CURT 40038 Trailer Hitch Ball 2" — 12,000 lb Chrome, 1" x 2-1/4" Shank, Forged Steel

CURT 40038 is a heavy-duty 2-inch chrome trailer hitch ball rated for 12,000 lb gross trailer weight with a 1" x 2-1/4" shank for secure, tested towing.

If you tow utility trailers, boats, campers or recreational gear, the hitch ball is the connection point that must hold under load. The CURT 40038 combines forged, heat-treated steel with a corrosion-resistant chrome finish and fine-threaded shank hardware so the ball installs cleanly, stays tight and meets U.S. VESC test standards for reliable use on class 3 and class 4 systems.

How does this hitch ball handle heavy loads?

The CURT 40038 is engineered for strength: hot-forged and heat-treated steel gives the ball high tensile capacity while the 12,000 lb gross trailer weight rating defines its working limit. It’s suitable for many standard-duty and heavy-duty towing tasks when matched with compatible hitch components.

• 12,000 lb gross trailer weight (GTW) rating
• Hot-forged, heat-treated steel construction
• Meets U.S. VESC testing specifications for towing components

Will this fit my 2-inch trailer coupler and hitch mount?

Yes — the ball head is a standard 2.00-inch diameter to fit any matching 2-inch coupler. The shank measures 1.00 inch in diameter and 2-1/4 inches in length, a common sizing for secure attachment through most ball mounts and hitch plates.

• 2.00-inch ball diameter for universal 2" couplers
• 1.00-inch shank diameter with 2-1/4" length for secure fit
• Fine-threaded shank for improved clamping strength

How does the CURT 40038 resist corrosion and stay secure?

The ball is finished in nickel-chrome plating that protects against rust, scratches and environmental wear for longer service life. Installation hardware includes a zinc-plated hex nut and helical lock washer; the fine threads require proper torque to keep the assembly tight under vibration and load.

• Nickel-chrome plated finish for corrosion resistance
• Zinc-plated hex nut and helical lock washer included
• Requires 250 lb.-ft. torque on installation for recommended hold

What should I check before using this trailer ball?

Always confirm the lowest rated component in your towing system — vehicle, hitch, ball mount and trailer coupler — to avoid exceeding capacity. Inspect threads, mounting hardware and finish periodically, and re-torque after initial use to ensure ongoing safety and performance.

• Verify vehicle and hitch class meet or exceed 12,000 lb rating
• Inspect threads and finish for damage before towing
• Re-torque nut after first use and check periodically

Who is this for: The CURT 40038 is aimed at truck and SUV owners who tow medium-to-heavy trailers — boaters, landscapers, campers and recreational users needing a durable, tested 2" hitch ball. Choose this model when you require a strong, corrosion-resistant tow ball with standard 2" coupler compatibility and reliable hardware for repeated towing use.