JR Products Permanent Hitch Pin Review

How I Used the JR Products Permanent Hitch Pin 5/8″ and What I Found

Towing is a part of life for many of us, whether it’s hauling a boat to the lake, an ATV to the trails, or a trailer for work. The JR Products Permanent Hitch Pin 5/8″ promises a secure and hassle-free connection, eliminating the age-old problem of lost or stolen hitch pin clips. It seemed like a simple solution to a common problem, and with my fair share of experience losing those little clips, I was eager to see if it lived up to the hype.

What led me to this product was pure frustration. I was tired of digging through my glove box, tool bag, and the bed of my truck looking for a cotter pin or clip every time I needed to hook up my trailer. It was costing me time and peace of mind, especially on early morning fishing trips. This permanent hitch pin seemed like a good idea to fix the problem.

Unboxing it wasn’t exactly a thrilling experience, but I immediately appreciated the solid feel of the JR Products Permanent Hitch Pin 5/8″. The chrome plating looked durable, and the swivel clip mechanism felt sturdy. It was heavier than I expected, giving me confidence in its ability to withstand the rigors of towing.

I considered other options like standard hitch pins with clips and locking hitch pins with keys. However, I chose the JR Products Permanent Hitch Pin 5/8″ because it combined security with convenience. I didn’t want to deal with keys (which I could also lose), and the standard clip-style pins were clearly not working out for me.

My first impression was cautiously optimistic. I liked the concept of a permanent, clip-free design, but I was also a little skeptical about how well the swivel clip would hold up over time. I was excited to finally ditch the clip-hunt, but I needed to put it through its paces to truly trust it.

Real-World Testing: Putting JR Products Permanent Hitch Pin 5/8″ to the Test

First Use Experience

I first tested the JR Products Permanent Hitch Pin 5/8″ when hooking up my utility trailer to haul some landscaping materials. It was a dry, sunny day, perfect for working outside, and a good opportunity to see how easily the pin installed. The pin slid smoothly into the hitch and receiver, and the swivel clip engaged with a satisfying click.

The pin performed flawlessly in dry conditions, but I wanted to see how it would fare in less ideal circumstances. I used it again a few days later to tow my boat to the lake in the pouring rain. The JR Products Permanent Hitch Pin 5/8″ still worked perfectly, with no noticeable difference in ease of use.

I was initially concerned that the swivel clip might be difficult to operate with wet or gloved hands, but it proved to be surprisingly easy to manipulate. The only issue, if you could call it that, was needing to make sure the clip was fully engaged. It takes a deliberate push and click to lock it in place, but that’s a small price to pay for the added security.

Extended Use & Reliability

After several months of regular use, the JR Products Permanent Hitch Pin 5/8″ has held up remarkably well. I’ve used it to tow everything from trailers loaded with gravel to my boat, and it hasn’t skipped a beat. There are no signs of rust or corrosion, and the swivel clip still feels as secure as the day I bought it.

The chrome plating has proven to be surprisingly durable. Despite being exposed to road salt, mud, and other harsh elements, there are no noticeable scratches or blemishes. The swivel clip mechanism also shows no signs of wear and tear, and it continues to operate smoothly.

Maintaining the JR Products Permanent Hitch Pin 5/8″ is incredibly simple. I typically just wipe it down with a rag after each use to remove any dirt or debris. Occasionally, I’ll apply a small amount of lubricant to the swivel clip mechanism to keep it operating smoothly.

Compared to my previous experiences with standard hitch pins, the JR Products Permanent Hitch Pin 5/8″ is a game-changer. It’s far more convenient and secure, and it has completely eliminated the hassle of lost or stolen clips. It outperforms standard pins in every way, and it has given me peace of mind knowing that my trailer is securely connected.

Breaking Down the Features of JR Products Permanent Hitch Pin 5/8″

Specifications

• 5/8″ Pin Diameter: This is a standard size for Class III hitches, making it compatible with a wide range of vehicles and trailers. The 5/8″ diameter is designed for strength and security.

• 2-5/8″ Usable Length: This refers to the length of the pin that actually goes through the hitch receiver and trailer coupler. This length should accommodate most standard hitch setups.

• Chrome Plated Steel Construction: The chrome plating provides excellent rust and corrosion resistance. This is crucial for withstanding harsh weather conditions and road debris.

• Swivel Security Clip: The spring-loaded swivel clip is the key feature of this hitch pin. It eliminates the need for separate clips or cotter pins.

• Class III Hitch Pin: This indicates the pin is rated for Class III hitches, which typically handle trailers weighing up to 8,000 pounds. This ensures it’s strong enough for many common towing needs.

These specifications are important because they directly impact the performance and reliability of the JR Products Permanent Hitch Pin 5/8″. The chrome plating ensures long-lasting durability, while the swivel clip provides a secure and convenient connection. The Class III rating ensures it can handle the weight of most common trailers.

Performance & Functionality

The JR Products Permanent Hitch Pin 5/8″ performs its job exceptionally well. It provides a secure and reliable connection between the vehicle and trailer. The swivel clip is easy to use and eliminates the hassle of lost or stolen clips.

Its strengths lie in its simplicity and durability. The swivel clip mechanism is both secure and easy to operate, even with gloves. The chrome-plated steel construction ensures it can withstand the rigors of towing.

While it excels in most areas, one potential improvement would be to offer a locking version for added security. This would deter theft of the trailer itself, not just the pin. Overall, it meets and exceeds expectations for a hitch pin in its class.

Design & Ergonomics

The JR Products Permanent Hitch Pin 5/8″ features a simple and functional design. The chrome plating gives it a clean and professional look, and the swivel clip is easy to grip and operate. The weight feels substantial, giving the impression of quality and durability.

The design is inherently user-friendly. There’s no learning curve involved, simply slide the pin through the hitch and engage the swivel clip. The swivel clip design makes it easy to use with one hand.

Durability & Maintenance

The chrome-plated steel construction suggests that the JR Products Permanent Hitch Pin 5/8″ is built to last. It can withstand exposure to harsh weather conditions and road debris without rusting or corroding. Regular cleaning and lubrication of the swivel clip mechanism will further extend its lifespan.

Maintaining it is straightforward. Simply wipe it down with a rag after each use and occasionally apply a small amount of lubricant to the swivel clip mechanism. There are no complex parts or intricate mechanisms to worry about.

Accessories and Customization Options

The JR Products Permanent Hitch Pin 5/8″ doesn’t come with any specific accessories. It’s a standalone product designed to replace standard hitch pins. Customization is limited, as it’s a fairly basic piece of hardware.

It is compatible with any standard 2″ or 2.5″ hitch receiver designed for a 5/8″ pin. This makes it compatible with a wide range of vehicles and trailers. However, it’s not compatible with smaller 1 1/4″ receivers that use a 1/2″ pin.

Pros and Cons of JR Products Permanent Hitch Pin 5/8″

Who Should Buy JR Products Permanent Hitch Pin 5/8″?

The JR Products Permanent Hitch Pin 5/8″ is perfect for anyone who regularly tows a trailer and is tired of losing or fumbling with hitch pin clips. It’s ideal for:

• Casual towers: Those who only tow occasionally will appreciate the convenience and ease of use.
• Frequent towers: Those who tow regularly will benefit from the added security and durability.
• Boaters and anglers: The chrome plating is resistant to rust and corrosion, making it ideal for marine environments.
• Landscapers and contractors: The rugged construction can withstand the rigors of daily use on job sites.

Those who should skip this product include:

• Those who require a locking hitch pin for added security to prevent trailer theft.
• Those who prefer a more traditional hitch pin setup with separate clips.

A must-have accessory would be a hitch receiver cover to protect the receiver from rust and debris when not in use. This will help to extend the life of both the receiver and the hitch pin.

Conclusion on JR Products Permanent Hitch Pin 5/8″

The JR Products Permanent Hitch Pin 5/8″ is a simple yet effective solution to a common towing problem. It offers a secure and convenient alternative to standard hitch pins with clips, eliminating the hassle of lost or stolen clips. The chrome-plated steel construction ensures long-lasting durability, making it a worthwhile investment for anyone who regularly tows a trailer.

The price is justified by the added convenience and peace of mind it provides. While it doesn’t offer locking functionality, it excels at its primary purpose: securely connecting the vehicle and trailer.

I would personally recommend the JR Products Permanent Hitch Pin 5/8″ to anyone looking for a hassle-free towing experience. It’s a simple upgrade that can make a big difference. Ditch the clips and upgrade to the JR Products Permanent Hitch Pin 5/8″ for a more secure and convenient towing experience!