What Would Cause Hitch Ball to Wear Excessively After 30 Miles

Question:

Hi, I installed the Roadmaster MX base plate kit on my 2006 Jeep Grand Cherokee and adapted a Hidden Hitch fixed tow bar to it. After towing the Jeep 30 miles or so I unhooked it and noticed a 1/8 inch deep grind cut in the bottom half of the 2 inch ball on my motorhome. The bottom of the coupler must have cut into the ball. Any ideas why this would happen? I am afraid it may cut the ball in half over time. Is it a problem with the Hidden Hitch coupler? Thanks

asked by: Greg B

Expert Reply:

I spoke with my contact at Draw-Tite and he said excessive turning could wear a groove into a hitch ball if the ball is not kept well lubricated. He recommended keeping the hitch ball well lubed with a lithium automotive grease like # 58117 to reduce friction. You will also want to check up inside the coupler for any debris that may be grinding away at the ball.

Also if the ball is smaller than what the coupler requires the coupler would be able to move around quite a bit and wear down the ball.

expert reply by: Chris O