CHASSIS MODIFICATIONS 2-25 E UROCARGO Euro 4/5 Installing a towing device 2.6 Installing a towing device 2.6.1 General specifications Without prior authorisation, the installation of a tow-hook is permissible only on those cross members which are intended for that use and on those vehicles which IVECO has intended for towing a trailer. The subsequent installation of a tow hook in vehicles for which the installation of a tow hook was not originally contemplated, must be authorised by IVECO.
In addition to the permissible towing weight, the authorisation will specify all other possible specifications that are to be adhered to such as the use of the vehicle, the transmission ratio, the type of braking system as well as possible specifications concerning reinforcements to be applied to the rear cross member or the necessity for employing specially intended cross members. In trailers with one or more axles close together (centre axle trailers), considering the stress resulting in particular from the vertical dynamic load to which the rear cross member is subjected, the instructions given in point 2.6.4 must be taken into account.
The tow hook must be appropriate for the permitted loads and of the type approved by national laws. ! Since tow hooks are important to vehicle driving safety (in some countries they must be specifically certified) they must not be modified in any way. When mounting the tow hook to the cross member, the specifications of the hook manufacturer as well as the limitations imposed by current standards - such as minimum space required for the brake and electrical connections the maximum distance between the swivel hook axis and the rear edge of the body - must be respected. This may vary as a function of national standards. In the European Community a maximum of 420 mm can be reached.
If higher values are required, check the EC Directive for the conditions to be able to accomplish this. Should the fixing holes in the flange of the coupling hook not match the holes in the rear towing crossmember of the vehicle then in certain cases re-drilling may be authorised in specific cases after applying appropriate reinforcements. It is the bodybuilder’s responsibility to ensure that no part of the body or structure creates a hazard or impairs the maneuverability of the trailer. The trailer drawbar must be free to move unobstructed. Installing a towing device Print 603.93.431 Base - January 2008