Creaking, groaning hitch

I’m no expert, but I think you’re right to be concerned.  Normally one would clean the tow ball with brake cleaner because it’s grease free.  No doubt someone with much more technical knowledge will be along soon with some good advice.  Good luck.

I wouldn't put grease on my ball 

Oh no! Grease and Alko hitches are a big mismatch.😦

Hi OnlyJen...Yes, I know I'm daft and stupid but moving on from the obvious ....... why would, OnlyJen Motorowner have a towball, do you tow your eriba behind your motor home, sorry it is raining stuck in doors so probably being a bit silly  but def no grease on ball

Are you sure it was grease?  There should never be any grease, oil or similar on the ball or in the hitch cup on that type of set-up. (There should also be a special long neck ball in use, but that's a different thread.)

The stabiliser works because there are small friction pads inside the cup that rub on the surface of the ball. The noise you heard is quite common when the pads need replacing. Usually a simple job but if it is now filled with grease then a complete nightmare.

I suggest you get someone with trusted technical knowlege to have a look. Meanwhile, look up how you make a claim on Mayday for negligence. Also, don't tow any other (modern) trailer until you get the grease removed from the tow ball, or tow your caravan with another vehicle until it is cleaned out - otherwise the grease just spreads.

Never put grease on a tow ball.   The creaking and groaning could cause be caused by worn friction pads on the stabiliser, thats the first thing I would check after cleaning the tow ball of course..  

+1 Nav

Thank you.

My instincts entirely.

Thank you TW. You are confirming my worst....

Yes, my Camper tows my Sister's caravan :)

As has been said, grease should NEVER be applied to the tow ball or stabiliser.  Check to see if there is grease on them; if so, clean the tow ball with grease remover/break cleaner until it is completely grease free and shiny; if there is grease on the stabiliser pads they need to be removed and cleaned but probably replaced.  If you find that the Mayday mechanic used grease when all he needed to do was clean with Brake Cleaner you should complain insisting that they meet any costs or come to you to sort it out immediately.