What I found out after my ball broke: Don't try to save money on the ball,. this is one of the cheapest parts of the system! Choose a ball with a built on shank, not a bolt Change the ball whenever it shows signs of wear on the outside. This shows signs of age and heavy use. Check the ball for being tight with a long wrench. any signs of loosening warrants replacement "just 'cause" If the ball shows any signs of shifting or scuffing on the mount, don't take chances

I feel very fond of my airstream and checking the ball 4 or 5 times a summer helps me feel better. On long trips I check the nut every 3 or 4 days. Visual inspections happen on every disconnect and re-connect.

The real clue is in the rest of the set up. Good safety chains, working brakes and safety switch will save most of the cases with nothing more than a little extra sweat and adrenaline

Eric

Bob Noyes wrote:

On Tue, 19 Jan 1999 21:07:00 EST, How8553911@aol.com wrote:

I also now always use a 2-3/8" ball for their trailers as opposed to a 2" ball.

From what I have read about hitch balls shearing, I would suppose
changing them every year or so would be very cheap insurance.