Advice on Boat Trailer Hitches

Hello,

We will be having a towing package installed on our vehicle next week in preparation for picking up a new boat. We're clear on the class 3 hitch but a little unclear on determining the ball size without knowing exactly what trailer will come with the boat we eventually buy. Is there a standard ball size that fits most small boat (14" - 16') trailers? Or do you really need to know the specifics of the trailer? Thanks for helping a total novice

Lauryn

[Steve_Kiesel]

I think you will find that most trailers are 2". If the boat you find has a different size, you can always change the ball size. They change out easily, and they can be purchased at any parts store.

Or you can have the installers leave the ball off and purchase the one you need after you find the boat you want.

[FINS]

Steve is right on. Most trailers have a 2" ball. Some of the older trailers will have a 1-7/8" and a heavy duty trailer will have a 2-5/16" ball. Like Steve said, you can have the hitch installed and wait to put the ball on the reciever until you pick a boat. You can also get a set that has a post and the actual ball part is interchangable. Regardless, you can get these parts at any parts store.

[Steve_Kiesel]

Brian's post made me remember that the interchangeable ball mount is what I have. It changes from 2" to 1 7/8". All my trailers are 2", but I occasionally tow my friends small utility trailer that is 1 7/8". Works pretty slick, very easy to change sizes. Here's a link for an example:

http://www.amazon.com/Master-Lock-28.../dp/B0002YPEYG

[halffast32]

Reciever type

If you get a reciever type hitch, wait till you get the boat to choose a "stinger" (the part that mounts the ball and plugs into the reciever tube). They come in different heights. This will set the level or angle of the trailer. I tow alot of different things. I carry 4 stingers in my truck. (2) 2" balls, a 2" and a 4" drop, and (2) 1 7/8" balls, 2" drop and 4" drop. You can also flip them over to gain height if you have a low reciever. When your out hunting and possibly towing home an old trailer/boat, it's good to have all the options at hand.

Thanks for all the great advice on the various options! We're getting closer and it looks like Saturday might be the day. If we buy the boat we are looking at that day (1957 14' Bell Boy Runabout), the owner has also graciously offered to give us the ball off his hitch. So one way or another I think we're covered!

Here is what you need Lauryn.

I have this set and I love it you never have to worry about showing
up with the wrong size ball.



http://www.convert-a-ball.com

Hoggar.
http://www.TheOldGlassBoats.com