Adding a trailer hitch to your vehicle is one of the most practical things you can do from your vehicle's point of view. Once you have decided you're going to purchase one, you need to start your research on what you will need in a tow hitch for your type of lifestyle and vehicle from the moment you decide. Depending on what you will use your trailer hitch for, it will require the correct ball mount and tow ball depending on the class of trailer coupler required. Every trailer will be different from the other; knowing the proper equipment you will need is just as vital to have an appropriate hitch installed.
As we covered in previous articles, including How To Hook Up a Trailer and Hitch Installation Expectations Expectations, we showcased how the complete trailer hitch and the towing system works in conjunction with one another. After becoming familiar with these components and how the systems work together, you will need to ensure the proper tow ball and ball mount classification. Depending on the type of trailer you're going to be using, ensuring you have the correct class of trailer, tow ball, and ball mount is critical to enable proper use of the equipment and following road guidelines set by your local government.
Throughout this article, we will be going through a complete overview of the significance of the tow ball and how it is necessary to ensure you have the proper classification for the trailer or haul you will need for your use.
What Is A Hitch Ball?
There are many for various reasons when it comes to Tow Ball sizes, but the main reason is when you begin to consider your trailer and load weight that you will need to accomplish your objectives. Each Tow Ball will have different load-bearing and weight specifics from the next. You generally need to look at three things as Ball diameter, shank diameter, and shank length. Each is available in various standard sizes, so for instance, if you need to choose the proper tow ball for your trailer and application, you have the option to do just that.
Three main finishes come on hitch balls: stainless steel, zinc-coated, and a powder-coated finish. Each of these is great for various reasons; for example:
- Stainless Steel: has the most rigidity due to its thick steel, which will hold up to extensive use and maintain water and salt resistance if you're towing in a wet climate.
- Zinc-Coated: when it comes to zinc-coated, what that means is the ability to be corrosion resistant and hold up to most environments.
- Powder-Coated: will be the best hold-up for any conditions you throw at it.
When you need to tow a particular trailer, you're probably wondering what the limit is on a specific classification. Each trailer and hitch will have a different gross weight that it is limited by the amount of weight it can handle. So, for instance, it means the maximum legally specified load limit for your hitch setup and vehicle when combined. We highly recommend that you consult your owner’s manual to your trailer, car, or better yet, see one of our certified hitch specialists for more details.
Hitch Ball Sizes:
There are many for various reasons when it comes to Tow Ball sizes, but the main reason is when you begin to consider your trailer and load weight that you will need to accomplish your objectives. Each Tow Ball will have different load-bearing and weight specifics from the next. You generally need to look at three things as Ball diameter, shank diameter, and shank length. Each is available in various standard sizes, so for instance, if you need to choose the proper tow ball for your trailer and application, you have the option to do just that.
When you need to find the correct ball size and make for your towing setup, it is always great to consult a U-Haul hitch expert for more information and specification for your vehicle. To give you an example, anytime you use a trailer hitch, more times than not, there will be a reference plate on the trailer that will list the tow ball size and maximum towing capacity.
There are four variations of Tow Ball sizes, all the way from class I to IV; these will determine how much max towing capacity you can use with your vehicle in combination with the gross weight of your trailer and load equipped together.
How Does A Hitch Ball Work?
When it comes to your towing and trailer system, your tow ball is the most crucial component of everything within the system. The main element ties your trailer to your tow hitch together in one cohesive unit and system. Without it, the direct linkage between hitch and trailer wouldn't be possible to tow the trailer you would like to use for your needs. The tow ball comprises high-strength steel with a narrow shaft on the bottom portion of it is a washer and large nut to fasten the tow ball to the ball mount securely.
Due to their design, it serves a variety of essential roles as the port of the entire trailering system. First, its round shape is the key to making it possible to link the receiver on your trailer hitch to couple with your trailer coupler even if the vehicle and the trailer aren't perfectly straight and aligned with one another. The other benefit of the ball shape is that it makes flexible the entire trailer hitch setup. So when it is under load while traveling to your destination, it helps with navigating through slopes and uneven terrain to get you through various road conditions.
Why It's Important To Use Use The Proper Hitch Class!
There are many reasons why it is essential to us the proper hitch class when you're towing your trailer or heavy equipment behind your vehicle. Each car or truck will have a specific gross towing limit specified by the manufacturer. Tow ball limits vary from each vehicle to the next based on their manufacturing specs, engine capabilities, and gross towing weight it can pull. If you have a trailer whose gross weight exceeds the manufacturer's details, it could lead to damage to both your camper and to your truck.
Following state, local, and manufacturer guidelines will ultimately aid you in the long term in safety and reliability for the road ahead. In addition, these variables will ensure that you have the most stable towing setup you can have, pending road conditions. For example, to get the most stable towing setup, experts say that if you're towing a 3,000-pound trailer, you will want a tow ball weight of around 300 pounds. Depending on your vehicle, trailer, and tow hitch equipment, we highly suggest that you consult with your local U-Haul hitch expert for your application.
Lastly, safe trailering is always a key point we advocate for to enjoy whatever your lifestyle calls. Having a well-balanced setup within the tow ball limits and not exceeding your vehicle towing capacity while taking account of your components and systems. Always when you decide to trailer or tow, be sure to take ample time to check that all your necessary components are in working order and condition.