How Tight Should Trailer Coupler Be on Hitch Ball

Question:

all parts are clearly marked for sizing class 1 hitch and are matched correctly. question is after attaching small trailer to ball how do I determine the adjusting nut on trailer coupling is correctly set to right tension. Attached trailer coupling to ball has some lift play how much should there be? What lube should I use on ball?

asked by: Anthony D

Expert Reply:

A little bit of play is acceptable, the coupler should be tight enough that the coupler won't come off the ball, but not so tight you can't close the latch. I typically tighten the coupler up until I feel a slight resistance when closing the coupler latch, then I'll back it off slightly from there.

Reese sells a white lithium grease that's conveniently packaged for use on hitch balls, part # 58117.

expert reply by: Mike L

Dale

7/16/2024

I never knew there was a nut under the hitch cover that needs to be tightened- now I know that - how do you keep it from vibrating off as my friend just had happen? Thank you

Mike L.

7/31/2024

@Dale I'd recommend using a medium strength thread locker like # LT37643. You can check it out using the provided link.

Dale

8/1/2024

@MikeL thanks

Mike L.

8/2/2024

@Dale You're very welcome!

Dale

8/1/2024

Good explanation!

Mike L.

8/2/2024

@Dale Thank you, glad it was helpful!

Dennis G.

8/9/2024

@MikeL I think I have too much play. When I slow down, the trailer knocks forward, when I take off, there is a knock. Would you say that's too much play? Also, my coupler latch is not adjustable, I looked, can't find any adjustment screw. Would I have to get the whole coupler cut off the A frame & a new one welded on? Another question, I have weight distribution bar for my trailer, once you're coupled, are you supposed to raise the trailer with the truck to get the bar on easier? I think that might be the problem with the play in the ball, I think I may have bent or stretched the coupling.

Mike L.

8/21/2024

@DennisG Regarding your first question, is the play coming from the coupler latch, or from the ball mount moving around in the hitch receiver? The coupler 'locks' onto the trailer ball via a wedge that slides into place when the latch closes. The wedge should have a nut on the underside that allows you to tighten or loosen that travel. As far as the weight distribution goes, if you use the trailer jack to lift the rear of the vehicle a bit, it'll be much easier to get your spring bars installed or removed. Hope that helps!