Can a Ball Mount with a 3/4" Rise be Used When the Coupler and Hitch Height are the Same

Question:

OK everything looks on my boat trailer to be an exact match for the 16 in coupler height on the Ford Explorer hence a ZERO /rise. My question is, will there not be a drop on the coupler/hitch side once the tongue weight is added at hitch time? In such a case would not a ball mount with a 3/4 inch rise 2 inch drop work fine? I do understand the other option, use the and buy a ball with a 2 inch rise. Just that the first option is more economical if practical.

asked by: Jeffrey B

Expert Reply:

As a general rule it is best to choose a ball mount that brings the difference between your coupler and receiver height to "zero" so that the trailer rides level.

You are correct that once a trailer is coupler it could very well reduce the height of the coupler thus keeping the trailer from traveling completely level. Since a ball mount can't always be found that matches exactly the rise or drop that might be needed it is okay to use one within 2" of the rise or drop required.

In your case, if you would like to use a 3/4" rise ball mount to help your trailer ride level when you are traveling that is totally acceptable and is a great idea. If you don't already have a ball mount I recommend using the ball mount kit # 989900. This is compatible with the Draw-Tite Max-Frame Trailer Hitch Receiver # 76034 on your 2017 Ford Explorer and includes 2 ball mounts (one of which has a 3/4" rise, 2 hitch balls (1-7/8" and 2"), a hitch pin with a clip, and a storage bag to keep everything together and well kept.

If you don't already have wiring then I recommend installing the Tekonsha T-One # 118540 as well which gives you a 4-Way flat connector for your basic trailer lighting functions.

Attached are some installation videos as well as a review video of the ball mount kit for you to check out.