Correct Ball Mount for 2002 Ford Explorer Towing Trailer with 20 Inch Coupler Height

Question:

My 2002 Explorer has a hitch height of 20.5inch and Im getting a new trailer where they tell me the coupler height is 20. Based on your wonderful FAQ article, I would need a .5inch , but I am unable to locate one. Can you recommend a ball mount? thank you

asked by: D. M

Helpful Expert Reply:

Based on those measurements you would need a ball mount with a 1/2 inch drop, but because a ball mount with that drop is not available, you will need to choose one that gets you as close as possible.

As long as the ball and the coupler are within 1-1/2 to 2 inches of level, you would certainly be close enough. Given the choice, it is better to have the ball a bit higher than the coupler.

If you were to use the # AMSC2 ballmount in the rise position, your hitch ball height would be 1-1/4 inches higher than the coupler height, which is plenty close enough. The # AMSC2 has a 10,000 lb capacity, if you need a 7,500 lb capacity, you could use the # D-4.

If you do not already have one, you will need a trailer ball with a 1 inch diameter threaded shank. For a 2 inch ball use part # 19247, for a 1-7/8 inch ball use part # 19260 or # 19287 for a 2-5/16 diameter ball.