Reducing Movement in Receiver When Using a Reducer Sleeve in 2-1/2 Inch Ford Factory Trailer Hitch

Updated 08/14/2014 | Published 08/13/2014

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Question:

I have a 2011 Ford F-250 4x4 and I am pulling a 2008 Airstream 27foot trailer. Hitch is the Reese Dual Cam with trunnion bars purchased by the previous owner of the trailer about 2010. The dealer sold me a Reese RP63971 shank which I am using with the reducer sleeve. There is considerable slop in the reducer sleeve and shank given I have a 2 1/2inch Class V hitch on the truck. The tongue of the trailer tilts down slightly when towing. Im in the top holes of the RP63971 shank with the ball mount. Per my measurements the ball needs to be about 1inch higher. When he sold the shank to me the dealer said the shank wouldnt be perfect but was the closest he had. Would the RP54977 shank be a better fit for me? Would it allow me to move the ball 1inch higher and would it fit properly into the 2 1/2inch Ford hitch? Thank you for your help.

asked by: Charles N

Expert Reply:

The 2-1/2 inch Reese shank # RP54977 will fit the 2-1/2 inch factory Ford hitch on your truck. But there could be a possible fit issue. The factory Ford 2-1/2 inch receiver has a unique corner radius that doesn't match up to anything well. We know that there can be issues on 2012 to 2014 models. The 2011 may be a better fit but I cannot guarantee it.

Using an anti-rattle device such as # MPG908 will help a lot with the movement due to the use of the reducer sleeve. I have included a link to a video review for you.

expert reply by: Michael H