CURT’s towing accessories solve the ball-swapping problem that plagues contractors who pull different trailers throughout the day. The Tri-Ball mount includes three welded trailer balls (1-7/8”, 2”, and 2-5/16”) permanently attached, letting you switch between boat trailers, utility trailers, and equipment haulers without crawling under the truck with a wrench.
Skip CURT if you only pull one type of trailer. Their multi-ball systems cost more than single-ball mounts, and the extra weight serves no purpose if you’re married to one coupler size.
The Tri-Ball Advantage
Quick rotation design lets you switch ball sizes by rotating the mount — no tools, no lost balls rattling around in the truck bed. Montana contractors pulling everything from hay wagons to excavators appreciate not fumbling with different mounts between job sites.
The weight ratings tell the real story: 5,000 lbs GTW on the 1-7/8” ball, 7,500 lbs on the 2”, and 10,000 lbs on the 2-5/16”. That covers most contractor needs short of commercial hauling.
| Model | Weight | Key Feature |
|---|---|---|
| 45001 (Hollow) | 10.78 lbs | Anti-rattle kit compatibility |
| 45650 (Solid) | 19.0 lbs | Maximum strength |
| 45799 (Adjustable) | 45.41 lbs | 5.75-inch rise or drop |
The adjustable model changes the game for crews running lifted trucks and standard-height trailers. That 5.75-inch adjustment range keeps trailers level whether you’re pulling with a stock F-250 or a lifted Ram 3500.
Built for Montana Conditions
Chrome-plated balls and gloss black powder coat on the shank handle Montana’s freeze-thaw cycles better than bare steel. CURT backs their construction with a limited lifetime warranty on structural defects, though the finish and specific parts only get one-year coverage.
All models fit standard 2-inch receivers and include dual-length shank holes for 7-inch and 8.5-inch spacing on the fixed models. That flexibility matters when you’re switching between different trucks or dealing with aftermarket bumpers.
The hollow shank model deserves attention. At 10.78 pounds versus 19 pounds for the solid version, it makes a difference when you’re constantly swapping mounts. The hollow design also accepts anti-rattle kits — worth it if highway drone drives you crazy.
Installation Reality
Installation follows standard procedure: slide the shank into your 2-inch receiver, align the pin holes for your desired length, insert a 5/8-inch hitch pin and secure with a clip, then rotate to select your ball size.
Customer reviews consistently praise the convenience and sturdy construction, though the pin and clip usually come separately on fixed models. The adjustable model includes the shank, tri-ball head, and three 5/8-inch pins with clips — everything you need.
Heavy-Duty Ball Options
Beyond the Tri-Ball system, CURT offers individual balls for dedicated applications. Their 2-inch balls range from 6,000 to 12,000 lbs capacity depending on shank size, all built from hot-forged steel with chrome plating.
The stainless steel options start at 3,500 lbs capacity — lower ratings but superior corrosion resistance for boat trailers that see saltwater launches.
Supporting Hardware
CURT’s 5/8” heavy-duty hitch pins handle loads up to 21,000 lbs — overkill for most applications but reassuring when you’re maxing out trailer ratings. The zinc-plated finish and grooved tip with bent handle make insertion easier with cold hands.
All CURT towing products meet SAE J684 compliance and carry V-5 Industry Testing certification. California Prop 65 warnings apply — standard for chrome-plated products.
Who Should Buy CURT
Worth it for contractors juggling multiple trailers daily. The Tri-Ball system eliminates ball swapping, and the adjustable model solves height-matching headaches. CURT manufactures everything in the USA with over 1,000 hitch models covering nearly every non-commercial vehicle.
Skip CURT if you’re loyal to one trailer type. A basic single ball mount costs half as much and weighs less. Haul-Master offers cheaper alternatives, though with lower build quality and shorter warranties.
The Tri-Ball earned its place in contractor trucks through practical design. No revolutionary technology — just three balls welded to a rotating mount that works every time. Sometimes that’s exactly what you need at 6 AM heading to the job site.
Frequently Asked Questions
Q: Can I leave the Tri-Ball mount in my receiver year-round? A: The chrome-plated balls and powder-coated shank resist corrosion, making year-round mounting feasible. However, removing it prevents theft and reduces wear on your receiver from constant weight and vibration. The hollow shank model at 10.78 pounds makes removal less of a chore than the 19-pound solid version.
Q: What’s the actual weight difference between ball sizes on the same mount? A: The 1-7/8” ball handles 5,000 lbs GTW, the 2” ball handles 7,500 lbs, and the 2-5/16” ball handles 10,000 lbs. These ratings apply regardless of which Tri-Ball model you choose — the ball size determines capacity, not the mount construction.
Q: Do I need special pins for CURT mounts? A: Standard 5/8-inch hitch pins work with all CURT mounts. Their heavy-duty pins tested to 21,000 lbs offer extra security, but any quality 5/8” pin rated for your towing weight works fine.
Q: How much drop can I get with the adjustable model? A: The model 45799 adjustable version offers 5.75 inches of rise or drop. This range handles most lifted truck to standard trailer combinations without needing extreme drop hitches.
Q: What’s included with each Tri-Ball model? A: Fixed models (45001 and 45650) include only the tri-ball mount with three welded balls. The adjustable model (45799) includes the shank, tri-ball head, and three 5/8-inch pins with clips. Budget for pins and clips if buying fixed models.
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