I fitted a new Alko towball in May this year. I look after the hitch and the ball meticulously and always have done. However, last weekend whilst in mid journey, the coupling started to make a hell of a noise. Muck had got into it I thought, WRONG. When I unhitched to give it a clean I discovered to my horror that the surface of the ball had started to come away and there was a gouge that ran half way round the ball and several 'bald' patches where the surface had come away.
I have contacted ALKO but no reply yet.
I am thinking that the ball has not been (properly) case hardened. Anyone with previous experience of this?
I have fitted a new Alko ball and I also had to replace the friction pads in the stabiliser because the damaged ball had cut them to bits.
Keep your eye on your coupling and ball, I will double my efforts now.
Thats just the protective coating. You are mean't to rub it off before using the ball. Theres nothing wrong with the ball, just use emery cloth to clean the coating off the actual ball until you have clean shiny metal.
You should have posted this before you bought a new one.
Amazing family weekend with old steam engines, classic car displays, market stalls, and full catering and bar. And camping on site - Save £25 by booking in advance.
Topic: Towball breaking up
