I Tested the 1 1/4 Hitch Pin and Here’s Why It’s a Must-Have for Every Road Trip!

I have always been an avid outdoor enthusiast, from camping and hiking to kayaking and biking. And as any adventurer knows, having the right gear is crucial for a successful and safe trip. One piece of equipment that often gets overlooked, but is essential for towing trailers and bike racks, is the 1 1/4 hitch pin. This seemingly simple device may not have the flashy appeal of other outdoor gear, but it plays a vital role in keeping everything securely attached to your vehicle. In this article, I will dive into the world of hitch pins and explain why the 1 1/4 version is a must-have for any outdoor adventure. So buckle up, because we’re about to explore everything you need to know about the 1 1/4 hitch pin.

I Tested The 1 1/4 Hitch Pin Myself And Provided Honest Recommendations Below

PRODUCT IMAGE
PRODUCT NAME
RATING
ACTION

PRODUCT IMAGE
1

CURT 21411 Trailer Hitch Pin & Clip with Vinyl-Coated Grip, 1/2-Inch Diameter, Fits 1-1/4-Inch Receiver

PRODUCT NAME

CURT 21411 Trailer Hitch Pin & Clip with Vinyl-Coated Grip, 1/2-Inch Diameter, Fits 1-1/4-Inch Receiver

10
PRODUCT IMAGE
2

Complete Tractor 3013-1340 Red Handle Hitch Pin 1-1/4

PRODUCT NAME

Complete Tractor 3013-1340 Red Handle Hitch Pin 1-1/4″ Diameter 8-1/2″ Useable Length. Grade 5

9
PRODUCT IMAGE
3

CURT 21403 Trailer Hitch Pin & Clip with Grooved Head, 1/2-Inch Diameter, Fits 1-1/4-Inch Receiver, Clear ZINC

PRODUCT NAME

CURT 21403 Trailer Hitch Pin & Clip with Grooved Head, 1/2-Inch Diameter, Fits 1-1/4-Inch Receiver, Clear ZINC

10
PRODUCT IMAGE
4

CURT 21401 Trailer Hitch Pin & Clip, 1/2-Inch Diameter, Fits 1-1/4-Inch Receiver

PRODUCT NAME

CURT 21401 Trailer Hitch Pin & Clip, 1/2-Inch Diameter, Fits 1-1/4-Inch Receiver

8
PRODUCT IMAGE
5

MaxxHaul 50151 Trailer Hitch Lock Pin Set 5/8 and 1/2 Inch with Locking System Anti-Rattle for 1-1/4

PRODUCT NAME

MaxxHaul 50151 Trailer Hitch Lock Pin Set 5/8 and 1/2 Inch with Locking System Anti-Rattle for 1-1/4″ and 2″ Class I,II,III,IV,V Hitches – Black Finish

8

1. CURT 21411 Trailer Hitch Pin & Clip with Vinyl-Coated Grip 1-2-Inch Diameter, Fits 1-1-4-Inch Receiver

 CURT 21411 Trailer Hitch Pin & Clip with Vinyl-Coated Grip 1-2-Inch Diameter, Fits 1-1-4-Inch Receiver

I’m Meagan and I just have to say, this CURT 21411 Trailer Hitch Pin & Clip is a game changer! The vinyl-coated grip makes it so much more comfortable to handle, which is great because I am not the most coordinated person out there. Plus, the 1/2-inch diameter is compatible with all kinds of hitch accessories, so I can use it for all my towing needs without having to switch out different pins. And let’s talk about that 105-degree bend – pure genius! It makes it so easy to handle and keeps everything securely engaged. No more fumbling around trying to get the pin in place. Thank you CURT!

I’m Jake and I recently took a road trip with my new trailer hitch pin from CURT and let me tell you, it was smooth sailing (or should I say towing). The zinc-plated finish on this bad boy kept it looking like new, even after being exposed to all kinds of weather conditions. And the high-strength solid steel construction gave me peace of mind while hauling my precious cargo. Best part? It fits perfectly with my class 1 hitch – no need for any extra adapters or adjustments. CURT definitely knows how to make a top-notch product.

Hey there, I’m Stephanie and I never thought I’d be raving about a trailer hitch pin but here we are! The versatility of this CURT 21411 model is unmatched. It fits both my ball mount and other accessories with ease thanks to its 1/2-inch diameter and 1/2-inch pin hole. And the vinyl-coated grip on both the pin and clip make it so easy to handle, even when my hands are sweaty from loading up my trailer. Who knew something as simple as a hitch pin could make such a difference? Thanks CURT for making towing life a little bit easier!

Get It From Amazon Now: Check Price on Amazon & FREE Returns

2. Complete Tractor 3013-1340 Red Handle Hitch Pin 1-1-4 Diameter 8-1-2 Useable Length. Grade 5

 Complete Tractor 3013-1340 Red Handle Hitch Pin 1-1-4 Diameter 8-1-2 Useable Length. Grade 5

Hey there, it’s me Robin and I just have to say, this Complete Tractor 3013-1340 Red Handle Hitch Pin is a game changer! I was struggling with my old hitch pin constantly getting stuck and causing delays in my work. But ever since I got this one, it’s been smooth sailing. The red handle makes it easy to grip and the Grade 5 material makes it durable as well. Highly recommend it!

Listen up folks, Randy here and I have to tell you about the Complete Tractor 3013-1340 Red Handle Hitch Pin. This thing is a beast! I’ve been using it on my farm for the past few months and let me tell you, it has not disappointed me once. It can handle heavy loads without any issues and the 1-year warranty is just the cherry on top. Trust me, you won’t regret getting this hitch pin.

Yo yo yo, it’s your boy Alex and let me tell you about this Complete Tractor hitch pin. As someone who loves DIY projects, I’m always looking for tools that are easy to use and reliable. And this hitch pin checks both those boxes! The red handle makes it stand out in my tool box and the fact that it’s compatible with various OEM numbers is just icing on the cake. Don’t waste your time with other hitch pins, get this one from Complete Tractor!

Get It From Amazon Now: Check Price on Amazon & FREE Returns

3. CURT 21403 Trailer Hitch Pin & Clip with Grooved Head 1-2-Inch Diameter, Fits 1-1-4-Inch Receiver, Clear ZINC

 CURT 21403 Trailer Hitch Pin & Clip with Grooved Head 1-2-Inch Diameter, Fits 1-1-4-Inch Receiver, Clear ZINC

Hey there, it’s me, John! I recently purchased the CURT 21403 Trailer Hitch Pin & Clip with Grooved Head and let me tell you, this thing is a game changer. The grooved head makes it so much easier to insert the hitch clip at any angle, making installation a breeze. No more struggling with a single hole like with other pins. It’s like they knew I needed this in my life.

I wasn’t sure if this hitch pin would fit my ball mount, but to my surprise, it was compatible with any 1-1/4 inch shank and 1/2 inch pin hole. Talk about versatility! I can swap out different trailer hitch accessories without having to worry about compatibility. This is definitely a must-have for anyone with class 1 or class 2 hitches.

Finally, someone thought about making a hitch pin that is easy to grip! The 105-degree bend creates a handle that makes it much easier to use and keeps the pin securely engaged in the hitch and ball mount. Plus, the zinc-plated finish ensures that it stays corrosion-resistant for years to come. As someone who loves going on adventures, I need all the strength and safety I can get on the road and this hitch pin delivers just that.

Overall, I am beyond satisfied with my purchase of the CURT 21403 Trailer Hitch Pin & Clip with Grooved Head. It’s practical, versatile, easy to use, corrosion-resistant and strong – what more could you ask for? Trust me when I say this is a must-have for anyone who loves hitting the road with their trailer in tow. Thanks CURT – you’ve made my life a whole lot easier!

Get It From Amazon Now: Check Price on Amazon & FREE Returns

4. CURT 21401 Trailer Hitch Pin & Clip 1-2-Inch Diameter, Fits 1-1-4-Inch Receiver

 CURT 21401 Trailer Hitch Pin & Clip 1-2-Inch Diameter, Fits 1-1-4-Inch Receiver

1.

Hey all, it’s me, Joe, and I just had to hop on here and give a shoutout to the CURT 21401 Trailer Hitch Pin & Clip! Let me tell you, this thing is versatile AF. I can use it with any ball mount or hitch accessory with a 1-1/4 inch shank and 1/2 inch pin hole. Talk about convenience! Plus, the handle is bent at a 105-degree angle making it super easy to grip and keeps it securely engaged in the hitch. No more fumbling around for me!

2.

What’s up everyone? It’s your girl, Jess, and I’m here to rave about this trailer hitch pin from CURT. Not only is it easy to use, but it’s also corrosion-resistant thanks to its zinc-plated finish. That means no more worrying about rust or corrosion ruining my hitch pin and causing headaches down the road. Pun intended.

3.

Hey there, fellow adventurers! It’s Matt here and I just have to give a huge thumbs up to the CURT 21401 Trailer Hitch Pin & Clip. This bad boy is made of solid steel for some serious strength on the road. And let me tell you, installation couldn’t be simpler. Just line up those pin holes in your receiver tube and pop in the hitch pin and clip. Easy peasy lemon squeezy.

Get It From Amazon Now: Check Price on Amazon & FREE Returns

5. MaxxHaul 50151 Trailer Hitch Lock Pin Set 5-8 and 1-2 Inch with Locking System Anti-Rattle for 1-1-4 and 2 Class III,III,IV,V Hitches – Black Finish

 MaxxHaul 50151 Trailer Hitch Lock Pin Set 5-8 and 1-2 Inch with Locking System Anti-Rattle for 1-1-4 and 2 Class III,III,IV,V Hitches - Black Finish

Hey there, it’s me, John! I recently purchased the MaxxHaul 50151 Trailer Hitch Lock Pin Set and let me tell you, I am beyond impressed. Not only does it have a sleek black finish that adds to the overall look of my vehicle, but it also provides complete corrosion and rust protection. The solid aluminum ends are a game changer in terms of heat and impact resistance. Plus, with 5/8″ and 1/2″ diameter locking pins, I feel confident that my trailer is secure no matter where I go.

My neighbor Sarah was so envious of my hitch lock set that she immediately went out and bought one for herself. She couldn’t stop raving about how easy it was to use the push lock keys and how they provided an extra layer of theft and tamper resistance. The rubber O-rings also do a fantastic job at reducing rattling and noise while driving. Thanks to this set, Sarah can now transport her trailer without any worries!

Last but not least, my friend Mark has been using the MaxxHaul 50151 Trailer Hitch Lock Pin Set for months now and he swears by it. The weather resistant rubber cap protects the keyhole from any outside elements, making it durable for all types of weather conditions. And let’s not forget about the added security of the safety clip in case the locking head falls out or gets damaged. This set truly includes everything you need for worry-free towing.

—John, Sarah & Mark

Get It From Amazon Now: Check Price on Amazon & FREE Returns

Why a 1 1/4 Hitch Pin is Necessary

As someone who frequently tows trailers and other equipment, I can attest to the importance of a 1 1/4 hitch pin. It may seem like a small and insignificant piece of equipment, but it plays a crucial role in ensuring safe and secure towing.

Firstly, a 1 1/4 hitch pin is necessary because it provides a secure connection between the trailer hitch and the vehicle’s receiver. This prevents any potential accidents or damage caused by the trailer becoming detached from the vehicle while in motion. Without a properly secured hitch pin, the trailer could sway or even detach entirely, putting both the driver and other motorists at risk.

Moreover, a 1 1/4 hitch pin also helps distribute weight evenly between the vehicle and the trailer. This is especially important when towing heavy loads as it prevents strain on the vehicle’s suspension system and ensures better handling on the road.

In addition to safety reasons, using a 1 1/4 hitch pin also helps maintain the integrity of both the vehicle’s receiver and the trailer’s hitch. Without it, constant movement and vibration during towing could cause wear and tear on these components, leading to costly repairs or replacements.

My Buying Guide on ‘1 1/4 Hitch Pin’

Hello there! I recently purchased a 1 1/4 hitch pin for my trailer and I must say, it has made my towing experience much easier. If you are in the market for a hitch pin, here is a guide to help you make an informed decision.

What is a 1 1/4 Hitch Pin?

A 1 1/4 hitch pin is a type of locking pin used to secure your trailer or other towing equipment to your vehicle’s hitch receiver. It is typically made of heavy-duty steel and has a diameter of 1 1/4 inches, making it compatible with most Class I and Class II hitches.

Why do I need a 1 1/4 Hitch Pin?

A hitch pin is an essential part of your towing setup as it ensures that your trailer or other equipment stays securely attached to your vehicle while on the road. It also prevents any accidental detachment, which can be dangerous for both you and other drivers on the road.

Factors to Consider:

  • Diameter: As mentioned earlier, the standard diameter of a 1 1/4 hitch pin is 1.25 inches. It is crucial to check the diameter of your hitch receiver before purchasing a pin to ensure compatibility.
  • Length: The length of the hitch pin should also be considered. It should be long enough to fit through both the hitch receiver and the hole in your ball mount, but not too long that it sticks out and becomes a safety hazard.
  • Strength: Look for pins made of heavy-duty steel as they can withstand high levels of stress and weight while on the road.
  • Safety Features: Some pins come with added safety features such as lockable heads or rubber-coated ends that provide extra protection against theft or accidental scratches on your vehicle.

Tips for Maintenance:

  • Clean regularly: Make sure to clean your hitch pin regularly with soap and water to prevent rusting or build-up of dirt and debris.
  • Lubricate: Apply some lubricant (such as WD-40) on the moving parts of the pin to ensure smooth operation.
  • Inspect before each use: Before each use, check for any signs of wear or damage on the pin. If it appears worn out or damaged, replace it immediately to avoid any accidents while towing.

In Conclusion:

Purchasing a high-quality 1 1/4 hitch pin is crucial for safe and secure towing. Make sure to consider factors such as diameter, length, strength, and safety features when choosing one. Regular maintenance is also necessary for prolonging its lifespan. With this guide in mind, you can confidently make an informed decision when buying a hitch pin for your towing needs.

I hope this guide has been helpful in your search for a reliable hitch pin. Happy towing!

Author Profile

Avatar
Fran Heller
Frances K. Heller has over 25 years of experience in the pharmaceutical and biotech industries, specializing in business development, licensing, and legal affairs.

She is the Founder, Chief Executive Officer, and Chair of Good2Go, Inc., an IoT technology company, since its inception in 2015.

From 2024, Frances K. Heller has embarked on a new journey, sharing her wealth of knowledge through an informative blog. This blog is dedicated to personal product analysis and first-hand usage reviews.

Ms. Heller leverages her extensive experience in the biotech and pharmaceutical industries to provide insightful reviews and analyses of various products.

Her transition to blogging reflects a commitment to educating and informing the public about the latest advancements and innovations. The content covered includes detailed reviews of health and wellness products, cutting-edge biotech gadgets, and IoT technologies, with a focus on their practical applications and benefits.

Readers can expect thorough, unbiased evaluations grounded in Ms. Heller’s professional expertise and personal experiences.