The 1 7/8 Trailer Hitch, alongside the more common 2-inch hitch, often causes confusion and frustration for trailer owners. Why do both sizes exist, and what problems can arise from this duality? This article explores the history of the 1 7/8 inch ball size, its limitations, and why a universal 2-inch standard would be beneficial.
The Origins of the 1 7/8 Inch Hitch Ball
The 1 7/8 inch ball size likely originated when trailers were considerably smaller than those commonly used today. As trailers grew in size and weight, the 2-inch hitch was introduced to handle the increased capacity. However, the older 1 7/8-inch size persisted, creating the current situation where both sizes are readily available. This continued existence of the smaller size often leads to mismatched hitches and trailers, causing significant inconvenience and potentially dangerous situations.
The Problem with Two Sizes
The availability of two different sizes creates unnecessary complexity and confusion. Often, boat owners or those purchasing used trailers encounter this issue when the buyer’s hitch doesn’t match the trailer’s coupler size. A common scenario is a buyer arriving with a 2-inch hitch to tow a trailer equipped with a 1 7/8-inch coupler, or vice versa.
This incompatibility can lead to dangerous situations. One example is a case where a boat trailer came unhitched on a busy street because the owner was attempting to tow a trailer with a 2-inch coupler using a 1 7/8-inch ball. To avoid complete disconnection, the owner had resorted to lowering the tongue jack for support, creating a hazardous driving situation.
The Case for a Universal 2-Inch Standard
From a manufacturing perspective, there’s little difference in cost between producing a 1 7/8-inch and a 2-inch coupler. Furthermore, using a 2-inch coupler on even the smallest trailers wouldn’t pose any disadvantages. A standardized 2-inch system would eliminate the confusion and potential danger associated with mismatched hitches and couplers. It would simplify the process of purchasing and using trailers, ensuring compatibility and enhancing safety.
Conclusion: Simplifying Towing with a Single Standard
The continued existence of the 1 7/8 trailer hitch alongside the 2-inch hitch creates unnecessary complications and safety risks. Standardizing trailer couplers and hitch balls to a universal 2-inch size would eliminate confusion, improve safety, and streamline the towing experience for everyone. While older trailers with 1 7/8-inch couplers will remain in use, encouraging the use of 2-inch couplers for new trailers would be a significant step toward a safer and more efficient towing future.
