Tow Ball Spacer

[Morganic]

I want to bring the towball out a bit further on my towbar so the Alko stablizer hitch is clear.It is an Alko towball. Is it okay to use a 13mm spacer. I tow a T@B - 800 kgs.

 

[Lutz]

In view of the fact that you are towing only a light caravan, I personally would not have any reservations with a 13mm spacer so long as it's made of suitable material. I'd make sure that high tensile bolts are used, though.

 

[Morganic]

Many thanks. Halfords do an alloy spacer-would this be okay or should I get a steel one?

 

[Lutz]

I'd have more peace of mind with a steel spacer.

 

[gary]

I have no issues with an alloy spacer, I use a 15mm cast one myself so the Alko hitch does not catch the bumper protector.

 

[Lutz]

An alloy one may be quite OK depending how it's made, a steel one will definitely be OK, that's all I wanted to say.

 

[rob_jax]

Hi,

I'm with Lutz on this one - but my concern is different - unprotected aluminium in contact with steel is prone to galvanic corrosion.

Two dissimilar metals in tight contact + water = shorted out battery

And it's much worse if the water is a bit salty - like in winter.

If you are happy with the alloy spacer from a strength basis, make sure that the aluminium is very well protected (paint) from direct contact with the tow-bar, tow-ball and the through bolts.

Steel may / will go rusty but it won't corrode as quickly as an aluminium / steel pair can.

Robert

 

[WatsonJohnG]

In these days of regulations its worth checking the towbar manufacturers type approval stipulations.

Some don't allow them at all

 

[WatsonJohnG]

This is what Witter say fot the Freelander

EC Type Approved: Yes Tow Ball: Flange 2 Bolt

EC Type No: 01-0735 S Value (kg): 140

Max Towing Capacity (kg): D Value (kN): 10.00

Max Coupling Packer (mm): 25 Cycle Carrier: ZX108 or ZX109

Max Drop Plate Size (mm): 0 Spare Wheel Location:

 

[Morganic]

This is what Witter say fot the Freelander

EC Type Approved: Yes Tow Ball: Flange 2 Bolt

EC Type No: 01-0735 S Value (kg): 140

Max Towing Capacity (kg): D Value (kN): 10.00

Max Coupling Packer (mm): 25 Cycle Carrier: ZX108 or ZX109

Max Drop Plate Size (mm): 0 Spare Wheel Location:

Many thanks to all who responded. Think I will get a steel spacer.