Premier Manufacturing Co. 235SM Operating manual

MODEL 235SM COUPLING
PART #10005658
Document #10006339
Installation, Inspection, Operation
& Maintenance Guide
THE FIRST NAME IN QUALITY COUPLINGS
IMPORTANT
Read these instructions completely before installing, using or
attempting to repair this product. If you have any questions,
call Premier at [phone] or [phone]

SELECTING THE RIGHT EQUIPMENT
Whatever your application, selecting the proper equipment for the job is very important. Proper selection along with regular inspection
and maintenance will help keep operating costs minimal while providing long life to each component. Below are general guidelines for
selecting Premier Coupling and Drawbar Eyes. If you feel that your application is unique, please give Premier a call so that we may help
you through the selection process.
Follow these four steps to ensure proper selection of Premier Couplings and Drawbar Eyes.
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For “Double Trailer” configurations, only the rear trailer is considered when selecting
your Premier Coupling or Drawbar Eye. In this example, a Coupling and Drawbar Eye with
a “Gross Trailer Weight” rating of 40,000 lbs. (18,143 kg) would be the minimum rating
acceptable for normal, over-the-road applications (see Tongue Weight section below).
For “Triple Trailers”, only the two most rearward trailers are considered in selecting
your Premier Coupling or Drawbar Eye. In this example, a Coupling and Drawbar Eye
with a “Gross Trailer Weight” rating of 80,000 lbs (36,287 kg) would be the minimum
acceptable for normal, over-the-road applications. (See Tongue Weight section below).
STEP 1:
Determine “Gross
Trailer(s) Weight”
(GVWR(s) of towed trailers)
STEP 2:
Determine “Tongue
Weight Capacity”
(Maximum occurring
tongue weight)
STEP 3:
Add Margin of Safety
(Dependent upon your
equipment and operating
environment)
STEP 4:
Browse Premier
Product Catalog
(Based on Steps 1-3)
STEP 1: Determine “Gross Trailer(s) Weight”
“Gross Trailer(s) Weight” is usually determined by the Gross Vehicle Weight Rating (GVWR). This information is attached to the trailer by
the trailer manufacturer.
STEP 3: Consider Operating Conditions and Environments
Environments such as rough uneven roads or off-road use can dramatically increase shock loads to both drawbar eyes and couplings. In
general, increasing the “Gross Trailer Weight” (Step 1:) and “Tongue Weight Capacity” (Step 2:) by a minimum of 25% will be sufficient
for many applications. Even if an application is used off-road occasionally, the minimum increase necessary for Gross Trailer and Tongue
Weight is 25%. Certain types of equipment and/or operating practices can also dramatically increase loads through equipment binding
and/or improper loading practices. Of special concern is high tongue weight. However, each application is unique and every environment
different, therefore your application may require more than 25%.
Once both “Gross Trailers(s) Weight” (Step 1:) and “Tongue Weight Capacity” (Step 2:) have been determined, evaluate your operating
conditions and apply an appropriate margin of safety.
STEP 4: Browse Premier Product Catalog
Browse the Premier Product Catalog and refer to the “Specifications” section of each product. Be sure to review the “Understanding
Premier Load Specifications” sections and “Coupling to Drawbar Eye Cross-Reference” sheet on the next couple of pages.
STEP 2: Determine “Tongue Weight Capacity”
“Tongue Weight Capacity” is the maximum expected weight at the drawbar eye.
If a hinged drawbar is used, the maximum weight will be approximately 1/2 the
overall drawbar weight. If a non-hinged drawbar is used and the actual tongue
weight is not known, you can approximate the weight by multiplying the GVWR
of the towed trailer by 15%. However, each application is unique and the best
practice is to weigh the tongue when the trailer is loaded to GVWR.
Double Trailer Configuration
Triple Trailer Configuration
Example only, each application may vary and should be considered unique.
Example only, each application may vary and should be considered unique.

SAMPLE ONLY
Maximum Gross Trailer Weight:
Maximum Tongue Weight:
Ultimate Latch/Upward Vertical Capacity:
Maximum Eye X-Section:
Minimum Eye Opening:
Unit Weight:
30,000 lbs.
4,500 lbs.
5,000 lbs.
1 13/16 in.
2 in.
12.6 lbs.
(13,607 kg)
(2,041 kg)
(2,267 kg)
(46 mm)
(51 mm)
(5.7 kg)
Understanding Premier Load Specifications
Each Premier product undergoes extensive design and testing prior to being introduced. We use the latest in Computer Aided Design and
Analysis Software as well as physical destructive tests. Premier’s published load specifications are the maximum load a given product or
part will withstand without failure. Premier’s testing procedures closely follow the Society of Automotive Engineers (SAE) guidelines of
Recommended Practice for testing Couplings and Drawbar Eyes (SAE J847 & J849).
SELECTING THE RIGHT EQUIPMENT
Maximum load on latch or
upper coupling surface
containing drawbar eye.
Latches and upper coupling
surfaces are not designed for
sustained load at this stated
capacity.
Maximum occurring tongue
weight. Static as well as
dynamic loads.
Weight of Trailer(s) being towed
(see “Selecting Premier Couplings
& Drawbar Eyes”).
The largest x-section in
eyelet portion of eye. Used to
determine compatibility
with coupling.
Minimum inside diameter
of eyelet portion of eye. Used to
determine compatibility with
coupling.
Weight of unit or pair of
units without accessories.
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Importance of Inspection and Maintenance
Whether you use Premier Jacks, Couplings, Drawbar Eyes, Hinge Assemblies or any other Premier product, regular inspection and
maintenance are essential for proper function, keeping repair costs to a minimum and above all, safe and efficient operation.
To determine wear limits, Premier created Wear Gages that help judge the useful life of couplings and
drawbar eyes (details in catalog). In accordance with Premier and the Federal Motor Carrier Safety
Regulations, these were designed to identify wear at the critical percentages of 18% and 20%, by
measuring the cross-section of coupling hooks (horn) and drawbar eye loops. 18% wear indicates that
the product should be replaced as soon as possible. At 20% wear, the product is no longer in usable
condition and must be taken out of service immediately and replaced. The latch gage bar measures the
gap space between the top of the coupling hook and the closed latch. If the 3/8” latch gage bar can
pass between this region, then the latch components should be considered worn past safe limits and replaced. Please note that these wear
gage specifications are in accordance with Premier Mfg. and the Federal Motor Carrier Safety Regulations (refer to other manufacturer’s
specifications for wear limits on their products).
Premier also provides Installation Guides for each of our major products. These help guide you through installation, inspection, routine
maintenance and part replacement. Another resource is our website at www.premier-mfg.com. Here you will find Installation Guides,
Service Guides, distributor locations, online catalogs, product information, trade show schedules and links to trucking resources.
Additional Product Resources at Your Fingertips
Customer Service: We are always here to support you. Do you need additional information or assistance? Your phone calls are greeted by
our courteous receptionist, during business hours. We have exceptional, personable Customer Service Reps for you to rely on. If you have
product questions or want to place an order, you can speak directly with one of our experienced and knowledgeable Customer Service
Representatives.
Sales Representatives: Would you like on site training or assistance? Contact one of our veteran Premier Sales Reps for more information
about product training for your staff. Or be sure to visit with them at a Trade Show (see website for schedule).
www.premier-mfg.com: Our website is an informative resource at your fingertips. In addition to our Installation and Service Guides, you
will find Territory Manager contact information, distributor locations, product specifications, product selectors, cross-reference forms,
digital product catalog, trade show schedule, and links to trucking resources.

Page 4 1-800-255-5387 • www.premier-mfg.comPREMIER MANUFACTURING
Specifications and Load Capacities
Standard Installation Drawing
MODEL 235SM COUPLING
SAFETY WARNING
This product is designed for towing under
normal conditions within the stated gross
trailer weight. Do not overload or abuse this
product. Overloading or abuse may lead to
property damage, severe injury, or death.
Gross Trailer Weight:
Maximum Tongue Weight:
Ultimate Latch Capacity:
Maximum Eye X-Section:
Minimum Eye Opening:
Unit Weight:
60,000 lbs. (27,215 kg)
12,000 lbs. (5,443 kg)
20,000 lbs. (9,071 kg)
1 11/16 in. (43 mm)
2 1/8 in. (54 mm)
48.1 lbs. (21.8 kg)

Replacement Part Information
Optional Accessories
Optional Accessories:
- 14026 Latch Gage (#10000071): To determine latch gap limit.
- 14011 Wear Gage (#10000059): To determine hook wear limits.
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Model 135PK (#10001054) Parts available:
Item Model # Part # Description
1 132B 10000212 Bushing
2 132 10000210 Latch
3 132A 10000211 Spring
4 134B 10000219 Bushing
5 133 10000214 Latch Lock
6 135A 10001046 Spring
7 131 10004670 Pin
8 144-75 10001069 Snap Ring (2)
9 275-50 10000311 Snap Ring (2)
10 134 10004671 Pin
Item Model # Part # Description
11 *237NT 10001119 Nylatron Bushing (2)
12 *348A 10000856 Poly Bushing
13 *235W 10005992 Washer
14 *416 10001181 Locknut
15 *208 10001106 Snap Ring
*Not included in parts kit, available individually.
15
14
13
9
8
7
10
2
1
3
6
4
11
512
ITEM
NO.
PART
NUMBER
Legacy
ID
DESCRIPTION QTY.
1 10000212 132B
LATCH THRUST BUSHING, NYLINER, 3/4
ID
1
2 10000213 132
PRIMARY LATCH 1
3 10000211
132A TORSION SPRING, 1" ID 1
4 10000219
134B
LATCH THRUST BUSHING, NYLINER,
1/2" ID
1
5 10000218
133F LATCH LOCK 1
6 10001046
135A TORSION SPRING, 5/8" ID 1
7 10001045 131
PIN, 3/4 DIA X 2.57 LONG 1
8 10001069
144-75
Hardware,144-75,RETAINING
RING,3/4
2
9 10000311
275-50
Hardware,275-50,RETAINING
RING,1/2
2
10 10000220
134F LATCH PIN, 1/2" 1
11 10001119
237NT THRUST,BUSHING,NYLATRON, 2" ID 1
12 10000856
348A POLYURETHANE BUSHING 1
13 10005992
235W 3-3/8" OD 2-1/32" ID 1/4" T 1
14 10001181 416
Hardware,416,LOCKNUT,2 1
15 10001106 208
Hardware,208,RETAINING RING,1-7/8 1
16 10005662
235MBU SWIVEL SHELF MOUNT WELDMENT 1
17 10005659
235L SWIVEL COUPLING 1
MODEL 235SM COUPLING

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Installation
NOTE: DO NOT USE SWIVEL-TYPE DRAWBAR EYES WITH THE 235SM COUPLING. USE ONLY A SILICONE BASED GREASE
TO PREVENT DAMAGE TO THE POLYURETHANE BUSHING.
The 235SM Coupling is only to be used and maintained with Premier parts. Any substitution or use of non-Premier parts in a
235SM Coupling will VOID ALL PRODUCT WARRANTY.
Installation Procedure
1. The 235SM Coupling must be installed to comply with the Federal Motor Carrier Safety Regulations. Specifically, Section
393.70, Paragraph C: “Towing of Full Trailers.” Prior to install or operation, consult with local, State and Federal agencies,
as there may be additional applicable laws governing installation and use of this product.
2. Make certain that the mounting structure the 235SM Coupling is to be mounted on is of sufficient strength to withstand the
load rating of the coupling.
3. Using the Standard Installation Drawing, measure, and layout the mounting structure and then drill the holes.
4. Mount the 235SM using 11, 1/2” grade-8 bolts and grade-C locknuts. Only use new nuts and bolts when installing a
coupling. Torque the bolts to obtain a 12,771 lb. clamp load for ½-13 bolts or a 14,396 lb. clamp load for ½-20 bolts. The
proper torque to obtain the desired clamp load should be available from the manufacturer of the bolt and nut combination.
5. The 235SM 2” hole should be lubricated with a silicone-based grease prior to insertion of the 235 coupling. If needed use
the grease zerk fitting located on the lower passenger side of the mounting bracket. Be sure to only use a silicone-based
grease. Petroleum based products can damage the bushing inside the mounting bracket.
6. Generously lubricate both faces of both 237NT Bushing. Slide one 237NT Bushing over the coupling shaft, the 237NT’s
fillet should face the 235L coupling body and insert the shaft through the 235MB body (use extreme care not to damage the
threads on the shaft). Slide the 348A bushing on the 235L shaft.
7. Clean and lubricate all visible threads on the shaft.
8. Slide the 235W Washer and thread the 416 locknut on the shaft. Tightened the nut until the free play is taken up between
all components and then a minimum of 1 full rotation is applied to the nut. The nut should be inspected at the 90-day
service interval to make sure there is not free play. The nut can be tightened further than 1 full rotation if desired but the
tighter the nut the less impact absorption the assembly will have.
9. Install the 208 snap ring onto the end of the 235L shaft.
10. Once mounted, check the latch components for proper operation and clearances (see the Inspection/Operation/Maintenance
section for opening and closing the latch). If the operation of the latch components is sticky, lubricate all rotation points with
a light penetrating oil. Work the latch assembly several times to distribute the lubricant evenly and remove any excess with a
rag. Do not apply lubricant to the pintle/hook or saddle area of the 235SM Coupling.
11. “IMPORTANT WARNINGS!” sticker was enclosed. This must be attached to the coupling or cross member and be visible for
the end user to read
Inspection/Operation/Maintenance
Inspection and Maintenance:
1. Visually inspect the coupling body and latch components for cracks, impact damage and/or deformation before each and
every use. Do NOT use if any of these conditions exist.
2. Check the gap between the 132 Latch and the top of the pintle/hook on the coupling body before each and every use. A gap
of 3/8” or more means the coupling must be taken out of service and repaired or replaced.
3. If the wear area on the pintle/hook has worn 20% or more from its original cross-section, the coupling is considered out of
service and must not be used.
4. Lubrication of the latch components must be performed at 90-day intervals or sooner depending on the operating
environment. Lubricate the latch components with a spray-type lubricant to evenly coat all rotation points. Rotate each
latch component several times to evenly distribute the lubricant. Lubricate the mounting plates at the grease zerks using a
mechanical grease gun with a silicone-based grease.
5. Remove any excess lubricant with a rag. Do not apply lubricant to the pintle/hook or saddle area of the coupling.
6. Check for wear on both 237NT Bushings. Any slack should be removed by tightening the 416 Locknut. Excessively worn
237NT Bushings should be replaced immediately.
7. Never weld on any Premier part in order to repair damaged or worn areas. Field and/or shop welds are inadequate and may
further weaken the coupling.
8. WARNING: Other inspection and maintenance procedures are also required prior to the operation of combination vehicles.
Consult and follow all Federal Motor Carrier Safety Regulations as well as local, state, and federal guidelines.
MODEL 235SM COUPLING

Page 7 1-800-255-5387 • www.premier-mfg.comPREMIER MANUFACTURING
IMPORTANT GUIDELINES that apply to all Premier Non-Air Couplings
- Do not weld on any coupling assembly
- Always use Grade-8 fasteners properly torqued
- Do not apply lubricants to the coupling hook
- Clean & inspect coupling for damage & excessive wear prior to each and every use
- Lubricate all coupling components at a minimum of 90 day intervals
- Do not bind-up (Jackknife) any application as stresses can cause damage to products or components, resulting in failure and
detachment of the trailer while in use.
Operations
Operation:
OPENING Coupling Latch
1. While facing the mounted 235SM Coupling, push the 133 Latch Lock toward the mounting plate (away from you) until full
rotational travel is reached. While holding the latch lock in this position, grasp the top of the 132 Latch and pull out toward
the pintle, rotating the latch until full rotational travel is reached.
2. Holding the 132 Latch in place, slowly release the 133 Latch Lock until it has rotated into the latch.
3. Release the 132 Latch and the 235SM Coupling is now open and ready to couple or uncouple.
CLOSING Coupling Latch
4. Rotate the top of the 132 Latch toward the pintle until full rotational travel is reached. Push the 133 Latch Lock toward the
mounting plate as far as it will go.
5. While holding the 133 Latch Lock in this position, slowly release the 132 Latch. Release the latch lock making sure it seats
fully down in the slot on top of the latch. The 235SM Coupling latch is now closed.
6. To test for proper latching, apply a force toward the coupling body to the front of the 132 Latch (down near the top of
the pintle). THE LATCH SHOULD NOT OPEN! If the latch does not stay closed, do not use until it has been repaired or
replaced.
7. This product is designed to be operated within its free rotation limits. It is the responsibility of the vehicle designer/end user
to assure that these limits are not exceeded (do not bind-up/jackknife).
8. WARNING: Prior to towing, make certain that adequately rated safety chains have been properly connected.
MODEL 235SM COUPLING

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ATTENTION!
End Users must read and follow this information.
DISTRIBUTORS & OEM’S: Please ensure that your customers are
made aware of the following information on this page.
1. VERIFY THAT BOTH COUPLING’S AND DRAWBAR EYE’S RATED CAPACITIES MEET YOUR APPLICATION(S)
REQUIREMENTS.
2. DO NOT OVERLOAD COUPLING OR DRAWBAR EYE.
3. INSPECT COUPLING, LATCH AND DRAWBAR EYE FOR CRACKS, BENDING DAMAGE OR EXCESSIVE WEAR.
DO NOT USE IF ANY OF THESE CONDITIONS EXIST!
4. CHECK FOR GAP BETWEEN CLOSED LATCH AND TOP OF HORN OR COUPLING BALL.
DO NOT USE IF GAP IS 3/8 IN. OR MORE.
5. MAKE SURE COUPLING IS LATCHED AND THAT LATCH WILL NOT OPEN.
6. PRIOR TO USE, ALWAYS CONNECT SAFETY CHAINS OF ADEQUATE STRENGTH FOR LOAD(S) BEING TOWED.
7. DO NOT BIND-UP (JACKKNIFE) ANY APPLICATION AS STRESSES CAN CAUSE DAMAGE TO THE COUPLING,
DRAWBAR EYE, OTHER COMPONENTS OR ANY COMBINATION OF THEM. JACKKNIFING MAY RESULT IN
FAILURE OF PRODUCTS OR COMPONENTS, RESULTING IN DETACHMENT OF THE TRAILER WHILE IN USE.
8. DO NOT APPLY LUBRICANTS TO THE COUPLING HOOK OR DRAWBAR EYE LOOP, AS THEY CAN COVER UP
POSSIBLE DAMAGE AND ACCELERATE WEAR.
9. ALWAYS ABIDE BY ALL APPLICABLE STATE AND FEDERAL REGULATIONS GOVERNING SAFE AND PROPER
TRANSPORTATION.
10. NEVER STRIKE ANY OF THESE COMPONENTS WITH A HAMMER OR ANY OTHER DEVICE.
11. ALWAYS VERIFY PROPER OPERATION OF LATCHING SYSTEM AND COUPLING COMPONENTS PRIOR TO DRIVE OFF.
12. NEVER USE A COUPLING THAT YOU DO NOT FULLY UNDERSTAND HOW TO PROPERLY OPERATE AND VERIFY
SECURE LATCHING OF.
13. NEVER REPLACE ANY PART IN ANY OF PREMIER’S ASSEMBLIES WITH NON-PREMIER COMPONENTS. DOING SO
WILL VOID ALL WARRANTY AND POTENTIALLY COMPROMISE THE UNIT’S INTEGRITY, WHICH COULD RESULT IN
PROPERTY DAMAGE, SERIOUS INJURY, OR DEATH.

Page 9 1-800-255-5387 • www.premier-mfg.comPREMIER MANUFACTURING
CONTINUE TO THE NEXT PAGE FOR
MORE INFORMATION

PREMIER MANUFACTURING
THE FIRST NAME IN QUALITY COUPLINGS
800-255-5387 [phone]
www.premier-mfg.com
WARNING!
This envelope contains important instructions
AND MUST REMAIN ATTACHED TO THIS
COUPLING. It may be removed only by the End
User or by an Original Equipment Manufacturer
who preserves this envelope and instructions and
provides it to the end user.
Model 235SM Coupling
1-800-255-5387 • www.premier-mfg.comPREMIER MANUFACTURING Page 10
WARRANTY: We warrant all Premier products to be free from defects in material or workmanship for one year. We will
repair or replace, at our option, any Premier product which our examination reveals to be defective, provided that the
product is returned to our factory, at Tualatin, Oregon transportation prepaid, within one year of purchase by the first retail
purchaser. Our warranty does not extend to products which have been subject to misuse, neglect, improper installation,
maintenance or application, nor does our warranty extend to products which have been repaired or altered outside of
3UHPLHU·V facility unless the repair or alteration has been expressly authorized in writing by Premier. This warranty is in
lieu of all other warranties, express or implied, and excludes warranties of merchantability, fitness for a particular purpose and
otherwise, and in no event will Premier be liable for incidental, special, contingent or consequential damages.
DISCLAIMER: Although great care has been taken to ensure accurate information throughout this document, Premier
Manufacturing must reserve the right to alter any information contained within. These changes include but are not limited to:
Dimensional changes, load capacity and availability of any part or assembly.
© 2009 Premier Manufacturing
All rights reserved. Any reproduction of the photographic images or any other portion of this document, including but not
limited to the photocopying, or retention and/or storage in a retrieval system of any kind, is strictly prohibited without prior
express written permission from Premier Manufacturing.