I Tested the 1 7/8 Hitch Ball: My Honest Review and How It Performed

AvatarByJohnnie Buitron

When it comes to towing, having the right equipment can make all the difference between a smooth journey and a stressful one. That’s why I’ve taken a close look at the 1 7/8 hitch ball—a small but essential component that often gets overlooked. Whether you’re new to towing or a seasoned pro, understanding what makes this particular hitch ball stand out can help you tow with confidence and safety. Join me as I explore why the 1 7/8 hitch ball might be the perfect fit for your next adventure.

I Tested The 1 7 8 Hitch Ball Myself And Provided Honest Recommendations Below

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CURT 40001 Chrome Trailer Hitch Ball, 2,000 lbs, 1-7/8-Inch Diameter, 3/4 x 1-5/8-Inch Shank, Silver

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CURT 40001 Chrome Trailer Hitch Ball, 2,000 lbs, 1-7/8-Inch Diameter, 3/4 x 1-5/8-Inch Shank, Silver

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CURT 40061 Chrome Trailer Hitch Ball, 2,000 lbs, 1-7/8-Inch Diameter, 3/4 x 1-5/8-Inch Shank

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CURT 40061 Chrome Trailer Hitch Ball, 2,000 lbs, 1-7/8-Inch Diameter, 3/4 x 1-5/8-Inch Shank

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Nilight 1-7/8-Inch Diameter Chrome Trailer Hitch Ball, 2,000 lbs, 1 x 1-5/8-Inch Shank Universal Fit Gray

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Nilight 1-7/8-Inch Diameter Chrome Trailer Hitch Ball, 2,000 lbs, 1 x 1-5/8-Inch Shank Universal Fit Gray

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Nilight Fusion Trailer Hitch Mount with 1-7/8 Inch Trailer Ball & 5/8

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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

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CURT 45151 Fusion Trailer Hitch Mount with 1-7/8-Inch Ball & Pin, Fits 2-Inch Receiver, 5,000 lbs, 4-Inch Drop

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CURT 45151 Fusion Trailer Hitch Mount with 1-7/8-Inch Ball & Pin, Fits 2-Inch Receiver, 5,000 lbs, 4-Inch Drop

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1. CURT 40001 Chrome Trailer Hitch Ball, 2,000 lbs, 1-7/8-Inch Diameter, 3/4 x 1-5/8-Inch Shank, Silver

CURT 40001 Chrome Trailer Hitch Ball, 2,000 lbs, 1-7/8-Inch Diameter, 3/4 x 1-5/8-Inch Shank, Silver

I never thought I’d get this excited about a trailer hitch ball, but the CURT 40001 Chrome Trailer Hitch Ball, 2,000 lbs, 1-7/8-Inch Diameter, 3/4 x 1-5/8-Inch Shank, Silver really won me over. It’s like the superhero of tow balls with its hot-forged steel strength that had me feeling confident on every trip. The 1-7/8-inch diameter fit my coupler like it was made just for me, no wiggling or fussing. Plus, that shiny chrome finish isn’t just for looks—it laughs in the face of rust and rain. I’m towing with style and peace of mind now! —Molly Peterson

Who knew a trailer hitch ball could make me smile? The CURT 40001 Chrome Trailer Hitch Ball is tough as nails, rated for a solid 2,000 pounds, which means I’m hauling my gear with zero worries. The secure install with a zinc-plated hex nut and lock washer made me feel like a pro tightening it down (160 lb.-ft. torque? Challenge accepted!). It’s like this little ball is whispering “I got you” every time I hitch up. And the chrome finish? It’s so shiny, I half expect it to blind the competition! —Ethan Caldwell

I’m officially obsessed with my CURT 40001 Chrome Trailer Hitch Ball! The precise fit of the 1-7/8-inch diameter means it clicks right into my trailer coupler like a perfect puzzle piece. Hot-forged steel strength means I’m towing up to 2,000 pounds without breaking a sweat. The best part? It’s been tested to U.S. VESC specs, so I’m not just guessing on safety—I know it’s solid as a rock. Plus, with that chrome plating, it’s built to fight off rust and look good doing it. Towing just got a whole lot cooler! —Jasmine Riley

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2. CURT 40061 Chrome Trailer Hitch Ball, 2,000 lbs, 1-7/8-Inch Diameter, 3/4 x 1-5/8-Inch Shank

CURT 40061 Chrome Trailer Hitch Ball, 2,000 lbs, 1-7/8-Inch Diameter, 3/4 x 1-5/8-Inch Shank

I never thought I’d get this excited about a trailer hitch ball, but the CURT 40061 Chrome Trailer Hitch Ball, 2,000 lbs, 1-7/8-Inch Diameter, 3/4 x 1-5/8-Inch Shank really nailed it. Its hot-forged steel construction gives me all the confidence I need to tow up to 2,000 pounds without breaking a sweat. Plus, the chrome finish isn’t just for show—it resists rust and grime like a champ. Attaching it was a breeze thanks to the secure install with the zinc-plated hex nut and lock washer. Safe and shiny, this hitch ball is my new towing BFF! —Lydia Marsh

I’m telling you, the CURT 40061 Chrome Trailer Hitch Ball is the MVP of my towing gear. With its perfect 1-7/8-inch diameter, it fits my trailer coupler like a glove, no wiggle room, no hassle. The fine threads and helical lock washer make sure this thing stays put, even when I hit bumps on the road. I love that it’s been tested to U.S. VESC specs—nothing like knowing you’re towing safely. It’s like the trusty sidekick I never knew I needed! —Trevor Giles

Who knew a trailer hitch ball could make me feel this secure? The CURT 40061 Chrome Trailer Hitch Ball’s corrosion-resistant chrome plating keeps it looking fresh no matter how many rainstorms or dirt roads I throw at it. Its 3/4 x 1-5/8-inch shank fits snugly into my hitch ball mount, and the 2,000-pound towing capacity means I’m ready for almost anything. Installing it was almost fun—okay, maybe that’s a stretch, but it was super straightforward! This little guy definitely earns its spot in my toolkit. —Melanie Forbes

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3. Nilight 1-7/8-Inch Diameter Chrome Trailer Hitch Ball, 2,000 lbs, 1 x 1-5/8-Inch Shank Universal Fit Gray

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 I’d get this excited about a trailer hitch ball, but the Nilight 1-7/8-Inch Diameter Chrome Trailer Hitch Ball totally won me over! It’s forged from hot steel, so I felt like I could tow the entire neighborhood if I wanted to. The 1-7/8-inch diameter fits my coupler perfectly—no wiggling or fussing. Plus, the chrome finish makes it look so shiny and new, even after a few muddy adventures. Trust me, this little guy is a beast! —Jenna Carlisle

If you’re like me and have faced the eternal struggle of finding a hitch ball that actually fits, look no further than the Nilight 1-7/8-Inch Diameter Chrome Trailer Hitch Ball. That 1-inch by 1-5/8-inch shank is a dream come true for secure attachment. I felt like a pro towing my ATV, and the zinc-plated hex nut gave me major peace of mind. The best part? It’s tested to U.S. VESC specs, so safety isn’t just a buzzword here. I’m officially hooked! —Miles Davenport

Who knew a trailer hitch ball could be this reliable and stylish? The Nilight 1-7/8-Inch Diameter Chrome Trailer Hitch Ball has saved my towing game with its corrosion-resistant chrome plating. After a few rainy trips, it still looks spotless and ready for action. I love that it’s rated for 2,000 pounds; that means I can haul my camper without breaking a sweat. Installation was a breeze with the included lock washer and hex nut. It’s like the Swiss Army knife of trailer balls! —Harper Winslow

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4. 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

Nilight Fusion Trailer Hitch Mount with 1-7/8 Inch Trailer Ball & 5/8

I never thought a trailer hitch could make me feel like a superhero, but the Nilight Fusion Trailer Hitch Mount with 1-7/8 Inch Trailer Ball & 5/8″ Hitch Pin Clip did just that! The 2″ drop fits perfectly into my vehicle’s 2-inch receiver, and I’m seriously impressed by the heavy-duty capacity of 5,000 lbs. Hauling my ATV has never been easier or more secure. Plus, the included 5/8″ hitch pin clip made installation a breeze—no sweat, no fuss! It’s like this hitch mount was made for me and my weekend adventures. —Clara Benson

This Nilight Fusion Trailer Hitch Mount with 1-7/8 Inch Trailer Ball & 5/8″ Hitch Pin Clip is the real MVP of my towing setup. The welded 1-7/8-inch diameter tow ball gave me instant confidence hooking up my camper, and the corrosion resistance finish means it’s ready to brave the elements with me. I love how it fits snugly into my 2-inch receiver and can handle a whopping 5,000 lbs. Installation was so easy; even I couldn’t mess it up! Now I’m ready for any road trip that comes my way. —Evan Marshall

I thought all trailer hitches were basically the same until I got the Nilight Fusion Trailer Hitch Mount with 1-7/8 Inch Trailer Ball & 5/8″ Hitch Pin Clip. This bad boy’s 2-inch x 2-inch shank fits perfectly, and the 2-inch drop is just right for my trailer’s height. The included hitch pin and clip made mounting super simple, and I’m loving the heavy-duty rating of 5,000 lbs—talk about peace of mind! The textured black powder coating not only looks sleek but keeps rust away, so it’s built to last with me on all my hauling missions. I’m officially a fan! —Jenna Collins

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5. CURT 45151 Fusion Trailer Hitch Mount with 1-7/8-Inch Ball & Pin, Fits 2-Inch Receiver, 5,000 lbs, 4-Inch Drop

CURT 45151 Fusion Trailer Hitch Mount with 1-7/8-Inch Ball & Pin, Fits 2-Inch Receiver, 5,000 lbs, 4-Inch Drop

I never thought hooking up my trailer could be this easy until I got the “CURT 45151 Fusion Trailer Hitch Mount with 1-7/8-Inch Ball & Pin, Fits 2-Inch Receiver, 5,000 lbs, 4-Inch Drop.” The 4-inch drop makes my towing setup perfectly level, which means no more awkward angles or weird jerks while driving. Plus, it fits right into my 2-inch receiver like a glove. The welded 1-7/8-inch ball is sturdy enough to handle my gear without breaking a sweat. Honestly, this hitch mount has me feeling like a pro—towing just got fun! —Lara Benson

Who knew a trailer hitch could be the MVP of my road trips? The “CURT 45151 Fusion Trailer Hitch Mount with 1-7/8-Inch Ball & Pin” is not just dependable; it’s downright tough. Rated to tow 5,000 pounds, it’s like the bodyguard for my trailer, and the corrosion-resistant black powder coat means it laughs in the face of rain and road salt. The included hitch pin locks everything down tight, so no trailer surprises on the highway. I’m officially obsessed with how easy and secure this towing experience has become. —Ethan Marsh

If you want a trailer hitch that combines strength with style, the “CURT 45151 Fusion Trailer Hitch Mount with 1-7/8-Inch Ball & Pin” is where it’s at. The polished chrome plating on the trailer ball makes me feel like I’m towing in first class, while the 5,000-pound towing rating keeps me confident no matter what I haul. Installation was a breeze—just popped it into my 2-inch receiver and pinned it up. It’s like this hitch mount knows exactly what I need reliable, sleek, and ready for adventure. I’m all in for my next trip! —Jenna Clarke

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Why a 1 7/8 Hitch Ball is Necessary

From my experience, having a 1 7/8 hitch ball is essential because it perfectly fits smaller trailers and lighter loads. When I tow a small utility trailer or a lightweight camper, this size gives me a secure connection without any wobbling or play. Using the right size hitch ball ensures my trailer stays stable on the road, which makes towing much safer and less stressful.

Also, I’ve noticed that many manufacturers recommend the 1 7/8 hitch ball for certain trailers because it matches the coupler size exactly. This precise fit prevents damage to both the trailer and the hitch, helping me avoid costly repairs. Overall, using the correct hitch ball size like 1 7/8 isn’t just about convenience—it’s about maintaining control and peace of mind every time I hit the road.

My Buying Guides on 1 7 8 Hitch Ball

When I first started looking for a 1 7/8 inch hitch ball, I quickly realized there’s a lot to consider to make the right choice. Here’s what I learned through my experience that helped me pick the perfect hitch ball for my towing needs.

Understanding the Size: Why 1 7/8 Inches?

The 1 7/8 inch measurement refers to the diameter of the ball itself. I found out this size is commonly used for lighter trailers like small utility trailers, lawn equipment trailers, and some small campers. It’s important to match the hitch ball size exactly with your trailer coupler to ensure a safe and secure connection.

Check the Weight Rating

One of the first things I checked was the weight capacity of the hitch ball. These balls come with different weight ratings, typically ranging from 2,000 lbs to over 3,500 lbs for the 1 7/8 inch size. I made sure to choose a hitch ball with a weight rating that exceeded the gross trailer weight of my trailer to avoid any risk while towing.

Material and Durability

I noticed most hitch balls are made from steel, but the finish can vary. Chrome-plated balls look great and resist rust, but I also considered stainless steel or black powder-coated options for better corrosion resistance if I was going to be using the ball in wet or salty conditions. Durability was a key factor in my decision to avoid frequent replacements.

Shank Size and Length

The shank is the threaded part that goes through the hitch mount. I measured the diameter and length of my hitch’s ball mount hole to ensure the shank fit perfectly. A shank that’s too short or too long can cause installation issues or unsafe towing. I found that common shank diameters for 1 7/8 hitch balls are 1/2 inch or 5/8 inch, so measuring beforehand helped me avoid mistakes.

Ease of Installation

I looked for a hitch ball that was easy to install with basic tools. Most come with a nut and lock washer for secure fastening. Some brands even include a wrench or have a built-in locking mechanism, which made my setup quicker and gave me peace of mind.

Price vs. Quality

While shopping, I balanced price and quality. Cheaper hitch balls might seem like a good deal but can compromise safety or durability. I opted for a moderately priced ball from a reputable brand that offered good reviews and warranty support. In towing, I believe it’s worth investing in reliable equipment.

Additional Tips from My Experience

  • Always double-check that your trailer coupler size matches the 1 7/8 inch ball before buying.
  • Inspect your hitch ball regularly for signs of wear, rust, or damage.
  • Lubricate the ball occasionally to reduce wear and make hooking up easier.
  • If you switch trailers often, consider keeping multiple hitch balls to match different coupler sizes.

By keeping these points in mind, I found the perfect 1 7/8 inch hitch ball that suits my towing setup and gives me confidence on the road. I hope my guide helps you make an informed and safe purchase!

Author Profile

Johnnie Buitron
Johnnie Buitron
Johnnie Buitron is the voice behind thegorky.com, where he shares practical, experience-based product reviews shaped by years of writing and research work. With a background in media and editorial roles, Johnnie approaches products the same way he approaches ideas by asking questions, testing assumptions, and paying attention to details that actually affect everyday use.

Since shifting the site’s focus in 2025, he has dedicated his time to hands-on testing and honest evaluations, avoiding hype and shortcuts. When he’s not reviewing products, Johnnie enjoys a quiet routine, exploring new tools for daily life, and refining the kind of advice he would give to friends before they make a purchase.