Transporting cars, especially those that have lost the ability to drive independently, has always been a logistical challenge. A conventional tow truck can be expensive, and towing on a rigid or flexible clutch is prohibited or dangerous if the chassis is damaged. In this situation, a specialized assistance comes to the rescue. partial-loaderThis allows the vehicle to be safely transported to the repair or parking area.
Such structures are often called rod-carry or tow-platformThey are a single-axle or biaxial trailer with an inclined platform and a winch mechanism. Their main difference from full carriages is that the rear wheels of the car remain on the ground, and the front axle (or rear, depending on the type of drive) rises to the platform. This significantly reduces the total weight of the structure, which allows you to use conventional passenger cars or crossovers that do not require a category for towing. "E" in the driver's license subject to weight restrictions.
The use of such equipment is becoming more popular among car service owners, car dealers and individuals involved in the restoration of equipment. The correct choice of model and compliance with the rules of loading guarantee the safety of both the transported car and the tractor. In this article, we will discuss in detail the design features, selection criteria and legal aspects of operation. trailers.
Design features and principle of work
The basis of the design is a frame made of durable steel, which perceives the main loads during movement and loading. It's fixed on the frame. tilt-platformoften having a corrugated surface or a coating of special plywood to prevent wheels from slipping. The platform angle is a critical parameter: the smaller it is, the easier it is to tighten the car with low ground clearance without damaging the bumper or body kit elements.
The key element of the system is a winch, which can be electric or hydraulic. Electric swabs are more common in the budget segment and are powered by the tractor battery, while hydraulic ones provide greater power and smoothness of the course, but require a hydraulic system on the car. For the purpose of fixing the vehicle, tie-belt with a ratchet mechanism and special stops under the wheels.
⚠️ Note: When using an electric swab be sure to monitor the battery charge of the tractor. Long-term operation of the winch on the silenced engine can lead to a deep discharge of the battery and the inability to start a tractor car.
An important safety element is the braking system. If the total weight of the trailer with a load exceeds 750 kg, the presence of a braking system becomes a mandatory requirement of the legislation. Brakes can be inertial (fired when braking the tractor) or electric, which requires the installation of an additional controller in the cabin of the car.
Difference between inertial and electric brakes
Inertial brakes are mechanically connected to the trailer's breather and are triggered when the brake pedal of the tractor car is pressed due to inertia. Electric brakes require a separate wire to be connected to the control unit in the cabin and allow you to adjust the braking force, which is especially useful on slippery roads or when transporting heavy loads.
Advantages over full tow trucks and towing
The main advantage partial-loading It's the universality of the tractor. You don’t need a heavy truck or a specialized tow truck with a manipulator. A conventional SUV or pickup truck with a suitable traction coupling device (TCC) is enough. This makes this method one of the most affordable ways to transport faulty cars over medium and long distances.
In addition, the cost of the trailer itself is much lower than the price of a full tow truck. Maintenance of such equipment is also cheaper: less wheels, simpler design, no complex hydraulic lifting systems platform (in simple models). Catalan It takes up less storage space and can be placed vertically or on special racks, which is important for owners of small garages or services.
- 🚗 The possibility of transporting cars with a locked gearbox or damaged wheels of one axle.
- 💰 Significant budget savings compared to calling a commercial tow truck.
- 🛠️ Simplicity of design and high repairability in the garage.
- 📉 Less fuel consumption of the tractor compared to transportation by carriage or tow truck.
However, it is worth remembering that this method is not suitable for all cars. Machines with damaged rear suspension (if dipped in front) or low clearance may require the use of additional free wheel carts. Also. full-body the coupling shall not exceed the values permitted by the manufacturer of the tractor.
Criteria for selecting a trailer for partial loading
When choosing equipment, first of all, you need to pay attention to the load capacity. The total weight of the car and the trailer itself should not exceed the technically permissible weight specified in the documents for the tractor. For passenger cars, models with a payload capacity of up to 2 tons are usually sufficient, but SUVs and light commercial vans will require a margin of safety.
The length of the platform is the second important parameter. A platform that is too short will create a large angle of fracture of the car frame when loading, which can damage the bumper or sills. The optimal length allows the wheels to fully drive on an inclined plane before the bumper touches the ground. Modern models often have pull-out Or the possibility of increasing the angle of inclination.
The type of coupling device also plays a role. The 50mm diameter ball is the standard for passenger trailers, but heavy models may require a reinforced version. Pay attention to the presence safety-line or chains that will hold the trailer in case of separation from the farcop. The quality of the winch and the length of the cable (optimally from 15 meters) directly affect the ease of operation.
| Parameter | Light class (up to 1500 kg) | Middle class (up to 2,500 kg) | Heavy class (up to 3500 kg) |
|---|---|---|---|
| Number of axles | 1 | 1 or 2 | 2 |
| Brake system | Not necessarily. | inertia | Inertial/electrical |
| Winch power | 1.5 - 2 t | 3 - 4 t | 5 t and above |
| Porcelain type | Class A | Class A/F | Reinforced F |
Safe loading and fixing rules
The process of loading the car requires strict adherence to the algorithm of actions. First, the trailer is securely fixed with a brake shoe to exclude its spontaneous movement. The winch cable is stretched to the point and is attached to the regular towing pads of the car. Use of cables wound to suspension or steering components, forbidden.
☑️ Checklist before loading
The car should be tightened smoothly. The operator must control the position of the wheels relative to the edges of the platform. If the car has a low clearance, you can put a board under the front bumper or use additional ramps to increase the radius of entry. Once the front wheels are on the platform, you need to fix the car.
For fixation, at least two tie belts are used, which are attached to the wheels or special hinges on the trailer frame. The belts must be tightened so as to exclude any mobility of the car, but not to damage the discs or body elements. Rear wheels. They should also be fixed with shoes.
⚠️ Warning: Never attach tidy belts to plastic body parts, bumpers or exhaust system parts. Use only metal frame eyelets or special wheel mounts.
Legal aspects and requirements of the SDA
Operation of trailer with partial loading is regulated by traffic rules and technical regulations. First of all, the trailer must be registered with the traffic police, have a state registration plate and a valid inspection card (if its age exceeds 3 years). The weight of the trailer together with the load must not exceed the weight of the equipped tractor car by more than 0.55 times (for cars without category "E" in the rights, although the rules may vary depending on the date of receipt of the rights and the specific category).
The speed limit for a trailer on public roads is limited. In populated areas, the speed should not exceed 60 km / h, and on country roads - 70 km / h (for cars with a trailer). Exceeding speed with such a coupling significantly increases the risk of loss of control, especially in side winds or on wet roads.
It is also important to have a category in the driver's license. If the permissible maximum mass of the trailer does not exceed 750 kg, category "B" shall suffice. If the mass of the trailer is more than 750 kg, but the total mass of the coupling does not exceed 3500 kg, category "B" is also suitable. Otherwise, a category will be required. "BE".
Compliance with the speed limit and the correct category of rights is the key to the absence of fines and safety on the road. Remember that the braking distance of the coupling is much longer than that of a single car.
Trailer maintenance and care
For a long and safe service of trailers, regular maintenance is necessary. After each trip, especially in winter or after rain, the platform and frame should be washed, removing road reagents and dirt that cause corrosion. The movable parts of the winch and the coupling device require periodic lubrication.
Once a year or every 10,000 km of run, it is recommended to conduct an audit of the bearing components of the wheels. If a backlash or hum is detected, the bearings must be replaced. Also checked the state of the electrical wiring: contacts in the sockets are often oxidized, which leads to idle stop lights or turn signals, which is a traffic violation.
The belts and the winch cable are consumables. Their condition should be monitored visually before each loading. Abrasion, tearing of threads or stretching of the cable is a signal for immediate replacement. The use of damaged fixing elements can cause the car to fall from the platform on the move.
- 🧼 Wash the platform after each operation to prevent corrosion.
- 🔧 Lubrication of rubbing details of the winch and farcope.
- 🔌 Checking the contacts of the electric connector circuit.
- 🔩 Control of tightening of wheel nuts and condition of tires.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
Can I tow a car with automatic transmission on a trailer with partial loading?
Yes, it is one of the safest ways. In partial loading, if the driving wheels (for most cars with automatic transmissions it is the front) are on the platform and are torn from the ground, the gearbox is not lubricated, but does not rotate, which prevents breakage. However, if the driving wheels remain on the ground and the engine is silenced, the automatic transmission pump does not lubricate, which can damage the box during prolonged towing. In this case, it is better to use carts under the wheels or fully load the car on the carriage.
Do I need to register a homemade trailer?
Yes, any trailer operated on public roads must be registered with the traffic police and have a license plate. To register a homemade trailer, you will need to undergo a certification procedure in a testing laboratory and obtain a design safety certificate (SBKTS), which is often economically inexpedient than buying a certified product.
What is the maximum speed with such a trailer?
According to the traffic rules of the Russian Federation, for cars with a trailer, the maximum speed outside settlements is 70 km / h, on highways - 90 km / h (unless other restrictions are established by signs). In settlements - no more than 60 km / h. Exceeding these speeds is dangerous due to the possible effect of "wagging" the trailer.
Can I use a trailer without brakes?
The use of a trailer without brakes is permitted only if its total mass does not exceed 750 kg. If the mass of the loaded trailer is greater, the presence of a braking system is mandatory. Operation of a heavy trailer without brakes is not only illegal, but also extremely dangerous, as it significantly increases the braking distance of the coupling.