No one is immune from troubles on the road. Almost any driver sooner or later participates in the process of towing: either he is towing someone, or he is being pulled in tow. In order for towing to be safe both for the participants in the process and for others, it is necessary to observe whole line rules.
Let's start with the fact that you can tow a car different ways. It all depends on the malfunction of the towed vehicle, as well as on the capabilities of the towing vehicle.
Towing on flexible hitch. This is the most common and simplest type of towing, a cable or strap for which you can find in the trunk of almost any car. In addition to the towing cable, towing with a flexible hitch also requires towing hooks or eyelets on both vehicles.
Rules for towing on a flexible hitch
- The distance between the towed and the towing vehicle is from 4 to 6 meters.
- There must be a driver in the towed vehicle.
- The cable used for towing must have at least two reflective elements of at least 200x200 mm in size with diagonal stripes of red and white.
- It is forbidden to tow a car on a flexible hitch if it has a malfunctioning steering or brake system.
- It is forbidden to tow a car on a flexible hitch in icy conditions.
Rigid towing. Unlike a flexible hitch, where a soft cable is used as a towing device, here a metal device is used to connect the cars. Depending on the configuration, it may have one or more attachment points to the towed and towed vehicle.
Rules for towing on a rigid hitch
- The distance between the towed and towing vehicles must not exceed 4 m.
- A driver must always be behind the wheel of a towed vehicle, unless a rigid hitch provides full control over the trajectory of the towed vehicle.
- It is forbidden to tow a vehicle with a faulty steering on a rigid hitch.
- It is forbidden to tow a car with an inoperative brake system on a rigid hitch. There is only one exception: when the actual mass of the towing vehicle is 2 or more times greater than the mass of the towed vehicle, in this case, towing on a rigid hitch is allowed.
Towing method partial loading. This is one of the most difficult ways to tow a car and requires a special towing vehicle. With this method, the front wheels of the towed vehicle are loaded onto the cargo platform of the towing vehicle. Loading can be carried out using a special crane or on its own, along special rails. Please note that if the car is completely loaded, then this is no longer towing, but cargo transportation.
Rules for towing by partial loading
It is forbidden to transport people in the cab or body of a towed vehicle, as well as in the body of a towing vehicle.
It is forbidden to tow a vehicle with a faulty brake system using the partial loading method. The exception is the same as for a rigid hitch: if the actual mass of the towing vehicle is 2 or more times greater than the actual mass of the towed vehicle.
Mandatory towing by partial loading in case of faulty steering.
Towing in traffic rules
In the Rules traffic there is a whole section dedicated to towing cars
First, a few words about light signaling when towing
- On both vehicles, as in all other cases, DRLs, fog lights or dipped beam must be turned on.
- On towed vehicle the emergency gang must be turned on (if it does not work, a sign must be fixed at the back emergency stop).
- IN dark time days, as well as in tunnels on a towed vehicle, dimensions must be included.
Maximum speed when towing - 50 km/h both in the city and on the highway.
Towing is prohibited in the area of the sign 3.7 "Moving with a trailer is prohibited".
Forbidden towing multiple vehicles at the same time(at the same time, it is not prohibited to tow several trailers with one tractor).
For violation of the towing rules, the Code of Administrative Offenses provides a fine of 500 rubles.
If an accident occurs during towing and the towed car “catches up” with the towing vehicle, the driver of the car being towed is most likely to be blamed for the accident.
Not all drivers are familiar with the rules for towing vehicles: in driving schools, this section is given quite a bit of time, and in practice, not many have experienced themselves as a driver of towing or towed vehicles.
In real traffic situation the lack of theoretical and practical knowledge causes certain difficulties.
In this article, we will look at the main points of towing a car.
Towing prohibited/permitted
Let's start with when the PPD is forbidden to tow a vehicle:
The fine for violating the rules for towing a car in 2019 will be 500 rubles. This, of course, is not much, but the collision of the “slave” and “leading” vehicles does not cause positive emotions.
And what is needed in order to help a car enthusiast in trouble?
In addition to the transport itself, there is also the corresponding state of the flexible coupling. It must be intact, free of damage and scuffs, loops and carabiners for fastening must be in good order.
The length of the cable is not less than 4 and not more than 5 meters. If it is shorter, then the chance of the second car to enter the front one tends to one hundred percent, and if it is longer, then the car driving behind will strongly deviate from the trajectory.
The halyard must have warning boards or flags. These are devices with diagonally painted reflective white and red stripes. If they are not available, you can use pieces of red fabric.
Modern steel cables are made of colored threads: white, blue, red and others, some of which are coated with a reflective compound. That is, modern halyards themselves are warning devices.
Lastly, towing hooks and earrings are checked.
According to changes in traffic rules dated April 4, 2017, the driver of a towing vehicle must have at least two years of driving experience.
Types of towing
In our country, a flexible hitch is still more common than a rigid hitch, but in Western countries everything is completely different. Next, consider the features of each of them.
Video: Towing Motor Vehicles
The most common, but at the same time the most dangerous view. It is popular due to the fact that the cable enters the vehicle along with a first aid kit and a fire extinguisher, as a mandatory set.
With help special fasteners halyard clings to back towing means and for the front scratching the towed. But this method has a number of limitations:
- The driver must be behind the wheel of the towed vehicle.
- The distance between two cars is in the range of 4 to 6 meters.
- It is obligatory to install reflective signs on the tow rope.
- Transportation of passengers in towed vehicles is prohibited (except for cars).
If there is no special cable at hand, you can use a piece of a parachute sling or a strong cord. How to tie a cable in this case? It is recommended to use one of several nodes: a simple half-bayonet, a gazebo (bowline), an Eskimo or a special towing.
One end of the halyard to the left eye of the "leading" transport, the second - to the right "slave". This improves visibility for the driver of the towed vehicle.
Towing of transport is carried out with the help of fixed, mainly metal, special devices. They can have a different design and several attachment points.
The simplest ones are fixed to each car in only one place. At several points, more complex structures are fixed, which allow the towed vehicle to move on a straight section of the road along the same trajectory as the towing one.
This method is rarely used, since few motorists constantly carry a bulky rigid hitch with them. Although it has a number of significant advantages and allows you to move heavier vehicles.
Limitations of this method:
- The driver must be behind the wheel of the “slave” vehicle, except for rectilinear movement, when the coupling design allows the vehicle to maintain a given trajectory.
- The distance between vehicles should not exceed four meters.
- Transportation of passengers in towed vehicles is prohibited (car body, trolleybus, bus, etc.).
- It is forbidden to transport a car with a faulty brake system, except when the mass of the towed vehicle is 50% less than the mass of the towing vehicle.
Partial loading method
Compared with the previous ones, a more complicated way of transportation.
IN this case a cargo "leading" transport and a crane are needed to help carry out the loading. Usually used for hauling cargo vehicles.
Method full loading does not apply to vehicle towing. It is a way of transporting goods, in a particular case, a vehicle.
Restrictions for partial loading:
- It is forbidden to find people, including the driver, in the towed vehicle and in the back of the towing vehicle.
- It is forbidden to transport vehicles with faulty brakes, except when the mass of the towed vehicle is half the mass of the towing vehicle.
Features of towing vehicles with automatic transmission
Many believe that it is impossible to transport such a car on a halyard.. Yes, it is undesirable, but subject to certain rules, it is possible.
Towing a vehicle with automatic transmission idle engine very difficult. Since the oil pump is not working at this point, and the transmission continues to express itself, proper cooling does not occur. As a result, overheating and failure of the unit.
When towing over long distances, it is better to use the services of a tow truck, since subsequent repairs often cost more than paying for specialized equipment.
In other cases, a number of recommendations should be taken into account:
- Pour maximum amount transmission fluid.
- Unlock the steering by turning the key in the ignition.
- Set the transmission selector to the neutral position.
- Speed limits for each car are indicated in the instructions. If it is not at hand, then consider the 50 × 50 rule. That is, at a speed of 50 km / h, you can tow a vehicle for no more than 50 km.
- Control temperature regime transmission. Make timely stops to cool down the unit.
All-wheel drive vehicles are towed exclusively by the loading method.
Towing by a car with automatic transmission of another car
- The mass of the “slave” vehicle must not exceed actual weight"leader".
- The recommended speed is no more than 40 km/h.
- Maintain a smooth ride. Don't commit sharp jerks, since under dynamic load the mass of the towed vehicle increases several times.
- Use a rigid hitch if possible.
A few words at the end
The speed limit is up to 50 km/h, and on the motorway – at least 40 km/h.
In the towed vehicle, in case of its malfunction, an emergency stop sign must be fixed on the rear of the vehicle.
On the "lead" and "slave" vehicles, either dipped headlights must be on, or fog light or daytime running lights.
Regardless of whether you need a towing vehicle or want to help a motorist in trouble, always follow the rules of the road and do not neglect the prohibitions. Good luck on the roads!
You will be interested in:
4 Comments
Do not apply overdrive. You should start moving from "2", and when the speed increases to 3,000 - 3,500, switch to "L".
Yeah, this one accelerated to 3500 in second and stuck L (first gear). Well done! Everything is correct!
You are in the section "Restrictions for partial loading" write
1) It is forbidden to find people, ... not excluding the driver, in the towed car, ... and in the body of the towing vehicle.
2) It is forbidden to transport vehicles with faulty brakes, ... except when the mass of the towed car is half the weight of the towing one.
I understand that it is forbidden to be in a towed vehicle and transportation with faulty brakes is prohibited.
I have a question:
1) Why serviceable brakes if the driver is not in the towed car?
I remade the basin 2104 for a technical service, welded a tackle with a rotating platform, I roll the basins to competitions, sometimes I evacuate when I bring an empty tackle, I throw a set of wheels on it from the roof rack so that the empty one does not jump. Team stickers are stuck on the wheelbarrow, with the mark "TECHNICIAN", they never stopped. Category B, C.
It often happens that cars break down on the road, and it becomes necessary to transport them to technical station.
Dear readers! The article talks about typical ways to solve legal issues, but each case is individual. If you want to know how solve exactly your problem- contact a consultant:
APPLICATIONS AND CALLS ARE ACCEPTED 24/7 and 7 days a week.
It's fast and FOR FREE!
There are enough various ways transportation of a broken vehicle. One of these is a hard hitch.
She has enough a large number of merits. But at the same time, there are certain disadvantages. The process of its use is regulated by law.
There are also a fairly large number of different nuances associated with the design of such a hitch.
All of them are reflected in special legislative norms. If possible, you will need to study them in advance. This is the only way to avoid fines traffic police.
Basic moments
There are a fairly large number of nuances associated with the use of a rigid hitch when transporting cars and other equipment on the road.
Some restrictions on the mass of vehicles, as well as other parameters, have been established. It is best to deal with all the nuances in advance.
preliminary study normative documents This will help you avoid all sorts of problems in the future.
The main advantage of a rigid hitch is its ease of use, as well as its relative cheapness.
In addition, self-transportation will be somewhat cheaper than calling a tow truck.
A universal rigid hitch for cars can be bought ready-made or made independently. It is only necessary to comply with certain standards.
The main questions that need to be dealt with in advance include:
- necessary terms;
- why it is installed;
- normative base.
Required terms
There are special legislative acts, which determine the use of such a hitch, as well as some other important points.
But for a correct understanding of such standards, it is worthwhile to study some concepts and terms in advance. This will avoid various complications in the future.
First of all, these concepts and terms should include:
- rigid hitch;
- towing;
- flexible hitch;
- mechanical vehicle;
- partial loading.
| « rigid hitch» | Connection of a faulty car with a serviceable one, which is transporting, using special device. Main Feature such is the lack of flexibility. That is, such a hitch is a metal structure with minimal bending ability. |
| "Towing" | The process of moving a defective vehicle with a serviceable vehicle by attaching the first to the second. It can also be carried out due to the flexible hitch. By this is meant a connection using a special cable or something similar. |
| "mechanical vehicle" | A car or other vehicle driven by a special engine |
| "Partial loading" | Sometimes situations arise when towing in the usual way for some reason becomes impossible. It implies the placement of the front wheels of a faulty power-driven vehicle on board the vehicle used for transportation. This process also implies compliance with certain standards. All of them are announced in . There are certain penalties for non-compliance with the basic rules |
That is why, before proceeding with the transportation, you will need to carefully read the nuances / features of the procedure.
What is installed for?
A rigid hitch is installed between two cars with one goal - the implementation of the procedure for transporting faulty equipment.
It is used to achieve this goal for a number of different reasons. First of all, this is precisely the many different differences from flexible.
These include:
Rigid hitch has a very large number of most different merits. But at the same time it has important disadvantage– the impossibility of transportation in a compact space.
That is why the hitch is usually used only in specialized organizations. There are many different nuances directly related to the process of using the hitch.
Normative base
A homemade rigid hitch for cars is a fairly common occurrence. The reason for this is the lack mass production such a device in factories.
That is why a handicraft hitch is often used.
But it is important to remember that its use is allowed only if it meets the requirements specified in the legislation.
On this moment fundamental is the Code of administrative offenses RF - .
This section includes the following main points:
| 20.1 | When using it, it is necessary to have drivers behind the wheel of both vehicles, except for the situation when the trajectory of the towed vehicle completely repeats the path of the towing vehicle. |
| 20.2 | If a power-driven vehicle is being towed in this way, it is not allowed to accommodate passengers (the situation is similar in the case of partial loading) |
| 20.3 | If towing is carried out, then between the two vehicles there must be a distance of a certain, established value:
|
| 20.4 | Indicates cases when it is not allowed to carry out the towing process:
|
If desired, it will be possible to purchase a folding hitch rigid type. It can be easily transported. But its cost will be somewhat more than a simple flexible one.
Before purchasing such a hitch, you should carefully read all the requirements for such a device.
And also familiarize yourself with possible options use. Only in this way it will be possible to avoid fines, as well as other difficulties.
How to make a rigid hitch for cars with your own hands
A really high-quality rigid-type hitch is relatively expensive. That is why many often have a desire to do it on their own.
First you need to carefully study the legislative acts. Since the requirements for this type of device are not numerous, but mandatory.
Key issues that need to be considered include:
- size selection;
- minimum length;
- drawing (diagram);
- car operating rules.
Sizing
The most significant point associated with a rigid hitch is the selection of a certain size.
At the same time, only legal maximum length- this is no more than 4 m. At the same time, the minimum value is not stipulated in any way in the legislation.
That is why, in fact, it can be anyone. But besides length, there are other overall parameters of this type devices.
They are determined primarily by the needs and financial capabilities of a particular buyer, car owner.
The main criterion is the convenience of transporting the hitch. Therefore, the optimal solution is to purchase a telescopic model.
Many presented on the market in the Russian Federation, in terms of their dimensions when folded, are similar to a flexible hitch.
Self-manufacturing implies the presence of certain locksmith skills, as well as the presence of welding, some other tools.
It will be necessary to choose the optimal solution in terms of material of manufacture. It is advisable to use stainless steel.
In processing, it is quite complicated, but with a skillful approach and the right constructive solution will enable safe transportation almost any mechanical vehicle. And regardless of weight.
Drawing (diagram)
On the Internet, it is enough just to find a drawing for the manufacture of a rigid hitch. The best solution would be to use professional recommendations regarding manufacturing this device.
This design includes detailed specification. The following assembly units are used for construction:
- a loop;
- eye;
- corner;
- base plate;
- plate;
- two types of profiles - 100*60*6, 100*100*6;
When assembling, it is best to focus on specialized GOSTs for welding seams, as well as other types of connections. This will make the structure as strong as possible.
Rules for operating a car
Most often, a rigid hitch is used in conditions where the use of a flexible one is simply impractical or simply impossible.
These situations today primarily include the following:
| There is poor visibility | Fog, heavy precipitation |
| Slippery road surface | Ice, other |
| Missing for some reason | Correct braking system |
| There is heavy traffic | — |
| Not enough experience | For drivers of one or both vehicles (towing and towed) |
| No second driver | To control a towed vehicle |
Other acquisition methods
The manufacturing algorithm for this type of product is rather complicated. Not every car owner has the appropriate skills and equipment to carry out this procedure.
Therefore, if necessary, the presence of such an object for towing should be considered alternative options or purchase.
Is it possible to rent
There are many various companies, which specialize specifically in the transportation of faulty vehicles.
But it is quite difficult to find an institution that provides a rigid hitch without paying for transportation services.
Video: rigid hitch for a passenger car
That is why, in the absence of the possibility of self-production, the purchase of such a device, the best solution would be to contact a special company.
This will save you from having to deal with manufacturing. It is easy to find contacts of such companies.
In this way, it will be possible to minimize the time required to search for the appropriate type of enterprise.
Where to buy in Moscow
It is possible to buy a rigid hitch in Moscow in different places. But if possible, you should avoid buying such handicraft devices.
Since they often break at the most crucial, inopportune moment. The best solution would be to purchase in a store.
So it will be possible to avoid marriage and other problems, the appearance of which during the transportation of a faulty car is completely unnecessary.
Preparing to tow a vehicle
Before proceeding directly to towing a vehicle, it will be necessary to familiarize yourself with certain rules, as well as prepare the vehicle accordingly.
The main stages of preparation include the following:
There is a fairly wide range of conditions, the fulfillment of which is strictly mandatory when using a rigid hitch. It is necessary to study them all in advance.
It often happens that cars break down on the road, and it becomes necessary to transport them to a technical station.
There are many different ways to transport a broken vehicle. One of these is a hard hitch.
It has a fairly large number of advantages. But at the same time, there are certain disadvantages. The process of its use is regulated by law.
There are also a fairly large number of different nuances associated with the design of such a hitch.
All of them are reflected in special legislative norms. If possible, you will need to study them in advance. Only in this way it will be possible to avoid fines from the traffic police.
Basic moments
There are a fairly large number of nuances associated with the use of a rigid hitch when transporting cars and other equipment on the road.
Some restrictions on the mass of vehicles, as well as other parameters, have been established. It is best to deal with all the nuances in advance.
A preliminary study of regulatory documents will make it possible to avoid a variety of problems in the future.
The main advantage of a rigid hitch is its ease of use, as well as its relative cheapness.
In addition, self-transportation will be somewhat cheaper than calling a tow truck.
A universal rigid hitch for cars can be bought ready-made or made independently. It is only necessary to comply with certain standards.
The main questions that need to be dealt with in advance include:
- necessary terms;
- why it is installed;
- normative base.
Required terms
There are special legislative acts that determine the use of such a hitch, as well as some other important points.
But for a correct understanding of such standards, it is worthwhile to study some concepts and terms in advance. This will avoid various complications in the future.
First of all, these concepts and terms should include:
- rigid hitch;
- towing;
- flexible hitch;
- mechanical vehicle;
- partial loading.
| "Hard hitch" | Connection of a faulty car with a serviceable one, which is transported, using a special device. The main feature of this is the lack of flexibility. That is, such a hitch is a metal structure with minimal bending ability. |
| "Towing" | The process of moving a defective vehicle with a serviceable vehicle by attaching the first to the second. It can also be carried out due to the flexible hitch. By this is meant a connection using a special cable or something similar. |
| "mechanical vehicle" | A car or other vehicle driven by a special engine |
| "Partial loading" | Sometimes situations arise when towing in the usual way for some reason becomes impossible. It implies the placement of the front wheels of a faulty power-driven vehicle on board the vehicle used for transportation. This process also implies compliance with certain standards. All of them are announced in the Code of Administrative Offenses. There are certain penalties for non-compliance with the basic rules |
That is why, before proceeding with the transportation, you will need to carefully read the nuances / features of the procedure.
What is installed for?
A rigid hitch is installed between two cars with one goal - the implementation of the procedure for transporting faulty equipment.
It is used to achieve this goal for a number of different reasons. First of all, this is precisely the many different differences from flexible.
These include:
Rigid hitch has a very large number of different advantages. But at the same time it has an important drawback - the impossibility of transportation in a compact space.
That is why the hitch is usually used only in specialized organizations. There are many different nuances directly related to the process of using the hitch.
Normative base
A homemade rigid hitch for cars is a fairly common occurrence. The reason for this is the lack of mass production of such a device in factories.
That is why a handicraft hitch is often used.
But it is important to remember that its use is allowed only if it meets the requirements specified in the legislation.
At the moment, it is the Code of Administrative Offenses of the Russian Federation that is fundamental - part 1 of article No. 12.21 of the Code of Administrative Offenses.
This section includes the following main points:
| 20.1 | When using it, it is necessary to have drivers behind the wheel of both vehicles, except for the situation when the trajectory of the towed vehicle completely repeats the path of the towing vehicle. |
| 20.2 | If a power-driven vehicle is being towed in this way, it is not allowed to accommodate passengers (the situation is similar in the case of partial loading) |
| 20.3 | If towing is carried out, then between the two vehicles there must be a distance of a certain, established value:
|
| 20.4 | Indicates cases when it is not allowed to carry out the towing process:
|
If desired, it will be possible to purchase a rigid type folding hitch. It can be easily transported. But its cost will be somewhat more than a simple flexible one.
Before purchasing such a hitch, you should carefully read all the requirements for such a device.
See also possible use cases. Only in this way it will be possible to avoid fines, as well as other difficulties.
How to make a rigid hitch for cars with your own hands
A really high-quality rigid-type hitch is relatively expensive. That is why many often have a desire to do it on their own.
First you need to carefully study the legislative acts. Since the requirements for this type of device are not numerous, but mandatory.
Key issues that need to be considered include:
- size selection;
- minimum length;
- drawing (diagram);
- car operating rules.
Sizing
The most significant point associated with a rigid hitch is the selection of a certain size.
At the same time, only the maximum length is established by law - it is no more than 4 m. At the same time, the minimum value is not stipulated in any way in the legislation.
That is why, in fact, it can be anyone. But besides the length, there are other overall parameters of this type of device.
They are determined primarily by the needs and financial capabilities of a particular buyer, car owner.
The main criterion is the convenience of transporting the hitch. Therefore, the optimal solution is to purchase a telescopic model.
Many presented on the market in the Russian Federation, in terms of their dimensions when folded, are similar to a flexible hitch.
Self-manufacturing implies the presence of certain locksmith skills, as well as the presence of welding and some other tools.
It will be necessary to choose the optimal solution in terms of material of manufacture. It is advisable to use stainless steel.
In processing, it is quite complicated, but with a skillful approach and the right design solution, it will provide the possibility of safe transportation of almost any mechanical vehicle. And regardless of weight.
Drawing (diagram)
On the Internet, it is enough just to find a drawing for the manufacture of a rigid hitch. The best solution would be to use professional recommendations regarding the manufacture of this device.
This design includes a detailed specification. The following assembly units are used for construction:
- a loop;
- eye;
- corner;
- base plate;
- plate;
- two types of profiles - 100*60*6, 100*100*6;
When assembling, it is best to focus on specialized GOSTs for welding seams, as well as other types of connections. This will make the structure as strong as possible.
Rules for operating a car
Most often, a rigid hitch is used in conditions where the use of a flexible one is simply impractical or simply impossible.
These situations today primarily include the following:
Other acquisition methods
The manufacturing algorithm for this type of product is rather complicated. Not every car owner has the appropriate skills and equipment to carry out this procedure.
Therefore, if it is necessary to have such an item for towing, alternative options should be considered - rent or purchase.
Is it possible to rent
There are many different companies that specialize specifically in the transportation of faulty vehicles.
But it is quite difficult to find an institution that provides a rigid hitch without paying for transportation services.
Video: rigid hitch for a passenger car That is why, in the absence of the possibility of self-production, the purchase of such a device, the best solution would be to contact a special company.
This will save you from having to deal with manufacturing. It is easy to find contacts of such companies.
In this way, it will be possible to minimize the time required to search for the appropriate type of enterprise.
Where to buy in Moscow
It is possible to buy a rigid hitch in Moscow in different places. But if possible, you should avoid buying such handicraft devices.
Since they often break at the most crucial, inopportune moment. The best solution would be to purchase in a store.
So it will be possible to avoid marriage and other problems, the appearance of which during the transportation of a faulty car is completely unnecessary.
Before proceeding directly to towing a vehicle, it will be necessary to familiarize yourself with certain rules, as well as prepare the vehicle accordingly.
The main stages of preparation include the following:
There is a fairly wide range of conditions, the fulfillment of which is strictly mandatory when using a rigid hitch. It is necessary to study them all in advance.
In case of violation, the traffic police will definitely impose a fine of a certain amount. In addition, there is a high probability of an accident, other extraordinary situations.
A rigid hitch is one way to transport a car with minimal risk.
In some cases, only this method of moving a disabled vehicle is allowed.
jurist-protect.com
Rigid hitch homemade. - logbook Mercedes-Benz Sprinter DREAM 1998 on DRIVE2
Hi all. Found some pics of the hard hitch. Also, I myself have a rigid hitch, I also post pictures silver color but for cars up to 1800kg. calculated, length 1m 80cm., Two extreme pipes enter the central one. I will do it more powerfully and I recommend it to you, and another option is to tow the sprinter and stretch the vacuum through our entire car and connect it to the towed car and work with the towed brake. Get armed. I also look forward to your feedback.
rigid hitch aist-tools.ru/catalog/avtoaksessuary/ Rigid hitch rules. test.avtoport.ua/useful/6678
Rigid coupling of pregnant MV sprinters. pikabu.ru/story/beremennyiy_avtobus_1355303 The coolest rigid hitch, the last pictures with a brake drawbar, and a cable to the pedal.
This is my rigid hitch bought by accident. The last one.
www.drive2.ru
Rigid hitch.
The rigid hitch of a towed vehicle certainly has many advantages over a conventional flexible hitch, and of course it improves the safety of towing, especially on slippery road. And cars that have malfunctions in the brake system are generally supposed to be towed only with a hard clutch. Therefore, the usefulness of this device is obvious and it is desirable for any car owner to have such a device in their garage or in the trunk. This article will discuss most of the options for devices for a rigid stack of cars, as well as the advantages and disadvantages different options. And of course, it will be considered how and from what to make this device with your own hands and using the most common tool.
The advantage of a rigid hitch over a conventional one is obvious, but its main plus is the impossibility of a towed car (even with faulty brakes) to drive into the bumper of the towing vehicle. And of course, when using a rigid hitch, the distance between the towing vehicle and the towed vehicle will remain unchanged, which significantly increases traffic safety even on slippery roads. Well, the direction of movement of the towed car will be almost the same as that of the towing vehicle.
A rigid hitch will be especially useful for those drivers who are engaged in the purchase faulty cars, towing them, then repairing and reselling them. After all, an auto-trailer costs decent money and is much cheaper and easier to purchase or make a rigid hitch.
Now Available huge selection factory devices for rigid engagement of a towed vehicle, and of course the price depends on the quality and functionality of this type of device. Prices range from about 2 thousand rubles to ten, but the price may differ not only from the quality, design and functionality, but also from the material from which the coupling device is made, as well as from the region in which it is manufactured or sold.
There are a huge number of rigid coupling designs now, and all of them may differ in some small things, but there are only two main differences. These are a single-bar hitch (tube), and a two-bar hitch (called an A-bar).
Both of course have their advantages and disadvantages. A rigid hitch with only one rod (pipe) has the easiest design to manufacture, and also has a small weight, dimensions and price, and it requires very little material for its manufacture.
Just a couple of meters of an ordinary round (or profile - square, rectangular) pipe of slightly different diameters is enough to be able to insert one pipe into another and thus it will be possible to change the length of the coupling device (rearranging the fastening bolts on the shirts), as well as to be able to reduce dimensions, that is, folding the device into the trunk of a car.
Both devices (both conventional and A-shaped triangular) are shown in the photo on the left. Of course, to make an A-shaped device, you will need twice as much material, and it will also weigh about twice as much.
But on the other hand, such a device has a number of advantages, the main of which is the great rigidity of the structure, because everyone knows that the triangle is the most rigid figure (unless, of course, the triangle is welded rigidly, and not made articulated).
Well, the coupling eyes for fastening a rigid hitch on a towed vehicle will be loaded half as much, since the load on them will be distributed in half.
Rigid hitch - do-it-yourself manufacturing.
As mentioned above, for the manufacture of both a conventional and a triangular A-shaped rigid hitch, you will need steel pipe(better profile) with a wall thickness of about 2.5-4 mm. The length of the pipes to be prepared, of course, is calculated from the total length of the future coupling device. The total length is usually from 1.6 to 4 meters - see the photo below (it makes no sense to do more than four meters, and the rules do not allow it).
For cars most best option will be two meters long. Naturally, if an A-shaped coupling is made instead of a conventional rigid coupling, then twice as much material (pipes) will be required. Also, do not forget that it is very desirable to make the coupling device collapsible, which means that the pipes will need different thicknesses in order to be able to insert them one into the other.
But pipes can also be used of the same diameter, only in the area of \u200b\u200btheir joining you will have to make adapters, again from a pipe of a slightly larger diameter (you can also use a corner, steel plates, etc. for pipe joints)
In addition, due to collapsible pipe joints (one into the other - the so-called telescopic device) and pipes, more length will be required, because each telescopic pipe joint will reduce the total length of the pipes by about 150 mm, which means these distances multiplied by the total number of joints , you need to take into account when buying a pipe and buy it with some margin in length (of course, the more joints, the greater the margin in length, but as a rule, only two or three joints are enough).
If you have enough big car(bus, SUV, or some american car With voluminous trunk) then a rigid hitch can be made not collapsible at all. It is much easier to make a non-collapsible hitch, besides, it will turn out harder and lighter.
Based on the length you want to get the finished coupling device, we cut the pipes of the required length with a grinder. Well, based on the size of most trunks stock cars, as a rule, the joints of a collapsible device with overall length only two meters will require only two.
That is, the coupling device disassembled into two halves will be only 1 meter long. So for a two-meter A-shaped device, you only need two pipes 1 meter long (1000 mm) and two slightly thicker pipes 1150 mm long., I hope this is clear.
What else should be considered when making an A-hitch? And you should decide on the main detail shown in the photo on the left. This part, indicated in the photo by a green or red arrow, is made of sheet metal of the required thickness.
If you decide to make the part indicated by the red arrow in the figure, then it is advisable to use a sheet metal thickness of at least 10 mm, since such a part has a lower structural rigidity than the part shown by the green arrow. But still, I advise you to make a detail of the top of the triangle in the form of a triangular box-shaped structure, shown by the green arrow.
And although it will take a little more time to make it, its advantages are obvious. This, as I said, is greater structural rigidity, which means that sheet metal can be used with a thickness of only 4 - 5 mm, that is, two times thinner.
But in such a design, in the area of \u200b\u200bfastening the pipes, the holes for the fingers (for hinged fastening of the pipes) should be strengthened by inserting bushings or nuts into the holes and scalding these bushings. Then the holes in the sheet metal will not break when towing cars and your rigid hitch will last a very long time.
Next, you should decide on the hitch mounts, that is, with what parts you will fasten your device directly to your car and to the towed vehicle. But keep in mind that sometimes you will have to use a rigid hitch to tow your car (after all, it can also break), but not all cars have a towbar. But all cars have an ear at the back for attaching a conventional tow rope, but there is one caveat here.
But the fact is that the attachment ear of most cars is fixed on the side, and if you fix a rigid A-hitch behind such an ear, then the towed car will move a little to the side, which is not very convenient. But after all, in an A-shaped hitch, pipes can be made hinged, that is, they can be bolted, and not welded rigidly.
In this case, one of the pipes can always be removed and your hitch turned into a regular one, and now the towed car will move strictly behind the towing vehicle, even if the fastening ear is located on the side (of course, on the towed car we fasten it by the side ear on the same side of the bumper).
Therefore, I do not recommend welding the A-shaped hitch into a rigid triangle, but only to fix the pipes pivotally. And although such a device will be inferior in rigidity to a one-piece welded triangular frame, your A-shaped rigid hitch will be universal. In addition, the hinged fastening of the pipes allows, before towing, to arrange the pipes in width (for fastening to the towed car) to almost any distance for the mounting brackets in the bumper of any towed car.
As for the manufacture of fasteners for the hitch, they are shown in the photo on the left. Fasteners should be made in the form of a bracket, which can be easily removed by removing the steel pin or bolt. Staples can be made (bent) from a steel bar with a diameter of 10 mm, then ears are welded to the ends of the bracket (you can also heat the ends of the steel bar red-hot and then rivet the ends on the anvil, making them flat, and then drill holes in them for a finger) . But now it is quite possible to find ready-made staples (lugs) on construction market.
To attach the brackets, it will still be necessary to cut strips from 5 mm sheet metal and then bend them into U-shaped elements (indicated in the photo on the left with a red arrow) which are then welded to the ends of the pipes. In these U-shaped elements (brackets), it remains to drill holes for the fastening pins of the brackets.
Much easier and faster to make U-shaped fasteners(which is indicated in the photo above by a red arrow) from a channel of suitable width (it is also possible from a rectangular pipe, which has a wall thickness of at least 5 mm). It is enough to chop the sections of the channel of the required width with a grinder and the fasteners for your rigid hitch are ready (well, buy or make brackets and fingers)
Well, it remains to paint a home-made rigid hitch, and in order to be clearly visible when towing, it is advisable to apply several red or yellow transverse stripes to the black pipes. You can simply paint the hitch a bright red, as most factory manufacturers of rigid hitches do. And finally, a few tips on towing.
Good to know about rigid hitching and towing cars.
- When towing, you should not exceed the speed of more than 50 km / h, and it is advisable to tow cars with an automatic transmission no more than forty.
- When towing, we turn on the emergency gang on cars, of course, the headlights must also be turned on.
- Some cars with an automatic transmission cannot be towed at all without a running engine (we check in the manual), since the lubrication system automatic box their gears are powered by the engine.
- When towing, it is undesirable to back up, and if necessary, through radio communication (telephone) we will coordinate all body movements with the driver of the towed vehicle. At the same time, a person standing behind and giving instructions is also desirable.
- No matter how reliable your coupling device (its fasteners) is, we must definitely duplicate the rigid coupling with the help of a soft coupling - a cable or a strong towing belt.
- When towing, we start off smoothly and brake smoothly, in general, all maneuvers should be smooth.
- When cornering, we act with a margin, that is, in the same way as when towing a trailer. What I mean is that inside the turn, the towed car (as well as the trailer) can go inside the turn more than the towing vehicle (see photo below). Of course, if there is a driver in the towed car and the steering is working properly, then he will always be able to correct the trajectory of movement.
- If you do not have a driving experience for more than a year, I advise you to refuse towing, especially in active metropolitan areas with heavy traffic.
- I also strongly advise you to refuse towing if the mass of the towed car significantly exceeds the mass of your car (I especially do not recommend it if the towed car not only exceeds the mass, but also the brakes are faulty).
- I also advise you to refuse towing if your car (the towing vehicle) has worn out brake pads and the brakes are not as grippy as they used to be. Especially if the handbrake does not work, because a working handbrake will always help to stop the car in case of brake failure.
Correct and incorrect cornering: yellow arrow - the trajectory of the car's wheels;
red arrow - the trajectory of the wheels of the trailer or towed vehicle.
Well, remember that according to the rules, there should be no one in the towed car except the driver. For more information about towing motor vehicles, I advise you to watch the video below.
I hope this material will be useful to novice drivers and not only to them, but to those who have finally decided to purchase or make a rigid hitch, good luck to everyone.
suvorov-custom.ru
Rigid hitch: dimensions and distance when towing trucks and cars. Do-it-yourself rigid hitch
Rigid hitch is universal. It is designed to tow any type of vehicle over distances. This is a very economical and convenient solution. Rigid hitch devices have a design that allows them to be mounted on almost any vehicle. In principle, the evacuation of a car that has lost the ability to move independently is a rather difficult problem. It is aggravated if a truck is to be towed.
There are two types of couplings - rigid and flexible. The choice between them depends on a number of factors, most of which relate to technical condition vehicle to be transported. For example, with a faulty brake system, only a rigid hitch can be used. It is she who will ensure that the towed vehicle follows the same track with the tractor.
Advantages of a rigid hitch
Compared to a flexible hitch, a rigid hitch has a mass undeniable merits. Firstly, there is no jerk, and the transported vehicle will not be able to approach the tractor at a dangerous distance. Secondly, there will always be a given distance between two cars. Thirdly, a rigid hitch determines the participation in the towing procedure of only one driver (driving a tractor), whose qualification level is subject to low requirements. And most importantly, this type of transportation is considered as safe as possible. It is these advantages that make it possible to use a rigid type of towing everywhere: in adverse weather and road conditions, V dense stream machines and any malfunctions. 
Transporting a car on a rigid hitch
Unlike the cable that every motorist has in the kit, a rigid hitch is a rare attribute. It is mostly used by tow trucks. But towing on a rigid hitch suggests the same optional equipment: warning triangle, first aid kit and fire extinguisher. In this case, the cable may sag until the road surface. The coupling device itself can have various designs. For example, the simplest ones involve one attachment point to each of the machines. Basically, this design has a rigid hitch for cars. More complex couplings have several points and allow you to tow the vehicle exactly on the same track with the tractor, without the slightest shift to the sides. For each type of device, different towing rules have been developed. Rigid towing allows heavy vehicles to be towed.
Preparing to tow a vehicle
If a truck is to be transported, then it is necessary to estimate its tonnage and the weight of the cargo, if any. The tractor must be able to tow the vehicle without strain and overheating. That is, its weight must exceed the weight of another car. Rigid hitch for trucks must also correspond to the total weight of the towed vehicle. The driver of the tractor should check the tension of the belts and the level of the coolant, because increased loads are coming, and the engine must be cooled efficiently. The driver of the car that will be towed also needs to prepare: disconnect the wire low voltage on the ignition coil. Immediately before setting off, both drivers need to coordinate their actions.
Transport procedure
The most difficult moment is the beginning of towing, that is, the start. The driver of the car that will be transported must make sure that the car is removed from hand brake and transmission is on. All subsequent actions belong to the driver of the tractor. It should start moving in the lowest gear. The car must move slowly and smoothly in order to pull the towed vehicle without jerking. Another important point It's gear shifting while driving. This must be done as quickly as possible. While following the route on the towed vehicle, the alarm. If it does not work, then a warning triangle must be attached to the back of the machine.
Vehicle transportation rules
The speed of the road train must not exceed 50 km/h if the vehicle is overtaken with mechanical box gears. If the car has automatic transmission, then the movement should occur no faster than 40 km / h. The evacuation of a machine with a broken steering is possible only with the help of complex rigid hitch designs. Towing is prohibited: more than one vehicle, cars with trailers and motorcycles without a sidecar. Only the driver may be in the cab of the towed vehicle. The dimensions of the rigid hitch should provide a distance between cars - no more than 4 meters. The device itself must be marked with warning signs in the form of shields or flags measuring 20 x 20 cm, with alternating red and white stripes with reflective materials. If the towed vehicle has a faulty brake system, its weight must be 2 times less than that of the tug.
How to choose a rigid hitch
To date, a huge variety of different rigid couplings is offered for sale. Before buying, first of all, you need to make sure that the device matches the tonnage of your car. Next, the design that you need is determined - simple or complex. It will depend on this whether you call a tow truck in difficult cases or use the services of motorists passing by. You also need to consider whether the device fits in the trunk of your car and how much space it takes up in it. To date, there are telescopic models that, when folded, have minimal dimensions. It’s not worth talking about the cost - it’s your wallet that “decides”. You can also make your own device. Rigid hitch, made by hand, in some cases can be the only option similar mechanisms for transportation in the trunk of your car.
Call a tow truck
Even if there is a rigid hitch in the trunk of your car, but the situation does not correspond to the above conventions and prescribed rules, it is better to call a tow truck. To do this, in your notebook must be written desired number phone. Some drivers are extremely superstitious and prefer not to do this, "so as not to wake the dashing". In vain, because traveling by vehicle is always associated with risks, and it is better to make sure in advance. For example, to pass MOT on time and always check the car before setting off. Nevertheless, good roads and successful trips to you!
