[smyrna5]

I picked up a factory hitch, with the 2" receiver, off a '99 Astro and installed it on my '93 Safari. I am not sure why such a massive hitch is only rated for 2,000 pounds, but that is another story. I am interested in picking up a small 4x8 or 5x8 trailer off Craigslist, when I see a great deal. I am in no hurry. On the other hand, I would like to be ready when I see one. So, my question is what size ball would be the most common for these small trailers, and how much drop would you get, if you haven't seen the trailer yet?

 

[chops]

small trailers tend to use 1 7/8 med tralers tend to use 2'" and larger trailers tend to use 2 5/16 as far as drop I would just get a I think its a 2 in drop one, They sel l the nifty balls that are change able from 1 7/8 to 2'" with a slip of a pin they come in handy.... hope this helped some...
i know you want to be ready but why not wait to buy the ball the day you get the trailer you can pick one up at the parts store cheap...that way you get the right one...

 

[smyrna5]

Thanks Chops. I think I will take your advice and just get a 2" drop shaft, but wait on the ball. I didn't even think about getting a ball at my local auto parts store, and they are open 24/7, so it shouldn't be a problem when I find out what I need.

 

[AstroAustin]

I picked up a 2" drop shaft and ball at Wal-Mart. Cheapest place, by far. I've noticed that balls and trailers are getting more and more universal. I bought a 2" ball and it has always worked for my needs regardless of what trailer I am pulling. But like chops said, be safe and buy the ball after you get a trailer.

 

[marco10]

The rating on that hitch is strange. I found out that it is rated as such due to the astro/safari rear suspension. The hitch can easily pull more than 2000lbs if it were installed on a truck. I have the same hitch on my van and use a weight distribution hitch to comply. The 200/2000 rating is specific to these vans, not the hitch itself.

 

[raycer]

Yeah, the hitch can take more, but the chassis is not rated for to much. I've never had problems towing my 6x12 (enclosed and heavy). I run assist air bags.
and the drop/ball size on the ball mount really depends on the height/size of the tong of the trailer you are pulling. i have 2" balls (dreamin :rofl: ) on 3 different height of ball mounts, strait, 2 inch and 4 inch drop. because i have switched to different trailers, i have been buying the mounts as i need them. and the ball mount is probably the 2 inch square type.
good luck and play it safe when towing.

 

[red95astro]

I picked up a two inch drop bar with a 2inch ball already mounted on it for less than 20 bucks at wally mart. It also included the hitch pin neede to secure it to the reciver hitch. Everywhere else the ball was at least 7 or8 bucks and the bar alone was at least 18-20 bucks. And like the others are suggesting, I bought mine the day I bought my trailer.

 

[Gary]

I have the style of hitch that Chops spoke about.So I can change between all three sizes of balls with just by installing the pin.

 

[ScottS]

I always carry all 3 sizes wth me as you never know when or what you might need to tow.