What Length Ball Mount Do I Need To Use?

Published 01/10/2020

Products Featured in This Question

B&W Heavy-Duty Ball Mount - 1" Rise, 2" Drop - 8-1/2" Long - 16,000 lbs

(291)

$55.00

B&W Heavy-Duty Ball Mount - 1" Rise, 2" Drop - 10-1/4" Long - 16,000 lbs

(291)

$60.00

Question:

My app is a 2019 f-150. Do you recommend the 8.5” or 10.25” length?

asked by: Dave D

Expert Reply:

Longer ball mounts are helpful for creating clearance from the rear of the vehicle to allow you to lower your tailgate while towing and not interfere with a tongue mounted jack or install hitch mounted accessories (like bike racks) that may require more clearance from the rear of the vehicle. The length that you'll want to use really comes down to whether or not you really need an extra 1-3/4" between your trailer coupler and your truck.

For all intents and purposes, the # BWBMHD30010 (8.5") and # BWBMHD30011 (10.25") are the same ball mount, just different lengths. If you've experienced issues with lowering your tailgate with the trailer attached previously, or some other issue that you'll need extra clearance for, it might be wise to go with the longer 10.25" ball mount # BWBMHD30011.

expert reply by: Erik B