Will Aluminum Ball Mount and Steel Hitch Receiver Cause Galvanic Corrosion

Published 08/09/2019

Question:

is there any risk of the two metals reacting in a corrosive or other dangerous way?

asked by: Rick

Expert Reply:

Any time you mix two metals like this there theoretically is the risk of galvanic corrosion over time. With that being said, we're talking about an extremely long process, one that will likely outlast the lifetime of your truck or trailer before it would have the potential to actually cause any negative effects.

The inside of your hitch receiver also almost certainly has a pretty durable powder coat. The process of galvanic corrosion wouldn't even begin until this coating is worn off and it's just bare metal inside the receiver.

To put it simply - in scientific terms corrosion is possible from mixing an aluminum ball mount like # DTSTBM6825 and a steel hitch receiver but it's not something you need to be concerned with. The natural rust resistance of an aluminum ball mount is still going to allow for a longer lifespan compared to a steel alternative.

expert reply by: Chris R