The attachment system between a trailer and a car involves a metal ball, also known as a ball joint, fixed to the rear of the towing vehicle. For conventional boat trailers, this ball has a diameter of 50 mm. This is the standard for trailers up to 3500 kg load.
The ball attaches to the rear of the car via a gooseneck on the fitting, a solid bar placed perpendicular to the road and firmly attached to the vehicle. There are several types of gooseneck attachment: removable, with or without tools, or retractable.
What's the advantage of easily dismantling your ball?
You might be tempted to drive around with your towball still attached to the back of your car. The law doesn't forbid it. But be careful, because in the event of an accident, if a vehicle hits you from behind and your towball causes damage to its vehicle, insurance companies may consider both drivers 50% at fault. Check with your insurer before choosing your towbar.
Retractable balls
Retractable goosenecks are very practical. They can be retracted under the bumper without the need for tools. However, these devices are only available on cars fitted with towbars from the outset, or on top-of-the-range adaptable towbars. This is often an option offered by the manufacturer when the vehicle is sold.
Removable balls with tools
Tool-operated goosenecks are the most common and least expensive. The ball remains in place, but can be removed by removing two bolts. This is quite a constraint, especially if you need to use your trailer often. On the other hand, it is well suited to occasional use, such as annual launching and retrieving.
Tool-free ball disassembly
If dismantled without tools, the gooseneck is locked to the bar by a mechanical mechanism. A keyed lock prevents theft of the gooseneck. Assembly and disassembly take less than 30 seconds. This practical operation can be carried out several times a season.
Where to find your carriage?
You don't need any special skills to install a towbar on the rear of your car. You'll find the right hitch for your vehicle, with different ball attachment systems, in stores or on specialist websites. Instructions for installation and connection are also included with the hitch. So get your tools...!
How to choose your wiring harness?
Depending on your towing needs, there are 2 types of electrical harnesses:
The 7-pin harness is the most economical. It's the ideal solution for towing boat trailers. The 7-pin harness transmits basic lighting information: turn signals, night lights, stop lights and fog lights.
The 13-pin harness provides 12V power to the trailer, even when the towing vehicle is stationary. This is useful for powering a caravan. For cars equipped with this original harness, adapters are available for connecting a trailer with a 7-pin male plug.
