Traction hitch (hitch)- a device designed for towing cargo and light trailers vehicle (tractor). The device is used for both light trailers and trucks.
If we talk about who came up with such a name as a towbar and who invented this device, then there is no reliable answer. It is only known that in Germany the more general designation of the word Anhängerkupplung is used. The word towbar is not mentioned in almost any source. This meaning is found only occasionally to refer to the working part of the railway.
In the future, the word acquired a slightly different character, devices for attaching luggage to a cart driven by a horse. Based on a first look at this mechanism, then this word most likely consists of two words, such as: riding and head. That's probably why this word was called that without much understanding and special imagination. Often this can explain another alternative to writing a hitch. 
Previously, on trucks and various SUVs of the UAZ brand, it was used as a towbar towing hook, whose function was to hold the trailer. A similar design was installed only on frame-type cars. This device also had its drawbacks, for example, a backlash was formed, due to which shock loads increased during braking and starting to move. As a result, the device quickly broke down (there was a disconnection of the road train during movement). The coupling procedure was not very easy, it was necessary to put traction device behind so that the hook is opposite the trailer tongue.
In passenger cars, a towbar is coupling ball(a mating head for the hitch is attached to the drawbar). The main application of such balls is towing light trailers up to 3500 kg. Over time, after the introduction of UNECE Regulation No. 55, it was possible to use a zero-backlash type towbar. 
Later on trucks began to apply euroloop. The advantage of this design is that when the driver backs up, then, thanks to a special catcher on the drawbar, the trailer enters the towbar itself and orients itself in the center. After that everything happens in automatic mode: interlocked and fixed. Thanks to the kingpin, the drawbar is firmly held in the towbar. A kingpin is a rod that moves in a vertical direction, it is a rotary axis car wheel. Thanks to the design without gaps and the fixed mechanism, the structure becomes more durable and reliable, and in the presence of a catcher, it makes life easier for the driver.
Also, in some cases, a so-called socket is installed to install the trailer's electrical equipment with a plug. The trailer usually has parking lights, brake lights and turn signals, and they need a power supply.
Tow bar installation- a rather laborious process and requires skillful hands and appropriate qualifications. It's best to trust this work professionals. If you intend to install the towbar yourself, be prepared for the fact that you need to remove rear bumper, drill the missing holes if necessary and it is possible to use electric welding. Will most likely need viewing hole and knowledge of electricians to connect the towbar socket. Difficulties in installing the device can be introduced by a tuned bumper (body kit) and, since they are located just at the alleged location of the hook. Remember that poor-quality installation can lead to an accident on the road!
In our country, many people use their car not only to maximum comfort to move from one point to another, but also in order to transport various goods that have a relatively small mass and not too large dimensions. Such motorists are well aware of what a towbar is in a car, since they are simple, but very useful device are regularly and successfully used. For those who are just about to join the ranks of motorists, it will probably be quite useful to find out in more detail what exactly this design is, what types of it are, what are their advantages and disadvantages.
The towbar is a specialized towing device (TSU) used for towing light trailers. As for its design, it can be different, but in the vast majority of cases it includes two main elements: a cross member and a ball assembly. The cross member is attached to a special hole located in the frame or body of the vehicle. The ball joint is usually fixed to the beam.
The main and, perhaps, the only scope of towbars is, as mentioned above, towing light trailers. But, some drivers actually use it for a different, "hidden" purpose. They believe that in the event of a rear impact, this device is able to somehow protect the car. In reality, this belief is deeply erroneous: practice shows that in such cases, the body of a car into which another car “drives” is damaged to a much greater extent than if there was no towbar. By the way, in some countries the rules traffic it is generally forbidden to use towbars without trailers.
The main types of towbars
The main criterion on the basis of which all towbars are classified is the type of attachment, so each of these hitches belongs to one of the following categories:
- fixed;
- Removable;
- Flanged.
Fixed are those towbars that are rigidly attached to the body or frame of the car and which are simply impossible to remove. Removable towbars, as you might guess from their name, can be removed, and this procedure itself does not pose any particular problem. It is noteworthy that in terms of their technical and performance characteristics they are practically indistinguishable from non-removable ones. It should be noted that some manufacturing companies complete their off-road pickups with such towbars.
Flanged towbars can be considered one of the varieties of removable ones. They are fixed on special platforms located in rear parts vehicles, using bolted connections. Unlike the "classic" removable towbars, they have increased strength and are intended for transporting heavy and bulky goods.
There is another fairly common classification of towbars. It is based on the type of ball, and according to it, all TSUs are classified into the following categories:
- Category "A";
- Category "H";
- Categories "F" and "G";
- Category V.
The most common are towbars of category "A". Their distinctive feature is that the balls can be easily and quickly removed if necessary: this requires only unscrewing a couple of bolts. Category “A” towbars are characterized by practicality and reliability, their balls can withstand loads up to 150 kilograms and can be used to transport trailers weighing up to one and a half tons.
Towbars of category "H" are, in fact, a budget option towbars category "A". They are somewhat inferior in reliability, but practically do not differ in their characteristics. As for the categories "F" and "G", the towbars belonging to them differ only in the adjustment features. In "F" products, the balls can be attached to the base in two different positions, which makes it possible to easily change the level of the TSU. For “G” towbars, adjustment is possible only when at least six bolts are present in the mounting structure of their balls. It should be noted that such tow hitches have a fairly serious carrying capacity (up to three and a half tons) and are most often mounted on large SUVs.
Recently, towbars with BMA balls, which are very easily and quickly removed, are becoming more common. In addition, there is another type of TSU that retracts into the bumper. However, they can only be installed on American-made vehicles that have special mountings for them.
What is a towbar socket
As you know, trailers that are transported using towbars are constituent parts Vehicle. Accordingly, they have their own parking lights and turn signs. For normal operation, they must be connected to the onboard electrical system car. This connection is made using special connectors for the tow hitch, which in everyday life motorists often call "sockets for towbars".
A towbar is a special towing device, which is designed to expand the capabilities of the car regarding the transportation of goods. It is he who allows you to attach a trailer to the car. If the coupling device is installed correctly and efficiently, then it will not only ensure the reliability of the load, but also keep a neat appearance car. It's time to understand what a towbar is for, and also what it is.
There are a very large number of drivers who naively believe that a tow bar can save a car from serious damage when hit from behind. In fact, this judgment is rather erroneous, because in many countries it is not for nothing that driving with a hitch without a trailer is prohibited. And everything is very simple, the towbar is attached to fairly strong parts of the body, which creates all the conditions in order to cause more damage to the car. Therefore, all coupling devices are divided into the following varieties:
- end
- Welded
- Conditionally removable(meaning those that are installed by means of bolts)
- Removable(fixed with a special lock)
The third option is the most common, so it should be considered separately and in as much detail as possible. Almost any car from the factory has special mounts for installing such a towbar in the rear of the body. This type coupling devices is one of the most reliable and provides a completely one-piece connection between the trailer and the car.
But, despite all its advantages, it is still recommended to use it on machines in which the frame is the supporting part.
Nevertheless, if we turn to safety precautions, then the towbar must be removable. Since it is quite difficult to dismantle and install a conditionally removable one. In addition, it must be taken into account that the machines different brands have completely different attachment points for coupling devices, which means that they must be selected individually.
Any coupling device must have a special socket, which is designed to connect the dimensions of the trailer, its direction indicators and brake lights. Without these lights, trailer operation is prohibited.
The towbar is responsible for the safety of the cargo and the reliability of the trailer, which means that rather stringent requirements are imposed on it regarding manufacturing. First of all, a 3D model is created, which passes all the relevant tests under the strict supervision of government departments.
If the model passes the test, then it gets into mass production. This process is based on the use of very precise laser cutting machines and special shot blasting of the metal part.
The entire production process is subjected to strict control at almost every stage.
How to choose the right hitch
We have already said that the most important parameter when choosing is your car, which already has ready-made attachment points. However, there are such quantities as vertical and horizontal load. To calculate them, you need to know these characteristics:
- Max load weight
- Automobile model
- Weight of the trailer
- The composition of the car
- Type of hitch (tow hitch)
In no case should you exceed permissible loads, as this can cause damage not only hitch, but also the car body . Therefore, the selection of these parameters must be taken very seriously. Such a malfunction is especially dangerous while driving, as it can cause an accident.
Tow bar- a towing device designed for towing trailers and light trailers. The design of the towbar consists of two elements and it is not universal, since it is provided specifically for each brand of car. The first element is a cross member, which is installed in special holes in the car body or frame, and the second is a ball assembly attached to the beam.
Why do you need a hitch?
Most often, the towbar is installed by those who either lead an active lifestyle and travel a lot, or those who often use their car for transportation oversized cargo. The presence of a towbar allows you to tow car a residential trailer for family out-of-town trips, as well as a cargo trailer with one or two axles.
Some drivers install a towbar ostensibly for additional protection from a rear impact, mistakenly believing that in the event of an accident, the towbar will take on most of the impact force. However, in many countries, driving with a towbar without a trailer is prohibited. Just because the body of the car, on the contrary, will be damaged much more if the hit is on the towbar, and not on the bumper. Therefore, the towbar must be removable - so that while driving without a trailer, you do not endanger the car.
How to choose a hitch?
Now the towbar is manufactured and installed by many companies. And it is not at all necessary to go to a car shop: this can be done without leaving your home - on the Internet. The biggest difficulty in choosing a towbar is to correctly assess the load. Usually, the catalogs next to the tow bar indicate the minimum and Weight Limit that the device can withstand.
And one more piece of advice: you only need to install factory-made towbars that have been tested and certified, because a handicraft design may not withstand the load on the road, and a detached trailer is a serious danger on the road.
Trailers are widely used all over the world. The difference in designs is amazing. But what if the owner has several trailers, or even road trains, and each of them requires the installation of a special hitch hook? - The solution to this issue is carried out by acquiring a universal design, which is called a removable towbar.
Removable towbar
In a relationship towing device (hitch) motorists are divided into three groups:
- The first, when buying a car, do not think about the tow hitch. But then some drivers regret the unrealized factory option.
- The second, showing interest in the towbar, lay on it big hopes. Even if they don't have a trailer yet.
- And still others, knowing about the appointment and technical capabilities towbar, they may not buy a car with a trailer they don’t like. This applies to cars with decent traction characteristics families of SUVs or specialized vehicles.
Operation features
For many, trailer is a hook for towing a trailer. The simpler it is, the cheaper, and therefore more profitable. But this is a primitive position because:
- The classic trailer frame configuration involves pairing the car with only certain trailers. In this case, the clearance of both vehicles plays a decisive role. If the trailer is not level with the horizontal plane, then the weight distribution will suffer. It is not always possible to use slings or slings to keep the load centered. Therefore, a different clearance due to an unsuitable hook will create a problem:
- Overweight on the hitch assembly will weaken the steering.
- Roll to tailgate will pull up rear axle auto, which is bad for a rear wheel drive car.
A removable towbar solves the issue, as it can be in two positions relative to the clearance of the coupling unit: normal and inverted.
Types of towbars
Drawbars are classified according to load indicators:
- Small, withstanding up to 1.5 tons. Lightweight option.
- Medium up to 2.5 tons. Option for SUV and minibuses.
- Large up to 3.5 tons. Suitable for trucks and heavy SUVs.
The type of construction is clear from the name:
- Removable hitch. Some European models. Fasten into place.
- Conditionally removable. Equipped with a hinge, with which it hides under the bumper.
- Removable. Presented with a removable classic hook with a ball or an American style slide bracket.
In addition to types "A", "F" and "E", there are other standardized samples:
- "H" is almost identical to "A", but is rarely seen in Russia.
- "G" is similar to "F", but with six mounting holes.
- "V" has a load capacity of up to 2.5 tons.
- "BMA" is a luxury option for expensive foreign cars.
Towbars without beams stand out in a separate group. As a rule, they are produced for cars. brand Jeep and are fixed in regular holes under the bumper. Either the towbar receiver or the hook can stick out.
Differences between European and American towbars
In fact, the removable device has more than enough subtleties. Distinguish between American and European removable towbars. The uniqueness of American designs is versatility. This is a kind of constructor:
- Ball of any diameter.
- Locking pin options.
- Electrician.
- Lowering or raising the bracket.
American style frames have a 5x5 cm or 2x2 inch square receiver. Brackets are inserted into this receiver-pipe. The most popular bracket with a decrease of 5 cm when flipped 180 degrees relative to the longitudinal axis becomes straight. Virtually no downgrade. If the tractor is 15-18 cm taller than the trailer, then a 6-inch bracket will do, which, when flipped, will align with another trailer equipped, for example, with 16 inch wheels. The removable towbar receiver has other purposes:
The American removable towbar has an increased traction load of up to 2.5 tons and a vertical load of up to 300 kg.
European trailers lack this versatility. Their hallmark is a fixed ball joint. The hook with the ball is always at the same height, and the diameter of the ball is unchanged - 50 mm. Between themselves, they differ in the type of fastening of the ball to the beam:
The advantages of European removable devices include a complete set:
- Hook.
- Cap.
- Socket box.
- Electrical socket with wires.
- Fasteners.
How to choose a removable hitch
In order to do this, you need to understand how to carry a trailer. And it should stand as smoothly as a car, that is, have a similar clearance. Any roll increases the load on the ball assembly, which can lead to the loss of the trailer. The universal selection formula looks like this:
- Install the trailer with the same height from the ground at the rear point and at the hitch point.
- Measure the distance from the ground to the upper wall of the towbar receiver and from the ground to the hitch, which is attached to the trailer tongue.
- The difference between the two distances is necessary for bracket selection.
Secondly, to determine the subject of the cargo, or rather, with the carrying capacity towing device. The price is based on this parameter.
The third point is the frequency of use:
- For permanent operation a non-detachable design is required.
- For rare - removable.
Removable hitch manufacturers
Manufacturers, using technological equipment in the manufacture of TSU, have stepped very far. The end result is visible on complex tests and metal tests. Among the leaders in production are:
Among European removable hooks a particularly high-tech premium towbar from the Belgian company Bossal Power stands out. A decorative chrome plate, which is fixed on top of the beam, is equipped with an illuminated "Bossal Power" sign that is connected to parking lights. The design is complemented by a quick-release hook. It is equipped with a lock with a key, which, when turned, releases the locking handle. After turning the handle, the hitch pops down. Return to the place is accompanied by the same actions in reverse order.
Among American models, towbars of the domestic company "redBTR" with a standard understatement of 2 inches are popular. Black anti-corrosion coating provides a decent service life. Versatility allows the use of balls of different diameters and extensions. This simple design which has potential.
Removable tow bar do it yourself
If the motorist has enough confidence in own forces, required material and tools, then the manufacture of the trailer will be easy and intuitive. The main thing in this matter is stiffening ribs or so-called scarves.
- For the American version, you need a square pipe. In the absence of such, it is necessary to weld two corners 5 cm wide with each other. If there is a beam with a receiver installed on the car, the process of creating a removable towbar is simple. Just need to provide a hole for the finger. The second element is the L-shaped tire. It is sometimes problematic to bend it, but a transverse file at the bend will solve the problem. The bent bar must be drilled for the installation of the ball and welded to the square profile. Then process the seams with a grinder. The third and final stage is to weld triangular scarves into the corners. Only 4 pieces. A masterful single welding seam will eliminate unnecessary stripping with a grinder. The primer is made at your discretion, the color scheme is preferably black.
- Creating a European towbar is much more difficult. Since the beam or platform homemade device attached to the frame of the machine, it is necessary to draw up a design drawing. Established holes - this is why it is worth pushing. Two vertical crossbars are welded to the drilled platform of given dimensions - the middle link of the towbar. Ball hook sold separately. Aligning the hook and crossbars will indicate the drilling locations for the two bolts in these crossbars. So, a removable European towbar acquires recognizable features:
- A platform or platform connected to a frame.
- Middle in the form of crossbars with two holes.
- A hook is placed between it and fixed.
Video on making a do-it-yourself hook for a removable towbar
Half the job is done. It remains fasteners for sockets, painting and testing. One tip: when dismantling the hook, the crossbars should not stick out.
Each hole and bump is reflected by the weight of the trailer exponentially in hits on the towbar and bolted connections. Riding on Russian roads convinces the driver of the need for an additional margin of safety.
