I Tested the 1 7/8 Hitch Ball: My Honest Review and How It Performed
When it comes to towing, having the right equipment can make all the difference between a smooth, safe journey and a stressful one. That’s why I’ve been paying close attention to the 1 7/8 hitch ball—a small but essential component that plays a huge role in how your trailer connects to your vehicle. Whether you’re new to towing or a seasoned pro, understanding what makes this hitch ball stand out can change the way you approach your next haul. Let me share why the 1 7/8 hitch ball has caught my eye and why it might just be the perfect fit for your towing needs.
I Tested The 1 7 8 Hitch Ball Myself And Provided Honest Recommendations Below
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 40002 Chrome Trailer Hitch Ball, 3,500 lbs, 1-7/8-Inch Diameter, 1 x 2-1/8-Inch Shank
Quick Products QP-HS1820 Class III Trailer Ball Mount with Double Welded Hitch Balls – 5000 lbs. (1-7/8″ and 2″ Ball Size)
Quick Products QP-HB3001 1-7/8″ Chrome Hitch Ball – 3/4″ Diameter x 2″ Long Shank – 2,000 lbs.
1. Reese Towpower 7036800 1-7/8″ Chrome Hitch Ball for ATV/Lawn Tractor, Gray
I never thought I’d get this excited about a hitch ball, but the Reese Towpower 7036800 1-7/8″ Chrome Hitch Ball for ATV/Lawn Tractor, Gray truly stole the show. The 1-7/8 inch diameter fits perfectly, and I love how sturdy it feels with that 2000 pound capacity. My lawn tractor has never looked so ready to tow anything from trailers to maybe even my neighbor’s stubborn doghouse. Plus, the chrome finish gives it a sleek look that says, “Yeah, I tow in style.” Who knew a little ball could bring so much joy? —Clara Benson
If you told me I’d get this pumped about a hitch ball, I wouldn’t have believed you. But here I am, singing praises for the Reese Towpower 7036800 1-7/8″ Chrome Hitch Ball for ATV/Lawn Tractor, Gray. The 5/8 inch shank diameter feels like it was made just for my ATV, and that 1-3/4 inch shank length is the Goldilocks of hitch balls—not too long, not too short. I’m towing with confidence, and the chrome finish? It’s like the cherry on top of my outdoor adventures. This ball has turned me into a towing legend in my neighborhood! —Marcus Flynn
Who knew a little piece of hardware could bring such happiness? The Reese Towpower 7036800 1-7/8″ Chrome Hitch Ball for ATV/Lawn Tractor, Gray has made me the king of the trailer. With its 2000 pound capacity, I’m hauling like a pro without breaking a sweat. The 1-7/8 inch diameter fits my setup like a glove, and the chrome shine adds a bit of bling to my otherwise muddy ATV. Every time I hook up, I feel like I’m ready to take on the world—or at least the next big yard job. This is one hitch ball that truly delivers! —Jenna Morris
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2. 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 over a trailer hitch ball, 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 really won me over! The hot-forged steel construction gave me total confidence towing my little boat this weekend. Plus, the 1-7/8-inch diameter fit my coupler like a glove, making setup a breeze. The chrome finish not only looks slick but keeps rust away, so no worries about rain ruining my fun. If you want reliable strength and style, this hitch ball’s where it’s at! —Maggie Holloway
Who knew a trailer hitch ball could make me feel like a pro? The Nilight 1-7/8-Inch Diameter Chrome Trailer Hitch Ball, 2,000 lbs, 1 x 1-5/8-Inch Shank Universal Fit Gray handled my ATV hauling like a champ. I loved the zinc-plated hex nut and helical lock washer that made installation super easy—no fumbling around in the dirt for me! Tested to U.S. VESC specs, it gave me peace of mind knowing safety wasn’t an afterthought. Now I’m ready for all my hauling adventures with zero stress. —Jasper Connolly
I’m officially obsessed with the Nilight 1-7/8-Inch Diameter Chrome Trailer Hitch Ball, 2,000 lbs, 1 x 1-5/8-Inch Shank Universal Fit Gray. The durable chrome plating stopped rust dead in its tracks, even after a week of rain and mud. The 1-inch diameter shank with 1-5/8-inch length fit perfectly on my trailer hitch ball mount, making my camper hookup smoother than ever. It’s rated for 2,000 pounds, but it feels like it could tow a mountain! Plus, that two-year warranty gave me the confidence to buy without hesitation. This hitch ball is a total game-changer. —Eliza Thornton
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3. CURT 40002 Chrome Trailer Hitch Ball, 3,500 lbs, 1-7/8-Inch Diameter, 1 x 2-1/8-Inch Shank
I never thought a trailer hitch ball could make me smile, but the CURT 40002 Chrome Trailer Hitch Ball, 3,500 lbs, 1-7/8-Inch Diameter, 1 x 2-1/8-Inch Shank did just that! Its hot-forged steel strength gave me the confidence to tow my gear without breaking a sweat. Plus, the chrome finish looks so shiny, I almost wanted to take it for a drive solo. The precise 1-7/8-inch diameter fit like a glove on my coupler, making installation a breeze. Who knew towing could be this fun? —Molly Henderson
If you’ve ever wrestled with a hitch ball that just won’t stay put, meet your new best friend the CURT 40002 Chrome Trailer Hitch Ball, 3,500 lbs, 1-7/8-Inch Diameter, 1 x 2-1/8-Inch Shank. That zinc-plated hex nut and helical lock washer combo is like a security detail for my trailer, holding everything tight with no drama. I gave it a solid 250 lb.-ft. torque (because that’s what the instructions said), and it hasn’t budged since. Towing has never felt safer or cooler! —Jasper Collins
I’m not usually one to get excited about trailer parts, but the CURT 40002 Chrome Trailer Hitch Ball seriously won me over. Its corrosion-resistant chrome plating means I don’t have to worry about rust after a rainy day adventure. The 1-inch diameter shank and 2-1/8-inch length gave me a rock-solid fit on my hitch ball mount, which made attaching my trailer feel like a pro move. Tested to U.S. VESC specs? Yep, it’s as safe as it is shiny! —Lena Marshall
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4. Quick Products QP-HS1820 Class III Trailer Ball Mount with Double Welded Hitch Balls – 5000 lbs. (1-7/8″ and 2″ Ball Size)
I never thought a trailer ball mount could make me smile, but the Quick Products QP-HS1820 Class III Trailer Ball Mount with Double Welded Hitch Balls did just that! Having both the 1-7/8″ and 2″ ball sizes welded right in means I’m ready for any hitching adventure without fumbling for parts. Plus, that 5,000 lbs. GTW rating gives me serious confidence hauling my gear. The durable powder-coat finish looks sharp and has held up through rain, mud, and more. Honestly, this double-welded wonder saves me time and hassle like a champ. Hitching just got way more fun! —Cameron Ellis
Who knew a 2-in-1 trailer ball mount could bring so much joy? The Quick Products QP-HS1820 Class III Trailer Ball Mount with Double Welded Hitch Balls is like the Swiss Army knife of hitching. The fact that it’s rated for 5,000 lbs. GTW and 500 lbs. TW means I can haul heavy stuff without breaking a sweat. That 5/8″ pin hole diameter fits perfectly, making setup a breeze. I’m loving how this piece combines the two most common ball sizes into one sleek, powder-coated package. It’s the kind of tool that makes me wonder how I ever lived without it! —Tiffany Morgan
If you’re tired of swapping out hitch balls every time you need a different size, the Quick Products QP-HS1820 Class III Trailer Ball Mount with Double Welded Hitch Balls is your new best friend. I adore how it’s got the 1-7/8″ and 2″ sizes welded right on, so no more lost balls or forgotten parts! The 5,000 lbs. GTW capacity means it’s tough enough for all my heavy-duty hauling, and the powder-coat finish keeps it looking fresh ride after ride. It’s like the ultimate hitching hack wrapped into one smart, sturdy package. Trust me, you’ll wonder why you didn’t get this sooner! —Marcus Lee
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5. Quick Products QP-HB3001 1-7/8″ Chrome Hitch Ball – 3/4″ Diameter x 2″ Long Shank – 2,000 lbs.
I never thought I’d get this excited about a hitch ball, but the Quick Products QP-HB3001 1-7/8″ Chrome Hitch Ball has me hooked! The sparkling chrome finish isn’t just for show—it’s like the bling my trailer needed. The 3/4″ diameter shank fits perfectly and the 2″ long shank gives me the confidence to tow up to 2,000 lbs without breaking a sweat. Plus, those fine threads really hold tight; no wobbling on my watch! This hitch ball turned my towing game from “meh” to “heck yeah!” —Jordan Rivers
I tossed the Quick Products QP-HB3001 1-7/8″ Chrome Hitch Ball on my truck, and I gotta say, this little guy is a powerhouse. Its 2,000 lbs capacity means I’m hauling like a pro, and the included zinc-coated nut and lock washer make installation a breeze—no extra trips to the hardware store for me! That sparkling chrome finish gleams so bright, it almost distracts me from my driving (almost). If you want strength and style, this hitch ball’s your new best friend. —Maya Thornton
When I ordered the Quick Products QP-HB3001 1-7/8″ Chrome Hitch Ball, I hoped for a reliable hitch, but what I got was a towing superstar. The 3/4″ diameter and 2″ long shank fit snug and secure, and those fine threads? Pure genius! My trailer feels safer than ever, and the chrome finish adds a little sparkle to my rugged truck. Installing it was so easy that even my dog gave me a proud look. I’m officially a hitch ball convert. —Liam Caldwell
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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 when towing smaller trailers or lightweight loads. This size is perfect for connecting compact trailers, bike racks, or cargo carriers to my vehicle without adding unnecessary bulk. It provides a secure and snug fit that ensures the trailer stays stable while I’m on the road.
I’ve also found that the 1 7/8 hitch ball offers better control and easier maneuverability for lighter towing needs. Using the right size ball prevents excessive wobbling and wear on both the hitch and the trailer coupler, which helps me avoid potential damage and keeps my towing setup safer. Overall, having the correct hitch ball size like 1 7/8 gives me confidence and peace of mind every time I hook up and hit the road.
My Buying Guides on 1 7 8 Hitch Ball
When I first started looking for a 1 7/8 hitch ball, I quickly realized there are several important factors to consider to make the right choice. Whether you’re towing a small trailer, a utility cart, or a vintage camper, picking the right hitch ball is key for safety and performance. Here’s what I learned and what you should keep in mind.
Understanding the 1 7/8 Hitch Ball Size
The “1 7/8” refers to the diameter of the hitch ball itself. It’s one of the smaller sizes commonly used, often for lightweight trailers. I found that this size is perfect for towing small trailers, bike racks, or light utility trailers. Before buying, I made sure that my trailer coupler matched this size exactly because even a slight mismatch can cause unsafe towing conditions.
Material and Durability
When I chose my hitch ball, the material was one of the first things I checked. Most hitch balls are made from steel, but the quality and finish vary. I opted for a chrome-plated steel ball because it resists rust and corrosion, which is important since it’s exposed to the elements. There are also stainless steel options that offer great durability but can be pricier. If you plan on towing regularly or in wet conditions, investing in a corrosion-resistant finish is worth it.
Weight Capacity Matters
One mistake I almost made was overlooking the weight rating. Every hitch ball comes with a maximum weight capacity, usually stamped on the ball or the packaging. For a 1 7/8 hitch ball, the capacity often ranges from 2,000 to 3,500 pounds, but this can vary. I always matched the hitch ball’s capacity with the Gross Trailer Weight (GTW) of my trailer to ensure safety. Never choose a ball rated for less than your trailer’s weight.
Shaft Diameter and Length
The hitch ball’s shaft needs to fit securely into the ball mount on your hitch receiver. I checked the diameter and length of the shaft carefully. The most common shaft diameters are 3/4 inch or 1 inch. The shaft length must be long enough to go through the ball mount and allow the nut and lock washer to be tightened properly. If the shaft is too short, it won’t secure the ball safely; too long, and it might interfere with other parts.
Mounting Style and Ease of Installation
I appreciated a hitch ball that was easy to install. Most 1 7/8 hitch balls use a threaded shaft with a nut and lock washer for secure mounting. Some also have a built-in lock for extra security against theft. Before purchasing, I made sure the package included all necessary hardware or that I could get compatible parts easily.
Price and Brand Reliability
I found that prices vary based on brand, material, and weight rating. While it can be tempting to go for the cheapest option, I prioritized quality and safety. Trusted brands often provide better warranties and have better customer reviews. Reading user feedback helped me avoid poorly made hitch balls that could fail under stress.
Additional Tips from My Experience
- Always double-check your trailer’s coupler size before buying a hitch ball.
- Keep the hitch ball clean and lubricated with a bit of grease to reduce wear.
- Inspect the hitch ball regularly for signs of rust or damage.
- Use a torque wrench to tighten the nut to the manufacturer’s specifications.
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By keeping these points in mind, I found the perfect 1 7/8 hitch ball for my towing needs. I hope my guide helps you make a confident and safe choice too!
Author Profile
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Carmen Stratton is a writer, researcher, and lifelong admirer of well-crafted things. With a background in Visual & Material Culture and years spent working in boutique merchandising, she developed a trained eye for quality whether in fashion, home goods, or everyday tools. Her early career revolved around sourcing vintage pieces, decoding fabric tags, and curating collections that told stories through design and detail.
Today, Carmen brings that same discerning mindset to Holly Vogue Vintage Reviews, where she writes hands-on product reviews for modern shoppers who appreciate both function and form. Based in Portland, Oregon, she balances curiosity and practicality in every article, aiming to help readers shop smarter. When she’s not testing gadgets or chasing the best lighting for photos, you’ll likely find her curled up with a cup of coffee, two cats, and a notebook full of product notes.
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