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Whether you’re a major towing enthusiast or simply a weekend warrior, understanding the differences between aluminum and steel ball mounts is essential for safely towing your trailer. Although both materials are strong enough to support most small- to medium-sized trailers, there are advantages to each material that can influence which you are most comfortable working with. To help you decide which ball mount is best for you, let’s take a closer look at the key elements of how aluminum and steel ball mounts compare to one another.
The main difference between aluminum and steel ball mounts is their weight capacity. Steel ball mounts can have higher weight ratings than aluminum. Steel is stronger than aluminum because it has more mass, so it can handle more weight without bending or breaking.
Steel has been used in construction projects for centuries because of its durability and strength. It is able to withstand extreme temperatures, high levels of stress, and heavy impacts without bending or breaking. Aluminum also has excellent durability but is not as strong as steel and thus, has a lower level of durability. It is important when buying an aluminum ball mount, to buy American-made, with air-craft grade aluminum, like Fastway® FLASH® adjustable ball mounts, so you can be confident in the durability and performance.
Steel is also more resistant to rusting than aluminum. However, this is visually expressed in a distinct way. While rusted steel turns a uniform color of brown, rusted aluminum has a more grayish color. And while rusted steel flakes of and exposes underlying layers, rusted aluminum hardens into aluminum oxide and does not flake off. In other words, aluminum is more resistant to corrosion than steel. In wet climates, aluminum should be the preference.
While some retailers price them differently, there isn’t really a substantial cost difference between aluminum and steel ball mounts. When the purchasing price is equal, the real cost is in the longevity of your ball mount. Aluminum ball mounts are often preferred in areas with plenty of rainfall, since a rusted steel ball mount is so visually unappealing. But if you’re towing heavy cargo, you should rely on the strength of a steel ball mount instead. Taking care of your mount is essential to making this a one time purchase rather than a repeat.
Aluminum is lighter than steel, which makes carrying, adjusting and installing aluminum ball mounts easier. An aluminum ball mount can be half the weight of steel, with the same towing capacity. If you plan on towing multiple trailers and will be regularly adjusting the ball mount, aluminum may be the best solution for you.
When choosing between an aluminum or a steel ball mount for your trailer hitch needs, there are many factors that come into play including weight capacity, durability, cost savings potential, and more. Whichever type you choose, make sure it meets the weight requirements of your vehicle and trailer before the purchase.
To compare and contrast which ball mount is right for you, check out the Fastway Ball Mount Lineup today. And for more trailer and towing tips, follow Fastway Trailer Products on Facebook for regular updates.