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Old 03-31-2023, 07:26 PM   #1
Jpalmer
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B&W Hitch - Saddle Security

Hi all,
Just installed my B&W hitch (20K) and while I can lock the base (lock on one leg), now the issue. I have been searching the internet for locking saddle pins and I can't seem to find any. I did see a thread on here from 2020 about buying these pins directly from B&W, but searching their site nothing to be found and chatting with the online help they said they do not offer locking saddle pins.


For context: the B&W hitch comes in two parts, the base and the saddle (where the king pin connects) simply "clicks" on to the base and uses regular hitch pins to secure it in place.

So any ideas?
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Old 03-31-2023, 07:28 PM   #2
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Pull one of the roll up covers on your bed. Out of sight and safe.
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Old 03-31-2023, 07:31 PM   #3
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I think they are 1/2 inch if my memory serves me correctly. If you can’t find them get 2 1/2 bolts with nylon lock nuts. They will be safer than original because they can’t be removed without tools.
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Old 03-31-2023, 07:39 PM   #4
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I had thought about that, but was hoping for a locking pin. and you are correct they are 1/2" but would need about 4" in length. Nice to know I'm not totally off base.

Also, I have a bed cover but I have the hard fold and it doesn't appear like it would be optimal in the folded position due to clearance .
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Old 04-01-2023, 04:34 AM   #5
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You could try the locking pin for a boat trailer. It should be able to reach. Like this one...
https://www.amazon.com/METOWARE-Trai...s%2C166&sr=8-9
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Old 04-01-2023, 06:23 AM   #6
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Quote:
Originally Posted by RMcNeal View Post
You could try the locking pin for a boat trailer. It should be able to reach. Like this one...
https://www.amazon.com/METOWARE-Trai...s%2C166&sr=8-9
Robert for the win! I would have never thought up that solution
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Old 04-01-2023, 09:29 AM   #7
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I know it's a pricey option but I have one to protect my investment. It protect the hitch from the elements and theft.
https://realtruck.com/p/retrax-power...E&gclsrc=aw.ds
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Old 04-02-2023, 04:50 AM   #8
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Quote:
Originally Posted by Foldbak View Post
I know it's a pricey option but I have one to protect my investment. It protect the hitch from the elements and theft.
https://realtruck.com/p/retrax-power...E&gclsrc=aw.ds
I've got the Retrax Pro (non powered) so I don't worry about the hitch or my toolbox being stolen either.
Have you had trouble with water leaks on your Retrax? Mine leaks terribly.
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Old 04-02-2023, 08:43 AM   #9
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Originally Posted by RMcNeal View Post
I've got the Retrax Pro (non powered) so I don't worry about the hitch or my toolbox being stolen either.
Have you had trouble with water leaks on your Retrax? Mine leaks terribly.

I know it's not water tight. Mostly leaks at the drain ports on the box. But mine is under a carport when not being used.
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Old 04-01-2023, 06:20 AM   #10
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First thing I do when I need to secure something with a hitch pin is to ditch the spring clip and drill the hole out just big enough to accept a small brass Masterlock. I been doing so for 20 or 30 years with no problems whatsoever.
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Old 04-01-2023, 06:22 AM   #11
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Another idea, use 5 inch bolts and drill a hole in then so you can use the clips for ease of use or put a locking nut on them for safety. We has some kid or idiot pull one of the clips one night.
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Old 04-01-2023, 04:21 PM   #12
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It’s never been a issue I have a roll up cover that I just cover it up
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Old 04-02-2023, 01:41 PM   #13
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You're lucky. Mine leaked along the edge rails since it was a few months old. Installer tried fixing it and even replaced side rails. Stopped for a very short time but started leaking again.
Now it leaks between most of the slats too. Whenever we have a heavy rain it's like I have a hot tub in the bed of my truck.
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Old 04-02-2023, 06:12 PM   #14
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There are all kinds on 5/8" locking pins on Amazon, but here is a 1/2" locking pin. https://www.amazon.com/TowWorks-7966...motive&sr=1-12
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Old 04-02-2023, 06:30 PM   #15
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I know I would feel safer with a lock pin instead of the original pins.
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Old 04-04-2023, 08:03 PM   #16
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I started cruising Amazon using different lengths. I started with 1/2x 5" no luck. So I just kept going up in size .5" and it popped up at 9.5. So it's on the way be here the 9th.


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Old 04-05-2023, 08:56 AM   #17
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Originally Posted by Jpalmer View Post
I started cruising Amazon using different lengths. I started with 1/2x 5" no luck. So I just kept going up in size .5" and it popped up at 9.5. So it's on the way be here the 9th.


They are perfect, secure. No one can take them out while you are away from your camper or asleep.
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Old 04-05-2023, 01:59 PM   #18
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I was always more concerned about the cheap clips being knocked out of the pins when loading stuff in the bed, or somehow (or by someone) the pins come out and not know it until the hitch separates while in transit.
Here's a suggestion:
The 'holes' in the head are not actually round (.60" h x .45"w) and they use a 7/16" (~.43") pin so you have to improvise.
What you can do is use a 1/2" Reese Receiver lock and modify it. You need to use the one with the bent pin (PN #7064) as the 'dogbone' locks do not give you enough room to apply the lock. The bent pin is approximately 6.5" from tip to tip.
In order to fit it into the oblong hole, you will need to narrow the width of the pin to approximately 7/16" (.43) by grinding the opposing sides, from the lock end tip to the bend.
The easiest way is to grip it in a vise with one side up, just above the vise jaw, and grind it flat, then turn it over (carefull it's going to be HOT) and do it again. You need to remove about 1/32" from each side, but since these pins don't carry any weight, taking a bit more, isn't going to hurt a thing.
Then insert the pin into the hole with the tail sticking up, as you can't get the pin in far enough for the lock, if you put it tail down.
One lock may do the job for theft prevention, but I'm more concerned with the clip and pins coming out, and not knowing it, so I suggest using 2.
Having the additional 1/16" height also takes out a bit of the slop in the hitch against the bushing.
Hopefully the picture is self explanatory - if not, let me know. My hitch was not installed with this photo.
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Old 06-01-2023, 09:46 AM   #19
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Quote:
Originally Posted by Jpalmer View Post
I started cruising Amazon using different lengths. I started with 1/2x 5" no luck. So I just kept going up in size .5" and it popped up at 9.5. So it's on the way be here the 9th.


Jeff, can you add an Amazon link?
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Old 06-01-2023, 06:55 PM   #20
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I think this is the one here.


https://www.walmart.com/ip/Reese-632...=sem&gclsrc=ds
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