Coupling Head Operating Rules
The coupling head is one of the important elements in a car trailer. That is why it is very important to monitor its condition, and if necessary, replace it.
All coupling heads and locking devices have restrictions on the maximum permissible load. The load is vertical and traction. On car trailers with a total authorized weight of up to 750 kg, coupling devices with a traction load of up to 750 kg and a vertical load of up to 75 kg are usually installed. For each specific trailer model, the manufacturer sets the maximum permissible load for the coupling device, it can be found in the trailer instruction manual or on the nameplate where the trailer VIN number is stamped. The normal vertical load for trailers with a gross weight of up to 750 kg is considered to be a load of 10-25 kg. The vertical load cannot be negative, since the coupling head is not designed for such work and the trailer can unhook. Therefore, every time you load a trailer , be sure to check the vertical load and adjust it by changing the location of the load in the trailer. All coupling heads and locking devices such as best hitch lock must be lubricated with lithol or solid oil. An exception is the coupling heads equipped with the function of stabilizing the exchange rate stability - they must not be lubricated. The grease on the hitch and towbar must always be clean, free of sand and dirt. If grease is present, it will work like sandpaper, which will lead to premature wear of the coupling mechanism and the towbar. To protect the lubricant from pollution, when the car is used without a trailer, a special rubber cap is put on the towbar ball. This cap will also protect your clothes from greasing when you get things out of the trunk of your car. When do I need to change the coupling head and towbar ball? Like any device, the coupling head and towbar ball wear out sooner or later and need to be changed in a timely manner. The rate of wear depends on the intensity of use and compliance with the rules of operation of the trailer . The main sign that the time has come to change the coupling head or towbar is the appearance of play in the coupling of the coupling head and towbar. According to GOST, all towbar balls in our country have a diameter of 50 mm, if its diameter becomes less than 49.6 mm, then this indicates that it is time to change the coupling ball. If the diameter of the ball is normal, then the coupling head has worn out and you need to change it. Also, the reason for changing the coupling head may be a trailer getting into an accident or cracks and defects appearing on the locking device. |