Hitch Ball Rating

[RivetED]

I just bought a 2-5/16'' stainless steel ball. As I was about to remove the old rusty ball I noticed it had a 10000# rating stamped on it, the new S.S. ball is only rated for 6000# (also stamped on it). I guess I never paid attention to this before but is it possible that a stainless ball is weaker than a regular steel ball of the same size? I checked the web-site for the new ball & it confirms the 6000# rating. BTW: My trailer sits 5600# m.t. & around 7800# gross...

[wkerfoot]

Originally Posted by RivetED

I just bought a 2-5/16'' stainless steel ball. As I was about to remove the old rusty ball I noticed it had a 10000# rating stamped on it, the new S.S. ball is only rated for 6000# (also stamped on it). I guess I never paid attention to this before but is it possible that a stainless ball is weaker than a regular steel ball of the same size? I checked the web-site for the new ball & it confirms the 6000# rating. BTW: My trailer sits 5600# m.t. & around 7800# gross...

RivetED,

Do both trailer balls have the same size shank? If not that will make a difference in the rating.

Bill

[overlander63]

The 10,000 pound balls have a larger shank than the 6,000 pound balls.
The above doesn't look quite right, but I am not sure how to change it.

[RivetED]

Originally Posted by overlander63

The 10,000 pound balls have a larger shank than the 6,000 pound balls.
The above doesn't look quite right, but I am not sure how to change it.

I'm sure no dual meaning was implied

The new one is 1'', the one on the hitch looks like it may be 1-1/8 to 1-1/4'', not sure, I didn't take it off but it looks to be just more than one inch to the outside of the threads.

[wahoonc]

Ed,
If your GVW is 7800# you really should get the heavier duty ball, given the cost involved ...or like Terry indicated...get bigger ball(s)

Aaron

[overlander63]

Originally Posted by RivetED

I'm sure no dual meaning was implied

The new one is 1'', the one on the hitch looks like it may be 1-1/8 to 1-1/4'', not sure, I didn't take it off but it looks to be just more than one inch to the outside of the threads.

Okay, I guess I'll go there, this time... You need a bigger ball.

[RivetED]

I should have realized this topic could have a certain overtone that can't be ignored!! I been looking for a stainless ball for over a year and just assumed the shank size was the same on any given size ball. I'll just have to keep on looking, the manufacturer, Highland, does not list a 10000# rated ball of any kind.

[2airishuman]

yes it's possible and often the case.....while stainless is less corrosive, depending on the grade of stainless it can be weaker at the same diameter as many other grades of steel.

there are some informative websites on stainless steel, the many grades and properties....often they inlcude tables that compare stainless to the many other grades of steel.

cheers
2air'

Originally Posted by RivetED

I guess I never paid attention to this before but is it possible that a stainless ball is weaker than a regular steel ball of the same size?

[wahoonc]

Ed,
After the thread the other day we couldn't help it
Here is a link to help you out www.qmctechnologies.com/hitchballs/item7.htm

Also try www.hitchesonline.com
Hope it helps you out...

Aaron