The best drop ball mount hitch depends on the height difference between your vehicle and trailer, your receiver size, and the load you plan to tow. A fixed mount suits a consistent setup: CURT offers 2-inch- and 4-inch-drop options, while Orion Motor Tech provides a reversible 6-inch drop or 4-3/4-inch rise. For changing trailer heights, consider an adjustable mount from Orion Motor Tech or METOWARE.
| Product | Drop or Adjustment | Rated Capacity | Best For |
|---|---|---|---|
| CURT 45036 | 2-inch drop | 7,500 lb GTW | Small, consistent height adjustment |
| CURT 45056 | 4-inch drop | 7,500 lb GTW | Fixed, moderate drop |
| Orion Motor Tech | 6-inch drop or 4-3/4-inch rise | 8,000 lb GTW | Reversible fixed mount |
| Orion Motor Tech Adjustable | 9-1/2-inch drop or 8-1/4-inch rise | 8,000 lb GTW | Multiple trailer heights |
| METOWARE Adjustable | 9-1/2-inch drop or 8-1/4-inch rise | 7,500 lb GTW | Adjustable alloy-steel mount |
CURT 45036 2-Inch Drop Ball Mount
The CURT 45036 is best for drivers who need a modest, fixed drop for one regular towing setup. It has a 2-inch-by-2-inch shank for a standard 2-inch receiver, a 2-inch drop, and a pre-attached 2-inch ball. The listed overall length is 7-1/2 inches.
Its rating is 7,500 pounds gross trailer weight (GTW) and 750 pounds tongue weight. The included hitch pin makes it ready to mount. Choose this model when its drop and ball size match your measured setup. Its limitation is the fixed height; it does not adjust for trailers with different coupler heights. The capacity may change if the ball is removed.
CURT 45056 4-Inch Drop Ball Mount
This CURT mount is best for a vehicle and trailer combination that needs a fixed 4-inch drop. Its 2-inch shank fits a 2-inch receiver, and it comes with a pre-attached 2-inch ball and hitch pin. The mount measures 8-1/4 inches overall.
The listed limits are 7,500 pounds GTW and 750 pounds tongue weight. Compared with the CURT 45036, it provides 2 inches more drop, which may better suit a lower trailer coupler. It is selected for buyers who want a ready-to-use mount without adjustable hardware. Avoid it if the required drop varies across trailers; the mount has one fixed drop. Capacity may change if the ball is removed.
Orion Motor Tech Reversible 6-Inch Drop Mount
The Orion Motor Tech mount is best for a lower trailer connection or for users who need a reversible option. It fits a 2-inch receiver and includes a 2-inch ball. Flip the mount to use its 6-inch drop or 4-3/4-inch rise.
The product is listed at 8,000 pounds GTW and described as SAE J684 tested. Its reversible design offers two fixed positions, not continuous height adjustment. Choose it if one of those positions produces the needed trailer height. It may not suit a setup requiring a drop or rise outside those options.
Orion Motor Tech Adjustable Ball Mount
This adjustable mount is best for owners who tow trailers with different coupler heights. It fits a 2-inch receiver and includes a 2-inch ball. Its stated range is a 9-1/2-inch drop or an 8-1/4-inch rise, with adjustment pins for positioning.
The listed capacity is 8,000 pounds GTW, and the product description states that it is SAE J684 tested. The locking pins use one key, according to the listing. Choose this mount for more height flexibility than a fixed ball mount. Its tradeoff is that it has more adjustable parts than a simple fixed design; check the selected position and secure the pins before towing.
METOWARE Adjustable Alloy-Steel Ball Mount
METOWARE is best for buyers who want an adjustable mount with a stated alloy-steel construction. It fits a 2-inch-by-2-inch receiver and has six pin holes. The mount can be turned upside down to provide a 9-1/2-inch drop or an 8-1/4-inch rise.
Its listed capacity is 7,500 pounds GTW. The listing also describes a triangular cushion beneath the shank to strengthen stability. This option is selected for its broad adjustment range and reversible setup. The supplied features do not specify a trailer ball or ball diameter, so confirm ball requirements and what is included before buying.
Buying Guide: How To Choose A Drop Ball Mount
How much drop do you need?
Measure the height at the vehicle’s receiver and the trailer coupler when both are on level ground. The difference helps determine the drop or rise needed for a level connection. Do not select a mount based only on the advertised drop range; verify the actual position and ball height for your setup.
Should you choose a fixed or adjustable mount?
A fixed mount is a straightforward choice when you regularly tow the same trailer at the same height. The CURT options provide 2-inch or 4-inch drops, while the Orion fixed mount reverses between a 6-inch drop and 4-3/4-inch rise. An adjustable mount is more flexible when you switch between trailer heights, but requires setting and securing the pins correctly.
How do capacity and ball size affect the choice?
Check the mount’s GTW and tongue-weight limits against the trailer and tow-vehicle requirements. The lower applicable rating in the towing setup determines the limit; do not assume the mount’s advertised capacity overrides other components. Also confirm the ball diameter matches the trailer coupler. A 2-inch ball is not interchangeable with other sizes.
What receiver and installation details should you check?
These selections are designed for 2-inch receivers. Confirm your receiver opening and hitch-pin requirements before ordering. Follow the vehicle, trailer, and hitch manufacturers’ instructions, and verify that pins are secured before each trip.
Frequently Asked Questions
What does drop mean on a ball mount?
Drop is the vertical distance the ball mount places the trailer ball below the receiver position. A rise places the ball above it.
Is a 2-inch drop enough?
It is enough only if measurement shows that it levels your specific trailer connection. Measure the vehicle and trailer rather than guessing.
Can I use one mount for different trailers?
An adjustable mount can accommodate more than one height within its stated range. A fixed mount offers only its specified drop or reversible rise position.
Does a higher GTW rating mean the setup can tow that much?
No. The tow vehicle, receiver, mount, ball, and trailer must all meet the applicable requirements. Follow the lowest relevant capacity and manufacturer instructions.