LR3 Trailer Hitch Removal
 

This hitch was on the LR3 when I bought it. No key. I have a good locksmith so I said- no big deal. I'll take it off.

Well- the lock is frozen- inside the cylinder, so the locksmith could not pick it. So now I have to drill the lock out- but before I do that I thought I'd ask for some suggestions. The position of the green know does not appear to match anything I've read about the hitch- so take a look and let me know what you think. I can pull the green knob out about 1/4 inch- exposing red. But it will not turn.

If I drill out the lock- what happens?

Start soaking it

I have to remember from mine, think the lock, allows green knob to pull out then twist, iirc there is more red then that when knob is unlocked and pulled

I've soaked it with penetrating oil and PB Blaster (my all-time favorite) and still cannot pick the lock.

Looks like we'll have to drill the lock next.

I cannot rotate it from this position (which looks wrong to me).

This is as far as I can pull it.

I drilled out the lock. Handle was really frozen up- but with some giant channelocks- I was able to turn it and get the pin retracted. But the hitch would not drop out. I have to assume it's really jammed in place. I don't see a way to get penetrating oil to the top of the hitch- is there a vent hole up there?

I did spray the slots from the bottom and let it sit. Next step is the sledge hammer.

Beating the crap out of the hitch - cannot get it to drop. It's is jammed up in the slots- past the locking pin by about 1/8". I guess the next step is heat .

Any other ideas appreciated.