RandyT
Elite Member
Unfortunately that 5K coupler on a 7K trailer from the factory was more common than most people would think.. Tons of 7K trailers straight from the factory with no brakes, just two idler axles.
Lets talk about your balls
- Thread starter John White
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Unfortunately that 5K coupler on a 7K trailer from the factory was more common than most people would think.. Tons of 7K trailers straight from the factory with no brakes, just two idler axles.
BRMyers
Platinum Member
Dad uses a 2 5/16" ball rated for 20,000lbs, trailer is rated for 14,000lbs.
3Ts
Elite Member
Yep! It was a surprise to me when I found out. I've added brakes to both axles and a breakaway switch and battery. Also added the proper running lights (it's an old trailer I bought new, and not sure what the lighting requirements were when it was built, but it's current now).
RandyT
Elite Member
Was just checking some of the Sikeston,MO trailer factory direct sales dealers, and it looks like most of the tandem axle trailers come with 8K hitches but they are 2" balls so even though the hitch is rated for the 7K trailer weight most people won't be using a 2" ball rated for that weight because most are 5-6K rated in 2" balls, and it also looks like if you want brakes that is an added option and not standard. Or if standard you get one brake axle not both.
My lawnmower hauling trailer is a 7x14 with brakes on both axles. I am using the factory hitch receiver on my Ram 1500 with a 17K rated insert, and the 2 5/16 ball hitch on the trailer is rated at 14K
TMGT
Elite Member
When I extended my 7k equipment trailer I used a 15k adjustable coupler, overkill but I didn't like the quality of the lighter couplers.
4570Man
Super Star Member
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Those adjustable height couplers are by far the best. The OP probably wouldn’t be needing such a high drop ball with one. Even if he does manage to find one a drop hitch severely reduces the vehicle hitch rating. Another benefit to the adjustable hitch is it’s easily removed for theft prevention.
dragoneggs
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Great thread... even though I was prepared to talk about the subject first on my mind :laughing:
It is nice to hear how many here are conscious of proper towing practices. Unfortunately I'm afraid the vast majority are not as aware of the particulars as they should be.
I for one, early in my driving days, purchased a small garden trailer and towing it home, it got loose on me and as it 'pulled along side me' during a slow left turn in a residential area... learned that all balls are not created equal.
Now I critique my own set ups as well as anyone I am around to make sure they are properly hitched including safety chains, brakes, lights, etc. I feel I was taught a lesson that day and am thankful I didn't hurt or kill someone because of my ignorance.
I ran into this when setting up a hitch for my dump trailer. I couldn't find a 2 5/16" ball locally (TSC, Rural King, Home Depot, car parts stores, etc) that was rated at more than 6 or 7k lbs. Seems they all carried the lowest priced option in stock. Many people will just by a ball that fits and not look at the rating stamped on the ball. I wonder how many heavy trailers are being towed by balls rated at half or less what they are pulling.
