For safe, comfortable trailer towing, the trailer should always be set up to tow as level as possible. A level trailer puts less strain on the connection between the trailer and the hitch. This also allows the trailer to track true behind the vehicle. Trailer and vehicle heights vary so a correct rise or drop will be needed to level the trailer. Determining the correct rise and drop needed for your vehicle can be determined by using the following simple steps.
With the vehicle parked on level ground, measure the hitch height from the ground to the top of the receiver opening on the hitch.
Next, you will need to measure from the bottom of the trailer’s coupler to the ground. Make sure the trailer is on level ground and the trailer itself is level.
Compute the difference between the receiver height and the coupler height. If the hitch height is greater than the coupler height, the difference is the drop that is required. If the coupler height is greater, then the difference is the rise that is required. Select a fixed drop or adjustable ball mount with a rise or drop that is closest to the difference you come up with. For example, if the receiver hitch height is 26" and the trailers coupler height is 20". Then a 6" drop ball mount would be a perfect drop for this application. Please account for some adjustment if airbags are not being used to prevent the truck from sinking a little when loaded.