Staff Answer
Oct 29, 2026 - 01:25 PM
When hooking up a flat-tow setup and one side of the tow bar locks into place while the other refuses to click or drop the pin, it usually comes down to binding caused by uneven tension, an unlevel angle, or the vehicle being slightly out of alignment.
Here are the easiest, most effective ways to correct this issue in the field:
1. Relieve the Bind (Push or Pull Slightly)
If one side is locked and holding weight, the opposing arm is often under a slight tension load, preventing the latch/pin from dropping into place.
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If the stuck side is too short/tight: Have someone put the towed vehicle in neutral (with the parking brake off) and gently roll it forward or backward a few inches, or gently push/pull the towed vehicle by hand to relieve the tension.
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If using a telescoping arm (like a Blue Ox): Pull the stubborn tow bar arm all the way out until it locks into its fully extended position, then try maneuvering it to align with the tab. Sometimes, pulling it completely out and letting it slide back in slightly helps reset the internal locking wedge.
2. Adjust the Steering Angle
If the towed vehicle's front wheels are turned even slightly, it can torque the baseplate tab at an awkward angle, preventing the pin from dropping straight down.
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Ensure the towed vehicle's steering wheel is unlocked, straight, and free to center itself.
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A quick nudge on the towed vehicle's front tire or steering wheel can straighten the geometry.
3. Check for Binding on Slopes or Uneven Ground
If the motorhome and towed vehicle are parked on an incline, decline, or uneven dip, gravity will pull the vehicles against each other, creating a heavy bind on the tow bar arms.
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Move both vehicles to level ground if possible.
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If you must hook up on a slope, use the motorhome to gently creep forward or backward an inch or two to take the pressure off the binding side while your partner drops the pin.
4. Lift or Jiggle the Tow Bar Arm
Sometimes the locking mechanism or internal plunger just needs physical encouragement.
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Lift slightly on the stubborn tow bar arm to take the vertical weight off the connection point while wiggling or pushing the locking pin/handle.
