Why are drawbar towing packages fitted off line?
Unlike with articulation, drawbar combinations are not generally manufactured to a given standard and as a result the towing hitch position can vary dramatically, hence few chassis’ have the hitch fitted on line by the manufacturer. As for the air and electrical services to the rear, these are generally fitted by the chassis manufacturer, however on occasion they are retrospectively added as part of the hitch installation if they are not available as a standard option or possibly if the chassis is 'stock' or used.
Drawbar combinations tend to be very application specific and as such the geometry has to cater for many different combinations of chassis’ and numerous pieces of ancillary equipment, which are often situated in the area required by the towing hitch and trailer towing frame. Working out the best geometry can be very complicated and result in a quite challenging installation if the combination is to operate successfully, as it not only has to comply with the appropriate ‘Construction and Use’ regulations, but it must also be practical and user friendly.
As part of our customer service, we will gladly take responsibility for the overall vehicle geometry, liase with all parties involved and recommend the most appropriate specification for the application.