Will Lowering Trailer Ball by 2 Inches Raise Rear of Boat Trailer By 2 Inches

Question:

I recently purchase a 2021 Axis T23 I believe the weight is 5,000 lbs. Given my low garage, the shop had to adjust the trailer down as low as possible but it now only has a clearance of 1.5 inches between the prop protector on the trailer and the ground. Someone suggested I get an adjustable trailer hitch my current one is 17 inches off the ground and adjust it downwards as this should create more clearance on the back. Note that my trailer is a dual axle trailer I have two questions. If I bring the trailer hitch down by 2 inches, does that create 2 more inches in the back? Also, what risks do I create if I do this? I was told that 17 inches creates a level trailer. I pull it with a 2016 Ford F150 4x4 if that matters.

asked by: Kevin Y

Helpful Expert Reply:

Honestly, lowering the trailer ball by 2 inches probably isn't going to gain you corresponding elevation at the rear of the trailer because of the articulation of the trailer suspension seen on a tandem axle trailer. You'll get a small height increase, and it certainly won't hurt, but lowering the ball won't gain you 2 inches additional height at the rear.

Depending on the height difference between the rear-most trailer cross-member and the prop protector, a set of Skid Wheels like # UF48-979013 would extend 6-3/4 inches below the surface its mounted to. This would prevent the prop protector from bottoming out on sloped driveways.

expert reply by: Mike L