There are various sizes of hitch balls. The most common are
1 7/8", 2", 2 5/16",
Ball
(Hitch Ball) The Hitch Ball is the connection from the hitch to the trailer. There are many elements in determining the correct hitch ball. Mounting platform thickness, hole size, coupler socket size and the most important gross trailer weight rating. The platform must be at least 3/8" thick and the hole size must not be more than 1/16 of an inch larger in diameter than the threaded shank. Every time you tow be sure to check the nut and lock washer to make sure it is fastened securely.
A = Ball Diameter | B = Shank Diameter | C = Shank Length
The hitch ball mounts to the ball mount or the weight distributing head. Hitch balls come in different sizes and styles so refer to "Selecting the correct hitch ball" chart for your specific need. Keep in mind the hitch ball weight rating should always be equal to or larger than the hitch and ball mount being used.
Size Differences
1-7/8" balls have ratings up to 2000 lbs with a ¾" shank size
1-7/8" balls have ratings up to 2000 lbs with a 1" shank size
2" hitch ball has ratings up to 3500 lbs. with a ¾" shank size
2" hitch ball has ratings up to 6000 lbs. with a 1" shank size
2" hitch ball has ratings up to 8000 lbs. with a 1-1/4" shank size
2-5/16" hitch ball has ratings up to 6000 with a 1" shank size
2-5/16" hitch ball has ratings up to 14,000 with a 1-1/4" shank size
Note: The shank size of hitch ball must match the size of the ball mount shank hole.
Selecting the correct Hitch Ball
ALWAYS USE THE PROPERLY RATED HITCH BALL FOR YOUR TOWING SYSTEM
Your towing system’s maximum weight rating is always equal to the lowest rated item in the system.
Your hitching system cannot be upgraded to a rating higher than the maximum rating of your hitch.
For example, a 3,500 lb. ball on a 2,000 lb. max trailer weight rated hitch does not increase your towing capacity to 3,500 lbs. Your hitching system is still rated at 2,000 lbs.
Conversely, a 2,000 lb. ball on a 3,500 lb. max trailer weight-rated hitch decreases your maximum towing capacity to 2,000 lbs.
The hitch ball diameter (A) must be the same diameter as the trailer coupler (1-7/8”, 2”, or 2-5/16”).
The shank diameter (B) of the hitch ball should be the same as the hole diameter in the (correct) ball mount you selected.
The shank length (C) should be long enough to allow at least two threads to be visible when the hitch ball is installed and the nut completely tightened.
REDUCER BUSHING
Allows Balls (3/4" Shank) to be used in ball mounts(1" hole)
Stroker
I would question the hitch rating on item # 2, it's the same as item # 1.
1-7/8" balls have ratings up to 2000 lbs with a ¾" shank size
1-7/8" balls have ratings up to 2000 lbs with a 1" shank size
admin
I am under the impression that a 1 7/8" ball has a rating of no greater than 2000 Lbs. regardless of shank size.
Please correct me if I am wrong. I dont want to give bad info.
Stroker
Rose, I do believe you are correct, and I'm the one, that is wrong.
I shall be waiting for my punishment.
TGPILOT
This could get UGLY........LOL (poor Stroker)
Tom
admin
Tom Cobb
Can I take your punishment Stroker..Huh can I???
Stroker
Now that's what I'm talking about, looks like to me, this isn't Rose's first rodeo.
Tom Cobb
I would say she has been to some calf ropings and a few goat ropings too.
