Correct Hitch lock?

[Madpad_01]

Hello all,
I am convert from camping to caravaning so just starting a fresh to this brave new world! I have recently bought an old 2003 Abbey Adventure van but getting a little confused on the type of Hitch lock I need to get? Done some basic google searching but just confused myself even more.

In short what would be the most suitable hitch lock for my Caravan?
Any help would be greatly appreciated

 

[RogerL]

It'll depend what hitch you caravan has - Alko was more common but Winterhof were also used - in addition, previous owners may have changed the hitch to a stabiliser type, of which there are several.

A photo would help contributors identify the hitch

 

[Madpad_01]

A photo would help contributors identify the hitch

Thanks I don't collect the van till next mth but going to dealer this weekend so will post pic later.

 

[RogerL]

Thanks I don't collect the van till next mth but going to dealer this weekend so will post pic later.

The dealer should be able to tell you exactly what hitch is fitted, just by looking.

 

[CustardAvenger]

Google shows it with an Alko hitch... so any Alko compatible hitch lock would do. I have a Millenco one. (Confirm with your dealer tho)

 

[RogerL]

Google shows it with an Alko hitch... so any Alko compatible hitch lock would do. I have a Millenco one. (Confirm with your dealer tho)

There are at least three different Alko hitches, each requiring a different hitch lock.

 

[CustardAvenger]

There are at least three different Alko hitches, each requiring a different hitch lock.

Milenco sell like 1 heavy duty one for an Alko Aks hitch.

Super Heavy-Duty AKS 3004 Hitchlock - Milenco, Europe's leading manufacturer of award winning caravan products

 

[RogerL]

Milenco sell like 1 heavy duty one for an Alko Aks hitch.

Super Heavy-Duty AKS 3004 Hitchlock - Milenco, Europe's leading manufacturer of award winning caravan products

That's for the Alko AKS 3004 - does it fit the Alko AKS 1300 hitchlock?

 

[Madpad_01]

Again thanks for the advice. Will chat with dealer when I see them over the weekend

 

[Raywood]

Are you buying a hitchlock because you are worried about security or to comply with the insurance conditions. Frankly they are pretty useless in most cases as thieves can simply use a chain to tie the caravan onto the towing vehicle and leave the lock to be dealt with later. A good wheel clamp is more effective but not totally thief proof.
If it is for insurance purposes it need only be a cheap one, but if for security I would not bother personally, but you do need to make your own mind up on that one.
They do have a purpose though if you stop at services and leave the caravan, as with many you can leave the car attached to the caravan securely.

 

[Gralay]

We use a saracen full stop very easy and quick to put on especially in the rain

Saracen Gullwing Caravan Hitch Lock -

The Saracen Gullwing Caravan Hitch Lock - Thatcham Tested Caravan Hitch Lock has been developed to be quick fitting, convenient and a highly secure

bigwhitebox.co.uk

 

[Madpad_01]

If it is for insurance purposes it need only be a cheap one, but if for security I would not bother personally, but you do need to make your own mind up on that one

Mainly for Insurance, as I have a Milenco Wraith Wheel Clamp for security.

Spoke to the dealer, they informed I have a ALKO 3004, but looking at pictures I took it would seam I have ALKO 2004. Is there a difference between the two?

 

[Madpad_01]

Will post pictures shortly

 

[Madpad_01]

Will post pictures shortly

 

[RogerL]

Mainly for Insurance, as I have a Milenco Wraith Wheel Clamp for security.

Spoke to the dealer, they informed I have a ALKO 3004, but looking at pictures I took it would seam I have ALKO 2004. Is there a difference between the two?

From memory the 2004 and 3004 are virtually identical - unlike the AKS 1300 which is quite different.

 

[Gralay]

Mainly for Insurance, as I have a Milenco Wraith Wheel Clamp for security.

Spoke to the dealer, they informed I have a ALKO 3004, but looking at pictures I took it would seam I have ALKO 2004. Is there a difference between the two?

I think the difference is the weight limit of force for different towing conditions surface/inclines ect 2000kg for 2004 and 3000kg for 3004, the other difference is the front and rear friction pads however the 2 side friction pads are the same in both
Hope this helps
Gra

 

[Beachball]

On our Abbey we have a Maypole SH 5412 Stronghold - Alko Hitchlock

 

[CustardAvenger]

As far as I know the only external visual difference between 2004 & 3004 is the Stabiliser Handle... which isn't engaged when the hitch lock is on. You are securing the coupling handle with a hitch lock.

 

[Madpad_01]

All,

Thanks for all your replies, information was very useful and gave me the information I needed. Got my security sorted just need to collect my van next week.

 

[Hutch]

Madpad, for yourself and another newcomer to the forum, There are "spreader pads" which ,can be bought to go under the caravan stabaliser legs to stop them from sinking into soft ground, Bits of wood work well, but I prefer the ones always attacked to the stays. .