In the case of the travel trailer hitch, the latch drops into place using gravity and actually moves slightly forward to contact the ball. The latch lock slides forward and down to lock the latch. It could become undone with bouncing and vibrations while driving. A lock pin or a lock would prevent such occurrence.
In the case of the boat trailer coupler, the latch is spring loaded to open and could open on its own if the latch lock catch isn't caught in it's locked position - the little latch under the latch lock, which is also spring loaded to hold the catch, which must be lifted to be able to lift the latch lock (seen in pic#3). If properly engaged, it should not unlock unless someone messes with it.
A lock pin is a great visual confirmation that it has not been disengaged. A lock insures idle hands do not mess with your stuff but only slows a determined thief, unfortunately.
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Bob and sometimes - Nina - a Staffordshire Terrier/a SPOILED pit and her kitty Spaz
2006 Dodge SLT 2500 4x4 Cummins Quad Cab w/AT and 3.73
2007 Salem Sport LE 26FBSRV (TH) w/ my Victory Motorcycle in it or a EZ GO Shuttle cart.
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