How to Measure Hitch and Trailer Heights to Select Correct Ball Mount

Question:

We have a 2009 Nissan Xterra and are towing a Rockwood A192HW a-frame fold down camper. The trailer specs are 2312 dry weight and 341 hitch weight. The Xterra has a Drawtite 75291 hitch. We dont have the ball mount piece that fits into the hitch since the hitch was put on for a bike rack only. Can you tell me what the ball mount part number would be with a 2inch ball? I dont know the height of the trailer tongue as we dont have the trailer yet, is that something we need to know to get the right ball mount? i ask because some ball mounts are straight and some slope downward. What are you thoughts?

asked by: Chris

Expert Reply:

You want to select a towing ball mount with the amount of height rise or drop that allows the trailer's frame to be level with the ground when it is hitched to the Xterra. Level trailers tow much better so this is something you want to get right.

You will need to know the height of the level trailer frame and the height of the receiver opening on the vehicle. You can refer to the linked article that shows exactly how to measure to select the correct ball mount. When we installed Draw-Tite hitch # 75291 on a 2009 Xterra the height of the receiver tube opening was 19-1/2-inches above ground but this can vary depending on tire size so you'll want to measure as shown in the article.

If you'd rather have the ball mount in advance you can choose an adjustable one like # C45900 that offers both 2-inch and 1-7/8-inch balls and a height range of 6-inches of drop up to 5-inches of rise.

Product pages for both fixed and adjustable ball mounts are linked for you.

expert reply by: Adam R