Security devices for trailer

Metz Antenna Man · 05 February 2015, 10:15

We are about to collect our new boat on Saturday. Does anyone have any tips for make and models of trailer security devices such as wheel clamps, hitchlocks or certain types of security chains. There seem to be hundreds out there but I am sure that users on here will have an idea what the best ones are. Thanks in anticipation. Phil.

kerny · 05 February 2015, 10:24

I would just get a decent insurance approved hitchlock and wheel clamp, SAS are decent. And also to get good insurance cover.

SteveHall · 05 February 2015, 10:31

Congratulations on the new rib!

Anything SAS, and take photos of it all installed to show the insurance company.

Make sure you have an engine bolt lock as well.

paintman · 05 February 2015, 10:41

I have one of these for the wheels (They do different sizes according to your wheel)
Titan Wheel Clamp - Bulldog Security Productss
and a hitch lock. Both in use when on the drive.
For the hitchlock you can get those that can be used when towing - stops it being unhitched when you've stopped at services. Get one that covers the hitch bolts to prevent the hitch being unbolted.

Phil M · 05 February 2015, 12:13

I have a brekland lockfast lock bar on each of our trailers.

Brekland Lockfast.

Once set up, they fit onto special wheel bolts/nuts and can be fitted in about 5 seconds. Having forgotten to remove one once, I can guarantee you wont be driving away with one fitted. They are specific to trailer wheel size though, so needs careful ordering.

Phil M

kerny · 05 February 2015, 12:40

Quote:

Originally Posted by SteveHall

Make sure you have an engine bolt lock as well.

Good point

Johnscubanut · 05 February 2015, 13:35

Agree with the SAS insurance approved clamps. Our one covers a wheel nut also so I guess it must be harder to just remove the wheel for a thief?
I have a 'Nemesis' on the motorhome, but takes a bit longer to put on, and remove by a thief! Although if they really want something they just use boltcroppers or an angle-grinder!

Metz Antenna Man · 05 February 2015, 19:10

Quote:

Originally Posted by kerny

I would just get a decent insurance approved hitchlock and wheel clamp, SAS are decent. And also to get good insurance cover.

Kearny, many thanks, Phil.

Metz Antenna Man · 05 February 2015, 19:11

Steve, as always, many thanks, Phil.

Metz Antenna Man · 05 February 2015, 19:12

Paintman, many thanks, Phil.

Metz Antenna Man · 05 February 2015, 19:13

Phil, many thanks, Phil.

Metz Antenna Man · 05 February 2015, 19:14

John, many thanks, Phil.

GordyP · 05 February 2015, 22:52

Whip the hitch off the trailer, someone trying to nick it would need to bring another and spend the time bolting it back home.

kerny · 05 February 2015, 23:36

Quote:

Originally Posted by GordyP

Whip the hitch off the trailer, someone trying to nick it would need to bring another and spend the time bolting it back home.

The insurance company would not pay out if it got nicked if they found out you did that with the hitch.

It would be far better to leave it on with a hitch lock in place.

GordyP · 06 February 2015, 00:00

Sure, not suggesting it replaces wheel locks etc but from a practical point of view it would certainly deter the opportunist.

warder54 · 06 February 2015, 08:51

I've just fitted a Bradley lockable hitch to my trailer, according to the manufacturer there are over 60,000 different key patterns. Can be locked on the ball and used while towing for service stops, meal breaks. Also had a locking outboard transom bolt fitted when transferring the OB to the new boat (Insurance requirement for my fully comp cover)
Mike

paintman · 06 February 2015, 08:51

Removing the hitch would deter the opportunist, but could make life easier for a 'proper' thief - all they have to do is pop a couple of bolts in to attach a hitch & job done. Quick & quiet.

jeffstevens763@g · 06 February 2015, 09:19

if they want it they will get it we had a boat stolen from our yard locked security fence with CCTV took the bolts out of the fence to get in knocked the wheel clamp off & hitch lock while one guy pulled the gates apart with a 4x4 took 7 mins in total quite impessive

Swain Marine · 06 February 2015, 23:09

I have an SAS wheel clamp to which I Lost the key. They are pretty useless it only took 20 seconds to get it off but it is a visual deterent & may help you comply with insurance.

Chris Caton · 06 February 2015, 23:33

Phil, what size wheels on the trailer, I've got a spare wheel clamp as it doesn't fit the new wheels n tyres I've fitted