Easy Upkeep for Your ProPride Hitch

The good news? It doesn’t take much to prevent that.

With a few regular checks and simple upkeep steps, your ProPride 3P® Hitch can deliver reliable performance for years. It's built for strength, stability, and long-term use, but like any premium towing equipment, it performs best with consistent care.

You don’t need a workshop or special tools to get it right.

Whether you tow every weekend or a few times a year, just a little attention goes a long way.

In this blog, we will cover:

• A quick inspection checklist to catch early issues
• Cleaning and lubrication best practices
• Seasonal care tips for long-term performance

Let’s dive in!

Why Hitch Maintenance Matters

If you’ve ever dealt with a trailer that creaks, sways, or stalls your trip due to a hitch issue, you already know how important regular maintenance is. Even a premium system like the ProPride 3P Hitch can wear down without proper care.

Routine maintenance isn’t just about performance; it’s about towing safely and confidently. A well-maintained hitch minimizes stress on your tow vehicle, prevents accidents, and extends the life of your gear.

Let’s start with the most essential habit: regular inspection.

Routine Inspection Checklist

Think of this like your pre-trip ritual. A quick check before every drive helps you catch issues early; before they leave you stranded or cause damage to your vehicle or trailer.

Here’s a breakdown of what to check and why it matters.

Quick Hitch Inspection Reference Chart

Step-by-Step: How to Inspect Your Hitch?

Take 5–10 minutes before you hit the road and follow this:

1. Visual check for damage: Look at the coupler, stinger, and surrounding metal. If you see deep scratches, bends, or rust bubbles, don’t ignore them.
2. Feel the connections: Wiggle the hitch and chains; everything should feel firm, not loose.
3. Test the lock mechanism: Hook it on and off. It should engage smoothly, without forcing.
4. Check the chains: Ensure they’re crossed under the hitch and have just enough slack.
5. Plug in the electrical: Confirm all trailer lights are functional (especially brakes and turn signals).

These checks aren’t hard, but they make a huge difference on the road.

Cleaning and Lubrication Tips

Grime buildup, rust, and dry metal parts are the silent enemies of hitch performance. A clean and lubricated hitch won’t just feel better to tow—it will last longer.

Here’s how to keep it in top shape:

• Clean the hitch regularly: Use warm, soapy water and a soft brush or sponge. Avoid abrasive cleaners that could strip protective coatings. Rinse and dry thoroughly after cleaning.
• Apply lubricant to all moving parts: Focus on the hitch ball, coupler lock, and pivot points. Use a non-greasy, high-quality lubricant to avoid collecting excess dust.
• Treat metal with rust inhibitor spray: Especially if you tow in humid or salty environments, applying rust protection helps keep your hitch strong and safe.
• Grease the bearings (if applicable): Some ProPride setups include bearing points. Use a trailer-rated grease to keep them moving smoothly.
• Wipe electrical connectors: Use a dry cloth to clean the plug heads. Never spray water directly on them—moisture can cause shorts or corrosion.

Best Products for Hitch Maintenance

• Lucas White Lithium Grease – Long-lasting lubrication for moving joints
• Fluid Film Rust & Corrosion Protection – Coats metal and repels salt/moisture
• MaxxHaul Hitch Cleaner – Safe for painted and powder-coated finishes

Using the right products ensures your cleaning effort is actually protecting your investment.

Signs Your Hitch Needs Attention

If you’re towing often, your hitch will start showing signs when it needs care. Stay alert for these red flags:

• You hear squeaking or grinding when turning or braking
• The coupler feels loose or difficult to secure
• Electrical connections are inconsistent or flickering
• You see visible rust or bubbling under paint
• The safety chains appear frayed or stiff

Catching these signs early keeps you one step ahead and helps prevent emergencies on the road.

How to Fix Common ProPride Hitch Issues?

Even the best-engineered hitches can run into minor hiccups. The good news? Most common ProPride 3P Hitch issues are easy to fix once you know what to look for.

Loose Coupler

If your coupler doesn’t feel snug:

• Inspect the adjustment nut and tighten as needed.
• Make sure the locking pin is engaged properly.
• Test by gently shaking the trailer tongue once hitched.

Tough Hitching or Unhitching

This usually comes down to friction:

• Clean and lubricate the hitch ball and coupler.
• Remove any built-up dirt, rust, or debris.
• Don’t force it—if it resists, reassess alignment.

Squeaky Sounds

Squeaks aren’t just annoying—they’re signs of dry joints.

• Apply grease to pivot points, weight distribution jacks, and the hitch bar.
• Recheck in a few days—if the noise returns, reapply.

Electrical Failures

If your trailer lights or brakes aren’t working:

• Check the wiring plug for corrosion.
• Wipe the prongs with a dry cloth.
• Confirm the connection is snug and hasn’t come loose during travel.

Corrosion or Rust

Rust can eat away at strength and stability.

• Use a rust remover and follow up with a rust-inhibiting spray.
• For larger patches, sand down the area and recoat with a protective paint or finish.

Worn or Damaged Safety Chains

Chains are your backup in case the hitch fails.

• Look for bending, deep rust, or weak links.
• Replace immediately if they show signs of cracking or splitting.

Seasonal Maintenance Tips

Each season brings new challenges. Extreme heat, road salt, moisture, or prolonged storage can all affect your ProPride Hitch. Here’s how to adjust your care throughout the year.

Spring Maintenance

Spring is cleanup season—time to recover from winter’s wear and tear.

• Wash off road salt or mud buildup
• Inspect for winter rust or cracking
• Reapply rust protection spray
• Lubricate all moving parts
• Check tire pressure if trailer was stationary

Summer Maintenance

Hot temps can dry out lubricants and loosen hardware.

• Reapply grease more frequently
• Double-check bolt tension after long drives
• Wipe dust and bugs off regularly
• Park in shade when possible to reduce UV damage
• Watch for signs of lubricant thinning or dripping

Fall Maintenance

As you wind down towing for the year, get your setup ready for potential storage.

• Clean your hitch thoroughly
• Apply a fresh coat of protective spray
• Check and tighten all bolts and fasteners
• Cover your hitch if possible

Winter Maintenance

If you tow during winter, protect your hitch from cold and moisture.

• Use winter-grade lubricant that won’t freeze
• Wipe down after snow exposure
• Avoid using water-based cleaners
• Keep electrical connections dry and clean
• Store the hitch indoors if removable

Keep Your Hitch Reliable, Year After Year

Maintaining your ProPride Hitch doesn’t require a garage full of tools or hours of your weekend. All it takes is a few smart habits and seasonal adjustments. With just a little effort, you’ll keep your hitch smooth, quiet, and safe every time you tow.

By routinely inspecting your hitch, keeping it clean, applying proper lubrication, and addressing minor issues early, you extend its lifespan and ensure safe travels. Pair this with seasonal care, and your hitch will stay in peak condition no matter what the road or weather throws your way.

So before your next trip, take 10 minutes for a quick check. Your hitch and your future self will thank you for it.

Frequently Asked Questions

Still have a few questions about caring for your ProPride Hitch? Here are some quick answers to common concerns not fully covered in the main guide.

How often should I clean and lubricate my ProPride Hitch?

It depends on how frequently you tow, but a good rule is every 4–6 weeks during active use, and before/after long trips. Clean more often in dusty or rainy conditions.

Can I use WD-40 as my hitch lubricant?

While WD-40 can help loosen parts temporarily, it’s not a long-term lubricant. Use a white lithium grease or trailer-rated lube for lasting protection on moving joints and metal-on-metal contact points.

Should I cover my hitch when not in use?

Yes, covering your hitch protects it from rain, UV rays, dust, and snow. A weatherproof cover helps reduce rust and keeps dirt out of sensitive parts like the coupler and wiring plug.

What happens if I don’t maintain my hitch regularly?

Neglect can lead to rust, loose bolts, difficult hitching, or even unsafe towing conditions. Poor maintenance can also affect performance and shorten the life of your ProPride 3P Hitch.

Does cold weather affect hitch performance?

Yes, extremely cold temperatures can make lubricants stiff, metal more brittle, and increase corrosion risk. Use cold-weather-rated grease and inspect more frequently if towing in snow or ice.

Can I remove and store the ProPride Hitch in the off-season?

Absolutely. If you're not towing during the winter months, removing and storing the hitch in a dry, covered area can help preserve its components and keep it in excellent shape.