Vehicle and trailer safety may seem straightforward, yet there are many factors that can influence the risk of hazards on the road. When towing a trailer, the right equipment is vital to safeguard people and property. Yet, it's easy to be confused, especially when it comes to a trailer towing hitch and a ball mount. Even experienced haulers might not fully grasp the differences between them. We’re here to clear up the confusion and explain the ins and outs of a trailer hitch and ball mount, empowering you to make smart choices for a safe towing experience.
What is a Hitch for Trailer?
A trailer hitch is the connection point between your vehicle and your towing trailer. It consists of a hitch receiver tube mounted to the rear of your vehicle and a hitch ball platform, which accepts various mounting accessories, including ball mounts.
There are different types of hitches for trailers, but the most popular are the following:
- Receiver hitch: This style is the most common type of hitch. It features a square receiver tube that accepts ball mounts and bike racks.
- Fixed-tongue hitch: Typically used for lighter loads, a fixed tongue extends outward from the vehicle and is less versatile than a receiver hitch.
The trailer hitch receiver is easy to install and remove. However, it may protrude from the vehicle, affecting ground clearance.
What is a Ball Mount?
A ball mount is part of the trailer hitch receiver system that connects to the trailer's coupler. It consists of a shank that slides into the hitch receiver and a platform that holds the hitch ball. Fixed ball mounts have a specific drop or rise, and adjustable ball mounts can be altered to accommodate different trailer heights. The adaptable option offers greater flexibility but may be more expensive than a fixed ball mount.
Key Differences Between Trailer Towing Hitch and Ball Mount
The hitch and the ball mount might seem similar, but their functions and features are quite different:
- Functionality: The hitch is the receiver mounted to the vehicle, while the ball mount is the attachment that holds the hitch ball. The hitch provides the connection point, while the ball mount supports the trailer's weight.
- Installation and compatibility: A trailer towing hitch is installed on the vehicle's frame, while ball mounts slide into the hitch receiver. You can purchase ball mounts of various sizes and weight capacities to match the trailer's requirements.
- Versatility and adjustability: Hitch for trailers typically has fixed positions, whereas ball mounts offer adjustability to accommodate trailers of varying heights and weights.
- Weight capacity and stability: The hitch and the ball mount have specific weight ratings that determine their capacity to tow a trailer safely. Consider these parameters to ensure stability while towing.
Choosing the Right Option for Your Towing Needs: Hitch vs Ball Mount
When deciding between a trailer towing hitch and a ball mount, consider factors such as your vehicle's towing capacity, the trailer's weight, load type, and the expected purpose of your trailer. Ensure that the hitch and ball mount you choose are compatible with your vehicle and trailer and meet or exceed the weight requirements for safe towing. Ultimately, we recommend a trailer hitch with a ball mount for a heavy load or a long trip. When the load is light, and the vehicle is heavy, a simple ball mount is sufficient.
If you're unsure which option is best for you, please reach out to our team of trusted towing professionals. Our trailers, parts, and accessories are tested in rugged Australian Outback conditions and are built for the toughest conditions in the US. You can trust ARK Corp for heavy-duty reliability for on and off-road trailer towing. With over 45 years of experience, we know everything there is to know about towing gear and can help you find the best trailer parts in the US.
ARK Corp Trailer Hitch vs Ball Mount FAQs
1. How to Attach Trailer to Hitch?
You can install the trailer hitch receiver in five steps:
- Align the hitch: Position your vehicle so the hitch receiver is directly behind the trailer's coupler.
- Lower the trailer: Use the trailer jack to lower the coupler onto the hitch ball.
- Latch the coupler: Once the coupler is sitting securely on the hitch ball, latch it closed and lock it in place.
- Secure safety chains: Attach safety chains to the vehicle's frame or hitch by crossing them under the trailer tongue.
- Connect electrical wiring: Plug in the trailer's electrical connector to activate the lights and signals.
2. How Does a Trailer Hitch Work?
A trailer towing hitch creates a secure link between the trailer and your vehicle. It spreads the trailer's weight evenly across your vehicle's frame, making it safer and steadier to tow your trailer in on and off-road conditions. When you attach a hitch receiver to the back of your vehicle, a mounting accessory with a hitch ball slides into it and locks. The trailer's coupler connects to the hitch ball, and the whole system allows your vehicle and the trailer to move cohesively.