Correct Air Safe Shock Absorbing Ball Mount for Equipment Trailer  

Question:

Expert Reply:

Thanks for letting us help Eddy. Since your trailer weight and tongue weight fall within the capacities of Air Safe's Class 6, 7, and 8 shock-absorbing ball mounts, I'd base your decision primarily on the receiver size of your Ford Super Duty. The F-250 typically comes equipped with a 2-1/2" receiver, so I'd recommend the Air Safe Class 7 Shock Absorbing Ball Mount # AS76FR for your setup. The Class 6 Air Safe Shock Absorbing Ball Mount # AS46FR is another option that would support your trailer's weight, but it only comes with a 2" shank. Outside of the weight capacities, that's one of the main differences between these two models.

Based on your tongue weight, you'll also want one of Air Safe's 3/4" ball mounts, such as # AS73FR. If you need additional drop to keep your trailer level, you can go with # AS63FR instead. You'll also need a hitch ball if you don't already have one that's compatible. These ball mounts require a 1-1/4" diameter ball shank, and the ball itself needs to be rated for the weight of your trailer. The 2-5/16" Hitch Ball # C40008 would be a great option.

As for setting the air pressure, Air Safe doesn't specify a single PSI that works for every towing setup. Instead, you'll adjust the pressure based on the actual tongue weight of your loaded trailer. The goal is to add or release air until the steel tie rods on the sides of the ball mount are parallel to the ground with the trailer fully loaded and connected. This is your visual indicator that the air bag is properly adjusted and the shock absorbing system is operating in its intended range. I've included a photo below showing the tie rods I'm referring to. These ball mounts typically ship with 75 PSI already in the air bag, which causes the tie rods to angle upward when unloaded. Once you connect your trailer, you'll likely need to release some air to bring the tie rods into the correct position.

The nice thing about this design is that you can adjust the air pressure as your trailer's tongue weight changes, allowing the ball mount to provide the appropriate amount of cushioning for different loads.

What type of equipment are you planning to haul with your F-250?

expert reply by: Christopher H

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Steel Tie Rods on Air Safe Shock Absorbing Ball Mount
(click to enlarge)

Air Safe Shock Absorbing Ball Mount
(click to enlarge)