Do I Need a Ball Mount with a Rise or Drop on Ford F150 when Towing a 20ft Starcraft RV
Updated 04/21/2014 | Published 04/18/2014
Question:
Is there some typical ball height from the trailer ball from the ground. I bought a new F150 and with my current shank it put the top of the ball at 20 inches. Im thinking 16 -18 might be a little more normal. Im towing a Starcraft 20foot RV @ 4000lb. Whats your thoughts. Thanks
asked by: Steve W
Expert Reply:
There really is no normal or standard height. The correct height for your ball mount/weight distribution shank is going to be determined by your trailer's coupler height. The trailer, when connected to your Ford F150, should always be as level as possible. This puts less of a strain on the connection between the trailer and hitch and provides a much safer and comfortable ride.
You will want to measure from the ground to the top of your hitch receiver opening. Next you will measure from the ground to the bottom of your trailer's coupler. When taking measurements, both trailer and truck need to be on level ground. The trailer also needs to be level/parallel to the ground. The difference between the two measurements is the amount of rise or drop that you will need. For example, if the top of your receiver opening is 20 inches from the ground and the bottom of your trailer's coupler sits 18 inches from the ground, you will need a 2 inch drop.
I am including an article which gives step by step instructions that can assist you when choosing the correct ball mount or weight distribution shank rise or drop.
