Ball mounts can weigh a lot and are a pain in the butt carrying to the tow vehicle to mount it. To make the handling task easier, cleaner and safer, I got a piece of 12-3 electrical wire and attached it to the shank and the shaft of the mount. Secure it by knotting or twisting the ends. No more "arm's length" carrying, no more greasy clothes, and if you want use the whole wire to make it easier on the hands. This handle can be left on while towing too. Cheap, easy, and for me it's a must have.