Trailer hitch ball

bluefish86 · Posted: Apr 24, 2003 4:25 pm Post subject: Trailer hitch ball

We just got a new car, but because it only has one insert thingy for the trailer hitch, we have to change the ball every time we go between our box trailer and our boat trailer. How tight should I tighten the ball to so its easy to take off, but on well enough to not come off while towing?

mkcarte2 · Outlaw Joined: 17 Jan 2003 Posts: 168 City: raliegh, nc

why dont you just buy a hitch with balls on 3 sides, and you can put whatever you want on there and just flip it around

bluefish86 · Posted: Apr 25, 2003 11:24 am Post subject:

cause we already have the balls from our older car, and those cost well over $50. Plus, we only put in our boat in the spring and take it out in the fall, so we only need to change it twice a year.

Geoff Standish · Addict Joined: 13 Jan 2003 Posts: 843 City: Calgary

If you only have to do it 2 times a year, reef on it as hard as you can. The last thing you want is it coming loose. That would get ugly. I wouldn't take the chance if I were you.

mkcarte2 · Outlaw Joined: 17 Jan 2003 Posts: 168 City: raliegh, nc

yeah if its only twice a year whats the big deal, torque on it and dont take any chances

TSchultz · Criminal Joined: 02 Feb 2003 Posts: 96 City: S. Minnesota

Number one rule in tightening larger threads is to get some never seize, silver/grey goup at NAPA, and put it on your ball threads. This will make it easier to get the nut off so it does not rust on. Otherwise you always want your ball tight. I use at least a 18" cresent wrench, and put a little muscle into it. Also you should check the tightness once in awhile over the summer too. This nut should not be just snug. It is a mess when the ball comes off. Trust me, I've seen it happen.

cbush325 · Newbie Joined: 04 Mar 2003 Posts: 6 City: Birmingham

Get a ball with a cotter pin on the bottom this will insure the nut not coming off.

jedsterr · Soul Rider Joined: 13 Jan 2003 Posts: 291 City: Star Idaho

Cotter pin is a good call! I've always called the thread goop Anti-seize. Can't remember what the bottle says though.

bluefish86 · Posted: May 06, 2003 5:46 pm Post subject:

Thanks, I cant believe i didnt think of the anti seize.