Removing a stuck hitch receiver?

[toddjb122]

Okay, I know there have been threads here before on this (I have even responded to them with tips!), but I can't get my receiver out of the back of my truck!

I can pull the hitch out, but the LR part which is supposed to drop down...nada. I insert the key, turn it, turn the big green knob, etc. As far as I know I'm following the instructions and doing what I've done before which caused it to drop in my hand.

I think the issue is I just have not taken it out in a long time...maybe a couple years. And it has been exposed to sand and salt water. Every time in the past it was always shiny and clean on the inside, but I suspect the seam may have just enough corrosion to stick. Although, I can't see any rust or corrosion externally.

So, how do you free a stuck hitch receiver? Doesn't seem like there is an obvious place to bang to release it and I don't want to bend anything I shouldn't.

Open to any tips. Thanks!

 

[Mr.BigsLR3]

Say 'allo to my ittle friend.

 

[beantmt]

I can pull the hitch out, but the LR part which is supposed to drop down...nada. I insert the key, turn it, turn the big green knob, etc. As far as I know I'm following the instructions and doing what I've done before which caused it to drop in my hand.

Are you pulling *out* on the big green knob? You can't just turn it; it won't pull the pin all the way back that way. You have to pull out (i.e., pull from the right) and then turn.

 

[CMGRover]

Did you pull it out so the orange is exposed?

 

[duckdive]

Did you pull it out so the orange is exposed?

This usually works for me.

 

[macrover]

One more gripe on the hitch....the stupid little fold down keys are RIDICULOUS. Broke one today! Not sure if the key cutter can do a new one but I am going to find out.

 

[angasreid]

Well, I had a similar issue happen. I talked to locksmiths etc, all with no luck. I even asked the dealer if they could get it off. No avail. They told me they could drill it out for me, I declined obviously. So, I just drilled it out myself and it popped right off. Ridiculous.

 

[CMGRover]

One more gripe on the hitch....the stupid little fold down keys are RIDICULOUS. Broke one today! Not sure if the key cutter can do a new one but I am going to find out.

They should be able to. I had one cut for mine.

 

[nwoods]

Say 'allo to my ittle friend.

Awesome!

 

[Reed_HSE]

try lifting up on the trailer ball while turning the knob and all, had the same problem after leaving it in for a while (during this time getting rear ended, twice, no damage to the lr though). If not just trying moving it around or try "persuading" it.