Couple pull up with difficulty? (5)
I believe the answer is:
hitch
I believe this clue is a triple definition!
'couple' is the first definition.
(both can mean to join)
'pull up' is the second definition.
(I've seen this before)
'with' acts as a link.
'difficulty?' is the third definition.
(I know that hitch is a type of balk)
(Other definitions for hitch that I've seen before include "Unexpected problem" , "Snag - free ride" , "Yank" , "Snag, drawback" , "unite" .)