A 9-inch drop hitch can help level a trailer when the tow vehicle’s receiver sits substantially higher than the trailer coupler. Among these options, the B&W Tow & Stow offers an exact 9-inch drop, while the other adjustable or fixed mounts provide nearby drop ranges. Choose the B&W for an exact drop and dual balls, the Nilight for a fixed mount with a 10-inch drop, or an adjustable model if you need to change height between setups.
| Product | Drop or adjustment range | Best for |
|---|---|---|
| B&W Tow & Stow | 9-inch drop | Exact drop and dual ball sizes |
| Nilight Ball Mount | 10-inch drop, 9-inch rise | Fixed setup with included hitch pin |
| OPENROAD Adjustable Mount | 9.5-inch drop, 8.25-inch rise | Adjustability and included lock set |
| METOWARE Adjustable Mount | 9.5-inch drop, 8.25-inch rise | Multiple height positions |
| CURT 45090 | 8-inch drop, 6-inch rise | Buyers who need a simpler fixed mount |
B&W Tow & Stow Adjustable Hitch
Best for: Drivers who need an exact 9-inch drop, more than one ball size, and a mount that can be stowed when not towing. This model fits a 2-inch receiver and includes 2-inch and 2-5/16-inch balls. Its adjustment pins let users raise or lower the mount, and the ball assembly rotates to switch ball sizes.
The stowable design tucks the hitch under the vehicle when it is not in use. The product information lists a 10,000-pound gross trailer weight rating and describes high-strength American-made steel with an e-coat and powder-coat finish.
Consideration: Its dual-ball configuration and stowing mechanism may be more than needed for someone who wants a basic fixed-height mount.
Nilight 10-Inch Drop Ball Mount
Best for: Buyers whose measurements call for a fixed 10-inch drop, rather than exactly 9 inches. This mount fits a 2-inch receiver and provides a 9-inch rise when reversed. Its listed capacity is 7,500 pounds gross trailer weight and 750 pounds tongue weight.
The 1-inch ball hole accepts a standard trailer ball shank, and the package includes a 5/8-inch hitch pin and retaining clip. It is a straightforward option for a driver who has settled on one towing height and does not need frequent adjustment.
Consideration: The drop is 10 inches, so it may not level a trailer correctly if the required measurement is precisely 9 inches.
OPENROAD Adjustable Ball Mount
Best for: Owners who tow different trailers or use more than one vehicle and want height adjustment. The mount is rated for 7,500 pounds gross trailer weight and offers a 9.5-inch drop or 8.25-inch rise. Its pins allow adjustment and quick ball changes, according to the product details.
The listing describes a steel construction and includes a lock set with two keys. That combination makes this a flexible alternative to a fixed 9- or 10-inch drop when a small range of height adjustment is useful.
Consideration: The listed drop is 9.5 inches, not 9 inches, and the product information does not specify a tongue-weight rating.
METOWARE Adjustable Trailer Hitch
Best for: Drivers who want several height positions and a reversible mount for a 2-inch receiver. The product has six pin holes, can be turned upside down, and provides a 9.5-inch drop or 8.25-inch rise. Its alloy-steel construction is listed at up to 7,500 pounds gross trailer weight.
The listing says the mount is intended for Class III and Class IV receivers and describes use with camping and multipurpose trailers. A triangular cushion under the shank is identified as a stability feature.
Consideration: Like the OPENROAD, its maximum listed drop is 9.5 inches rather than exactly 9 inches. Confirm the required ball and tongue-weight specifications separately before towing.
CURT 45090 Class III Ball Mount
Best for: Buyers who need a fixed mount with a shorter drop range. The CURT 45090 fits a 2-by-2-inch receiver and has a 1-inch hole for a trailer ball shank. Its listed adjustment is an 8-inch drop or 6-inch rise.
This option is relevant as a comparison for shoppers searching for a 9-inch drop, but its specifications do not reach that drop. It may suit a setup requiring less drop, provided the trailer and vehicle measurements confirm the fit.
Consideration: It does not provide a 9-inch drop, and the supplied product information does not state a towing capacity.
Buying Guide: How To Choose A 9-Inch Drop Hitch
How do you know what drop you need?
Measure the height of the receiver and the height of the trailer coupler on level ground. The difference between those measurements indicates the drop needed to help the trailer sit level. Follow the vehicle, hitch, and trailer manufacturers’ instructions, and recheck the trailer position after coupling.
Should you choose a fixed or adjustable mount?
A fixed mount suits a consistent vehicle-and-trailer combination and can be simpler when its height matches your measurements. An adjustable mount is more practical when towing different trailers or switching vehicles. Compare the full adjustment range, not just the maximum drop: the OPENROAD and METOWARE models list a 9.5-inch drop, while Nilight lists a fixed 10-inch drop.
Which ratings and dimensions should you verify?
- Match the shank to the receiver opening. The listed products include mounts for 2-inch receivers.
- Check gross trailer weight and tongue weight against the ratings for every towing component. Do not assume a rating that is not provided.
- Confirm the trailer ball’s shank size and ball diameter. A 1-inch ball hole alone does not identify which ball diameter your trailer requires.
- Check that the hitch pin, receiver, and mount are suitable for the setup, and follow their installation instructions.
Frequently Asked Questions
Is a 9.5-inch drop the same as a 9-inch drop?
No. A 9.5-inch drop is a different measurement. Compare your measured setup with the mount’s stated drop and adjustment positions.
Which option listed here has an exact 9-inch drop?
The B&W Tow & Stow listing specifies a 9-inch drop. The other listed options specify 9.5 inches, 10 inches, or 8 inches.
Can an adjustable hitch be used with different trailers?
It can offer multiple height positions, but each trailer still needs a suitable ball size and a level towing position. Check the mount’s capacity and the towing limits of the vehicle and receiver.
Does the Nilight mount include a hitch pin?
Yes. Its listed features include a 5/8-inch hitch pin and retaining clip.