Is There a Standard Required Clearance for Ball Mount to Vehicle Bumper

Question:

the receiver on my hitch is 3inch short of being flush with the bumper on my 2017 Toyota Sienna. after installing the ball mount and ball, how far away from the bumper should the trailer ball be for safe towing? an ideal range would be nice

asked by: Mike

Expert Reply:

There really isn't a specific range for what you are asking about. You basically want the trailer to be able to move as you turn without interfering with the vehicle bumper. Normally that's not an issue and what people end up more concerned with is the correct rise drop.

Having the hitch opening recessed 3 inches is pretty standard for towing applications. Ball mounts typically stick out around 9 inches or so which gives the trailer plenty of clearance to pivot around.

expert reply by: Jameson C