Tow Bars in Cars

A tow bar, also called a tow hitch, is a towing device that is bolted to the chassis of the vehicle and used to tow things such as trailers and horseboxes. Most tow bars take the form of a ball tow bar, which allows articulation and swiveling of the trailer that is being towed. Businesses often fit this component to their vehicles to increase the volume of the loads they can carry with an attached trailer. All vehicles have maximum towing weight limits and these limits can be found within the vehicle specifications. Towing limits for tow hitches is vehicle specific and usually these specifications will offer a braked and unbraked towing maximum. The unbraked towing maximum load is what the vehicle is allowed to tow without brakes being incorporated into the trailer. Braked towing requires the trailer to have a braking system to offer additional stopping power.

Tow Bar Design

Tow bars are designed to take heavy loads and need to be secured to the chassis of the vehicle. Another feature prominent in this component is the incorporation of an electrical socket so that power can be fed to the brake and indicator lights of the trailer. Tow bars are also vehicle-specific, so inputting the exact year model and make of your car is important for the correct part to be supplied. Usually this component needs to be fitted by a tow bar fitment centre or a mechanic.

Tow Bars are Not Expensive

Purchasing a tow hitch is not an expensive exercise and once it is fitted it will add value to the vehicle. Another aspect that needs to be considered is the safety aspect. A tow hitch protects the back of the vehicle against damage through being rear-ended by another vehicle.