1. Product Overview
The CURT Class 4 Trailer Hitch Ball Mount is engineered for demanding towing applications. Constructed from high-strength steel, it features a 2-inch x 2-inch shank designed to fit industry-standard 2-inch receivers. This ball mount is ideal for towing large boat trailers, RVs, livestock, and horse trailers, as well as various farm and industrial-type trailers. It offers versatility with a standard 4-inch drop and can be flipped to provide a 2-3/4-inch rise, promoting level towing. A hollow shank allows for the use of an anti-rattle hitch pin or lock to minimize noise and vibration during towing. Each ball mount is CNC-formed, robotically welded, and mechanically descaled, then finished with a gloss black powder coat for superior resistance against rust, chips, and UV exposure. It is designed to accept a trailer ball with a 1-1/4-inch diameter shank.
Image 1.1: The CURT Class 4 Trailer Hitch Ball Mount, showcasing its robust construction and black powder coat finish.
2. Key Features
- Dependable Strength: Rated to tow up to 10,000 pounds Gross Trailer Weight (GTW) and 1,000 pounds Tongue Weight (TW). Note: Always adhere to the lowest weight capacity of any towing component in your setup.
- Versatile Use: Features a 2-inch x 2-inch shank for compatibility with standard 2-inch receivers. Offers a 4-inch drop or 2-3/4-inch rise for level towing.
- Ready to Tow: Equipped with a 1-1/4-inch hole to accept a trailer ball with a 1-1/4-inch diameter shank (trailer ball sold separately).
- Corrosion-Resistant: Protected by a durable gloss black powder coat finish, providing resistance against rust, chips, and UV damage from environmental elements.
- Easy Installation: Designed for simple insertion into your vehicle's 2-inch hitch receiver, secured with a hitch pin (sold separately).
Image 2.1: Visual representation of key features including shank size, ball hole, and durable finish.
3. Installation Guide
Follow these steps for proper installation of your CURT Class 4 Ball Mount:
- Prepare Receiver: Ensure your vehicle's 2-inch hitch receiver is clean and free of debris.
- Insert Ball Mount: Slide the 2-inch x 2-inch shank of the ball mount into your vehicle's hitch receiver.
- Orient for Drop or Rise: Determine if you need a 4-inch drop or a 2-3/4-inch rise for level towing. Orient the ball mount accordingly.
- Secure with Pin: Align the pin holes on the ball mount shank with those on the receiver. Insert a compatible hitch pin (sold separately) through the aligned holes and secure it with a clip or lock.
- Attach Trailer Ball: Install a trailer ball with a 1-1/4-inch diameter shank into the ball hole on the ball mount. Ensure it is properly tightened according to the trailer ball manufacturer's specifications.
Image 3.1: Demonstrates the process of inserting the ball mount into a vehicle's hitch receiver.
Image 3.2: Diagram showing the 4-inch drop and 2-3/4-inch rise options, along with other key dimensions.
4. Operation and Usage
Once installed, ensure all connections are secure before towing. Always verify that the trailer is level when hitched to the ball mount to ensure optimal handling and safety. Connect safety chains from the trailer to the vehicle's hitch or frame, ensuring they are crossed under the trailer tongue to cradle it in case of detachment. Regularly check all towing components for wear or damage before each use. Never exceed the Gross Trailer Weight (GTW) or Tongue Weight (TW) ratings of the ball mount, the trailer hitch, or your vehicle, whichever is lowest.
5. Maintenance
To ensure the longevity and performance of your CURT ball mount, regular maintenance is recommended:
- Cleaning: Periodically clean the ball mount to remove dirt, road salt, and other corrosive elements.
- Inspection: Before each towing trip, inspect the ball mount for any signs of wear, cracks, bends, or damage to the powder coat finish. Pay close attention to the shank, ball hole, and any welded areas.
- Lubrication: While the ball mount itself does not require lubrication, ensure the trailer ball shank threads are properly greased before installation to prevent seizing.
- Storage: When not in use, store the ball mount in a dry place to protect it from prolonged exposure to harsh weather conditions.
6. Troubleshooting
Most issues related to ball mounts are due to improper installation or exceeding weight capacities. Consider the following:
- Excessive Play/Rattling: Ensure the hitch pin is fully inserted and secured. Consider using an anti-rattle device or a hitch tightener if excessive movement persists.
- Difficulty Inserting/Removing: Check for debris inside the receiver tube or on the ball mount shank. A small amount of grease on the shank can aid insertion.
- Trailer Not Level: Re-evaluate the drop or rise needed for your specific vehicle and trailer combination. The ball mount can be flipped to adjust.
- Unusual Noises During Towing: Stop immediately and inspect all connections. Ensure the trailer ball is securely tightened and safety chains are properly attached.
7. Specifications
| Attribute | Value |
|---|---|
| Brand | CURT |
| Model | Class 4 Ball Mount (45311) |
| Material | Carbon Steel |
| Finish Type | Gloss Black Powder Coat |
| Shank Size | 2 inches x 2 inches |
| Drop | 4 inches |
| Rise | 2-3/4 inches |
| Ball Hole Diameter | 1-1/4 inches |
| Gross Trailer Weight (GTW) | 10,000 lbs |
| Tongue Weight (TW) | 1,000 lbs |
| Item Weight | 8.4 Pounds |
| Product Dimensions | 42 x 21 x 10 inches |
| Country of Origin | USA |
8. Safety Information
WARNING: This product can expose you to chemicals including Carbon Steel, which is known to the State of California to cause cancer. For more information go to www.P65Warnings.ca.gov.
Always prioritize safety when towing. Ensure all components are correctly installed and rated for your towing application. Never exceed the lowest weight rating of any component in your towing system (vehicle, hitch, ball mount, trailer ball, trailer). Regularly inspect all parts for wear or damage. Use appropriate safety chains and ensure they are properly connected. Avoid sudden starts, stops, or turns when towing. Distribute trailer load evenly to maintain proper tongue weight.
9. What's in the Box
- One (1) CURT Class 4 Ball Mount (Model 45311)
Note: Trailer ball, hitch pin, and clip are sold separately.
10. Warranty and Support
For specific warranty details and customer support, please refer to the official CURT website or contact CURT customer service directly. Keep your purchase receipt for warranty claims. Regular product registration may be available and is recommended.
