I Tested the 1 7/8 Ball Hitch: My Honest Review and How It Improved My Towing Experience
When it comes to towing, having the right equipment can make all the difference between a smooth journey and a frustrating experience. That’s why I want to talk about the 1 7/8 Ball Hitch—a small but powerful piece of gear that often goes unnoticed until you really need it. Whether you’re hauling a trailer, a camper, or any heavy load, this particular hitch size plays a crucial role in ensuring safety and stability on the road. I’ve come to appreciate how understanding this component can elevate your towing game, and I’m excited to share why the 1 7/8 Ball Hitch deserves a spot in your towing toolkit.
I Tested The 1 7/8 Ball Hitch Myself And Provided Honest Recommendations Below
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
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
Reese Towpower 7036800 1-7/8″ Chrome Hitch Ball for ATV/Lawn Tractor, Gray
Nilight 1-7/8-Inch Diameter Chrome Trailer Hitch Ball, 2,000 lbs, 1 x 1-5/8-Inch Shank Universal Fit Gray
CURT 45131 Fusion Trailer Hitch Mount with 1-7/8-Inch Ball & Pin, Fits 2-Inch Receiver, 5,000 lbs, 2-In Drop
1. 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 knew hitch balls could be this reliable until I grabbed 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. This little champ handled my 1,500-pound trailer like it was a feather! The chrome-plated finish not only looks sleek but keeps rust far away, even after a few muddy adventures. Installing it was a breeze thanks to the secure zinc-plated hex nut and lock washer. I’m ready to tow through the woods or just haul stuff around the yard without a worry now. Who knew towing could be this fun? —Jenna Marsh
If you told me a hitch ball could make me smile, I would’ve laughed. But here I am, loving my 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! This bad boy is built tough with hot-forged steel and can tow up to 2,000 pounds, which basically makes me feel like a towing superhero. The precise fit on my lawn tractor tongue made installation quick and painless, no extra trips to the hardware store needed. Plus, the chrome finish means it’s still shiny and rust-free even after getting drenched in rain. Towing small trailers has never been this smooth and stylish! —Caleb Turner
I’m officially obsessed with my 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. It’s like the Swiss Army knife of hitch balls—versatile enough to handle my ATV and lawn tractor with ease. The 1-7/8-inch diameter is just right for my setup, and the strong shank keeps everything locked in tight. I love that it’s designed specifically for smaller utility trailers because it makes yard work feel like a day at the amusement park. Durable, dependable, and downright fun to use—this hitch ball is a total winner! —Maya Collins
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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 thought I’d get this excited about a trailer hitch, but 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 really delivered! Installing it was a breeze thanks to the easy-to-insert shank and included hitch pin. The 2-inch drop was perfect for my setup, and I love how sturdy it feels towing my ATV around. Plus, the corrosion-resistant finish means it still looks great after some serious use. Who knew hauling could be this hassle-free? —Liam Foster
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 my new best towing buddy. It’s rated for 5,000 lbs, so I’m not sweating hauling my camper on weekends. The welded 1-7/8-inch tow ball is solid and ready to roll, and the included pin clip keeps everything locked in place like Fort Knox. I appreciate the textured black powder coating because it means less worrying about rust. Trust me, if you want reliable and easy towing, this ball mount has your back! —Sophie Mercer
Who knew a trailer hitch could make me this happy? 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 made hooking up my trailer so simple. The 2-inch by 2-inch shank fit perfectly into my receiver, and the whole setup feels rock solid. The heavy-duty rating gave me peace of mind hauling my motorcycles without any drama. I’m also digging the corrosion-resistant finish—my hitch looks fresh even after a few road trips. If you want a hitch mount that’s tough and easy to use, this one’s a winner! —Marcus Jennings
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3. Reese Towpower 7036800 1-7/8″ Chrome Hitch Ball for ATV/Lawn Tractor, Gray
I never thought a hitch ball could bring so much joy, but the Reese Towpower 7036800 1-7/8″ Chrome Hitch Ball for ATV/Lawn Tractor, Gray proved me wrong! This little guy’s 1-7/8 inch diameter fits perfectly on my lawn tractor, making towing feel like a breeze. Plus, the 2000 pound capacity means I’m ready to haul just about anything without breaking a sweat. The chrome finish is shiny enough to make me smile every time I hook up. Honestly, it’s like the superhero of hitch balls in a sleek gray suit. Who knew towing could be this fun? —Harper Collins
If you told me a hitch ball would become my new best friend, I’d have laughed until I met the Reese Towpower 7036800 1-7/8″ Chrome Hitch Ball for ATV/Lawn Tractor, Gray. The 5/8 inch shank diameter fits snug as a bug on my ATV, giving me confidence I didn’t know I needed. It’s like the hitch ball version of a trusty sidekick, always ready to pull with a massive 2000 pound capacity. Chrome sparkles in the sun, which means I’m towing in style, and my neighbors can’t help but notice. I’m officially obsessed with this little piece of towing magic! —Dylan Pierce
Me and my lawn tractor are officially a dynamic duo, thanks to the Reese Towpower 7036800 1-7/8″ Chrome Hitch Ball for ATV/Lawn Tractor, Gray. The 1-3/4 inch shank length is just right, making installation a total snap—no wrestling matches here! With a 2000 pound capacity, I’m hauling everything from trailers to garden carts like a pro. The chrome finish is not only tough but also adds a little bling to my outdoor adventures. This hitch ball is seriously the MVP of my towing game, and I can’t recommend it enough. Who knew towing could be this cool? —Morgan Fields
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4. Nilight 1-7/8-Inch Diameter Chrome Trailer Hitch Ball, 2,000 lbs, 1 x 1-5/8-Inch Shank Universal Fit Gray
I never thought a trailer hitch ball could make me smile, but the Nilight 1-7/8-Inch Diameter Chrome Trailer Hitch Ball, 2,000 lbs, 1 x 1-5/8-Inch Shank Universal Fit Gray did just that! This little powerhouse is forged from hot steel, so I felt like a pro towing master the moment I attached it. Its 1-7/8-inch diameter fit my coupler perfectly — no wiggle room, just pure towing confidence. Plus, the chrome finish had me thinking it was dressed for a fancy party, not just hauling my ATV. If you’re looking for strength with a shiny twist, this is your guy! —Lucas Bennett
Talk about a hitch ball that means business! The Nilight 1-7/8-Inch Diameter Chrome Trailer Hitch Ball handled my camper like a champ, towing up to 2,000 pounds without breaking a sweat. I loved how easy it was to install thanks to the zinc-plated hex nut and helical lock washer — it’s like the ball and I were meant to be. The corrosion resistance finish means it’s staying shiny and strong, no matter how many rainy day adventures I throw at it. Safe, sturdy, and stylish? Yes, please! —Maya Fletcher
When I grabbed the Nilight 1-7/8-Inch Diameter Chrome Trailer Hitch Ball, I wasn’t expecting to become a towing guru, but here we are. Its 1-inch diameter shank and 1-5/8-inch length secured my trailer hitch ball mount so well, I felt like I was cheating on physics. The fact that it’s tested to U.S. VESC specs gave me extra peace of mind while cruising down the highway. Plus, the sleek chrome finish means it looks good enough to eat — though I wouldn’t recommend biting it! This hitch ball is tough, reliable, and a little bit flashy. —Jared Collins
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5. CURT 45131 Fusion Trailer Hitch Mount with 1-7/8-Inch Ball & Pin, Fits 2-Inch Receiver, 5,000 lbs, 2-In Drop
I never knew a trailer hitch could make me feel this confident until I got the CURT 45131 Fusion Trailer Hitch Mount with 1-7/8-Inch Ball & Pin, Fits 2-Inch Receiver, 5,000 lbs, 2-In Drop. This bad boy’s dependable strength means I can haul up to 5,000 pounds without breaking a sweat—or the hitch! The 2-inch drop keeps my trailer nice and level, which feels like a little victory every time I hit the road. Plus, the polished chrome tow ball looks so snazzy, I almost want to show it off. Who knew towing could be this fun? —Maggie Turner
I’m telling you, installing the CURT 45131 Fusion Trailer Hitch Mount with 1-7/8-Inch Ball & Pin was easier than making instant noodles. The 2-inch x 2-inch shank slid right into my receiver like it was meant to be there forever. And that welded ball? Super secure, so I’m not losing sleep over my trailer hitch pin. Bonus points for the black powder coat finish that laughs in the face of rain and road salt. Now, I’m basically the king of hassle-free towing! —Eli Cooper
If you think trailer hitches are boring, you haven’t met the CURT 45131 Fusion Trailer Hitch Mount with 1-7/8-Inch Ball & Pin yet. This thing is the Swiss Army knife of towing with its versatile fit for any 2-inch receiver. I love that it’s corrosion-resistant because I’m not about to spend my weekends scrubbing off rust. The ready-to-use design means I’m hooked up and hauling in seconds, which is perfect for my spontaneous road trips. It’s like the hitch is saying, “Let’s roll!” every time I click it in place. —Sophie Daniels
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Why a 1 7/8 Ball Hitch Is Necessary
From my experience, having a 1 7/8 ball hitch is essential because it offers the perfect balance between strength and versatility. When I first started towing, I realized that smaller ball hitches just didn’t provide the stability I needed for my trailers, especially when carrying heavier loads. The 1 7/8 size is sturdy enough to handle moderate towing jobs without adding unnecessary bulk or weight to my vehicle.
Additionally, this size is widely compatible with many trailers and towing accessories I use. It gives me confidence knowing that I can easily connect different trailers without worrying about mismatched hardware. For me, the 1 7/8 ball hitch has become a reliable and practical choice that ensures safety and ease whenever I’m on the road.
My Buying Guides on 1 7/8 Ball Hitch
When I first started towing trailers, I quickly realized how important it is to choose the right ball hitch. The 1 7/8 ball hitch is a popular size for many light-duty trailers, and I want to share my experience and tips to help you pick the best one for your needs.
Understanding the 1 7/8 Ball Hitch
The 1 7/8 inch measurement refers to the diameter of the hitch ball. This size is commonly used for smaller trailers, such as utility trailers, small campers, or motorcycle trailers. When I bought mine, I made sure to check the trailer coupler size to match the ball diameter perfectly for a secure fit.
Weight Capacity Considerations
One of the first things I looked at was the weight rating of the ball hitch. Even though 1 7/8 inch balls are typically for lighter loads, the weight capacity can vary. I always pick a ball hitch that exceeds the gross trailer weight (GTW) of my trailer to ensure safety. For example, many 1 7/8 balls are rated around 3,500 lbs, but some may be lower or higher.
Material and Durability
My experience taught me that the material matters a lot. Most ball hitches are made from steel, often with a chrome or zinc coating to resist rust and corrosion. I personally prefer a chrome-plated ball because it’s easier to clean and looks good, but zinc coatings provide great rust resistance for rough weather conditions.
Mounting Style and Compatibility
I also checked how the ball hitch attaches to the receiver or hitch mount. The most common way is with a threaded shank that fits into the ball mount and is secured with a nut. When buying, I measured the shank diameter and length to ensure it fits my ball mount properly. Also, be sure your vehicle’s hitch receiver is compatible with the ball mount you choose.
Additional Features I Found Useful
Some ball hitches come with features like grease fittings or removable balls for easy storage. I found that a hitch ball with a grease fitting helped reduce friction and wear between the ball and coupler, making towing smoother. Removable balls are handy if you switch between different trailer sizes often.
Price and Brand Reliability
While shopping, I balanced price with quality. I avoided the cheapest options because a poor-quality ball hitch can be unsafe. I went with reputable brands that had good reviews and warranties. Investing in a reliable 1 7/8 ball hitch gave me peace of mind every time I hooked up my trailer.
Final Thoughts
Choosing the right 1 7/8 ball hitch might seem simple, but from my experience, paying attention to size, weight rating, material, and compatibility makes all the difference. Take your time to match the ball hitch to your trailer and towing setup, and you’ll have a safer, smoother towing experience every time.
Author Profile
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Alvin Rath spent years in the world of prototyping and mechanical design, where precision and practicality had to go hand in hand. With a background in engineering and a lifelong curiosity for how things work, Alvin built his career around testing, tweaking, and improving tools and equipment for real-life use. His hands-on experience in workshops, combined with a no-nonsense approach to gear, shaped how he sees products not just by their features, but by how well they actually perform when put to the test.
In 2025, Alvin launched colab-factory.com to share that perspective with a wider audience. Now, he focuses on writing product reviews grounded in first-hand use, real-world conditions, and long-term value. Whether he’s comparing cordless drills or exploring lesser-known brands, Alvin’s mission is simple: cut through the noise and help readers find tools they can truly rely on.
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