How to Choose Correct Rise/Drop in a Ball Mount to Tow Level Enclosed Tandem Axle Trailer
Updated 01/09/2020 | Published 01/08/2020
Question:
I have a enclosed tandem axle 8×16 trailer, how do choose the correct height so both axles hit the pavement level, and pull down the road without any problems? My single axles never give me any resistance and are all level when towing...thx
asked by: Castle
Expert Reply:
To select the correct ball mount that will allow you to tow level, you must take two measurements into consideration.
First, measure from the ground (on level ground) to the top inside portion of your square hitch receiver opening.
Second, measure from the ground (on level ground) to the bottom flat portion of your trailer coupler. Using a trailer level like the Hopkins Cross-Check Trailer Level # HM09615 will help ensure you get the most accurate measurements.
Next, simply calculate the difference between the two. This will equal the number inches of a rise or drop needed. If your hitch height is greater, use a ball mount with a drop. If your coupler height is greater, use a ball mount with a rise.
For example, if your vehicle hitch height is 14 inches and your trailer coupler height is 17 inches, you need to choose a ball mount with a 3 inch rise, such as the Draw-Tite Ball Mount # 4285, to make up for the height difference.
If you're using an appropriate ball mount for your application and you're still experiencing sagging on the rear of your vehicle, then that could indicate a need for a weight distribution system to help distribute the weight more evenly throughout both trailer axles.
The attached Weight Distribution article will explain how to find the correct size system for your needs. I also linked our complete selection of Weight Distribution Systems at the bottom of this page for you to check out.
Featured Help Information
Miscellaneous Media
Continue Researching
- Shop: Thule RV Wheel Levelers - Black - Qty 2
- Shop: RV Tail Light - Stop, Tail, Turn, License Plate - Rectangle - Red Lens - Driver Side - White Base
- Q&A: Where To Attach Ground Connection of Trailer Taillight Assembly
- Search Results: front license plate holder
- Search Results: license plates and frames
- Video: Feature Review Thule RV Wheel Levelers
- Shop: Peterson Trailer Tail Light w/ License Bracket - 5 Function - White Base - Red Lens - Driver Side
- Shop: ONE LED RV Combination Tail Light w/ License Plate Bracket - 4 Function - 1 Diode - Driver Side
- Search Results: 2~5/16 hitch ball gooseneck hitch
- Search Results: trailer hitch ball cover
- Search Results: hitch ball cover 2 5 16
- Search Results: rv levels
- Search Results: 2 5 16 hitch ball cover
- Video: Wheel Masters Level Master Trailer Bubble Level Review
- Video: A Closer Look at the Ultra-Fab Protective Cover for Electric A-Frame Jacks
- Video: Phoenix Electric Trailer Jack with Remote Review
- Video: Feature Review Ultra-Fab Protective Cover for Electric A-Frame Jacks
- Video: Checking Out the Stromberg Carlson Electric Trailer Jack
- Shop: Phoenix Electric Trailer Jack with Remote - A-Frame - 26" Lift - 5,500 lbs
- Shop: Wheel Masters Level Master Trailer Bubble Level with 5th Wheel Pin Box Mounting Bracket
- Shop: etrailer Electric Trailer Brakes - Self-Adjusting - 12" - Left/Right Hand - 5.2K to 7K
- Q&A: Is Bulldog 4K Capacity Electric Trailer Jack Weatherproof
- Q&A: What Is the Torque Rating of the Stromberg Carlson Electric Trailer Jack
- Q&A: Powered A-Frame Jack Recommendation for A-Frame Bumper Horse Trailer
- Q&A: Phoenix Electric Trailer Jack Memory Storage and Calibration Hole For UF38-944055
- Q&A: Recommended Electric Trailer Jack to Hook up a Trailer to a Lifted Truck
- Q&A: Product Dimensions and Mounting Dimensions of Hopkins Graduated RV Levels
- Article: Trailer Wiring Diagrams
- Shop: Trailer Hitch
- Video: Firestone Ride-Rite Air Bags with Easy Mount Compressor Feature Breakdown
on Trailer Hitch Ball Mount
