Should I torque a hitch ball?

Should I torque a hitch ball?

The trailer ball needs to be tightened to a certain torque specification in order to prevent the nut from vibrating loose, so for safety you need to make sure your hitch ball is securely mounted to your ball mount or bumper.

How much torque does a hitch ball need?

Hitch balls require a 1-7/8” socket and a torque wrench capable of approximately 430 ft-lbs torque for installation.

Do I need a torque wrench to install a hitch?

When installing a trailer hitch like # 75658 it is necessary to use a torque wrench to get the bolts to the right tightness. If not, and you just try to tighten them as hard as you can, you can damage the vehicle frame. Too loose and the hitch could fail when you tried to use it.

How much torque should a hitch have?

Some hitches only require around 100 foot-pounds of torque, while others require 150 foot-pounds or more. Make sure you have the proper tool to safely torque your hitch into place.

What size is a trailer ball nut?

You can have a 2-5/16 inch hitch ball on either a 1 inch or 1-1/4 inch shank. The nut on a hitch ball with a 1-1/4 inch shank takes a wrench with a 1-7/8 inch socket. A hitch ball with a 1 inch shank will take a wrench with a 1-1/2 inch socket.

Can I install my own hitch?

Yes, you can install a trailer hitch by yourself as long as you have the right tools for the job. DIY hitch installation is a great way to save money on the trailer hitch installation cost. Most CURT hitches can be installed with common hand tools, right in your own garage.

How tight should a tow ball nut be?

“The general rule is for a ¾” shank tighten to 150 ft/lbs, for a 1″ shank tighten to 250 ft/lbs, and for a 1¼” shank 450 ft/lbs.”

How do you keep a hitch ball from spinning when tightening?

If your hitch ball does not have the two flat areas on the base of the hitch ball we have used a bench vise to hold the hitch ball while torqueing the nut, and is really the best way. If you do not have a bench vise using a friends would be the best option.

What size nut is on a trailer ball?

The nut on a hitch ball with a 1-1/4 inch shank takes a wrench with a 1-7/8 inch socket. A hitch ball with a 1 inch shank will take a wrench with a 1-1/2 inch socket.