How to Increase Height of Trailer Hitch Ball to Allow Boat Trailer to be Towed Level

Question

Question:

I have a boat and trailer and a car hitch with 2x2 receiver currently rated for 5900 maximum tow 900 max tongue weight. Boat is roughly 5000 lbs. I need to increase the height of my ball to tow the trailer properly 6 to 8 inches. is there any product you recommend?

asked by: Emilio E

1

Helpful Expert Reply:

Ideally a hitched trailer will be level to the ground. We often recommend starting off with the hitch ball being a bit higher - an inch or so - than the top of the coupler on the level trailer since once hitched there will be a degree of squat in the rear of the tow vehicle from the trailer tongue weight. This is perfectly acceptable.

You can select a different ball mount for your hitch that gives you additional height (rise) by using the link provided at right. For example, if you want 8-1/4-inches of rise you could use the Curt 2-inch Class III ball mount # C45112. This requires a ball with a 1-inch diameter shank such as # 63845, which has a 2-inch hitch ball.

If you find that your MDX sits too low in the rear when hitched you might consider a weight distribution system. Weight distribution systems are recommended whenever trailer weight exceeds 50-percent of the tow vehicle weight, when the tow vehicle rear sags when the trailer is hooked up, if the tow vehicle headlights point upward or if steering and braking performance are not what they should be. The linked article explains the whys and whats of weight distribution; note that your hitch must specifically be rated for use with such systems and this will be indicated on its safety sticker.

expert reply by: Adam R

1

Ellie

4/14/2020

There is a ball hitch on my truck but it is to high to hitch my trailer correctly. Is there something that goes from ball hitch s down to another ball hitch

Reply

Chris R.

4/15/2020

That's really one of the downsides of using a bumper hitch ball. There's just not any adjustments you can make to create a level ride, and as you're experiencing, the ball is typically higher than the trailer coupler. For a truly level ride your only option will be to utilize the hitch (or install one if you don't have one already) and use a ball mount with the right rise or drop for the trailer. I linked a really good article on this subject below, along with our complete selection of ball mounts that you can look through.

Helpful Links

dept-pg-trailer_hitch_ball_mount.aspx

faq-ballmount.aspx

Reply

Answer 1

The hitch ball angle adjustment on weight distribution systems is designed to provide more or less distribution of the tongue weight on your trailer hitch to the trailer and vehicle axles. If you adjust the ball angle farther away from the towing…

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Answer 2

I do have a solution for you, but you will need to use a weight distribution shank that is compatible with your Equalizer #EQ37100ET weight distribution system and not one that has been altered. I recommend using the Equal-i-zer Weight Dist Shank -…

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Answer 3

Sounds like what you are looking for is a high low adapter like part #RM-070 which will allow you to raise or lower the hitch height by 4 inches. I also attached a link below that shows how to pick out the correct high low adapter as well.

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Answer 4

I took a look at the owner's manual for the 2012 Jeep Grand Cherokee Laredo V6 3.6L. The 3.6L engine Grand Cherokee can tow a 5,000 lb trailer. That figure is the gross weight so that would include all of the cargo inside the trailer. You want to…

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Answer 5

It would be physically possible to attach on bolt-on receivers, but the Curt Adjustable Width Trailer Hitch Receiver for RVs #13703 hasn't been tested to hold weight in the manner that you're planning on using it for so you could end up…

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Answer 6

The Replacement Spacer Rivet and Washers for Equal-i-zer Weight Distribution Head #EQ95-01-9450 will work with all Equal-I-zer systems. I've attached the installation details of the Equal-i-zer Weight Distribution System #EQ37100ET where you will…

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Answer 7

Here are the steps to prepare your 2023 Ford Bronco Big Bend for flat towing. The transfer case and transmission will be in neutral with the ignition off. This information is in your owners manual. Switching Neutral Tow On 1.Switch your vehicle to…

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Answer 8

I took a look at the Yakima Rack and Roll #Y08106 that you're inquiring about, and it turns out you can actually stand this kayak up completely like you're wanting too. You are just going to have to remove the wheels and the tongue, which is…

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Answer 9

Hey Nick, the Trimax Trailer Wheel Chock and Lock #TMX75FR you're looking at will work with your 175/80r13 trailer tires. This lock has measures 6" wide when closed and 10 1/2" when opened all the way, so with your tires measuring…

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Answer 10

Many of the ball mounts we offer that we offer that fit 2 inch receivers like part #2753 which has a 2-3/4 inch rise or 4 inch drop, that are designed to be able to use in a rise or drop position by simply turning it upside down, without losing any…

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Answer 11

The Curt T-Connector Vehicle Wiring Harness with 4-Pole Flat Trailer Connector part #C56434 will certainly work with the 2020 Toyota RAV4 LE Hybrid model. The Curt is designed for all models of the RAV4 so it will work well for you. The installation…

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Answer 12

Yes, the Tekonsha trailer wiring harness part #C56434 is a confirmed fit for your 2023 Toyota RAV4 Adventure.

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How to Increase Height of Trailer Hitch Ball to Allow Boat Trailer to be Towed Level

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