How To Measure For Trailer Hitch Rise & Drop

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How to Measure for Trailer Hitch Rise & Drop

When towing a trailer it’s imperative that the trailer is as level as possible. A level trailer that handles well decreases tire wear, and of course minimizes strain on the trailer and the vehicle towing the trailer. Since there is no one size fits all for trailer height and of course the vehicle itself in order for them to line up perfectly for towing. This is the very reason why there is such a variety of sizes and come with the various rise and drops to compensate for the height difference.  Let’s explain how to obtain the safe level of towing.

What are Rise & Drop?

Rise: The Distance from the top of the shank to the top of the ball mount is oriented for greater coupler height.

Drop: The distance from the top of the shank to the top of the ball mount platform when the ball mount is oriented for lower coupler height.

How to Measure for Trailer Hitch Drop?

In order to adequately choose a ball mount height, you’ll need to first take two measurements.  Your hitch height (Measurement A) and coupler height (Measurement B). The difference found in this calculation will get you the proper rise or drop.

Step 1 – Measurement A: Find your hitch height. With the tow vehicle parked on level ground, measure from the ground to the very top of your hitch receiver opening.

Step 2 – Measurement B: With the trailer level you’ll need to measure from the ground to the bottom of the coupler.

Step 3 – How to find the difference:

If your hitch height is greater, use a ball mount with a drop. Hitch Height (A) – Coupler Height (B) = Drop (C)

If your coupler height is greater, use a ball mount with a rise. Coupler Height (B) – Hitch Height (A) = Rise (D)

Select a ball mount with the proper drop (c) or rise (D) measurement that is closest to the difference between the hitch and the coupler heights. For Example, if your hitch height is 12 inches and the coupler height is 8 inches then you’ll need a ball mount with a 4-inch drop.

Measurement A (15″) – Measurement B (10″) = C (5″ Drop)

If your hitch height is 10 inches and your coupler height is 14 inches then you’ll need a ball mount with a 4-inch rise.

Measurement B (13″) – Measurement A (12″) = D (1″ Rise)

Be sure to come by one of our 7 convenient lot locations for further advice as well as the many trailer hitches, balls, mounts and other accessories in stock and ready to install or submit a service request through the form submission below. Thank you!

The Snapper Trailers Safety Disclaimer can be viewed here

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