RVM Australia has sought clarification of the correct height for trailer couplings following enquiries from members.
While there is no specific requirement for the trailer coupling height of trailers up to 3,500kg ATM in the Australian Design Rules and Australian Standards, there is a requirement for the tow vehicle's tow ball height detailed in AS 4177.
With the tow vehicle loaded to GVM (Gross Vehicle Mass), the towbar/ball on the towing vehicle must be capable of being mounted (adjusted) to any one height within the range 350mm to 460mm (from the ground to the centre of the towball).
This height requirement is addressed in Australian Standard AS 4177.1, Caravan and light trailer towing components, Part 1: Towbars and towing brackets, Clause 4.2.2 Height of towball, and Figure 1.
Australian Design Rule ADR 62 refers to Australian Standard AS 4177.1 when outlining tow bar requirements for vehicles with a maximum rated towing capacity of up to 3,500kg ATM.
Recommendation
When members are designing a trailer up to 3,500kg ATM rated capacity, the design should consider the requirements of the tow vehicle tow ball height outlined in AS 4177.1 (350mm-460mm above ground) and therefore allow a reasonable tow ball coupling height when fitted to the trailer chassis.
Members should design their products to perform within this height requirement.
Australian Standard AS 4177.1, together with other relevant Australian Standards, are available to RVM Australia members through the Member Portal on the RVM Australia website. Read more>
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For further information, please contact RVM Australia's Technical Advisors:
