Do you need your trailer lift ball feet? Advantages and disadvantages explained – Jalopnik

Have you had a hard time to disconnect your trailer from your towbar lately? Does it seem to be stuck with the towbar? That may be a sign that the Kokkingsbal must be greased.

There are several advantages that arise from the lubrication of a towbar ball, some of which can solve some problems with your tow hook. An advantage is that lifting and a trailer makes it much easier by lubricating the ball. It can also reduce wear on the towbar, which lasts longer because of the thin layer of fat that is between the ball and the socket that reduces the wear that is done by metal against metal. Moreover, the lack of metal rubbing metal has the extra advantage of a quieter towing experience. That low fat can also help protect the ball against rust and corrosion.

Trailer Hitch Grease can be found in Amazon and Box stores such as Home Depot. Popular brands Trailer Hitch Grease are Reese Towpower, AGS Trailer & Hitch and 3-in-One trailer Hitch Gel Lube but there are a few things you need to know before taking a can. Here are some advantages and disadvantages to keep in mind before applying your trailer pull.

Ironically, although fat can help a drawball to last longer, it can also do the opposite by causing wear on the lift ball. How so? Dirt and other particles can stick to fat. If these particles are pushed on the ball when they are linked to your trailer, rubbing can cause damage.

Another problem is about lubricating a ball hook. When an excessive amount of fat is applied to a ball, it will retain even more in control and the socket may be moving more than expected. This can be avoided by applying a thin layer to the ball – just enough to let the socket swing freely.

Finally there is the mess. It is always a possibility to get fat on your shirt or pants. It is not easy to get grease stains out of clothing, as anyone who has tried can confirm. Make sure you apply the fat with care and do not use too much at the same time.

If you have decided to add some lubrication to your trailer pull, first apply a thin layer of fat to the lift ball, while you ensure that you get it in all the cracks. Maybe you want to use a clean brush or canvas for the application. It is a good idea to protect your hands by wearing gloves, especially nitrite gloves that work well for this purpose.

You can ensure that your ball lifts from collecting dirt and particles by cleaning the fat when you are not used. Maybe you might think about investing in a towbar change to protect the lift ball. As an alternative you cut a hole in a tennis ball and use it as a cover. Instead of towbar fat, some have recommended to use products that are more resistant to dirt, such as candle wax, beeswax or multifunctional dry locking lubricant. You will certainly want to thoroughly clean the towbar every time you insert it – the last thing you want to do is to capture dirt and particles under the fat.

So yes, it is a good idea to spread your trailer lift balls before use. This can help you to last longer and improve your towing experience. Make sure you don’t take it too much and keep it clean and other particles.