Pivot Arm Pin Assembly (Acorn nut/bolt)

The used TM I recently bought was missing a complete piviot bolt and acorn nut assembly. Since I was placing an order for it from the factory, I decided to replace all 8 at the same time; no real good reason other than combining shipping. In case anyone is interested the cost is $3.00 per assembly.

I don't know if it is a problem, but the hardware pieces are not the same as existing on my 2000 3124KB. The new hardware looks like a rivet instead of a bolt and their is a cheap looking spring steel cap instead of an acorn nut. There is also a washer included. I assume what I received is a direct replacement for my "older" hardware. Is this true? If so, it appears I would insert the pin from the exterior, add a washer on the inside of the TM and tap the steel cap on the inside end of the pin. Looks like it would be a two person job, as someone would need to outside to "back up" (hold the pin in) while the other person tapped the cap into place on the inside. Does this sound correct?

It does look to me like the newer hardware may be less robust than the original "acorn" configuration. I worry that the pressed on spring cap will slip off in transit and I will loose the pin. If anyone has the new configuration, how is it working for you?

[Gerry 1950]

I took possession of my 2010 2720sd at the end of august, 2009 and the interior chrome cap was missing from the factory. The pin was protruding and had "egged" the outer shell hole. There was evidence that the cap had been applied but apparently did not hold. I found a 3/8 x 2'' pin at home depot and applied two nylon washers with a cotter pin on the outside, end of problem. I believe your assessment of the perils of the new fastener is warranted. the sku number for the pin is 03069980287 and is in the harware section.

Thanks Gerry,
I think your solution is way more secure and also more practical. The chrome caps thin fingers gripping a grove at the end of the pin does not seem strong and on top of that, you can't see if there is positive engagement. Did you change them all out. If you replaced only the one with missing cap, I hope you keep a close eye on the others. It appears the previous owners, or perhaps the dealer (not a TM dealer) who I got mine from opened and closed without the missing pin and did some real damage to the shell on the rear left side. I hope it is mostly cosmetic, but will know better after I get it repaired and test it out.

I think I will leave the other 7 pin original pin assemblies in place and try your soulution to replace my missing part. Thanks again for the tip.

[Gerry 1950]

The pin I used is called a clevis pin which has 4 optional pin holes on the end opposite of the cap. The cotter pin I used is one of those clip pins. A washer on the inside and one on the outside made an attractive assembly and surely more secure. I did not replace any of the other pins but am keeping an eye on them. I will be taking the trailer out for the first time this weekend to check out the systems. I have already noted a lot of problems with the unit to the dealer and factory. I researched this unit for a year and even toured the factory this past June while visiting my daughter in Knoxville. My initial impression is that the quality control is poor, a big disappointment considering the amount of money I paid for this unit. I will be joining this forum when I return from the trip as I have found this to be the best source of information.