Must I be a grease ball?

[Matt400]

Having towed a 2500 lb boat for 7 years and now a 4000 lb boat for 3 years using a chrome ball and no grease I have a question...



The boats never galled the ball but my 6000 lb (when loaded) TT started galling its ball, non chrome un greased after 2 seasons. The TT company that set us up never said anything about grease on the ball. Is there a trailer weight threshold where you should start using grease on the ball?



I use an equalizing hitch and friction sway control.

 

[mikel]

I'd have to say that if the ball is galling then it needs grease. I grease any hitch I put on my truck, be it fifth wheel, gooseneck, or bumper pull.



Mike

 

[Okie-Go]

I also grease the ball. I got a small jar at Wally Mart for less than 5. 00 It is made by Reese and non stain it says on the container. One jar will last a long time. I just put a tad on the front part where most of the friction is and smooth it around. Works great.

 

[boonsur]

My last travel trailer galled the ball. I heard a tip to use waxed paper. Tried it (on a new ball), and it does work. Just put a 6x6 piece over the top as you drop the hitch on. The latch easily overcomes it. After a few trips, you get a nice wax build-up, which is enough to keep the metals apart. Cleaner than grease, but you have to keep a stash somewhere for convienence.

 

[Casey Balvert]

The coupler and ball set up on your trailer is similar in principle to your ball joint in your front suspension. Would you drive your vehicle without grease in the ball joints? Same applies to the trailer ball and coupler. The frictional forces on the coupler-ball interface is huge. They are designed to be greased. Yes it is messy but greasing it will prevent wear and potential failure. FWIW.



Safe travels, Casey.

 

[Matt400]

Thanks everyone for the tips... Im gonna get a new ball, smooth out the TT coupler and start fresh. Oo.