Nice Balls

[Tin Hut]

I need to move from a 2" to 2 5/16" ball. There are some nice looking interchangeable balls available. Anyone used these yet? Also, what difference is there between a Zinc vs Chrome ball (structurally& durability)?
Thank you.


http://www.etrailer.com

[Pick]

All 3 of our trailers use 2 5/16 balls, but have different hitch heights. So, I use a Reese 12,000# adjustable hitch for the A/S and horse trailer, and a fixed hitch for the flat bed carry-all.

Both balls are just plain old steel. Don't see the sense in a chrome ball, as they get greasy and dirty during use. Those interchangable balls don't seem trustworthy to me, but I have never tried using one.

I think most quality hitch balls will last a lifetime. Usually the trailer hitch wears and gets sloppy before the ball wears.

[RivetED]

Zinc & Chrome only refer to the type of finish plating used over the steel to prevent rust. After a VERY short time both types of plating wear through. The grease you use will keep the rust to a minimum. When not towing I use a ball cover to keep from getting grease on clothes. Stainless steel is the only real different ball material, virtually rust-proof, & usually stronger than regular mild steel. With ANY A/S the strength of the hitch ball is of no concern, except the 'changable size' ones, where the shank size determines it's max. load capability.

[JohnG]

I have never used the interchangable type balls, but I would not trust those as well as a solid ball.

There is not must difference in the Zinc or the Chrome ball. Both are plated and the finish can and will after time chip off.

2 5/16 balls come rated at 6000, 8000, 10000, 12000, 15000, 20000, 25000, 30000, and 40000 lbs. Shank sizes will differ with different weight ratings and each carries a different price tag. I have seen them range from $12.00 for the 6000 lb rated ball to $65.00 for the 40000 lb rated ball.

Just make certain that the ball you buy is rated above your towing weight. This is really important since the ball has to be able to handle quick torque pressure if you suddenly need to make a move to avoid something or if you need to apply your brakes in a hurry.

I personally use a stainless ball rated at 15000 lbs. It has an 1 1/4 shank on it. I like the stanless ball because it does not rust and you can wipe the greese off to reveal a nice shine. Stainless cost a bit more, but not really that much more.

[Tarheel]

All of the shanks are made from grade 8 steel. This is a very strong grade of steel, stainless is usually rated a little lower around a grade 5 steel. Common hardware is grade 3. Whatever you use just make certain of the ratings.

[garry]

Since I need all 3 sizes 1 7/8, 2 & 2 5/16 I have the quick change balls rated at 10,000 lbs. 1969 AS 31 ft is 5400 lbs dry. I have had no problems and enjoy the convenience of switching out the balls without pulling the shank.

[Tarheel]

It is a very convient way of doing it