Hitch - Weight Carrying Capacity
Was reading some other active posts in towing section and have a question on weight carrying capacity that does not seem to get addressed. I also want to expand my knowledge of course. Is this cap...
Forum Discussion
WC capacity stated by the TV manufacturer is "performance related". 500# on the ball might translate to something like 750# added to the rear axle and 250# lifted from the front axle. So TV axle loading, steering, and stability are affected.
WC capacity stated by the hitch manufacturer is determined by the limiting strength of many components, not just attachment bolts. 500# on the ball puts bending moment on the ball mount and receiver. 5000# of trailer yanking on the ball puts bending moment on the ball threads.
A properly bolted connection is always in tension. Loading up the hitch just adds or subtracts from that tension. If a bolted connection were not in tension then it would be "loose" and the nut would back off.
WC capacity stated by the hitch manufacturer is determined by the limiting strength of many components, not just attachment bolts. 500# on the ball puts bending moment on the ball mount and receiver. 5000# of trailer yanking on the ball puts bending moment on the ball threads.
A properly bolted connection is always in tension. Loading up the hitch just adds or subtracts from that tension. If a bolted connection were not in tension then it would be "loose" and the nut would back off.
