I’m grateful for the blessing that lawn mowers are, but I can’t help crib about the amount of space they take up!
After all, for a device that performs just one function, it surely does take up the majority of the space in my shed. But what if I told you there are ways to put the mower to good use even when you’re not using it to mow the grass? Yes, that’s right.
By attaching the ball hitch with the device, you can improve its productivity and use it to haul several tools around.
It was my neighbor, Mr. Joe, who first told me about the benefits of this improvisation. It’s how he hauls wood and simultaneously vacuums the lawn while mowing. I knew I had to try it out, so I put my work hat on and went about the task.
Hi there! I’m Stacy. And, today, I’ll tell you all about how to put a ball hitch on a lawn mower.
So, without further ado, let’s begin!
Step By Step Guide
To make things easier for you, I’ve curated this stepwise guide that'll help install the ball hitch on your lawn mower. Keep reading to know more.
Step 1: Check The Hauling Capacity Of The Mower
The first step is to check the hauling capacity of your device before browsing for compatible ball hitches. Usually, you’ll find this on the user’s manual that comes with the device.
If you don’t find the specifications, remember that the rule of thumb is not to tow any object bulkier than the mower itself. I always recommend being on the safer side by pulling less than the upper limit of the mower. This helps to prevent unnecessary pressure that eventually wears out the engine.
Step 2: Find A Ball Hitch
The next step is finding the right ball hitch. You’ll find different varieties either online or at the local hardware store. Ideally, you must choose a ball (no wider than one inch) that is compatible with the towing capacity of your device. However, the size of the ball ultimately depends on the object you plan on hauling.
Also, carefully go through the installation instructions before making a purchase. For easy assembly, consider investing in single-piece hitches.
- VERSATILE TOWING. This trailer hitch ball is specifically designed to equip an ATV, UTV or lawn tractor for towing. It's perfect for hitching up a small utility trailer and towing through the woods or working in the yard
- HIGH-STRENGTH. This lawn tractor hitch ball / ATV tow ball is rated to tow up to 2,000 pounds gross trailer weight. It is constructed from hot-forged steel for dependable strength on your next project
- PRECISE FIT. This ATV, UTV or lawn tractor hitch ball has a 2-inch diameter. The ball shank has a 5/8-inch diameter and measures 1-3/4 inches long, making it ideal for mounting on an ATV tongue or lawn tractor tongue
- VERSATILE TOWING. This trailer hitch ball is specifically designed to equip an ATV, UTV or lawn tractor for towing. It's perfect for hitching up a small utility trailer and towing through the woods or working in the yard
- HIGH-STRENGTH. This lawn tractor hitch ball / ATV tow ball is rated to tow up to 2,000 pounds gross trailer weight. It is constructed from hot-forged steel for dependable strength on your next project
- PRECISE FIT. This ATV, UTV or lawn tractor hitch ball has a 1-7/8-inch diameter. The ball shank has a 5/8-inch diameter and measures 1-3/4 inches long, making it ideal for mounting on an ATV tongue or lawn tractor tongue
Step 3: Assemble The Hitch
The next step is assembling the hitch by tightly attaching brace arms to its body. For this, you’ll need some tools such as a wrench or a screwdriver. The other essential tools such as bolts, lock nuts, and washers will come with the hitch.
Step 4: Attach The Hitch To Your Device
Before you attach the hitch, I recommend parking the device on an even surface and disconnecting the power cable so that it stays in place while you’re working. Now, locate the mounting hole behind the lawn mower and securely connect the hitch to it with the help of nuts and bolts.
Occasionally, to install a mounting bracket, you'll be required to drill holes on the rear end of your device. So, carefully mark the exact spots where you will be drilling the holes to avoid confusion.
Now, align the brace arms with the freshly drilled holes and tighten them with the help of washers and screws. You can use either pliers or a socket wrench for tightening.
Step 5: Adjust The Ball
In the next step, place the ball on the hitch body. There are grooves present on the lower part of the ball that'll attach the lock nut.
Once the ball is securely placed, you might want to do a quick test drive. For this, I’d suggest hauling some lightweight equipment to ascertain everything is in place, and that the hitch doesn’t come off.
Frequently Asked Questions
I’m sure you still have a lot of questions on your mind. So, in this section, I will answer some questions I’ve often been asked about the efficacy and importance of ball hitches.
The short answer is: yes. Over time, towing can wear down the engine. But the degree of damage depends on the weight you are towing. To extend the lifespan of your mower, always pull less than the recommended weight.
You only need to put a ball hitch on the mower if you plan on towing additional goods from one place in the yard to the other. However, I’d recommend installing a hitch either way since it can come in handy and will increase the productivity of your mower.
If you own a big yard, then the chances are that you frequently haul wood around the property. Be it small branches gathered while trimming trees or medium-sized logs, attaching the ball hitch will help move them around efficiently.
You can pull a vacuum with the lawn mower to collect chips and leaf clippings while mowing the lawn. Similarly, you can drag an aerator, seeder, or power grader behind the mower.
Conclusion
That’s all, folks!
Attaching a ball hitch on a lawn mower is not a difficult task, as long as you carefully follow the instructions. Also, always wear safety gear such as hand gloves and goggles to avoid any kind of injury.
If you primarily use the lawn mower to mow the grass, it’s time to revamp it and increase its productivity. Your mower has impressive towing capabilities – all you have to do is make a few adjustments to enhance it.
I hope this guide has been helpful in explaining the process of attaching the ball hitch to the lawn mower. But, in case of any confusion, feel free to reach out to me in the comments below, and I’ll be more than happy to help.
Now, it’s time for me to bid farewell. Until next time, happy towing!