Locating Correct Ball Mount to Connect with Trailer on Mazda CX-5 with Low Ground Clearance

Question:

I have a Mazda CX 5. The trailer hitch is very low, and adding the trailer makes it lower. I have paid someone to load a 6 x 12 trailer. Now that it is loaded, I am concerned about the clearance. Not sure what I can do at this point as I am to leave on January 2. Just asking what you think?

asked by: Kiz M

Helpful Expert Reply:

I do have a solution for you, however there is definitely not enough ground clearance at the hitch connection between your Mazda CX-5 and 6x12 utility trailer. Any slight incline or bump in the road is going to cause issues with your current setup.

To add clearance while also ensuring that the trailer itself is level when connected (it's a little hard to tell in the picture but it does appear that the tongue/trailer is nose low), you will need a ball mount with a larger rise such as with the Curt # C45070 if you have a 2 inch receiver. This ball mount features a 4 inch rise (or 6 inch drop).

It also looks like the ball mount you're currently using is installed in the drop position. You should be able to flip the ball mount around so that its in the rise position to give you a bit more clearance, although it still might not be enough.

To determine exactly how much rise you need you will need to take a measurement from the ground to the inside top of the hitch receiver on your Mazda CX-5 and then a measurement from the ground to the bottom of the trailer's coupler when it's level. The difference between the two measurements will give you the needed rise.

I have attached a link that will take you to our available selection of ball mounts that you can also check out.

expert reply by: Chris R