Hitch drop

Eric_Phillips · Jul 30, 2014

This is a little off topic for tractors but I am trying to set up my minivan to pull my in-law's pop-up trailer. We pulled it last year with what ever was available and that must have been a 1" rise ball mount. I just measured everything and with everything unloaded I calculate I need a 3" rise. When I hitch up the trailer it drops the van an inch which would dictate something closer to 4" rise. I do have a 2" rise ball mount now. This trailer it about 2000lb. What are the issues if I am 1-2" short so I am slightly tongue down instead of level?

jejeosborne · Jul 30, 2014

Just depends on the design of the trailer and tongue weight percentage. It could also affect braking distance slightly because of it wanting to push down the rear of the van a little more during a panic stop but that may be negligible. Hook it up and take it for a spin. Going down long hills at high speeds is the worst case scenario when testing for sway.

Diamondpilot · Jul 31, 2014

Get the trailer level. The money spent will be well worth it vs white knuckles later on.

Chris

newbury · Jul 31, 2014

jejeosborne said:
Just depends on the design of the trailer and tongue weight percentage. It could also affect braking distance slightly because of it wanting to push down the rear of the van a little more during a panic stop but that may be negligible. Hook it up and take it for a spin. Going down long hills at high speeds is the worst case scenario when testing for sway.

And braking hard near the bottom of the hill.

I'm pretty sure my dodge minivan would almost bottom out in the rear with a situation like that.

You should be able to get a tongue for about $30. Standard Ball Mount Rise - 4 Inch Ball Mounts | etrailer.com