'Shocklink' towbars

[DJP]

I am due to take delivery of a double cab Isuzu Rodeo as replacement for my Kia Sorento. I need to have a towbar fitted, but I recall reading somewhere that this type of vehicle would benefit from a 'shocklink towbar' to reduce stress on the A frame. Would anybody know if this is just a recommendation or is it essential, as I have seen various pick-ups towing large vans recently and they just seem to have a normal straightforward towbar fitted. My local towbar fitter has never heard of a shocklinked towbar!

Any comments would be welcome.

DJP

 

[cokey1970]

Hi DJP.

If you put 'shocklink towbars' into Google, it brings back loads of information. I've pasted this from a site called Towbars & Trailers...

The Shocklink is recommended as an essential accessory when towing with 4x4 vehicles and moves in a vertical plane and uses coil springs with rubber inserts to absorb the socks transmitted down the vehicle towbar, resulting in a smoother ride, relieving driver and passenger fatigue, and reducing potential damage to the caravan or trailer.

Shocklink Mark II is designed to fit onto either the Dixon-Bate Adjustable Coupling or, by using the Adapter Plate, to towbars which have a 4 bolt fixing. It is pre-drilled with coupling holes to BS Au 114a which will not only accept 50mm towballs, universal couplings or towing jaws, but also most of the stabilisers currently available on the market. Shocklink Mark II is designed for vehicles up to 2800kgs Gross Vehicle Weight towing a maximum of 3500kgs Gross Trailer Weight.

Hope this is of some help to you.

 

[Ron_5097685]

I had a DB shocklink fitted to my Jeep Cherokee towing a Lunar Clubman. They are really meant for 4X4 with cart spring rear suspension, I now tow with a Frontera and the problem I had with vibration on the Jeep is not present with the Frontera. You may also like to be made aware of the following, they are very very expensive. Also you have to be very careful with the nose weight to prevent the links springs from bottoming and inducing a vibration.