Choosing Correct Ball Mount for Yakima Rack and Roll Trailer Towed by 2016 Lexus RX 450h

Question:

Im trying to figure out the correct rise for a ball mount for a Yakima Rack and Roll Trailer. The Yakima Rack and Roll Trailer installation manual on page 5 states, Choose the proper offset to get the top of the ball 22-inch off the ground so your trailer tongue is parallel to the ground.inch As I read etrailer.com Q and A responses regarding ball mount heights for the Yakima Rack and Roll, I sense that Yakima is measuring to the top of the ball whereas etrailer.com is measuring to the base of the coupler. The top of my hitch receiver is 15 5/8. Im interpreting Yakimas instruction manual to state that I need to get the top of the ball to 22-inch and Im confused if this is in conflict with trailer.coms normal guidance on how to measure a ball mount. Im looking at purchasing the Curt C40004 ball, but cant find ball dimensions that would allow me to pick a ball mount that would get the top of the ball to 22. I would appreciate your help sorting out the correct ball mount size that allows me to have a level Rack and Roll trailer considering that I the top of the hitch receiver is at 15 5/8.

asked by: Paul T

Expert Reply:

The linked article on choosing a ball mount explains the measurement process we use, and you're correct that Yakima references the top of the coupler while we use the bottom. You'll measure from the ground up to the top of the level trailer's coupler, and from the ground to the top of the receiver opening. The difference between these is the amount of rise you need, about 3- inches.

You can use fixed ball mount # 4285 for 3-inches of rise along with 2-inch ball # A-90.

If you like you can instead choose an adjustable type ball mount like # MT70068 which gives you the flexibility to change the rise or drop to suit different trailers or cargo/passenger weights in your vehicle.

expert reply by: Adam R