How Will I Know What Size Ball Mount Receiver I Need Without Having A Trailer Yet?

Question:

Hi - We have a 2008 Honda Odyssey, and recently purchased a small gokart. We want to buy a 5x8 utility trailer for it, and need to outfit the Odyssey with the appropriate parts for towing. How are we supposed to measure the distance between the ground and the tow bar, and the ground and the trailer, if we havent purchased the trailer yet, and havent installed the two bar either? Is there a standard rise/ measurement for an Odyssey? Is there an adjustable ball mount that would work?

asked by: Jennifer P

Expert Reply:

Looking at the different trailer hitch receivers that we offer I see that most will have a hitch height of 12-16" on the 2008 Honda Odyssey. We do list the heights of the receivers in our installation videos.

If you do not yet have a receiver I recommend our etrailer Trailer Hitch Receiver # e98862. This receiver will have a height of 14" and a 2" receiver. The 2" receiver is great because it will give you more ball mount options as well as hitch accessories.

Most 5'x8' trailers will have a 16-18" ball mount height on the trailer, you can always call ahead and ask them to confirm the measurement on the trailer that you are looking at. It is also a good idea to confirm the ball size that you will need at that time. The majority will need a 2" ball but there are still some using 1-7/8".

I recommend our etrailer Ball Mount Kit for 2" Hitches # 989900, this kit will include 2 seperate ball mounts. The first is a 2" drop or 3/4" rise, and the second is a 4" drop or 2-3/4" rise. There is also a 2" ball or 1-7/8" ball that you can use on either ball mount, 2 receiver pins and a convenient carry bag.

If you would prefer something that is easier adjustable the B&W Tow & Stow 2-Ball Mount # BWTS10038B is adjustable from 5" of drop to 5-1/2" of rise in 1" increments. It has both a 1-7/8" and 2" ball that can easily be switched by removing the pin and rotating the ball.