Use a Fulton or a Bulldog A frame coupler?

[Esteban]

My Dexter axle arrives soon. Now I need to buy the last frame building parts to take to the welding shop. The frame will be for a 5x10 trailer mostly used on paved roads.

One welder warned me against using a cheap coupler because they're a $$ PITA to cut off and replace.

I'm considering using either a Fulton or a Bulldog welded on A frame coupler. What are their the pros and cons? I kind of favor the Bulldog. Am I overbuilding already?

Fulton coupler:

FULTON A-Frame Trailer Coupler, 5k Capacity

Fits 2" Ball FULTON Class-III, 5000 lb. (GTW) capacity, 'Fas-Lok' A-Frame trailer coupler.
Fulton 'Fas-Lok' A-Frame trailer coupler fits 50 degree angle trailer tongues, and features the most popular latching mechanism ever designed. Proven 'Fas-Lok' locking lever hooks up quick and easy to the tow vehicle. Heavy-duty safety latch is designed to prevent accidental uncoupling. Couplers come fully assembled with a prime painted finish, and pre-drilled for bolt-on A-Frame trailer jacks.
NOTE: Installation of A-Frame Coupler requires welding.

Bulldog coupler:

BULLDOG A-Frame Trailer Coupler, 5k Capacity

Fits 2" Ball BULLDOG Class-III, 5000 lb. (GTW) capacity, "Lever-Latch" High Profile A-Frame trailer coupler. High-strength forged steel construction fits 50-degree angle trailer tongue. The BULLDOG design features the only automatic and continuously tight ball fit in the industry. A hinged ball socket allows for easy hook up and shows a clear, visual indication of proper closure.
Model # 2B8H coupler is 16" in overall length, fits 2" trailer ball and has pre-drilled holes for bolt-on trailer jacks. Replaceable latching hardware allows for longer service life.
NOTE: Installation of A-Frame Trailer Coupler requires welding.

Thanks in advance.

[Dale M.]

IF there is any misalignment of coupler when connecting or any load factor on Bulldog coupler when trying to disconnect they are a real pain.... Have encountered them several timer when picking up or delivering a trailer and they always were a problem.

I have the Fulton style (2-5/16 ball) on my 18ft tandem axle car carrier and I would NOT trade it for a Bulldog.....



Fulton connector is more forgiving when connecting or disconnection in my opinion, and probably just as effective and secure during "tow"... Also Fulton style seem most popular, out west anyway.

Dale

[Podunkfla]

Yep... I have 6 various trailers and I use the 2" Fulton type on all of them. I like them a lot because they are easy to repair and hitch/unhitch. And, even Walmart carries them (cheap).

[Alphacarina]

One welder warned me against using a cheap coupler because they're a $$ PITA to cut off and replace

You wouldn't need to cut it off and replace it unless you made a major 'goof' - Usually just replacing the guts is all that's ever needed

I bought the Fulton type for mine too, from Northern - I've just never cared for the Bulldog type

Don

[Esteban]

Thanks Dale, Brick and Don for your help. I'll buy a Fulton coupler. My axle is scheduled to be delivered Monday. It's time to get started.