What is the name of the trailer hook: we understand the terms trailer hitch, towbar and types of fastenings

What is a trailer hook and why is it needed?

When it comes to transporting goods by car, most drivers are faced with the need to install special towing device. But what is the correct name for this “trailer hook”? In colloquial speech you can hear dozens of options: from “towbar” to “drawbar”. However, strictly defined terms are used in official documents and technical regulations.

The main function of this device is to provide a reliable connection between the vehicle and the trailer, whether car trailer for summer cottage, cargo trailer or even caravan. Without a properly installed and certified fastening, operating a trailer is not only prohibited by traffic regulations, but also extremely dangerous: the risk of the trailer tearing off at speed can lead to serious accidents. That’s why it’s so important to understand the terminology and technical nuances.

In this article we will look in detail at:

• 📌 Official names hook for trailer in traffic rules and GOST
• 🔧 Types of towing devices (TSU) and their design features
• ⚖️ Legal requirements for installation and operation
• 🚗 How to choose a trailer hitch for a specific car model

Official name: trailer hitch or tow bar?

The most common question among car owners is: how is it right? TSU or tow bar? The answer is simple: both terms are correct, but they are used in different contexts.

TSU (traction hitch) - this is the official name enshrined in:

• 📄 GOST R 41.55-2005 (Uniform provisions concerning the approval of mechanical coupling devices)
• 📄 UNECE Regulation No. 55
• 📄 Technical Regulations of the Customs Union TR CU 018/2011

This term is used in documents for certification, registration of changes in the design of the car and when undergoing technical inspection.

Towbar (from German Fahrzeugkupplung - "vehicle hitch") is a colloquial name that came from Europe. It is widely used in:

• 🛒 Auto parts catalogs and stores
• 🗣️ Colloquial speech of mechanics and car owners
• 📺 Video instructions and blogs

It is interesting that in some CIS countries (for example, in Ukraine) instead of “towbar” they may say “drawbar", but this is already outdated jargon.

Types of towing devices: comparison table

Not all trailer hitches are the same - they differ in design, load capacity and mounting method. The choice depends on the type of trailer, vehicle model and expected loads. Below is a comparative table of the main types.

Type of trailer hitch	Load capacity	Design Features	For which cars	Average price, ₽
Flanged hitch	up to 3.5 t	Attached to the side members via flanges, requires drilling of the body. The most reliable option.	SUVs, pickups, commercial vehicles	15 000–40 000
Removable trailer hitch	up to 2.5 t	The ball head is removable when not in use. Convenient for passenger cars.	Sedans, hatchbacks, crossovers	12 000–25 000
Tow hitch with horizontal loop	up to 2 t	Used for light trailers. The loop is secured with a cotter pin.	Light duty trailers, motorcycle trailers	8 000–18 000
Tow hitch for motorhomes	up to 3.5 t	Reinforced design with dampers to dampen vibrations.	Campers, caravans, motorhomes	30 000–70 000
Electric trailer hitch	up to 3.5 t	Includes a connector for connecting trailer warning lights.	All types of cars	18 000–45 000

It is important to understand that the load capacity of the trailer hitch must exceed the maximum weight of the trailer by at least 20%. For example, if your trailer weighs 1.5 tons, the trailer hitch should be rated for 1.8 to 2 tons. This rule is stated in Traffic rules (clause 23.3) and it cannot be ignored.

Legal requirements: what the law says

The installation and operation of a towbar is regulated by several regulations. Violation of these requirements may lead not only to a fine, but also to refusal to register a trailer or deregistration of a car.

Basic legal nuances:

• 📋 Certification: The trailer hitch must have certificate of conformity GOST R 41.55-2005. Without it, the device is considered illegal.
• 🔧 Installation: Installation must be carried out in a certified car service center. Self-installation requires follow-up technical expertise.
• 📝 Registering changes: After installation, you need to make changes to STS (vehicle registration certificate) through the traffic police.
• ⚡ Electrical equipment: The trailer light connection must be in accordance with GOST R 41.91-99 (rules for connecting electrical wiring).

⚠️ Attention: If the vehicle is installed without a certificate or is not included in the STS, the traffic police inspector has the right to issue a fine according to Art. 12.5 Code of Administrative Offenses of the Russian Federation (control of a vehicle with malfunctions) - 500 rubles. However, the real problem is not the fine, but the fact that in the event of an accident, the insurance company may recognize the installation of a trailer hitch illegal design modification and refuse payment.

The TSU legalization process includes the following steps:

1. Purchasing a certified trailer hitch (check availability mark of conformity on the packaging).
2. Installation in a car service with delivery certificate of completion of work.
3. Walkthrough technical expertise in an accredited laboratory.
4. Submitting documents to the traffic police to make changes to the STS.

What happens if you don’t register your vehicle with the traffic police?

Without registering changes in the design of the car, you will not be able to pass a technical inspection. In addition, when selling a car, the new owner may seek compensation through the court for illegal changes if they lead to problems with registration.

How to choose a trailer hitch for your car

The choice of towbar depends on three key factors: car model, trailer type and expected loads. Let's look at each of them in detail.

1. Car compatible

Not every trailer hitch is suitable for every vehicle. Manufacturers indicate list of compatible models in the instructions. For example:

• 🚗 For Volkswagen Passat B6 suitable trailer hitch Bosal 828-003 or Westfalia 31356.
• 🚙 For Toyota RAV4 (2019+) recommended Thule 934001.
• 🚐 For Ford Transit reinforced models are needed, for example, Brink 2425.

Important: Before purchasing, check whether the trailer hitch is blocked license plate or reversing lights. In some cases, additional lighting will be required.

2. Trailer type

Different trailers require different types of hitch:

• 🏕️ Light trailers (dacha, for ATVs) - a removable trailer hitch with a load capacity of up to 1.5 tons is sufficient.
• 🚛 Truck trailers — flanged trailer hitch with a lifting capacity of 2 tons.
• 🏠 Caravans/motorhomes — Towing hitch with dampers and reinforced fastening.

3. Additional options

Modern trailer hitches can be equipped with:

• 🔌 Connector for electrical wiring (7 or 13 contacts).
• 🔒 Anti-theft lock (relevant for removable models).
• 🛠️ Protective cover for ball pin.

Installation of trailer hitch: step-by-step instructions

It is best to leave the installation of the towbar to a professional, but if you decide to do it yourself, follow these instructions. Remember: Incorrect installation may result in tearing off the trailer while moving!

Required tools:

• 🔧 Set of sockets and keys (usually 10–19 mm).
• 🔨 Drill and metal drills (if drilling is required).
• 🔩 Torque wrench (for tightening bolts to the required torque).
• 📏 Ruler or caliper (to check alignment).
• 🔌 Multimeter (for checking electrical wiring).

Step by step process:

1. Preparing the car: Raise the machine on a lift or pit. Remove the rear bumper (if required). Clean the mounting points from dirt and rust.
2. Marking: Attach the hitch to the side members and mark the holes. Make sure that the coupling ball is in the center of the car (permissible deviation is no more than 5 mm).
3. Drilling: Drill holes according to the markings. Treat edges to protect against corrosion. anti-corrosion composition.
4. Tow hitch mount: Install the device on the bolts, tighten them with a torque wrench (the tightening torque is indicated in the instructions, usually 80–120 Nm).
5. Electrical connection: Connect the trailer hitch connector to the vehicle's standard wiring. This may require matching block (if the car uses a multiplex network).
6. Check: Make sure the hitch ball does not wobble and all trailer lights work in sync with the vehicle.

⚠️ Attention: If your vehicle is equipped with ESP or ABS, after installing the trailer hitch, it may be necessary flashing the control unit. Ignoring this step will result in false alarms of security systems!

Frequent mistakes when choosing and operating a trailer hitch

Even experienced car owners sometimes make mistakes that can be costly—both literally and figuratively. Here are the most common ones:

1. Inadequate load capacity

Many people buy trailer hitches “with a reserve”, believing that the more powerful, the better. However Exceeding the load capacity of the trailer hitch over the maximum permissible weight of the trailer (specified in the PTS) will lead to refusal of registration. For example, if the PTS states “trailer weight without brakes is 750 kg,” then the trailer hitch by 2 tons will be excessive and may raise questions from the traffic police inspector.

2. Ignoring electronics

Connecting electrical wiring “in a hurry” is a common cause of breakdowns. For example:

• 💡Usage Scotch locks instead of soldering can lead to short circuit.
• 🔌 Connecting a 13-pin plug to a 7-pin socket without an adapter will cause broken lights or brake lights.
• 📶 Absence matching block on cars with CAN bus will result in errors on the dashboard.

3. Neglect of maintenance

The trailer hitch requires regular maintenance:

• 🛢️ Ball pin lubrication (use lithium grease, not graphite).
• 🔩 Check bolt tightening every 5,000 km.
• 🔍 Inspect welds for cracks (especially after off-road driving).

Consequences: A rusty or loose tow ball may break off when moving, which will lead to the loss of the trailer.

4. Incorrect alignment

If the tow ball is displaced relative to the longitudinal axis of the vehicle by more than 5 mm, this will lead to:

• 🚗 "Driving" the trailer to the side when moving.
• 🔄 Accelerated wear trailer wheel bearings.
• ⚠️ Risk of tipping over during sudden maneuvers.

FAQ: Answers to frequently asked questions

🔹 Do I need to register the vehicle with the traffic police if I installed it myself?

Yes, definitely. According to Resolution of the Government of the Russian Federation No. 413, any changes in the design of the car (and the installation of a trailer hitch is one of them) must be registered. To do this you need:

1. Pass technical expertise in an accredited laboratory.
2. Get inspection protocol.
3. Submit documents to the traffic police to make changes to the STS.

Without this, the TSU will be considered illegal, and the car will not pass inspection.

🔹 Is it possible to drive with a trailer hitch if the electrics are not connected?

No. According to Traffic regulations (clause 19.1), the trailer must be equipped with working side lights, brake lights and direction indicators. If the electrics are not connected, the traffic police inspector has the right to:

• 📋 Issue a fine 500 rubles (Article 12.5 of the Administrative Code).
• 🚫 Prohibit further movement with a trailer.

Exception: if you are transporting the trailer over a short distance (for example, within a garage), but even then it is recommended to use portable light signals.

🔹 Which TSU is better: removable or stationary?

The choice depends on the frequency of use:

Criterion	Removable trailer hitch	Stationary trailer hitch
Convenience	✅ Easy to remove, does not spoil the appearance	❌ Constantly sticks out, can cling
Reliability	⚠️ Requires regular checking of fasteners	✅ More durable, suitable for heavy trailers
Cost	💰 20–30% more expensive	💰 Cheaper

For rare use (for example, country trips 2-3 times a year) optimal removable trailer hitch. If you haul a trailer every day, it's better to choose stationary.

🔹 Is it possible to install a trailer hitch on a car with an automatic transmission?

Yes, but with reservations:

• ✅ Most modern Automatic transmission (for example, ZF 8HP or Aisin TF-80SC) are designed for towing trailers weighing up to 2–2.5 tons.
• ⚠️ In some models (for example, Nissan with CVT) towing is prohibited or limited to 750 kg.
• 📄 Always check the Towing section of your vehicle's owner's manual!

When towing a heavy trailer with automatic transmission:

• 🔄 Use the mode Tow/Haul (if any).
• 🛑 Avoid sudden acceleration and long climbs - this overheats the transmission.

🔹 What is the fine for not having a certificate for a vehicle?

The lack of a certificate in itself is not punishable, but it entails other problems:

• 📋 When stopped by a traffic police inspector, you won't issue a fine, but can be directed to re-inspection.
• ⚖️ In case of an accident, the insurance company can refuse payment, citing illegal design changes.
• 🚫 When selling a car, the new owner can demand removal of the trailer hitch or price reduction.

To avoid problems, always ask the seller:

• 📄 Certificate of Conformity (GOST R 41.55-2005).
• 🛠️ Warranty card with the store's seal.