Trailer ball mounts come in a variety of shapes and sizes. It can be overwhelming to see a list of
trailer ball mounts with various measurements of “rise” and drop” How to select the correct trailer ball mount is actually quite easy with a few simple measurements.
Trailer ball mounts have 3 key measurements - length, rise and drop.
The length is the distance from the center of the ball hole to the center of the pin hole.
The ‘rise’ is distance from the top of the shank to the top of the ball platform. You will need to shop for a ball mount with a ‘rise’ if your truck or suv’s trailer hitch is lower than the coupler on your trailer.
The ‘drop’ is distance from the top of the shank to the top of the ball platform. You will need to shop for a ball mount with a ‘drop’ if your truck or suv’s trailer hitch is higher than the coupler
on your trailer.
How is measure for the rise or drop you need is pretty simple.
Step 1.
Measure from the ground to the top of the hitch. In this example the measurement from the ground to the top of the hitch is 23 inches.
Step 2.
Measure from the ground to the (inside) top of the trailer coupler, when level. In this example, the measurement form the ground to the top of the trailer coupler is 18 inches.
Step 3. Subtract the height of your trailer hitch ball from the coupler. Most trailer hitch balls are 2-1/2” - 3” high. In this example we will subtract 3 inches from 18 inches and have a total of 15 inches.
In this example and 8 inch drop required on your ball mount to make the trailer
level. (23 inches minus 15 inches)
The results are:
Step 1: 23 inches
Step 2: 18 inches
Step 3: 15 inches (18 inches minus the ball trailer hitch ball height of 3 inches)
Rise or Drop Required: 23 – 15 = 8 inch drop. If the trailer measurement was higher
in this case you would need a rise.
Your trailer should always be set up to tow on a level plane. Towing with a coupler that is lower or higher than your trailer hitch is unsafe and should be corrected by adding a trailer ball mount with the correct amount of 'rise' or 'drop'.
Looking to order a trailer ballmount from some of the most trusted and tested companies such as Reese, Hidden Hitch, Tow Ready and Draw-tite?
You can call 1-800-358-4751 for assistance with measuring your trailer ball mount and ordering. View a wide selection of ball mounts online TruckSpring.com