Why is the Curt Tri-Ball Mount # C42KR Hard to Fit in Factory Ford Hitch

Updated 03/18/2016 | Published 03/16/2016

Question:

2016 f350 XL DRW, factory hitch receiver 19,000 lbs - When this part is rotated to the 2 5/16inch position it fits perfectly. When rotated to the 2inch position the tight is VERY tight, I would need to hammer it in in order to get it to fit. Is this the way it is supposed to fit?

asked by: Nate K

Expert Reply:

The issue you are running into is that the Ford 2-1/2 inch hitches have unpredictable radiuses on the corners of the hitch opening. It's only on their 2-1/2 inch hitches, but the corners of the hitch opening on some factory Ford hitches end up so round that square shank accessories don't like to easily fit. The solution is to try and remove the powder coat on the shank of the accessory to allow it to install easier.

We thought they had gotten better with their more recent 2-1/2 inch hitches but we have found that some of them are totally fine while others can't hardly accept any ball mounts.

expert reply by: Jameson C