 2011
    Inventor: Thomas Coy
  • Patent number: 7938431
    Abstract: 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: Grant
    Filed: April 16, 2009
    Date of Patent: May 10, 2011
    Inventor: Samuel M. Snyder
  • Patent number: 7926829
    Abstract: 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: Grant
    Filed: January 29, 2010
    Date of Patent: April 19, 2011
    Assignee: Lincoln Global, Inc.
    Inventor: David J. Bender
  • Patent number: 7918476
    Abstract: 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: Grant
    Filed: June 3, 2005
    Date of Patent: April 5, 2011
    Assignee: Valley Towing Products
    Inventor: Don F. Linger
  • Patent number: 7918475
    Abstract: 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: Grant
    Filed: July 2, 2009
    Date of Patent: April 5, 2011
    Assignee: International Truck Intellectual Property Company, LLC
    Inventor: Thomas A Musselman
  • Patent number: 7878526
    Abstract: 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: Grant
    Filed: September 26, 2008
    Date of Patent: February 1, 2011
    Inventor: James K. Jantzen
  • Patent number: 7871097
    Abstract: 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: Grant
    Filed: December 6, 2004
    Date of Patent: January 18, 2011
    Inventors: Vernon W. Sparkes, William J. D. Shaw
  • Publication number: 20110001302
    Abstract: 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: Application
    Filed: July 2, 2009
    Publication date: January 6, 2011
    Applicant: International Truck Intellectual Property Company, LLC
    Inventor: Thomas Andrew Musselman
  • Patent number: 7850192
    Abstract: 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: Grant
    Filed: November 13, 2008
    Date of Patent: December 14, 2010
    Assignee: Inventive, LLC
    Inventors: Charles J Ceccarelli, Kevin B Haight
  • Patent number: 7837216
    Abstract: 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: Grant
    Filed: April 6, 2009
    Date of Patent: November 23, 2010
    Assignee: Dethmers Manufacturing Company
    Inventors: John C. Greaves, Jr., Jason J. Kraai
  • Patent number: 7815210
    Abstract: 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: Grant
    Filed: January 11, 2008
    Date of Patent: October 19, 2010
    Inventor: Eric D. Pennal
  • Patent number: 7815211
    Abstract: 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: Grant
    Filed: March 29, 2007
    Date of Patent: October 19, 2010
    Inventor: Bryan Witchey
  • Patent number: 7793968
    Abstract: 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: Grant
    Filed: June 23, 2009
    Date of Patent: September 14, 2010
    Assignee: Ford Global Technologies, LLC
    Inventor: Sean Withers
  • Patent number: 7770870
    Abstract: 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: Grant
    Filed: August 22, 2008
    Date of Patent: August 10, 2010
    Inventor: David E. Fly
  • Publication number: 20100127478
    Abstract: 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: Application
    Filed: January 29, 2010
    Publication date: May 27, 2010
    Applicant: LINCOLN GLOBAL, INC.
    Inventor: David J. Bender
  • Patent number: 7717455
    Abstract: 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: Grant
    Filed: July 8, 2008
    Date of Patent: May 18, 2010
    Assignee: Danik Industries Ltd.
    Inventor: James C. Morris
  • Publication number: 20100084837
    Abstract: 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: Application
    Filed: September 21, 2009
    Publication date: April 8, 2010
    Inventor: Richard L. Quiring
  • Patent number: 7673894
    Abstract: 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: Grant
    Filed: August 6, 2007
    Date of Patent: March 9, 2010
    Assignee: Lincoln Global, Inc.
    Inventor: David J. Bender
  • Patent number: 7661693
    Abstract: 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: Grant
    Filed: January 14, 2008
    Date of Patent: February 16, 2010
    Inventor: John A Lipski
  • Patent number: 7631817
    Abstract: 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: Grant
    Filed: April 1, 2005
    Date of Patent: December 15, 2009
    Assignee: CNH Canada, Ltd.
    Inventors: Dennis G. Thompson, Dennis W. Chahley
  • Publication number: 20090218787
    Abstract: 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: Application
    Filed: February 26, 2009
    Publication date: September 3, 2009
    Inventors: Wallace R. Jones, David A. Higley
  • Publication number: 20090184493
    Abstract: 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: Application
    Filed: January 18, 2008
    Publication date: July 23, 2009
    Applicant: International Truck Intellectual Property Company, LLC
    Inventors: Michael J. Eifert, Kevin L. Grady, Matthew D. Friede, Blaine L. Hershberger
  • Patent number: 7530590
    Abstract: 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: Grant
    Filed: May 26, 2006
    Date of Patent: May 12, 2009
    Inventor: Arnol Staggs
  • Patent number: 7510203
    Abstract: 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: Grant
    Filed: August 25, 2006
    Date of Patent: March 31, 2009
    Assignee: Towmaster, Inc.
    Inventor: Michael C. Domine
  • Patent number: 7506888
    Abstract: 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: Grant
    Filed: April 10, 2006
    Date of Patent: March 24, 2009
    Inventors: Derome Stovall, Erica King
  • Patent number: 7503549
    Abstract: 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: Grant
    Filed: February 20, 2007
    Date of Patent: March 17, 2009
    Inventor: Steve Maturino
  • Publication number: 20090039616
    Abstract: 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: Application
    Filed: August 6, 2007
    Publication date: February 12, 2009
    Applicant: LINCOLN GLOBAL, INC.
    Inventor: David J. Bender
  • Patent number: 7458597
    Abstract: 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: Grant
    Filed: March 3, 2005
    Date of Patent: December 2, 2008
    Inventor: Kenneth L. MacDougall
  • Patent number: 7431319
    Abstract: 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: Grant
    Filed: March 10, 2005
    Date of Patent: October 7, 2008
    Inventor: Arnol Staggs
  • Patent number: 7431321
    Abstract: 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: Grant
    Filed: May 27, 2004
    Date of Patent: October 7, 2008
    Assignee: SAF-Holland, Inc.
    Inventors: Eric M. Terpsma, David O. Roe, Richard T. Polanic, Rudolph A. Bahnsen
  • Patent number: 7390007
    Abstract: 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: Grant
    Filed: June 5, 2006
    Date of Patent: June 24, 2008
    Assignee: IBIS TEK, LLC
    Inventors: James Helms, Thomas G. Buckner
  • Patent number: 7364180
    Abstract: 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: Grant
    Filed: December 29, 2004
    Date of Patent: April 29, 2008
    Assignee: James C. Hensley Revocable Living Trust A
    Inventor: James C. Hensley
  • Patent number: 7275754
    Abstract: 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: Grant
    Filed: July 13, 2004
    Date of Patent: October 2, 2007
    Inventor: Josef Scharmüller
  • Patent number: 7258359
    Abstract: 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: Grant
    Filed: January 24, 2005
    Date of Patent: August 21, 2007
    Assignee: Wooten Metal, Inc.
    Inventor: Donald W. Wooten
  • Patent number: 7255362
    Abstract: 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: Grant
    Filed: June 17, 2005
    Date of Patent: August 14, 2007
    Inventor: Lane Smith
  • Patent number: 7229130
    Abstract: 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: Grant
    Filed: November 2, 2004
    Date of Patent: June 12, 2007
    Inventors: Alan Conrad Holly, Wesley Gene Wegner
  • Patent number: 7219915
    Abstract: 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: Grant
    Filed: March 12, 2005
    Date of Patent: May 22, 2007
    Inventor: Craig A. Christensen
  • Patent number: 7195270
    Abstract: 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: Grant
    Filed: November 25, 2003
    Date of Patent: March 27, 2007
    Inventor: Ian Norquay
  • Patent number: 7168727
    Abstract: 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: Grant
    Filed: February 19, 2003
    Date of Patent: January 30, 2007
    Assignee: Popup Industries, Inc.
    Inventor: Bernard L. Dick
  • Patent number: 7131659
    Abstract: 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: Grant
    Filed: May 13, 2004
    Date of Patent: November 7, 2006
    Inventor: Roddy M. Gomez
  • Patent number: 7114741
    Abstract: 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: Grant
    Filed: December 2, 2003
    Date of Patent: October 3, 2006
    Assignee: Cequent Towing Products, Inc.
    Inventors: Hanson Marvin L., Richard W. McCoy, Mark P. Scruggs
  • Patent number: 7100936
    Abstract: 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: Grant
    Filed: December 13, 2004
    Date of Patent: September 5, 2006
    Inventors: John C. Cheng, Zhen Quin Huang, Sam Fu
  • Patent number: 7055844
    Abstract: 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: Grant
    Filed: March 23, 2004
    Date of Patent: June 6, 2006
    Inventor: Thomas Bostedt