Is 2 Inch Hitch Ball Okay to Use With 2-5/16 Inch Coupler

Question

Question:

I am in a bind and need to tow a trailer that has a 2 5/16 Hitch on a 2 inch ball, for just two blocks. Is that ok?

asked by: Adam M

0

Expert Reply:

While I can sympathize with your issue, it is not safe to tow a trailer if you only have a 2" hitch ball and your trailer coupler is designed for a 2-5/16" hitch ball, even for a short distance; the insecure connection between hitch ball and coupler would pose a danger to others because of the risk of the trailer becoming uncoupled from the tow vehicle.

The correct 2-5/16" hitch ball will depend on the shank diameter you need as well as capacity. Your ball mount will have a hole where the ball installs that will only accept a certain size shank though it is almost certainly either 1" diameter or 1-1/4" diameter and I'll list options for you based on shank and capacity.

- 2-5/16" Hitch Ball - 1" Diameter x 2-1/2" Long Shank - 8,000 lbs # SC30-C

- 2-5/16" Hitch Ball - 1" Diameter x 2-1/4" Long Shank - 10,000 lbs # C40007

- 2-5/16" Hitch Ball - 1-1/4" Diameter x 2-5/8" Long Shank - 10,000 lbs # A-6

- 2-5/16" Hitch Ball - 1-1/4" Diameter x 2-3/4" Long Shank - 12,000 lbs # 19286

I have added links to video reviews of each of these hitch balls for you to take a look at.

expert reply by: Kyle S

0

Jay D.

6/24/2020

Hi- I have an 18 foot Tandem Freedom trailer. I am using a 2 1/16 ball to tow it, and I am not sure that this is the correct size as their are no markings on the tongue of the trailer to indicate the correct size. I have towed successfully in the past with no problems but I recently inadvertently put the wrong size ball (2 in) on and the trailer unhitched as I was pulling out of my driveway! Please advise! Thanks!

Reply

Chris R.

6/26/2020

Well it sounds like you've determined what size hitch ball the coupler takes. Just make sure you use a 2-5/16" ball and that shouldn't happen again.

Reply

Answer 1

You will want to match the ball you use with what the trailer coupler requires. It is definitely possible that the coupler could come off of the ball if you are using a ball that is too small for the coupler. We have many 2-5/16 inch balls. I have…

view full answer...

Answer 2

The two sizes you mentioned are different balls. The larger size typically has higher capacities and fits couplers that are designed for it's size. The 2 inch size is typically seen in lighter duty applications. You have to match the correct…

view full answer...

Answer 3

Most of the 2-5/16 inch hitch balls will use either a 1-inch diameter shank or 1-1/4 inch diameter shank. The nut size on a hitch ball with a 1-1/4 inch shank, like the Tow Ready 2-5/16 Inch Hitch Ball, part #19286, will use a 1-7/8 inch socket. A…

view full answer...

Answer 4

Yes, Equal-I-Zer actually makes a 2 inch hitch ball for use with their weight distribution systems which is part #EQ91-00-6080. This would work well with the part #EQ37060ET if that is the kit you have.

view full answer...

Answer 5

For more of a basic weight distribution that is rated for your 400 lb tongue weight trailer the Reese kit part #RP65509 would work really well. Or for a similar Reese kit with the best sway control at preventing sway before it starts you'd…

view full answer...

Answer 6

The trailer hitch I recommend for your 2006 Explorer is the Draw-Tite Max-Frame Trailer Hitch, part #75437. This is a Class lll hitch and it has a 2-inch receiver opening. This will install beneath your factory hitch as it is not a replacement hitch.…

view full answer...

Answer 7

Yes, you can use the Reese Friction Sway control part #83660 without a weight distribution system. You would just need to use the tab part #RP26003 on the ball mount as well.

view full answer...

Answer 8

Some items in a trailer or RV will run off of 12 volt DC power or AC power so if your fridge runs when not connected to shore power then it will run off of the battery. That battery can receive a maintenance charge from the 12 volt circuit on a 7-Way…

view full answer...

Answer 9

A 4-Way trailer connector has the basic lighting functions only; running lights, left turn signal and brake lights, right turn signal and brake lights, and ground. A 7-Way has these functions and a 12 volt circuit, a circuit for electric trailer…

view full answer...

Answer 10

Trailer Valet XL Trailer Dolly #TVXL25 will be able to move your trailer at the near 90 degree angle and up the incline of the driveway. The dolly has 2 gears and you will likely find that the low speed, 27 to 1 ratio will make it easier on you…

view full answer...

Answer 11

I spoke to Yakima about the StraightShot #Y69VR extender, but they have only tested this with Yakima accessories. Due to this, it doesn't have a listed tongue weight. With that being said, the Yakima bike racks and other accessories are going to…

view full answer...

Answer 12

Normally trailer coupler height is around 17 inches, from the ground to the bottom of the coupler, and most hitch manufacturers design their hitches to work with a ball mount that will end up very close to this measurement. I am including a link to…

view full answer...

Is 2 Inch Hitch Ball Okay to Use With 2-5/16 Inch Coupler

Products Referenced in This Question

Product Page this Question was Asked From

Featured Help Information

Miscellaneous Media

Continue Researching