Proper trailer ball height for tandem trailer?

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02-02-2011, 06:09 PM
ZO6

Proper trailer ball height for tandem trailer?

Just bought my first tandem trailer.... How do you determine the proper height of the trailer ball for a tandem trailer? I thought the simplest thing to do was measure the height from ground to the middle of the trailer coupling while the trailer is sitting on level ground. Then........ I was told the boat on the trailer will change the height significantly! I want this trailer to pull and wear tires perfectly. Any recommendations or thoughts?
Thanks http://www.bassboatcentral.com/smileys/ohwell.gif http://www.bassboatcentral.com/smileys/smile.gif
02-02-2011, 06:15 PM
wesley hamm

Re: Proper trailer ball height for tandem trailer? (ZO6)

find level ground, put a level on the trailer with it hooked to the truck. I had to take a standard drop hitch and flip it upside down and attach the ball. Worked perfectly.
02-02-2011, 08:28 PM
Matt1212

Re: Proper trailer ball height for tandem trailer? (ZO6)

Usually 18inches will be level while towing. Should be able to eyeball the tongue close enough. http://www.bassboatcentral.com/smileys/thumbsup2.gif
02-03-2011, 05:52 AM
JOHN202

Re: Proper trailer ball height for tandem trailer? (adamat)

With you boat hooked to your truck,make sure your safety chains\cable is not on the ground and at least 10 inches high.Then you need to make sure your trailer is level or real close,then you should be ok..
02-08-2011, 01:50 PM
azwaterdude

If you have brakes on the trailer good idea to have the front a little higher than the back.
02-08-2011, 03:28 PM
jimfc3

Re: (azwaterdude)

<table width="90%" cellspacing=0 cellpadding=0 align=center><tr><td>Quote, originally posted by azwaterdude »</td></tr><tr><td class="quote">If you have brakes on the trailer good idea to have the front a little higher than the back. </td></tr></table>why? I've never heard this before
02-13-2011, 02:22 PM
azwaterdude

So the brakes don't engage when you really don't need them too.(un-need downward pressure) So say's the guy i have been going to for years. Yes/no?
03-05-2011, 07:25 PM
ClaySlayer

Re: Proper trailer ball height for tandem trailer? (ZO6)

<table width="90%" cellspacing=0 cellpadding=0 align=center><tr><td>Quote, originally posted by ZO6 »</td></tr><tr><td class="quote">Just bought my first tandem trailer.... How do you determine the proper height of the trailer ball for a tandem trailer? I thought the simplest thing to do was measure the height from ground to the middle of the trailer coupling while the trailer is sitting on level ground. Then........ I was told the boat on the trailer will change the height significantly! I want this trailer to pull and wear tires perfectly. Any recommendations or thoughts?
Thanks http://www.bassboatcentral.com/smileys/ohwell.gif http://www.bassboatcentral.com/smileys/smile.gif </td></tr></table>

yes, boat on trailer. just keep in mind the rear of your tow vehicle will sag a little bit from the weight...
03-07-2011, 10:57 AM
Tx Champ

Re: Proper trailer ball height for tandem trailer? (ClaySlayer)

Hmmm ... how about getting the vehicle and trailer on level ground. Put a level on trailer frame and see where you need to be. Keep in mind the tow vehicle squat as mentioned above. You want the trailer as level as possible so the weight will be distributed evenly. Tongue high will shift some weight to the rear wheels and visa versa.