Can a Trailer With a 50MM Coupler Be Safely Towed With a 1-7/8" Hitch Ball?

Updated 10/02/2023 | Published 09/30/2023

Question:

Sorry for the long thread, just want to be safe. I’m about to buy a HeroCamper, they are made in Denmark and imported to the states. The coupler I’m told accepts a 50mm Ball which is supposed to come with the trailer. The RV Company selling the trailer apparently has lost the 50mm Ball and are telling me they’re putting on a 1and7/8” ball. From what I’ve researched, the 50mm ball is in between the 1and7/8” ball and a 2” ball, and some comments have said it’s not safe to use a 1and7/8” ball in the 50mm coupler. I know you guys sell the 50mm ball as well. My question is, is it safe for me to pick up the trailer this Monday with the 1and7/8” ball because they don’t have the 50mm ball. This is a time issue because it’s Saturday and I can’t get a 50mm ball before I leave to pick up the trailer which is 3 hours from my home. Thanks

asked by: Todd Y

Helpful Expert Reply:

You should never use a hitch ball which does not match the coupler size. You will need to source a 50mm Hitch Ball # EH53C-C to safely tow your camper. While some others may have been able to tow a trailer which has a 50mm coupler with a 1-7/8" hitch ball if it had slipped off the ball due to a bump in the road they could then be sued for negligence for any damages caused by the incident since they used a product not specified by the manufacturer.

expert reply by: Bud M