How Much Ball Mount Clearance Is Acceptable For A Hitch Ball?

Updated 05/18/2021 | Published 05/14/2021

Products Featured in This Question

Curt Reducer Bushing for Ball Mounts - 1" to 3/4"

(32)

$2.04

2" Hitch Ball - 1" Diameter x 2-1/8" Long Shank - Chrome - 6,000 lbs

(3870)

$15.26

Hitch Ball Bushing - 1-1/4" to 1" - Zinc

(69)

$4.89

Question:

I have noticed that the Maxx Tow Adjustable Ball Mount Item # MT70068 discribes the ball opening hole? as being 1inch in diameter. My unit measures in at an even 1-1/8. Ive only found balls with a 1-1/8inch shaft diameter being discribed as being used in Ball/Pintleinch assemblies which are rated at much higher towing capacity than needed and costing 2-3 times as much as a typical 2inch Ball with a 1inch shaft diameter. Id like to purchase the proper cheapest? 2inch ball for this unit. Ive read elsewhere that 1/16inch of play is good. Would the 1/8inch play I have be unacceptable for this set-up ??? Please advise if you can ??? Thank You!

asked by: Alan

Expert Reply:

An 1/8" of play is acceptable for the hitch ball. Especially with such a light weight hitch rating of the MaxxTow Adjustable-Height Ball Mount # MT70068 at 5,000lbs maximum.

We do have bushings that can be used to allow balls to be used that are 1/4" different.

Curt Reducer Bushing for Ball Mounts - 1" to 3/4" # C21100

Curt Hitch Ball Bushing - 1-1/4" to 1" # F-2

The 2" Hitch Ball # C40004 has a 1" shank that will fit your ball mount.

expert reply by: Bud M