Can Trailer Ball Hole in Towing Bumper Be Enlarged to Accommodate a 2-5/16 inch Trailer Ball

Updated 08/01/2020 | Published 07/29/2020

Question:

hello, i have a trailer that uses a 2 5/16 ball but the hole in my bumper is to small. would i be able to make it bigger safely? the hitch that is in the pic is not any good and has been cut on or i would just use it.

asked by: James

Expert Reply:

I wouldn't recommend doing that, as it will reduce the structural integrity of the bumper. Most towing bumpers are only rated for 3500 lbs, and a trailer that would use a 2-5/16 ball is typically heavier than that. You'd want to use the receiver hitch shown in your photo, rather than mounting a ball in your bumper.

expert reply by: Mike L