by David Ayers
Equipment Notebook
TRAILER SECURITY
N
o matter how well you protect your boat or trailer,
if someone truly wants to steal it, they will probably
find a way. However, most thieves are
opportunistic. A simple philosophy is to make stealing your
boat or trailer more difficult or bothersome than the thief’s
next opportunity. To do that, at least some level of trailer
security is desirable. You can spend as much as you like for
anti-theft systems now on the market, but the first level of
1. Here are three commonly used padlocks. Any of
these are a better choice than a simple, unlocking hitch
pin.
2. Using a padlock that can not be easily cut with a
hacksaw or with bolt cutters is the better choice.
3. Some receivers have hitch pins that easily accept
common padlocks. Never use makeshift keeper pins.
4. Locking your receiver to your tow vehicle can deter
theft.
5. Best practice is to use a coupler locking device,
similar to this one, on an unattended trailer, while at
home or away.
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defense is to simply use locks - both when your trailer is
coupled to your tow vehicle and when it is unattended.
Below are some commonly used lock types. Use one that
isn’t easily accessible by bolt cutters or hack saws. It’s better
to have security devices that are easily seen, even consider
spray painting locks a bright color. Anything you can do to
cause a potential thief to move on past your boat and trailer
is worth it!
6. Newer trailer coupler locks can be accepted on a
wider array of coupler types, even rolled lip couplers .
GULF COAST FISHERMAN
Photos by author.
W W W. G U L F F I S H I N G. C O M