How to Determine Correct Ball Mount To Keep Towed Trailer Level for Best Handling
Question:
Hi, Im looking for a ball and receiver for my 2013 Toyota Highlander hybrid/limited 19inch rims. I see you have the kit with 2 balls and 2 receivers. I just want to be sure I get a receiver that s low enough so the rental trailer is level. Any thoughts on which reciever might work? Thanks
asked by: Dana P
Expert Reply:
There's a simple way to determine how much drop (or rise) you need from a ball mount in order to keep your towed trailer level. A level trailer handles better so you're wise to get it right!
Please refer to the linked article. This explains how to measure the hitch receiver height on the Highlander and also the coupler height on the level trailer. The difference between the two is the drop or rise needed in the ball mount. Hitch height - trailer height = drop; trailer height - hitch height = rise. It sounds like you'll be needing one with several inches of drop.
The linked page for 2-inch ball mounts will let you select the correct one. You can click on the filters on the page to select the drop you need. For example, if you need 10-inches of drop you can use Curt ball mount # C45112 along with either a 2-inch ball # 63845 or 1-7/8-inch ball # 19260. You can check the coupler on the rental trailer to confirm what size hitch ball it requires.
If the trailer has lights you'll also need a trailer wiring harness for the Highlander to power those lights. You can use plug-in harness kit # C56217 from Curt. Installation is shown in the linked video.
If you are new to towing you may care to review the linked article with general towing tips.
Products Referenced in This Question
1-7/8" Hitch Ball - 1" Diameter x 2-1/8" Long Shank - Chrome - 2,000 lbs
- Trailer Hitch Ball
- Trailer Hitch Ball
- Standard Ball
- Chrome-Plated Steel
- 1-7/8 Inch Diameter Ball
- 2-1/8 Inch Shank Length
- 1 Inch Diameter Shank
- 2000 lbs GTW
- Class III
- Draw-Tite
more information >
2" Hitch Ball - 1" Diameter x 2-1/8" Long Shank - Chrome - 7,500 lbs
- Trailer Hitch Ball
- Trailer Hitch Ball
- Standard Ball
- Chrome-Plated Steel
- 2 Inch Diameter Ball
- 2-1/8 Inch Shank Length
- 1 Inch Diameter Shank
- 7500 lbs GTW
- Class III
- Tow Ready
more information >
Curt Ball Mount for 2" Hitches - 8" Rise, 9-1/4" Drop - 14" Long - 5K
- Trailer Hitch Ball Mount
- Fixed Ball Mount
- No Ball
- 1 Inch Ball Hole Diameter
- Steel Shank - Gloss Black
- Drop - 9 Inch
- Rise - 8 Inch
- Fits 2 Inch Hitch
- 5000 lbs GTW
- Class III
- Long Shank
- CURT
more information >
Curt T-Connector Vehicle Wiring Harness with 4-Pole Flat Trailer Connector
- Custom Fit Vehicle Wiring
- Trailer Hitch Wiring
- Powered Converter
- Custom Fit
- 4 Flat
- CURT
more information >
Product Page this Question was Asked From
etrailer Ball Mount Kit for 2" Hitches - 7,500 lbs
- Trailer Hitch Ball Mount
- Fixed Ball Mount
- 1-7/8 Inch Ball
- 2 Inch Ball
- Two Balls
- Steel Ball
- Steel Shank - Gloss Black
- Drop - 2 Inch
- Drop - 4 Inch
- Rise - 1 Inch
- Rise - 3 Inch
- Fits 2 Inch Hitch
- 7500 lbs GTW
- Class III
- Ball Mount Kit
- etrailer
more information >
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on Trailer Hitch Ball Mount
