The hitch ball mounts to the ball mount or the weight distributing head of a trailer hitch and is the primary connection point between the tow vehicle and the item being towed. Choosing the right hitch ball is extremely important for the safety and drivability of the vehicle/trailer combo. A few simple steps will ensure that you select the best hitch ball for your needs, so please note the following. 1) Hitch balls are available in different sizes and styles - make sure you know which size and style you need before choosing one. 2) Keep in mind the hitch ball weight rating should always be equal to or higher than the hitch and ball mount being used. 3) Select the correct ball for the coupler on your trailer; the ball diameter required is stamped into the coupler handle or body, i.e. 1-7/8 inch, 2 inch, 2-5/16 inch etc. 4) Ensure the trailer ball shank fits the thickness and diameter of your drawbar, ball mount or step bumper, i.e. 3/4 inch shank goes in 3/4 inch drawbar mount hole, etc. 5) During hitch ball installation, torque all 3/4 inch shank diameter balls to 160 ft. lbs., 1 inch shank diameter balls to 250 ft. lbs., and 1-1/4 inch shank diameter balls to 450 ft. lbs. Following these simple, but important, guidelines will ensure a long and safe service life for your vehicle's hitch ball. Draw-Tite has been manufacturing trailering equipment since 1946 and remains the leader today. All Draw-Tite products are designed and engineered to provide years of trouble free service under the most punishing conditions. Draw-Tite's Hitch Balls are no exception: solid steel construction, engineered to meet all safety requirements of Vehicle Equipment Safety Commission (VESC) Regulation V-5, cold-forged for superior strength, and chrome or zinc plated for corrosion prevention and lasting good looks..