So now that I have the 1 ton, the RX is 2 1/2". I had my hand on a 2 1/2 to 2 reducer, $20, but thought, wait, lets find out about the shank. Found the shank on Amazon, $144. The question is, do I really need it for my 7600 pound trailer. I know that adding the sleeve reduces the amount of weight the shank can carry, but its a 15K BO.

 

Look at the weight rating on every link of your chain of components between the truck and trailer. As long as every single piece is rated over 7600 lbs and assembled using a little common sense then you should be fine.

I would have no issues using a reducer sleeve for trailers under 10K lbs.

 

Replace the shank you will be much happier.

 

I pulled this trailer using the reducer and a solid(not tubular) 2 inch shaft rated at 15k from the rental place. My truck is rated for 19k on the hitch. Loaded this one was around 12k

 

Replace the shank. Excess slop from the reducer gets annoying. Alternative is to buy a cheap HF reducer and weld it to your current shank (hole aligned). It will eliminate the slop problem, but then you won't be able to use it for 2" again.

 

Buy once cry once. I want one of the cool B&W hitches that folds back behind the receiver so you dont hit your shins on it. I just think they look silly on a 1/2 Ton truck. Seize the opportunity I cant have and buy one in a 2 1/2 in Shank and be happy.​​​​​​​

 

I use Fords adapter and an anti rattle clamp. Its rock solid when installed.

 

Thanks, I will get the shank since I no longer plan to tow the TT with the F150. I will need to take some measurements as well to make sure the drop is correct.

 

Well after reading the OM and reviewing the 2012 Towing guide, I have a much better idea. Costs about $100 more than buying the shank.

https://www.etrailer.com/Trailer-Hit...cleID=20128725


Don't know why I didn't think of it sooner, maybe because I assumed all HD receivers for the F350 would be 2 1/2".

 

The 2017-up diesels are 3" The gas are 2.5"

I have a 2019 F-350 gas with the 2.5". I wanted a longer than usual shank to allow me to lower my tailgate with the trailer attached and let me make sharper turns. I needed at least 8" of drop as well because the 2017-up trucks are very tall. At the time I was shopping, I couldn't find a 2.5" with the measurements I wanted.