Comprehensive Guide to Towbar Tongues

 

Towbar tongues are essential components of a towing system, connecting your tow vehicle to the trailer. They come in different sizes, weight capacities, and designs to suit various towing needs. Choosing the right towbar tongue ensures safe and efficient towing, particularly when managing heavy loads or rough terrain.

  • What are the different types of towbar tongues available?

    There are several types to consider:

     

    1. Adjustable Towbar Tongues: These offer flexibility with varying drop heights, such as the Adjustable Towbar Ball Mount 4500kg, which suits both 50mm and 70mm tow balls.

     

    2. Fixed Towbar Tongues: These non-adjustable tongues are designed for specific drop heights. An example is the Tow Bar Tongue 50mm Ball 6″ Drop 3.65T Rated, ideal for vehicles needing a larger drop.

     

    3. Forged Towbar Tongues: Built for strength, these are perfect for heavy-duty towing, like the Tow Bar Tongue 6″ Drop Suit 70mm Ball Forged.

     

    4. Recovery Hitches: Useful in off-road recovery situations, such as the Square Towbar Recovery Hitch Zinc with Rated D-Shackle.

  • How do I choose the right towbar tongue for my setup?

    When selecting a towbar tongue, consider the following:

     

    • Drop Height: Measure the difference between your vehicle’s hitch and the trailer’s coupler. For instance, the Tow Bar Tongue 50mm Ball 4″ Drop 3.65T Rated is ideal for moderate drop heights, while larger drops may require the Tow Bar Tongue 50mm Ball 6″ Drop 3.65T Rated.

     

    • Weight Capacity: Make sure the tongue can handle the trailer’s load. Heavy-duty options like the Adjustable Towbar Ball Mount 3500kg Heavy Duty Bolted provide durability for high-weight loads.

     

    • Tow Ball Size: Depending on your trailer’s coupler, you may need either a 50mm or 70mm tow ball. For example, the Tow Bar Tongue 4″ Drop Suit 70mm Ball Forged is suited for trailers requiring a 70mm ball. • Shank Length: The shank length should fit securely into your vehicle’s hitch receiver. For example, the Tow Bar Tongue 50mm Ball 2″ Drop 322mm Shank has a longer shank suitable for certain setups.

  • How do I determine the correct drop height for my towbar tongue?

    To find the right drop height, measure the difference between your vehicle’s hitch and the trailer’s coupler. Select a towbar tongue with a matching drop to keep the trailer level.

  • Can I use the same towbar tongue for different trailers?

    You can use the same tongue if your trailers have similar coupler heights and weight capacities. However, varying trailer heights or weights may require different towbar tongues for safe towing.

  • What is the benefit of using an adjustable towbar tongue?

    Adjustable towbar tongues provide flexibility, allowing you to change the drop height based on the trailer you’re towing. This is especially useful when towing trailers with different heights.