Can a 2 Inch Trailer Hitch Ball Be Replaced with a 1-7/8 Inch Hitch Ball on a 2 Inch Hitch Receiver

Updated 04/07/2010 | Published 04/06/2010

Products Featured in This Question

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

(2640)

$14.29

Convert-A-Ball Interchangeable Ball Set - 1-7/8" and 2" Balls - 1" Shank - Nickel

(564)

$51.73

Curt Ball Mount for 2" Hitches - 3/4" Rise, 2" Drop - 8-1/4" Long - 7,500 lbs

(4012)

$31.03

Question:

I have a 2 inch ball on a 2 x 2 reciever that I bought as a package. Am I able to take the 2 inch ball off of that reciever and replace it with a 1 7/8 inch ball or do I need to buy a different reciever? Thanks

asked by: Tim

Expert Reply:

To replace the hitch ball you would simply loosen and remove the hitch ball nut and pull the ball out of the ball mount hole. You may need a large wrench to loosen the nut.

The Tow Ready 1-7/8 Inch Hitch Ball, part # 19260, would be a great fit for your application, as it features a 1 inch diameter shank that should be compatible with your ball mount.

Please note, however, that some ball mounts for 2 inch x 2 inch hitches require a hitch ball with a 1-1/4 inch shank. If your current ball mount requires this hitch ball shank size, there would not be a compatible 1-7/8 inch hitch ball.

If you do find that your ball mount would not work with a ball with a 1 inch diameter shank, you could replace your current ball mount with one that would be compatible with the 1-7/8 inch ball. Curt Ball Mount, part # C45010 is a popular seller, but if you need a different rise or drop I have included a link to all the 2 inch by 2 inch ball mounts we offer, as well as some information on how to measure for your rise or drop, if needed.

Another option would be to use an interchangeable hitch ball set like Convert-A-Ball Interchangeable Ball Set, part # 901b, which would allow you to switch between the 2 inch and 1-7/8 inch ball diameters. The interchangeable ball kit would only work if your ball mount uses a hitch ball with a 1 inch shank.

I am including links to a FAQ page on hitch balls and on ball mounts.