Hitch Ball Wear Gauge

[Boxite]

I am curious if there are any dimensional-wear requirement/measurement for trailer hitch-balls. For instance, if a 2-5/16” ball must measure some minimum diameter/height/symmetry, etc.

Same for the (female) trailer hitch itself…as to symmetry, engineering, SAE, or other specifications.

I’m not asking about SAE Specification J 684f …which addresses which “Class” of hitch is required for various trailer gross weights….

I’m curious about dimensional requirements…which can be measured….to determine if the hitch-ball is safe for towing.

Example: An owner tows a 7K G.V.W.R trailer for many years “on the ball”…. and notices the hitch-ball is no-longer perfectly symmetrical…. it’s forward surface has become “egg-shaped” rather than a perfect “globe”.

Certainly an argument can be made that if it’s an “obvious” departure from “normal” or “globular”…that it might be prudent to replace it….. which would be a “subjective” matter….. But my question is: What is the Pass/Fail specifications of the SAE standard…… if any….?

Second question: Why are many trailer hitch balls mfr’d with a Flat Top..?? instead of being globular on the top as well as on circumberence..? Seems to me that would spread the wear-surface and provide greater longevity as well as less friction.

[CharlesinGA]

Most balls are chrome finish. If the chrome is gone, the ball is suspect. Its easier to replace it than to go chasing specifications (I'm sure there are some). I spent 31 years as an airline mechanic working on landing gears and flight controls and you get to the point where you can look at it and feel it and go "no, replace it"

Charles