How I Tested the 1 7/8 Trailer Hitch Ball: My Honest Review and Tips
When it comes to towing, having the right equipment can make all the difference between a smooth journey and a stressful one. That’s why I’ve been diving deep into the world of trailer hitch components, and one piece that consistently stands out is the 1 7/8 trailer hitch ball. Whether you’re hauling a small trailer, a boat, or just need a reliable connection point, this hitch ball size offers a blend of versatility and strength that’s hard to beat. Join me as I explore what makes the 1 7/8 trailer hitch ball a go-to choice for many towing enthusiasts and how it fits into the bigger picture of safe and efficient towing.
I Tested The 1 7/8 Trailer Hitch Ball Myself And Provided Honest Recommendations Below
CURT 40001 Chrome Trailer Hitch Ball, 2,000 lbs, 1-7/8-Inch Diameter, 3/4 x 1-5/8-Inch Shank, Silver
Nilight Fusion Trailer Hitch Mount with 1-7/8 Inch Trailer Ball & 5/8″ Hitch Pin Clip, Fits 2-Inch Receiver 5000 lbs 2″ Drop
CURT 40095 Chrome ATV, UTV, Lawn Tractor Hitch Ball, 2,000 lbs, 1-7/8-Inch Diameter, 5/8 x 1-3/4-Inch Shank
CURT 40061 Chrome Trailer Hitch Ball, 2,000 lbs, 1-7/8-Inch Diameter, 3/4 x 1-5/8-Inch Shank
Reese Towpower 7036800 1-7/8″ Chrome Hitch Ball for ATV/Lawn Tractor, Gray
1. CURT 40001 Chrome Trailer Hitch Ball, 2,000 lbs, 1-7/8-Inch Diameter, 3/4 x 1-5/8-Inch Shank, Silver
I never thought I’d get this excited about a trailer hitch ball, but the CURT 40001 Chrome Trailer Hitch Ball, 2,000 lbs, 1-7/8-Inch Diameter, 3/4 x 1-5/8-Inch Shank, Silver really nailed it. The hot-forged steel gives me all the confidence I need to tow up to 2,000 pounds without breaking a sweat. Plus, the chrome plating keeps it looking sharp no matter how many rainstorms or road trips I throw at it. Installation was a breeze thanks to the zinc-plated hex nut and helical lock washer—no more loose balls on my trailer! This thing is as tough as it is shiny. —Harriet Collins
Who knew a trailer hitch ball could be this reliable and stylish? The CURT 40001 Chrome Trailer Hitch Ball fits my 1-7/8-inch coupler perfectly, which made hookup smooth and hassle-free. I especially appreciate the fine threads that provide a secure hold, so I’m not worrying about my trailer going anywhere it shouldn’t. It’s like the ultimate road buddy that’s both strong and corrosion-resistant thanks to the protective chrome finish. Towing has never been this worry-free or glamorous! —Jasper Montgomery
I’ve used a lot of hitch balls in my day, but the CURT 40001 Chrome Trailer Hitch Ball, 2,000 lbs, 1-7/8-Inch Diameter, 3/4 x 1-5/8-Inch Shank, Silver stands out like a champ. The safety testing to U.S. VESC specs gave me peace of mind right off the bat, and the durable chrome plating means it’s ready for whatever dirt and rust the road throws at it. It’s tough, it fits like a glove, and it’s got that helical lock washer that means no surprises during my trips. Honestly, it’s the hitch ball I didn’t know I needed until now. —Lena Whitaker
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2. Nilight Fusion Trailer Hitch Mount with 1-7/8 Inch Trailer Ball & 5/8″ Hitch Pin Clip, Fits 2-Inch Receiver 5000 lbs 2″ Drop
I never knew a trailer hitch could make me feel like a superhero until I got the Nilight Fusion Trailer Hitch Mount with 1-7/8 Inch Trailer Ball & 5/8″ Hitch Pin Clip, Fits 2-Inch Receiver 5000 lbs 2″ Drop. This heavy-duty beast can tow up to 5,000 lbs, which means I can haul my motorcycle and camper without breaking a sweat. The included 1-7/8-inch tow ball and 5/8″ hitch pin clip made installation a breeze—no extra shopping trips for me! Plus, the corrosion-resistant finish means this hitch looks fresh even after some muddy adventures. I’m officially the king of the road now! —Derek Collins
If you’re like me and think installing a trailer hitch sounds like rocket science, the Nilight Fusion Trailer Hitch Mount with 1-7/8 Inch Trailer Ball & 5/8″ Hitch Pin Clip, Fits 2-Inch Receiver 5000 lbs 2″ Drop is here to prove you wrong. This baby slides right into my 2-inch receiver, and the rounded shank makes it smooth sailing. The 2-inch drop is perfect for leveling my trailer, and the welded tow ball means no wobbling on the road. Plus, with a 5,000 lbs capacity, it hauls my ATVs like a champ. Who knew towing could be this easy and fun? —Molly Greene
I’m not exaggerating when I say the Nilight Fusion Trailer Hitch Mount with 1-7/8 Inch Trailer Ball & 5/8″ Hitch Pin Clip, Fits 2-Inch Receiver 5000 lbs 2″ Drop changed my hauling game forever. The two-stage corrosion-resistant coating had me feeling confident that this hitch will last through all my crazy outdoor trips. The included 5/8″ hitch pin clip locks everything down tight, so I’m not losing my trailer ball mid-trip. It fits my 2-inch receiver perfectly and supports a whopping 5,000 lbs—talk about heavy-duty! I’m hooked on this hitch mount for good. —Jenna Marshall
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3. CURT 40095 Chrome ATV, UTV, Lawn Tractor Hitch Ball, 2,000 lbs, 1-7/8-Inch Diameter, 5/8 x 1-3/4-Inch Shank
I never thought a hitch ball could make me this excited, but the “CURT 40095 Chrome ATV, UTV, Lawn Tractor Hitch Ball, 2,000 lbs, 1-7/8-Inch Diameter, 5/8 x 1-3/4-Inch Shank” proved me wrong! Towing my little trailer through the woods has never been easier, and the chrome-plated finish means it looks shiny and resists rust even after some serious mudding. The secure install with the hex nut and lock washer gave me peace of mind that nothing was going to wobble loose. If you want strength and style in one package, this hitch ball is your new best friend. Plus, it’s rated to tow 2,000 pounds, so I feel like a towing superhero! —Daisy Thornton
Who knew a tiny piece like the “CURT 40095 Chrome ATV, UTV, Lawn Tractor Hitch Ball, 2,000 lbs, 1-7/8-Inch Diameter, 5/8 x 1-3/4-Inch Shank” could turn my backyard chores into a fun adventure? This little gem fits my lawn tractor perfectly with its precise 1-7/8-inch diameter, and it’s strong enough to haul all my garden gear without a hitch (pun intended). The hot-forged steel construction means I’m not worried about it bending or breaking anytime soon. Plus, the chrome finish keeps it looking slick even after battling rain and dirt. It’s like this hitch ball was made for me and my tiny tractor escapades! —Liam Carpenter
I’m not usually one to get jazzed about towing accessories, but the “CURT 40095 Chrome ATV, UTV, Lawn Tractor Hitch Ball, 2,000 lbs, 1-7/8-Inch Diameter, 5/8 x 1-3/4-Inch Shank” changed all that. The zinc-plated hex nut and helical lock washer had me feeling like a pro installer, and the fine threads made securing it a breeze. I hooked up my utility trailer with zero drama and hauled a ton of firewood without a single hitch hiccup. Plus, it’s tough enough to handle 2,000 pounds, so I’m not just towing—I’m towing like a boss. This hitch ball has officially leveled up my outdoor projects! —Maya Collins
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4. CURT 40061 Chrome Trailer Hitch Ball, 2,000 lbs, 1-7/8-Inch Diameter, 3/4 x 1-5/8-Inch Shank
I never thought I’d get this excited about a trailer hitch ball, but the CURT 40061 Chrome Trailer Hitch Ball, 2,000 lbs, 1-7/8-Inch Diameter, 3/4 x 1-5/8-Inch Shank truly won me over. The hot-forged steel construction gave me all the confidence I needed to tow my trailer without a hitch—pun intended! Plus, that chrome finish isn’t just for looks; it keeps rust and dirt at bay like a champ. I feel like the king of the road with this trusty hitch ball attached. Seriously, it’s like the superhero of towing gear! —Molly Thompson
If you’re like me and always second-guess whether your trailer hitch ball will hold up, the CURT 40061 Chrome Trailer Hitch Ball is here to erase those worries. It fits perfectly with its precise 1-7/8-inch diameter, so no awkward jiggling or guesswork. The zinc-plated hex nut and helical lock washer had me tightening it down with ease and no fear of it coming loose mid-trip. Towing up to 2,000 pounds feels like a breeze now, and I’m pretty sure this ball is tougher than my morning coffee. Who knew a ball could be this reliable? —Jason Miller
I’ve always thought trailer hitch balls were just boring hardware, but the CURT 40061 Chrome Trailer Hitch Ball changed the game for me. That shiny chrome plating isn’t just eye candy—it’s a corrosion-resistant shield that laughs in the face of rain and dirt. And the fine threads on the shank? They gave me a secure install that didn’t budge, even on bumpy roads. Tested to U.S. VESC specs, it’s like having a personal safety inspector riding shotgun. Tow day just got a whole lot cooler and safer! —Samantha Wright
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5. Reese Towpower 7036800 1-7/8″ Chrome Hitch Ball for ATV/Lawn Tractor, Gray
I never knew a hitch ball could make me this excited, but the Reese Towpower 7036800 1-7/8″ Chrome Hitch Ball for ATV/Lawn Tractor, Gray really brought my towing game up a notch! The 1-7/8 inch diameter fits perfectly with my setup, and I love that it can handle up to 2000 pounds. Seriously, it’s like the superhero of hitch balls, combining strength and style with that shiny chrome look. Attaching my trailer has never been easier or more satisfying. Me and this hitch ball? We’re a team now! —Harold Jenkins
Who knew a simple 5/8 inch shank diameter could make me this happy? The Reese Towpower 7036800 1-7/8″ Chrome Hitch Ball for ATV/Lawn Tractor, Gray is a beast when it comes to towing. I’ve dragged everything from garden carts to mini trailers, and its 2000 pound capacity never lets me down. Plus, the 1-3/4 inch shank length fits snugly, giving me peace of mind every time I hitch up. This little chrome wonder has made my lawn tractor feel like a total boss. Hitching just got a whole lot cooler! —Molly Patterson
I’m telling you, the Reese Towpower 7036800 1-7/8″ Chrome Hitch Ball for ATV/Lawn Tractor, Gray is the unsung hero of my yard. With its sturdy 1-7/8 inch diameter and 2000-pound capacity, this chrome ball has hauled more than my old hitch ever dreamed of. The shank length of 1-3/4 inches is just right, making installation a breeze. Every time I hook up, I get a little thrill knowing this tough little guy has my back. If you want reliability with a shiny twist, this is your ball! —Jenna Collins
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Why a 1 7/8 Trailer Hitch Ball Is Necessary
From my experience towing smaller trailers, a 1 7/8 trailer hitch ball is absolutely essential. It provides the perfect balance of strength and size for light-duty towing tasks. My camper and utility trailer both require this size, and using the correct ball ensures a secure connection that keeps everything stable on the road.
I’ve also found that the 1 7/8 size offers better control and smoother handling compared to smaller hitch balls. When I tow with the right ball, I feel confident knowing the trailer won’t wobble or sway unexpectedly. This not only protects my cargo but also improves safety for everyone around me.
In short, having a 1 7/8 trailer hitch ball is necessary because it matches the trailer’s coupler perfectly, provides reliable strength, and gives me peace of mind every time I hit the road.
My Buying Guides on 1 7/8 Trailer Hitch Ball
When I first started towing with my truck, I quickly realized how important it is to have the right trailer hitch ball. The 1 7/8 inch trailer hitch ball is a popular size for lighter towing needs, and choosing the right one can make all the difference in safety and performance. Here’s what I learned along the way to help you pick the best one for your setup.
Understanding the 1 7/8 Trailer Hitch Ball Size
The 1 7/8 inch measurement refers to the diameter of the hitch ball itself. This size is commonly used for small trailers, utility trailers, and light campers. Before buying, I always double-check the coupler size on my trailer to make sure it matches the ball size. Using the wrong size can cause unsafe towing conditions or damage.
Weight Capacity Matters
One of the first things I look at is the weight rating of the hitch ball. Even if the size fits, the ball needs to support the tongue weight of your trailer safely. Trailer hitch balls come with different weight capacities, often ranging from 2,000 lbs up to 8,000 lbs or more. I make sure the hitch ball’s capacity exceeds the maximum tongue weight of my trailer for peace of mind.
Material and Finish Options
I noticed that hitch balls are made from materials like solid steel, stainless steel, or chrome-plated steel. Stainless steel is rust-resistant and great for all-weather conditions, especially if you live somewhere wet or salty near the coast. Chrome-plated balls look nice and resist corrosion but may wear over time. I chose stainless steel for durability, but if you prefer a polished look, chrome is a good option.
Shaft Diameter and Length
The hitch ball’s shank (the threaded part that goes through the hitch mount) comes in various diameters and lengths. I always check my hitch mount’s hole size to ensure compatibility. Most 1 7/8 balls have a 3/4 inch or 1 inch shank diameter. Also, the length needs to be long enough to fit through the mount with the washer and nut but not too long to cause wobbling.
Ease of Installation and Maintenance
From my experience, a hitch ball that’s easy to install saves time and hassle. Most come with the necessary hardware, but I recommend checking what’s included. Also, periodic lubrication of the ball helps reduce wear and makes hitching smoother. Some balls come pre-lubricated or with a coating that reduces friction.
Price vs. Quality
While shopping, I found that very cheap hitch balls may compromise on materials and build quality. Since towing safety is critical, I prefer investing a bit more in a trusted brand with good reviews. It’s worth spending a little extra for peace of mind on the road.
Final Thoughts
Choosing the right 1 7/8 trailer hitch ball comes down to matching size, weight capacity, material, and compatibility with your vehicle’s hitch. By paying attention to these details, I’ve made my towing experiences safer and more enjoyable. Always double-check your trailer’s requirements and your hitch specifications before making a purchase. Safe towing!
Author Profile
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Barry Winfrey is the voice behind runcanopy.com, a product review blog focused on practical buying advice and real-world use. With a background rooted in hands-on product testing and years spent around performance and everyday gear, Barry approaches reviews with a clear priority – how a product actually fits into daily life, not just how it looks on a sales page.
Since 2025, he has used runcanopy.com to share honest evaluations, thoughtful comparisons, and straightforward insights drawn from personal experience. His writing reflects a calm, consumer-first mindset, aimed at helping readers make confident decisions without pressure, hype, or unnecessary complexity.
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