How to Use Spacers to Raise a Tow Ball's Height

Occasionally, people who tow trailers find that for no reason other than the height of the tow ball on their trailer hitch, they are towing their trailer with a slightly nose-down attitude. Some who do not any know better may go as far as buying a hitch with different configuration or even try a weight-distributing hitch to correct a small problem. If the trailer is riding only a bit low and it is not because of the tongue weight, the solution may be to use a few flat washers to raise the height of the tow ball.

Things You'll Need

• Wrench
• Flat washers

Instructions

1. Remove the nut that secures the tow ball to the ball mount by turning the nut counterclockwise with a wrench until both the nut and the accompanying lock washer are free. Remove the tow ball from the ball mount.

2. Slip as many flat washers onto the threaded shaft of the tow ball that are required to achieve the desired tow ball height. The flat washers act as spacers.

3. While holding the washers securely to the tow ball, slip the threaded shaft of the tow ball back into the ball mount through the top of the mount. Slide the lock washer onto the shaft and hold it in place while threading the nut back onto the shaft. Tighten the nut with the wrench.

Tips & Warnings

• If the threads on the trailer hitch are corroded or rusty, spray them with an aerosol rust buster or penetrating oil, such as those available at most auto parts stores, before removing the nut.

• If the tow ball does not have a mounting stud long enough to accommodate washers, purchase a new ball that has a longer mounting stud.

• When choosing flat washers, the hole in the middle of the washer should be the same diameter as the mounting stud and the outer diameter of the washer should be the same as the diameter of the plate on the tow ball that sits on the ball mount.

• The washers should not exceed a total of 1/2-inch thick. If the tow ball needs raising any further, consider a new ball mount.