Are there Any Benefits to Using a Higher Rated Hitch Ball With a WDS
Updated 02/17/2026 | Published 06/18/2024
Question:
I would like to replace my ball on my distribution hitch. Is there any advantage to a higher rated ball vs to 12,000 I currently have? I am pulling a 2020 Lance 1685 Trailer. Any advantage to the different finishes? Thanks Stan
asked by: Stan B
Expert Reply:
Stan, there aren't any benefits to using a higher rated ball like the 2-5/16" Hitch Ball # BWHB94004 you were looking at, but there also aren't any disadvantages either.
The only thing you'd need to take into consideration is that you're always limited by your lowest rated component. So, if your entire system is only rated for 10,000 lbs then using a ball rated for 30,000 isn't going to give you more capacity, you'd still be topped out at 10,000.
As for finishes go, a chrome finish ball is going to look better than a raw finish, and is going to be more corrosion resistant than raw steel. The best balls in terms of corrosion are going to be stainless steel followed by zinc coated balls.
Product Page this Question was Asked From
2-5/16" Hitch Ball - 1-1/4" Diameter x 2-1/2" Long Shank - Raw - 30,000 lbs
- Trailer Hitch Ball
- Trailer Hitch Ball
- Standard Ball
- Raw Steel
- 30000 lbs GTW
- 2-5/16 Inch Diameter Ball
- 1-1/4 Inch Diameter Shank
- B and W
more information >
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on Trailer Hitch Ball
Jesse M.
2/17/2026
Hey Stan, how did things turn out with the new hitch ball for your Lance trailer? Did you notice any difference in how the finish holds up after some use? Your feedback could help others comparing chrome, zinc, and stainless options.