The trailer hitch – MasterCraft Trailer User Manual
Page 11
The Trailer Hitch
There are two basic types of trailer hitches: A weight-carrying
hitch and a weight-distributing hitch. A weight-carrying hitch is
recommended for your MasterCraft. Before deciding which type of
hitch to use, also consult your automobile manufacturer on recom-
mendations for your car or truck.
Be sure that the total weight of your trailer-boat rig does not ex-
ceed the hitch’s load capacity. The maximum weight it can handle is
stamped on the hitch. Also, be sure the hitch ball is the correct size to
match the coupler on your trailer. The correct ball diameter is marked
on the trailer coupler. The hitch also should provide a place for at-
taching the trailer’s safety cables–two rings or holes on either side of
the hitch ball.
A truck or van using a step bumper as the hitch platform will need
to have safety cable attachments such as eye-bolts, as well as a hitch
ball, installed according to the Society of Automotive Engineers; SAE
J684 Standard. Installing a light or heavy-duty hitch can be a major
undertaking. The hitch and its installation should meet the SAE J684
Standard. It is recommended that you have the job done by a profes-
sional. Your dealer can advise you.
To ensure that the boat is riding prop-
erly on the trailer supports, the trailer should
be in a level position when hitched to the
tow vehicle. The recommended height of the
hitch ball, according to the NMMA, is 18-
to-20 inches to the top of the ball from the
ground. More importantly, failure to adjust
to this height may prematurely activate the
surge brakes.
This can be corrected in a number of
different ways. For example, you may in-
stall air-pressure adjustable shock absorb-
ers on the tow vehicle, or switch from a
weight-carrying hitch to a weight-distrib-
uting hitch. Again, consult with your tow
vehicle dealer.
In general, for Class 3 rigs (3,500 to
5,000 lbs.), a two-inch (2”) ball is the re-
quirement. For Class 4 (5,000 to 10,000 lbs.),
a ball of either 2” or 2-5/16” will be required.
MasterCraft Trailers • Page 10