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177. 牽引ヒッチ
牽引ヒッチ（trailer hitch / towing coupling）は、トレーラー、キャラバン、その他の被牽引車両を安全に接続するため車両へ取り付ける装置です。乗用車では牽引ボールが一般的で、大型車では別の機械式連結装置を使う場合があります。
ヒッチと牽引車はトレーラーと荷重に適合している必要があります。車両の承認牽引能力、連結装置の限界、トレーラー質量、適用される免許、ブレーキ、安全要件を守ります。
What is a tow hitch?
A tow hitch is a mechanical coupling fitted to a vehicle so that a trailer, caravan or other towable vehicle can be attached.
What is a tow ball?
A tow ball is the ball-shaped part of a common passenger-car towing system onto which the trailer coupling is secured.
Can every car have a tow hitch?
No. The vehicle must be approved or technically suitable for the coupling and intended towing load. Some vehicles have limited or no approved towing capacity.
Does fitting a tow hitch automatically mean you may tow any trailer?
No. You must respect the towing vehicle's approved towing capacity, the hitch rating, trailer limits and the driving-licence rules applying to the combination.
What is the maximum load on a tow hitch?
The permitted load depends on the vehicle and coupling. The coupling normally has specified maximum towing and vertical-load ratings that must not be exceeded.
What is nose weight?
Nose weight is the downward vertical force that a trailer applies to the towing vehicle through the coupling. It must remain within the limits specified for the vehicle, hitch and trailer.
Can a tow hitch be removable?
Yes. Tow hitches may be fixed, detachable or retractable. Detachable systems must be correctly installed and securely locked before towing.
Can a tow hitch be used for a bicycle carrier?
Yes, if the hitch and carrier are designed for that purpose. The permitted vertical load and vehicle manufacturer's restrictions must still be respected.
Does a trailer need a secondary safety connection?
Depending on the trailer's braking system and local law, a safety cable, chain or breakaway system may be required in addition to the main coupling.
What should you check before towing?
Check that the coupling is fully engaged and locked, the safety connection is correctly attached, the electrical connector works and the trailer lights and brakes operate correctly where required.
