Trailer Hitch Balls

A trailer hitch ball is the towing component that attaches to the ball mount and provides an attachment point for the trailer coupler. The trailer coupler sits on top of the ball and is locked into place. The ball allows the trailer to pivot to provide smooth turning while towing. Trailer hitch balls are sold in various shank lengths and diameters, ball diameters and weight capacities to meet your towing needs.

NOTE: Ball torque depends on the shank diameter

The Two Items Needed When Choosing a Hitch Ball

1.Trailer Coupler

Look at the trailer coupler. It will indicate what size ball diameter you need and the weight capacity of the trailer. The weight rating of the hitch ball should be equal to or greater than the weight rating of your trailer, hitch and ball mount.

Three ball diameters sizes are available: 1-7/8", 2" and 2-5/16". The 1-7/8" balls are typically used on smaller trailers and have a weight capacity of 2,000 lbs. The 2" balls are used on medium sized trailers and have a weight capacity of up to 8,000 lbs. The 2-5/16" balls are used for heavy duty trailers and have a weight capacity of up to 30,000 lbs.

2.Ball Mount

The ball mount determines the ball shank diameter and ball shank length. Three shank diameter sizes are available: 3/4", 1" and 1-1/4". The 3/4" diameter ball is used on 1-1/4" X 1-1/4" Class I and Class II hitches. The 1" diameter ball is used on Class III and Class IV hitches. The 1-1/4" diameter ball is used on Class IV, Class V and weight distributing hitches.

Balls are available with shank lengths of short (less than 2"), medium (between 2" and 3") and long (greater than 3"). The drawbar thickness determines what shank length is needed. At least one thread needs to be visible beneath the lock washer and nut once the ball is screwed into place.

Ball Diameter Specifics

• Shank diameter: 3/4" and 1"
• Capacity: up to 2,000 lbs
• Finish: nickle plated and stainless steel
• Shank length: short, medium and long
• Used on small trailers

• Shank diameter: 3/4", 1" and 1-1/4"
• Capacity: 3,500 lbs to 8,000 lbs
• Finish: nickle plated and stainless steel
• Shank length: short, medium and long
• Used on smaller to medium sized trailers
• Most common ball size

• Shank diameter: 1" and 1-1/4"
• Capacity: 6,000 lbs to 30,000 lbs
• Finish: nickle plated, machine and stainless steel
• Shank length: medium
• Used on heavy duty trailer applications

Specialty Hitch Balls

• Set includes one shank and two or three balls with different diameters
• Kits available with either a 3/4" or 1" shank diameter
  • Paired with a combo of 1-7/8", 2" and 2-5/16" balls
• Perfect solution for individuals who tow multiple trailers that require different ball sizes
• Offered in nickle plated and stainless steel finish

• Ball diameter: 1-7/8", 2" and 2-5/16"
• Capacity: 6000 lbs
• Finish: nickle plated and stainless steel
• Only one wrench needed to tighten hitch ball when used with One-Tool Torque ball mounts

• Designed specifically for each gooseneck system; be sure to select a replacement ball that is compatible with your system
• Available in 2-5/16" or 3" ball diameter
• Available with an offset - creates more room between the cab of the truck and trailer

• Some pintle hooks are sold with a ball; can be conveniently used for standard and heavy duty towing applications
• Replacement balls are available; be sure to select a ball that is compatible with your pintle hook

Recommended Items

• Keeps ball looking and performing like new
• Allows coupler to rotate more freely
• Reduces scratching on ball surface

• Protects ball from elements and rust when not in use
• Keeps grease from spreading when no trailer is hooked up:
  • Saves vehicle interior if ball is taken off
  • Saves you from grease stains if ball is left on

• Tightens hitch ball on ball mount
• Works with most 3/4" and 1" shank balls