Comparing the Nickel Plated and Stainless Steel Convert-A-Ball Interchangeable Ball Set

Published 08/22/2018

Products Featured in This Question

Convert-A-Ball Interchangeable Ball Set - 3 Balls - 1" Shank - Stainless

(342)

$117.11

Convert-a-Ball Cover for Interchangeable Shank

(68)

$6.39

Convert-A-Ball Interchangeable Ball Set - 3 Balls - 1" Shank - Nickel

(540)

$69.37

Question:

If I dont care about looks but value on convert a ball, nickel vs stainless steel. Id like to upgrade a 20 year old 1inch shank set and dont know which between nickel and stainless steel? My issue in the past was not unhooking the trailer for a month in the winter and/or not taking the ball off for a longer period, and then the pin sticking. Or cant get the ball off due to rust....so we soak it and bang it with a hammer or pipe wrench. Question, is one style ball nickel vs stainless steel better for this problem than the other?

asked by: Bryan

Expert Reply:

The stainless steel construction of the Convert-A-Ball Interchangeable Ball Set part # 902B is going to be much more weather resistant than the nickel plated steel of the Convert-A-Ball Interchangeable Ball Set part # 900B. There shouldn't be any rust inside the pinhole with the stainless set however, dirt and grime can still get inside and cause the pin to stick which can be present on both the stainless and nickel plated options therefore, I recommend using the Convert-a-Ball Cover part # 005B while the ball mount is not in use.

It may also be beneficial to place a small amount of grease on the dowel pin that holds the hitch ball onto the shank as this will also work to prevent rust and dirt from making its way in.

expert reply by: Conner L