Are Solid Shank Ball Mounts Better Than Those with a Hollow Shank

Updated 08/22/2024 | Published 03/16/2018

Question:

For a 2-1/2 or 3 inch ball mount, class IV is solid bar better than hollow, or can I rely on the manufacturers ratings and use either safely? Would prefer hollow because it is lighter to handle, but not if I am sacrificing strength.

asked by: Dan

Expert Reply:

You can absolutely trust the manufacturer ratings for the ball mounts we have available, regardless of whether or not they feature a solid or hollow shank. Ball mounts and other towing products are typically tested well beyond their actual listed capacities, so you can be sure they can handle the specificied maximums without issue. You will just need to make sure that the various other components of your towing system can also support the weights you are looking to pull, such as the trailer hitch or vehicle itself.

A hollow shank is certainly going to give you a lighter unit that will be a bit easier to install and remove, but a solid shank ball mount such as the Curt # C45458 for 2-1/2 inch receivers will likely feature a higher listed towing capacity. This particular ball mount has a 20,000 pound towing capacity, along with a 2-1/2 inch rise or a 4 inch drop. This ball mount weighs about 17 pounds. With that being said, as long as the ball mount gives you the capacity you are needing, as well the correct rise or drop to tow the trailer level, a hollow shank will be just fine.

We do have a nice selection of 2-1/2 inch or 3 inch ball mounts available, for which I have provided links so you can look through them. I have also attached a great article that explains how to choose the right ball mount for your setup that you might find helpful.

expert reply by: Chris R

Brody

8/21/2024

Hey Chris, I have a question related to this. My new truck has the bigger 2.5" receiver with 2" adapter. I already have a solid shank 2" hitch for towing heavy (2 5/16). I have a chance to get a 2.5" hollow receiver with the 1 1/4" hole. Is this a better way to go? I forget the rating on the 2". Thanks!

Chris R.

8/22/2024

@Brody Anytime you can eliminate a moving part (the adapter in the case) I would. It's probably not going to result in some significant, noticeable difference, but it is going to make it a bit easier using the ball mount.