Torquing hitch ball - how critical?

[newbury]

I've always just gronched them on as hard as I can.

But I'm looking at getting an Equal-i-zer Weight Distributing Hitch and they say

Hitch balls require a 1-7/8 socket and a torque wrench capable of approximately 430 Ft-lbs torque for installation.

Now a torque wrench, 3/4" that does that type of torque runs about $300. I can get a Harbor Freight that does 300 ft lb for about $70.

Is this common to have a mfg spec a torque for hitch balls?

How many of you measure the torque on your balls?

How important is it?

 

[murphy1244]

Its a Legal thing. Need so much thread stretch for proper fit. 2 grunts should be about the same torque.

 

[Rayster]

I have a 16" (I think) Cresent Wrench. Then normally give it all I can and call it good. Never had one loosen or cause me any grief.

(agrees with Murph too)

 

[3930dave]

Most shops I've seen just get out the big pneumatic gun, and give 'er. Not saying that is right or wrong, just what I've seen. These being high torque guns that will hit 430 easy.

For a one off deal at home (as opposed to doing this commercially) I'd "belt and suspender" it with Red Loctite, and my biggest torque tool at hand. (You'll need torch heat to get the Red stuff undone later).

Rgds, D.

 

[rmorey]

What about taking the hitch ball and receiver down to the local service station and asking them if they would torque it for you?

 

[murphy1244]

Torque it ( 2 Grunts) till the lock washer is flat and just starting to cut the plating. Don't use locktite if you plan on changing Balls

 

[hawkeye08]

I use a cheater pipe and make sure it is torqued. If it gets loose (and they can), it can flex just a little and over time become weak enough to break. A good friend had his boat pass his truck going down a hill once due to this..

 

[schmism]

i use a pipe wrench and a 4' extension. never had one loosen up on me.

 

[npalen]

Hitch balls require a 1-7/8 socket and a torque wrench capable of approximately 430 Ft-lbs torque for installation.

How long a cheater would an average guy or gal need and what would he/she brace against to apply 430 Ft-lbs torque?

 

[David_Kb7uns]

I either use the 48" crescent wrench that I have and put stinger into receiver on its side and tighten or use the 3/4" socket wrench that is a little over 24" and stand on it. I checked before last trip out and it was a little loose, so as you get the bolt stretch and the paint crush they do need checking.

David Kb7uns