How to Determine the Right Ball Size to Use to Tow a Boat Trailer

Updated 06/17/2014 | Published 06/16/2014

Products Featured in This Question

Draw-Tite Ball Mount for 2" Hitches - 2-3/4" Rise, 4" Drop - 9" Long - 7.5K

(3386)

$33.73

1-7/8" Hitch Ball - 1" Diameter x 2-1/8" Long Shank - Chrome - 2,000 lbs

(2599)

$12.52

2" Hitch Ball - 1" Diameter x 2-1/8" Long Shank - Chrome - 7,500 lbs

(1345)

$13.60

Question:

What size ball should I have for my 14foot boat trailer?

asked by: Judy

Expert Reply:

The size ball you need will depend on what the trailer coupler requires. If you look at the top of the coupler it should say the size ball it requires.

Also, you will need a ball with the correct diameter shank to fit the ball hole in the ball mount. You will need to measure the ball hole to determine the shank size needed. For example ball mount # 2753 requires a ball with a 1 inch diameter shank such as # 63845 for a 2 inch or # 19260 for a 2-5/16 inch.

Once you have those 2 pieces of information you can choose a ball that is the right size. Just make sure that in addition to the right ball diameter and shank diameter you get a ball with a high enough capacity for the trailer.

The trailer coupler likely also has on it somewhere its capacity. That is a good way to determine the capacity you will need. Going with a ball that has a higher capacity than what is needed is fine. Just don't use a ball with a lower capacity.

I have included some helpful links to the right for you as well.