Not Leaving Marks On Hitch Ball When Tightening The Nut

Question:

Hi! Just purchased a Curt #40034 hitch ball. No wrench flats. Can you recommend a holding method that does not leave pipe wrench marks when tightening the nut?

asked by: Frank

Expert Reply:

I will be happy to explain the best way to not leave marks on the Curt 2" Hitch Ball # C40034. When I tighten the nut when using the hitch ball I use several layers of duct tape or a towel on the shaft portion of the ball when tightening it. That way it will leave as few marks as possible.

Curt recommends the use of 250 ft/lbs of torque when tightening the nuts of their hitch balls with a 1 inch diameter shank. The general rule is for a 3/4" shank tighten to 150 ft/lbs For a 1" shank tighten to 250 ft/lbs, and for a 1-1/4 inch shank 450 ft/lbs.

expert reply by: Timothy G