CURT forged ball mount 2-1/2-inch shank — 20,000 lb capacity, carbide powder coat

CURT 45456 is a one-piece forged 2-1/2" ball mount built for commercial towing, rated to 20,000 lb gross trailer weight and 2,700 lb tongue weight.

When you need a tow hitch component that won’t be the weak link, this CURT forged ball mount delivers heavy-duty performance and durability. Crafted from a single forged steel piece and finished with a carbide powder coat, it resists wear, corrosion and the stress of demanding work environments. The 2-1/2" x 2-1/2" shank fits larger receivers used on full-size trucks, flatbeds and commercial rigs, making it a reliable choice for towing large trailers, equipment and boats.

How does the one-piece forging improve strength?

The ball mount is manufactured from a single forged steel blank, eliminating weld seams that are common failure points. That continuous material structure distributes load more evenly and tolerates repeated heavy use without the risk of weld fatigue.

• Zero-weld construction for uniform strength
• Forged steel resists bending under high load
• Tested to handle intense commercial towing cycles

What are the load ratings and key dimensions?

This model supports up to 20,000 lb gross trailer weight (GTW) and 2,700 lb tongue weight (TW). Its geometry is specified to work in common heavy-duty towing setups, with a 2" drop and 1/2" rise for hitch height adjustment and an 8-1/2" overall length to provide appropriate clearance.

• 20,000 lb GTW / 2,700 lb TW capacity
• 2" drop, 1/2" rise for height flexibility
• 8-1/2" length and 1-1/4" ball hole for standard ball fitment

How does the finish protect the ball mount on job sites?

The black carbide powder coat serves as a hard-wearing barrier against rust, abrasion and UV exposure. It helps keep the mount serviceable in outdoor and industrial conditions, reducing the need for frequent repainting or replacement.

• Carbide powder coat resists chipping and corrosion
• Smooth finish sheds grime and eases cleaning
• Durable under construction, farm, and marine use

Which vehicles and trailers is this designed to pair with?

Designed for 2-1/2" x 2-1/2" receiver openings, this CURT forged mount is best suited to full-size pickups, commercial trucks and heavy-duty SUVs equipped with compatible Class 5 or commercial receivers. Use it with dual-axle utility trailers, car haulers, large RVs, dump trailers and similar high-capacity loads — always observing the lowest-rated component in the towing setup.

• Fits 2-1/2" x 2-1/2" receiver tubes
• Pairs well with Class 5 or commercial-duty hitches
• Ideal for heavy trailers, boats, equipment haulers

Who is this for? If you operate full-size trucks, commercial fleets, or heavy-equipment rigs and require a dependable hitch accessory for demanding towing tasks, the CURT 45456 is engineered for that work. It’s aimed at contractors, farmers, landscapers and anyone who needs a rugged, long-lasting ball mount that tolerates heavy loads and tough environments. Always match this mount’s ratings to your vehicle, hitch and trailer capacities before towing.