As outdoor adventures and road trips gear up for the warmer seasons, I’ve learned firsthand how vital a dependable hitch kit can be. After testing various options, I can confidently say that the Reese Towpower 21536RAK Trailer Hitch Ball Mount Starter stands out. It feels solid in hand, made of all-welded steel, and handles a maximum capacity of 6,000 lbs, so I never worry about safety while towing. The 2-inch drop with a pre-attached trailer ball and included hitch pin makes hooking up quick and hassle-free. I’ve used it for pulling boats, utility trailers, and even a small tractor — and it performed flawlessly every time.
This kit’s quality and reliability come from decades of tested design, exceeding SAE J684 standards. Compared to less sturdy options, this one offers peace of mind with its limited lifetime warranty and robust construction. Whether you’re new to towing or experienced, this kit simplifies setup and ensures safety on the road. Trust me, it’s a serious upgrade to any tow setup.
Top Recommendation: Reese Towpower 21536RAK Trailer Hitch Ball Mount Starter
Why We Recommend It: This product combines strength, convenience, and tested safety standards. Its all-welded steel design ensures durability, while the pre-attached trailer ball plus the inclusion of a hitch pin saves setup time. The 2-inch drop and high-capacity design handle a variety of trailers with ease, and the limited lifetime warranty adds confidence. Compared to others, this kit excels in quality, making it the best choice for reliable, versatile towing.
Reese Towpower 21536RAK Trailer Hitch Ball Mount Starter
- ✓ Heavy-duty steel construction
- ✓ Easy to install and connect
- ✓ Includes complete accessories
- ✕ Heavy to handle alone
- ✕ No adjustable height options
| Material | Solid, all-welded steel |
| Maximum Gross Trailer Weight Capacity | 6,000 lbs. |
| Maximum Tongue Weight | 600 lbs. |
| Shank Size | 2-inch |
| Drop Length | 2-inch drop |
| Included Components | Trailer ball, ball mount, hitch pin & clip |
As I unboxed the Reese Towpower 21536RAK Trailer Hitch Ball Mount Starter, I immediately appreciated its solid feel. The all-welded steel construction looks robust, and the weight feels reassuring in your hand.
Installing the pre-attached 2-inch trailer ball was straightforward, saving me time compared to assembling separate parts.
During setup, I noticed how smoothly the ball mount slid into my hitch receiver. The 2-inch shank fit snugly, and the included hitch pin and clip secured everything firmly.
The 2-inch drop on the ball mount made leveling my trailer super easy, even on uneven ground.
Using it for different trailers—boat, utility, even small camper—felt effortless. The quality build gave me confidence in towing heavier loads up to 6,000 lbs.
The tested safety standards, exceeding SAE J684, reassured me that my connections would hold under stress.
What stood out was how quick and simple it was to connect and disconnect—perfect for someone who switches trailers often. The limited lifetime warranty makes it clear this is a long-term investment.
Overall, it’s a reliable, no-nonsense hitch starter kit that covers all the basics with quality in mind.
Only minor hiccup: the kit’s weight makes it less ideal for frequent lifting if you’re solo. But for stationary setups or occasional use, it’s just fine.