Reese 40700 3″ Trailer Hitch Ball Mount Class V 4″ Drop x 2″ Rise Review

Let’s Dive into Reese 40700 3″ Trailer Hitch Ball Mount Class V 4″ Drop x 2″ Rise

The Reese 40700 3″ Trailer Hitch Ball Mount Class V 4″ Drop x 2″ Rise is a heavy-duty towing solution designed for those who demand serious strength and reliability. Manufactured by Reese, a trusted name in towing, this ball mount is built to handle substantial loads with its Class V rating and robust construction. Its 4-inch drop and 2-inch rise provide versatility for matching different trailer heights, ensuring a level and safe towing experience.

My old ball mount, a Class III, was simply inadequate for the increasing demands of my work hauling equipment and materials. I needed something that could handle significantly heavier loads and fit the 3″ receiver on my new truck. I was looking for a ball mount with not only increased towing capacity but also with a reputation for long-lasting durability.

The Reese 40700 arrived in a sturdy box, well-protected against shipping damage. Lifting it out, the weight was immediately noticeable, conveying a sense of solid construction and quality materials. The black powder-coat finish looked sleek and seemed tough enough to withstand the elements.

Compared to my previous Class III mount and other similarly priced Class IV options, the Reese 40700 stood out due to its impressive 21,000 lbs. towing capacity and its compatibility with my truck’s 3″ receiver. Cheaper options seemed flimsy in comparison, while more expensive brands didn’t offer significantly better specs to justify the price difference. This Reese mount seemed to strike the perfect balance.

My initial impression was one of relief and confidence. Finally, a ball mount that seemed capable of handling anything I threw at it. I was excited to put it to the test and see if it lived up to its promise of unparalleled strength and durability.

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Real-World Testing: Putting Reese 40700 3″ Trailer Hitch Ball Mount Class V 4″ Drop x 2″ Rise to the Test

First Use Experience

My first use was hauling a small tractor to a friend’s farm for some land clearing. The trip involved both highway driving and navigating some rough, unpaved roads. The Reese 40700 performed flawlessly.

Even on bumpy roads, there was no noticeable rattling or excessive movement. The 4″ drop provided the perfect height adjustment for the trailer, maintaining a level towing position. I didn’t encounter any wet or muddy conditions on this initial trip, but the heavy-duty construction and coating gave me confidence that it would hold up.

The installation was straightforward. It slid smoothly into the 3″ receiver, and securing it with a pin felt solid and secure. No adjustments or modifications were necessary, it was ready to go right out of the box.

There were no surprises or issues after the first use, it was exactly what I expected from a Reese product. It instilled confidence in its capabilities, making for a stress-free towing experience.

Extended Use & Reliability

After several months of regular use, the Reese 40700 continues to perform exceptionally well. I have used it to haul everything from construction materials to ATVs, and it has never shown any signs of weakness or strain. The black powder-coat finish has held up remarkably well, showing only minor scratches despite exposure to dirt, gravel, and the occasional scrape.

The durability is impressive. There’s no rust or corrosion forming, which is a common issue with cheaper mounts I’ve used in the past. The MetalShield coating is clearly doing its job.

Maintenance is simple. I occasionally hose it down to remove dirt and grime, and I apply a light coat of grease to the hitch pin to prevent seizing. The simple design makes it easy to clean and inspect.

Compared to my previous ball mounts, the Reese 40700 is a significant upgrade. It provides a level of strength, stability, and peace of mind that I haven’t experienced before. It has exceeded my expectations in terms of both performance and durability.

Breaking Down the Features of Reese 40700 3″ Trailer Hitch Ball Mount Class V 4″ Drop x 2″ Rise

Specifications

• Towing Capacity: 21,000 lbs. This is a crucial spec, indicating the maximum weight this mount can safely handle. It allows users to confidently tow heavy loads without worrying about failure.
• Receiver Size: 3″ Square. This specifies the size of the receiver tube that the ball mount is designed to fit into. Ensuring compatibility with your truck’s hitch is critical.
• Drop: 4″. The 4-inch drop allows for adjusting the height of the trailer to match the towing vehicle. This ensures a level towing setup, improving safety and handling.
• Rise: 2″. The 2-inch rise provides an option to raise the trailer height if needed. This provides added versatility in matching different trailer heights.
• Construction: Solid Forged Steel. Forged steel construction provides exceptional strength and durability, allowing the ball mount to withstand high stress and heavy use. It ensures long-term reliability.
• Finish: Sleek Black Powder-Coat. The black powder-coat finish provides corrosion resistance and a stylish look. It protects the mount from the elements, extending its lifespan.
• Coating: MetalShield. Reese‘s MetalShield coating technology offers superior protection against rust and corrosion. This ensures longevity and maintains the mount’s appearance over time.

Performance & Functionality

The Reese 40700 performs its job exceptionally well. Its high towing capacity and adjustable drop/rise make it suitable for a wide range of trailers and vehicles. The solid construction inspires confidence, and the secure fit eliminates any worries about instability or failure.

The strength and stability are its greatest assets. The only area for potential improvement might be the weight, as it can be somewhat cumbersome to handle during installation and removal.

It exceeds expectations. It provides a level of towing confidence and reliability that I haven’t found in other ball mounts.

Design & Ergonomics

The build quality is excellent. The forged steel construction feels incredibly robust and durable. Its weight contributes to the sense of strength and quality, though it can make it a little unwieldy.

It is user-friendly. The straightforward design requires no special tools or skills to install or use. Securing it with a standard hitch pin is simple and effective.

Durability & Maintenance

The Reese 40700 is built to last. The robust materials and protective coating ensure it can withstand years of heavy use in harsh conditions.

Maintenance is minimal. Regular cleaning and occasional lubrication of the hitch pin are all that’s needed to keep it in good working order.

Accessories and Customization Options

The Reese 40700 does not come with many accessories. The primary accessory would be a hitch pin (sold separately), which is essential for securing the ball mount in the receiver. A locking hitch pin can also be used for added security.

There aren’t many customization options. It is designed as a complete unit. The most common customization would be selecting a ball with the appropriate diameter for your trailer (2″, 2 5/16″, etc.), which is also sold separately. The ball platform has a 1-1/4″ shank hole. It is compatible with standard hitch pins and ball sizes.

Pros and Cons of Reese 40700 3″ Trailer Hitch Ball Mount Class V 4″ Drop x 2″ Rise