Glossary towbars
- Universal HGV tow bars
- Vehicle specific wiring kit
- Assembly time
- Installation
- Tow ball
- Approvals / Registration
- D-value
- Year of manufacture
- Automatic System
- Detachable towbar
- EC Type Approval
- Vertical load (Nose load)
- Towing capacity (Payload)
Towing capacity (Payload)
The towing capacity, also known as the payload, is the weight of load you can legally tow. This information can be found in your vehicle handbook. If you are unsure about the tow load of your vehicle speak to your local Westfalia Fitting Partner.
Vertical load (Nose load)
The vertical load, often referred to as the nose load, is the term used for the load, weight or mass applied by the coupling head of the trailer or caravan onto the towball / towbar attached to the towing vehicle. This value is defined by the vehicle manufacturer and should not be exceeded. Check the manufacturers handbook for the vertical load for your vehicle.
EC Type Approval
All Westfalia towbars are manufactured in accordance with Directive 94/20/EC. Directive 94/20/EC was introduced as part of the ECWVTA (European Community Whole Vehicle Type Approval) to provide a common standard throughout the European Community.
Detachable towbar
A detachable towbar can be removed from the vehicle when it’s not in use, maintaining the aesthetic look of the car.
Automatic System
With detachable systems, the towball is only to be attached when necessary so that it does not to detract from the vehicle’s appearance. Automatic systems are renowned for being easy to use. To attach the ball bar, it need only be inserted into the receiving lug and it locks in automatically. When the ball bar is not attached, it can be stored in the boot of your vehicle, for example. Another advantage of this system is that you can secure the ball bar using the integrated lock.
Year of manufacture
If no year of manufacture is specified, then the vehicle type is valid for use from the date of its appearance until the present or until it is discontinued.