What is the Purpose of a Trailer Hitch Ball, Trailer Hitch Pin, and a Clip and are All Necessary

Updated 08/26/2010 | Published 08/25/2010

Products Featured in This Question

Pin and Clip for 2" and 2-1/2" Hitches - 5/8" Diameter x 3-1/4" Span

(895)

$15.28

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

(1358)

$12.62

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

(3839)

$30.92

etrailer Trailer Hitch Receiver Lock for 2" Hitches - Flush - 2-5/8" Span - Chrome

(3577)

$25.61

Question:

Do I need both the ball and the pin and clip or just one or the other?

asked by: Mary w

Expert Reply:

A hitch ball and a hitch pin and clip each serve a different purpose. A hitch ball, like # 19247, attaches to the ball mount, like # C45010, using a large nut that threads on from the bottom, kind of like a nut and bolt. This ball is what the trailer coupler attaches to.

The hitch pin like # PC3 goes through the ball mount and the trailer hitch and the clip keeps it from coming out while traveling. There are also locking hitch pins that use a lock and not a clip like # e98880.

Basically, you will insert a ball mount into the receiver opening on the trailer hitch, hold it in place with a hitch pin and clip, then attach the ball on the end of the ball mount. I have included a FAQ article on selecting the correct ball mount, and an FAQ article on hitch balls below. Ball mounts and hitch balls come in many different sizes and you will want to use the correct set up for each individual trailer.

expert reply by: Michael H