Question

The Boat Trailering Guys

Is there a recommended distance that my hitch ball should be from the receiver hitch on the truck? It would seem the farther away, the more pressure the ball is going to be under.

N. Maitland, Las Vegas, NV

Answered on: 6/2005

MIKE: There is not a "rule of thumb" to answer your question. You should use a hitch that is recommended for the vehicle and is properly rated for the weight of your load. More important than the distance of the ball from the receiver is that your load is properly balanced and you have achieved the most desirable tongue weight; 7-8% of the loaded trailer weight. GEORGE: You are smart to be concerned about the tongue weight, as Mike points out. Be aware, however, of something else: the safety chains may be stretched to accommodate a longer distance. If they are pulled too tight, the chain can actually snap (I know, I've done it).

The Boat Trailering Guys: Mike and George