Towballs Tongues: A successful tow is all about having the right accessories
When you're towing heavy loads like a caravan, trailer or boat, in the name of safety it's crucial to fit the correct tow accessories. One of the most important such bit of kit tow bars, including adjustable tow bar tongue, tow bar hitch and ball mount. Get to know them.
Frequently asked questions about Towballs Tongues
Are there different size tow balls?
The majority of trailers list hitch ball size (diameter) and maximum towing capacity on the tongue, coupler, or frame. Any hitch ball used to tow your trailer should have the same diameter and a maximum capacity the same or greater than that listed.
What is the most common trailer ball size?
The most common ball size is two inches(50mm) in diameter, but heavy-duty industrial trailer balls can go up to 2 1/4". The diameter of your ball mount's hole must be no more than 1/16" greater than the ball shank diameter in order to fit.
How do I know what size ball I need for my trailer?
Check the top of the trailer coupler for the size of the ball diameter required. The size is usually stamped there. Recreational and light commercial hitch balls come in a variety of sizes. In general lighter trailers use smaller hitch balls.
How do I measure the tongue weight with a tongue weight scale?
Park your vehicle and trailer on a hard level surface.
Slide the scale underneath where your trailer tongue jack touches the ground.
Crank down the trailer jack until it is pressed onto the scale.
Detach the trailer from the hitch and take your reading.
TOP TIP: Tongue Weight Explained
Tongue weight is the downforce from the tongue of the trailer to the hitch of your towing vehicle. The industry standard for tongue weight is anywhere between nine percent and 14 percent of your gross trailer weight (GTW.) Tongue weight allows you to control the trailer when hitched, which makes driving safer. When tongue weight is improperly calculated, it contributes to trailer sway and cause accidents when towing.