Proposal for a COUNCIL DIRECTIVE relating to the mechanical coupling devices of motor vehicles and their trailers and their attachment to these vehicles
Date: 1992-03-30
Institutions: European Commission
Subjects: European standard, approximation of laws, commercial vehicle, marketing standard, motor vehicle, technical standard

COMMISSION  OF  THE  EUROPEAN  COMMUNITIES 

COM(92)  108  final  - SYN  408 

Brussels,  30 March  1992 

Proposal  for  a 

COUNCIL  DIRECTIVE 

relating  to the mechanical  coupling  devices  of motor  vehicles 

and their  trailers  and their  attachment  to these  vehicles 

(presented  by  the  Commission) 

-  2 -

EXPLANATORY  MEMORANDUM 

BACKGROUND 

1.  The  implementation  of  the  EEC  type-approval  procedure  for  motor 
vehicles  and  their  trailers  covered  by  Council  Directive 
70/156/EEC  of  6  February  1970(1)  comprises  especially  the 
adoption  of  the  last  separate  Directives  for  passenger  cars 
(tyres,  masses  and  dimensions,  safety  glazing).  For  this  reason 
the  Commission  submitted  proposals  in  January  1990.  Furthermore, 
the  framework Directive  assigns  the adoption of  special  provisions 
for goods vehicles, buses and  coaches. To take care of the  precise 
and  comprehensive  content  of  these  provisions  it  is  deemed 
Community 
opportune 
requirements,  inter  alia,  masses  and  dimensions  (items  2.2,  2.4, 
2.6  and  2.8  of Annex  II), speed  limiters  and  external  projections 
of  cabs  (item  12.2  and  12.4  of  Annex  II)  as  special  safety 
provisions  for  goods  vehicles,  buses  and  coaches.  The  Commission 
submitted  the relevant  draft Directives  in April  1991. With  regard 
to  mechanical  coupling  devices  (item  11  of  Annex  II)  harmonized 
provisions  have  to  be  established  to  guarantee  compatibility  and 
interchangeability  of motor vehicles  and trailers. 

particular 

harmonized 

adopt 

to 

in 

2.  The  European  Parliament  adopted,  on  the  13  March  1984,  a 
resolution  on  the  introduction  of  a  programme  of  Community 
measures  to  promote  road  safety(2)#  anci  ©n  the  18  February  1986 
another  resolution  on  common measures  to  reduce  road  accidents  as 
part  of  the  Community's  programme  for  Road  Safety  Year  1986(3). 
The  Council  and  the  Commission  are  requested  by  these  resolutions 
to  take  the  necessary  measures  with  the  aim  of  promoting  road 
safety. 

3.  In view  of  the  entry  into  force of  the  Single European  Act  and  of 
the  aim  of  a  single  internal  market  to be  achieved  by  the  end  of 
1992, it is now urgent  that the remaining measures that  are  needed 
to complete EEC type-approval  should be  adopted. 

4.  The  legal/administrative  procedure  put  forward  in  the  enacting 
terms  of  these  proposals  does  not  depart  from  that  laid  down  in 
framework  Directive  70/156/EEC  that  is  currently  in  force  except 
as  regards  the  procedure  for  adaptation  to  technical  progress, 
whereby  the Regulatory  Committee has been replaced by the  Advisory 
Committee.  Indeed,  the  Commission  intends to  apply  the  provisions 
of  the  Single  Act,  which  provide  for  the  delegation  of  power  to 
the Commission  in order to proceed with this task. 

5.  With  regard  to  the  other  options,  such  as  that  of  the  method  of 
harmonization  (total  or  optional),  the  Commission  is  still 
applying  the  solutions  currently  in force. 

However, the  Commission  does  not  intend  to  neglect  this  important 
matter; considering  that the total harmonization will be  essential 
in  order  to  fully  achieve  the  large  single  market,  it  intends  to 
put  forward  relevant  proposals  when  the  framework  Directive 
70/156/EEC  is next  amended. 

(1) O J N oL  42, 23.2.1970, p.  1. 
(2) OJ No C 104, 16.4.1984, p. 38. 
(3) OJ No C 68, 24.3.1986, p. 35. 

-  3 -

II.  REASONS  FOR AND  CONTENT  OF  THE  PROPOSAL  OF  THE DIRECTIVE  RELATING  TO 
MECHANICAL COUPLING DEVICES FOR MOTOR VEHICLES AND THEIR  TRAILERS 

For  the  completion  of  the  EEC  whole  vehicle  type-approval  of  certain 
categories  of  motor  vehicles  and  trailers  the  framework  Directive 
70/156/EEC  (item  11. of Annex  II) requires  special  provisions  for  the 
connections  between  drawing  vehicles  and  trailers  and  semi-trailers. 
The  mechanical  coupling  devices, e.g.  drawbar  couplings,  fifth  wheel 
couplings  and  ball  couplings  all  have  to  meet  these  special 
requirements  if they  are fitted to road vehicles. 

In  view  of  the  single  internal  market  to  be  achieved  by  the  end  of 
1992  it  is  necessary  to  facilitate  the  interchangeability  of  motor 
vehicles  and  trailers  within  the  territory  of  the  Community  and  to 
harmonize  the  technical  requirements  of  mechanical  coupling  devices. 
The  harmonization  of  these provisions  can contribute  to  a decrease  in 
the  mileage  of  road  vehicles  and  lead  to  a  reduction  in  fuel 
consumption, noise  and pollutant emissions. 

The  draft  proposal  of  this  Council  Directive  is based  mainly  on  the 
ECE  (Economic  Commission  for Europe  of the United  Nations)  Regulation 
No  55  with  respect  to  strength  requirements  and  test  procedures. 
Furthermore  international  ISO-standards  have  been  taken  into  account 
for  uniform  dimensions  of  mechanical  coupling  systems  connecting  the 
road  vehicles  to  guarantee  the  compatibility  of  the  vehicle  coupling 
devices  throughout  the  Community.  For  this  reason  it  is  strongly 
recommended  that  only  certain  classes  of  coupling  devices  with 
specified  dimensions  should  be  used  in  all  Member  States,  but  in 
exceptional  cases  EEC  type-approvals  may  be  granted  for  special 
coupling devices designed  for special purposes and used  exclusively  on 
the national territory  of  a single Member State. 

-  4 -

Proposal  for a 
COUNCIL  DIRECTIVE 

relating  to the mechanical  coupling  devices of motor  vehicles 
and their trailers  and their  attachment  to these  vehicles 

THE COUNCIL OF THE EUROPEAN  COMMUNITIES, 

Having  regard  to  the  Treaty  establishing  the  European  Economic  Community, 
and  in particular Article  100a thereof, 

Having regard to the proposal  from the  Commission^), 

In cooperation with  the European  Parliament(2)f 

Having regard  to the opinion of  the Economic  and  Social  Committee(^), 

Whereas  it  is  important  to  adopt  measures  with  the  aim  of  progressively 
establishing  the  internal  market  over  a  period  expiring  on  31  December 
1992;  whereas  the  internal  market  shall  comprise  an  area without  internal 
frontiers  in  which  the  free  movement  of  goods,  persons,  services  and 
capital  is ensured; 

Whereas  the  technical  requirements  which  motor  vehicles  and  their  trailers 
must  satisfy  pursuant  to  national  laws  relate,  inter  alia,  to  the 
mechanical  couplings of  such vehicles; 

Whereas these requirements  differ  from one Member State to another; whereas 
it  is  therefore  necessary  that  all  Member  States  adopt  the  same 
requirements  either  in  addition  to  or  in  place  of  their  existing  rules  in 
order  to  allow,  in  particular,  the  EEC  type-approval  procedure  which  was 
the  subject  of  Council  Directive  70/156/EEC  of  6  February  1970  on  the 
approximation  of the  laws of Member  States relating to the type-approval  of 
motor  vehicles  and  their  trailers(*),  as  last  amended  by  Directive 
87/403/EEC(5), to be  implemented; 

Whereas,  with  the  view  of  improving  road  safety  and  facilitating  the 
interchangeability  of motor  vehicles and trailers  in international  traffic, 
it  is considered  important  that  all  kinds  of  vehicles  forming  a  road  train 
or  being  an  articulated  vehicle  shall  be  equipped  with  standardized  and 
harmonized  mechanical  coupling  systems; 

Whereas  it  is  desirable  to  follow  the  technical  requirements  of  the  ECE 
(Economic  Commission  for  Europe  of  the  United  Nations)  Regulation  No  55 
relating  to  the  uniform  provisions  concerning  mechanical  coupling 
components  of combinations  of vehicles; Regulation  No  55  is annexed  to  the 
Agreement  of  20 March  1958 concerning  the adoption of uniform  conditions  of 
approval  and  reciprocal  recognition  of  approval  for motor  vehicle  equipment 
and parts; 

(1)  OJ No C 
(2)  OJ No C 
(3)  OJ No C 
(4)  OJ No L 42, 23.2, 1970, p. 1. 
(5)  OJ No L 220, 8.8.1987, p. 44. 

-  5 -

Whereas  mainly  international  standards  (ISO)  have  been  taken  into 
consideration  for  uniform  dimensions  of  mechanical  coupling  systems  to 
ensure  interchangeability  of the  individual  vehicles  forming  road  trains  or 
articulated  vehicles  and  to  guarantee  a  free  traffic  within  the  Member 
States; 

Whereas  in  all  cases  where  the  Council  confers  powers  upon  the  Commission 
to  implement  rules  laid  down  in  the motor  vehicle  sector  it  is  appropriate 
to provide  for  a procedure  of prior  consultation  between the Commission  and 
the Member  States within  an advisory  committee, 

HAS ADOPTED  THIS DIRECTIVE: 

For the purpose of  this Directive: 

Article  1 

- 

"vehicle"  means  any  motor  vehicle  intended  for  use  on  the  road,  with 
speed  exceeding  25km/h,  and  its  trailers,  with  the  exception  of 
vehicles  which  run  on  rails  and  of  agricultural  tractors  and 
machinery; 

"mechanical  coupling  type"  means  a  mechanical  coupling  device  for 
which  type-approval  of  a component within the meaning  of Article  9a of 
Directive  70/156/EEC may  be  granted. 

Member  States may  not refuse: 

Article 2 

- 

EEC  type-approval  or  national  type-approval  for  a  vehicle,  or  refuse 
or  prohibit  the  sale,  registration,  entry  into  service  or  use  of  a 
vehicle  on  grounds  relating  to  its  optional  equipment  with  mechanical 
coupling  devices, 

EEC  component  type-approval  or  national  component  type-approval  for  a 
mechanical  coupling,  or  prohibit  the  sale  or  use  of  a  mechanical 
coupling  device, 

if the requirements  of the Annexes  are  satisfied. 

Article  3 

With  effect  from  1 October  1995  Member  States  may  prohibit  the  first  entry 
into  service  of  vehicles  of  which  the  mechanical  coupling  devices  do  not 
comply with  the provisions  of this Directive. 

Article  4 

Any  amendments  necessary  to  adapt  the  requirements  of  the  Annexes  to 
technical  progress  shall  be  adopted  by  the  Commission  in  accordance  with 
the procedure  laid down  in Article  5. 

The Commission  shall be  assisted  by the committee established  under  Article 
12 of Directive  70/156/EEC. 

Article 5 

- 6 -

The representative of the Commission  shall submit to the committee  a draft 
of  the measures  to be taken.  The  committee  shall  deliver  its  opinion  on 
the draft within a time-limit which the Chairman may lay down according to 
the urgency of the matter, if necessary by taking a vote. 

The  opinion  shall  be  recorded  in  the  minutes;  in  addition,  each  Member 
State  shall  have  the  right  to  ask  to  have  its  position  recorded  in  the 
minutes. 

The  Commission  shall  take  the utmost  account  of the  opinion  delivered  by 
the  committee.  It  shall  inform  the  committee  of  the manner  in which  its 
opinion has been taken into account. 

Article 6 

Member  States  shall  bring  into  force  the  laws,  regulations  and 
administrative  provisions  necessary  to  comply  with  this  Directive  by 
30 June 1993. They shall forthwith inform the Commission thereof. 

When Member  States adopt these provisions, these shall contain a reference 
to this Directive or shall be accompanied by such reference at the time of 
their  official  publication.  The  procedure  for  such  reference  shall  be 
adopted by Member States. 

This Directive is addressed to the Member States. 

Article 7 

Done at Brussels, 

For the Council 

The President 

1. 

•1.1. 

1.2. 

-  7 -

ANNEX I 

SCOPE 

This Directive  applies to the mechanical  coupling  devices  for 
motor vehicles  and their trailers  and the attachment  of  these 
devices to the road vehicles, as described  in Article  1. of  this 
Directive. 

This Directive  states the requirements which mechanical  coupling 
devices intended  for use between combinations  of vehicles  must 
satisfy  in order to: 

ensure compatiblity when combining  motor vehicles  with 
different  types of trailer 

-  ensure the safe coupling together of the vehicles  under  all 

conditions of use 

-  ensure  safe procedures  for coupling  and  uncoupling 

1.3. 

The coupling  devices  are classified  according  to type, and 
distinguishing  between: 

-  standard coupling  devices 

-  non-standard  coupling  devices 

The classification  is as follows: 

1.3.1. 

Class A:  Coupling balls and towing  brackets 
(see Annex V, Section  1) 

1.3.1.1. 

Class A50-1 to A50-3  : standard coupling balls  50 and  flange 

type towing  brackets 

1.3.1.2. 

Class A50-X: Non-standard  coupling balls  50 and 

towing  brackets 

1.3.2. 

Class B50-X: Non-standard  coupling heads  50 

(see Annex V, Section  2) 

1.3.3. 

Class C: Automatic  drawbar  couplings 

1.3.3.1. 

Class C50: Drawbar couplings  50 
Class C50-1 to C50-7: Standard drawbar couplings  50 

(See Annex V, Section  3, 
Tables  3 and  4) 

1.3.3.2. 

Class C50-X:Non-standard drawbar couplings  50 

1.3.4. 

Class D: 

Drawbar  eyes 

1.3.4.1. 

Class D50 
Class D50-A:Standard drawbar eyes D50 for welding  attachment 

Drawbar eyes  50 

(See Annex V, Fig. 9, Table  5) 

- 8 -

Class D50-B:Standard drawbar eyes 50 for screwing attachment 

(See Annex V, Fig. 10, Table 5) 

class D50-C:Standard drawbar eyes D50-C1 and D50-C2 for bolting 

attachment 
(See Annex V, Fig. 11 and 12, Table 5) 

1.3.4.2. 

class D50-X:Non-standard drawbar eyes 50 

(See Annex V, Fig 9) 

1.3.5. 

class E: 

Non-standard drawbars 

1.3.6. 

Class F: 

Non-standard mounting frames 

1.3.7. 

class G: 

Fifth wheel couplings 

1.3.7.1. 

Class G50:  Standard fifth wheel couplings 50 

(See Annex V, Fig. 15, Table 7) 

1.3.7.2. 

Class G50-X:Non-standard fifth wheel couplings 50 

1.3.8. 

Class H: 

Fifth wheel coupling pins 

1.3.8.1. 

Class H50-X:Non-standard fifth wheel coupling pins 50 

1.3.9. 

Class J: 

Non-standard mounting plates 

1.3.10. 

Class S: 

Non-standard miscellaneous coupling devices 

2. 

2.1. 

2.1.1. 

2.1.2. 

2.1.3. 

Definitions 

Mechanical coupling devices between motor vehicles and trailers 
are all parts and devices on the frames, load-bearing parts of 
the bodywork and chassis of the vehicles by means of which 
towing and towed vehicles are connected together. 
It also includes fixed or detachable parts for the attachment, 
adjustment or operation of the above-mentioned coupling devices. 
The coupling balls and towing brackets in 1.3.1. are mechanical 
coupling devices employing a spherical device and brackets on 
the towing vehicle for connecting to the trailer by means of a 
coupling head. 

The coupling heads in 1.3.2. are mechanical coupling devices on 
the drawbar of trailers for connecting to a coupling ball on the 
towing vehicle. 

The drawbar couplings in 1.3.3. are mechanical coupling devices 
With a jaw and an automatic closing and locking pin on the 
towing vehicle for connecting to the trailer by means of a 
drawbar eye. 

2.1.4. 

The drawbar eyes in 1.3.4. are mechanical coupling devices on 
the drawbar of trailers having a parallel hole for connecting to 

2.1.5. 

2.1.6. 

2.1.7. 

2.1.8. 

2.1.9. 

2.1.10. 

2.1.11. 

2.1.12. 

- 9 -

the automatic drawbar couplings. 
The drawbars in 1.3.5. comprises overrun devices and similar 
items of equipment mounted on the front of the towed vehicle or 
to the vehicle chassis, which is suitable for coupling to a 
towing vehicle by means of drawbar eyes, coupling heads and 
similar coupling devices. 
Drawbars can be attached to the trailer so as to move freely in 
the vertical plane and therefore support no vertical load, so 
called hinged drawbars, or be fixed in the vertical plane so as 
to support a vertical load, so called rigid drawbars.  Drawbars 
fixed in the vertical plane can be either rigid or sprung. 
Drawbars can be equipped with a height adjusting device to 
permit the adjustment of the drawbar eye of ball coupling to the 
height of the jaw or coupling ball. 
Drawbars may also comprise more than one component, be 
adjustable or cranked. 
This directive concernes drawbars only of the type which forms a 
separate unit, which is not part of the chassis of the towed 
vehicle. 

The mounting frames in 1.3.6. are all parts and devices placed 
between the coupling devices, such as coupling balls, drawbar 
couplings and fifth wheel couplings  (with mounting plates), and 
the frame  (e.g. rear cross member), the load-bearing bodywork or 
the chassis of the towing vehicle. 

The fifth wheel couplings in 1.3.7. are plate-like coupling 
devices used on towing vehicles having an automatic coupling 
lock and connecting to the fifth wheel coupling pins in 1.3.8. 

The fifth wheel coupling pins in 1.3.8. are a coupling device in 
the form of a pin for mounting on a semi-trailer and connecting 
to the towing vehicle by means of a fifth wheel coupling. 

The mounting plates in 1.3.9. are all parts and devices used for 
attaching fifth wheel couplings to the frame of the towing 
vehicle.  The mounting plate may have provision to move 
horizontally  (i.e. sliding fifth wheel). 

Steering wedges are components mounted on semi-trailers which 
control positive steering of the trailer in conjunction with the 
fifth wheel coupling. 

Standard coupling devices are classified in 1.3. and conform to 
standard dimensions and standard characteristic values as given 
in this directive.  They are interchangeable within their class, 
independent of type and manufacturer. 

Non-standard coupling devices are those of classes A to J which 
do not fall under the classification of standard coupling 
devices but which can be connected to standard coupling devices 
of the relevant classes. 

-  10 -

2.1.13. 

2.1.14. 

2.1.15. 

The miscellaneous  coupling  devices  for transitional  or 
exceptional  use  in  1.3.10. are mechanical  coupling  devices  which 
do not belong  to any of the  Classes A to J  (e.g.  coupling 
devices  according  to existing  national  standards  or  for  heavy 
transport). 

Remote  control  devices  are devices which  enable  in case  of  in 
inaccessible  coupling  devices, the coupling  device  to be 
operated  from the  side of the vehicle  or  from  the  driving  cab. 

Remote  indicators  are  indicating  devices which  indicate  to the 
vehicle  driver  in his cab that coupling  has been  effected  and 
the  safety  devices  have  engaged. 

2.1.16. 

A type  of mechanical  coupling  device means  a device which  do not 
differ  in such  essential  aspects  as: 

2.1.16.1. 

Class of coupling  device 

2.1.16.2. 

Factory mark  or trade  name 

2.1.16.3. 

External  shape or principal  dimensions  or other  fundamental 
differences  in design 

2.1.16.4. 

characteristic values  D, S, V  and U 

2.1.17. 

2.1.18. 

A coupling  procedure  is automatic  if backing  the  towing  vehicle 
against  the trailer  is sufficient  to engage  the  coupling 
completely  and properly without  any external  intervention,  to 
secure  it automotically and to indicate proper  engagement  of  the 
safety  devices.  An  automatic  coupling  procedure  requires  the 
use of automatic  couplings. 

The  "D-value" is defined  as the theoretical  reference  force  for 
the horizontal  force between  towing vehicle  and  trailer. 
The D-value is taken  as the basis  for horizontal  loads  in  the 
dynamic  tests. 
For mechanical  coupling  devices unsuitable  for  transmitting 
vertical bearing  loads  the value  is: 

T  x R 

D = g x 

( kN) 

T + R 

For mechanical  coupling  devices  suitable  for centre  axle 
trailers the value  is: 

T x c 

D = g x 

(kN) 

T + C 

For fifth wheel couplings on towing tractors and vehicles of 
comparable type the value is: 

-  11 -

0.6 x T x R 

D = g x 

(kN) 

T + R - U 

Where: 

T = 

R = 

Technically permissible maximum mass in t of the towing 
vehicle  (also towing tractors) including, if necessary, 
the vertical load of a centre axle trailer 

Technically permissible maximum mass in t of the full 
trailer with drawbar free to move in the vertical plane 
or of the semi-trailer 

C = 

Sum of the axle loads of the centre axle trailer carrying 
maximum permissible load, in t (see 2.1.20.) 

U = 

Fifth wheel imposed vertical load in t 

s = 

9 = 

The static vertical load s in kg is the proportion of the 
mass of the centre axle trailer exerted under static 
conditions at the coupling point 

acceleration due to gravity  (assumed as 9,81 m/s2) 

2.1.19. 

The "V-value" is defined as the theoretical reference force for 
the amplitude of the vertical force between towing vehicle and 
centre axle trailers  (see 2.1.21.). 
The V-value is taken as a basis for the vertical test loads in 
the dynamic tests. 

where 

V = a • X2  • C 
T2 

a  is an equivalent vertical acceleration in the coupling point, 
dependent on the kind of suspension on the rear axle(s) of 
the towing vehicle including a constant factor: 
a^ = 1.8 m/s2 
for vehicles with air suspension or equivalent 

&2  ~ 2.4 m/s2 for vehicles with other suspension 

x  is the length of the loading area of the trailer, in meters, 

see fig.l 

1  is the theoretical drawbar length, i.e. the distance between 
the centre of the drawbar eye and the centre of the axle 
assembly, in meters, see fig.l 

x2  > 1,0 in all cases 
T2  " 

-  12 -

Fig.  1 

Dimensions of  the  centre  axle  trailer 

2.1.20. 

2.1.21 

2.1.22 

"Centre-axle  trailer" means  a towed  vehicle  equipped  with  a 
towing  device  which  cannot  move  vertically  (in  relation  to  the 
trailer),  and  in which  the axle(s)  is (are) positioned  close  to 
the centre of  gravity  of  the vehicle  (when uniformly  loaded) 
such  that  only  a small  vertical  load, not  exceeding  10 % of  the 
maximum  mass of  the  trailer  or  1000 kg  (whichever  is the  lesser) 
is transmitted  to  the drawing  vehicle. 

The maximum  mass of  a centre-axle  trailer  to be  taken  into 
consideration  shall  be  the mass  transmitted  to  the  ground  by  the 
axle(s) of  the  centre-axle  trailer  when  coupled  to  the  drawing 
vehicle  and  laden with  a maximum  load. 

For  vehicles  not  falling  clearly  in any of  the above  categories 
they  shall  be  treated  in the same way  as  the  type  they  most 
closely  resemble. 
"Vehicle  type" means  vehicles which  do not  differ  with  respect 
to the  following main  characteristics: 
The  structure,  dimensions, shape  and materials of  the  rear  part 
of  the  towing  vehicle, or  the  front  part  in the  case of  a 
trailer,  in so  far  as  they  have a bearing  on  the  requirements  of 
Annex  VII. 

3. 

3.1. 

EEC Type Approval  for  a  Component 

Application  for  EEC  type  approval 

-  13 -

3.1.1. 

3.1.2. 

An  application  for  EEC Component  type  approval  for  a type  of 
mechanical  coupling  device must  be  submitted  by  the  manufacturer 
of the  coupling  device. 

For  each  type  of  a mechanical  coupling  device  the  application 
must  be  accompagnied  by the  following  documentation  (in 
triplicate): 

3.1.2.1. 

A  technical  description  of the  coupling  device,  its  design  and 
mode  of  operation. 

3.1.2.2. 

3.1.2.3. 

3.1.3. 

3.1.4. 

3.1.5. 

Data on the characteristic  values, the  classification  and,  if 
necessary,  the restricted  field  of  application  (specific  types 
of vehicles  only). 

Drawings  of the principal  parts  of  the coupling  device  and  an 
assembly  drawing  for each version  giving  all  principal 
dimensions, materials  and the position  for  the EEC  approval 
mark. 
It must  also be possible  to  see how the coupling  device  is 
mounted  on the vehicle  and what means  of  attachment  are 
employed. 

The Technical  Department  which  performs  or  approves  the  tests 
for type  approval must  be provided with  a  specimen  coupling 
device which  should  normally  be unpainted.  The  Technical 
Department  and other  approval  authorities  may  also  request 
additional  specimens. 

The Technical  Service which  performs  or  approves  the  tests  for 
type  approval may  also request  specificl parts,  additional 
drawings  or  samples  of  the materials  used. 

The  competent  authority  shall verify  the  existence  of 
satisfactory  arrangements  for ensuring  effective  control  of  the 
conformity  of  production  of  the mechanical  coupling  device 
before  type  approval  is  granted. 

3.2. 

Marking  of  specimen 

3.2.1. 

Each  of the  specimens  of  the particular  type  of coupling  device 
in 3.1.3  for which  an application  for EEC  component  type 
approval  has  been  submitted  must  be marked  as  follows: 

3.2.2. 

Factory  mark, trade  name or manufacturer's name  (and  trade  mark 
if  appropriate) 

3.2.3. 

Type  and,  if  applicable,  version 

3.2.4. 

A  sufficiently  large  space  for the EEC  approval mark  and  the 
additional  information  according  to  3.3.4. 

3.3. 

Granting  of  component  type  approval 

3.3.1. 

3.3.2. 

3.3.3. 

3.3.4. 

- 14 -

If the mechanical coupling device submitted for approval 
pursuant to this Directive meets the requirements of item 5 
below, approval of that type of mechanical coupling device shall 
be granted. 

An approval number shall be assigned to each type of mechanical 
coupling device approved.  The same Member state may not assign 
the same number to another type of a mechanical coupling 
device . 

Notice of approval, or of extension or of refusal of approval of 
a type of the mechanical coupling device pursuant to this 
Directive shall be communicated to the Member States by means of 
a form conforming to the model in Annex IV to this Directive. 

There shall be affixed, conspicuously and in a readily 
accessible place specified on the approval form, to every 
mechanical coupling device conforming to a type of mechanical 
coupling device approved under this Directive an international 
approval mark consisting of: 

for Belgium 
for Spain 

1  for Federal Republic of Germany 
2  for France 
3  for Italy 
4  for The Netherlands 
6 
9 
11  for United Kingdom 
13  for Luxemburg 
18  for Denmark 
21  for Portugal 
IRL for Ireland 
EL  for Greece 

3.3.4.1. 

A rectangle surrounding the letter "e" followed by the 
distinguishing number of the country which has granted approval 

3.3.4.2. 

The approval number, as given on the EEC type-approval 
certificate  (see Annex IV), near to the rectangle of the 
approval mark. 

3.3.4.3. 

The following supplementary marks placed anywhere close to the 
rectangle: 

- class of coupling device 
- permissible values for D, s, v and U 

(unnecessary for standard coupling devices) 

3.3.5. 

3.3.6. 

3.4. 

The approval mark shall be indelible and clearly legible even 
when the coupling device is attached to the vehicle. 

Annex II to this Directive gives examples of the arrangement of 
the approval mark. 
Modification of the type of mechanical coupling device and 
extension of EEC component type approval 

- 15 -

3.4.1. 

Every modification of the type of mechanical coupling device 
shall be notified to the administrative department which 
approved the type of mechanical coupling device. 
The department may then either: 

3.4.1.1. 

consider that the modifications made are unlikely to have an 
appreciable adverse effect and that in any case the mechanical 
coupling device still complies with the requirements, or 

3.4.1.2. 

Require a further report from the technical service responsible 
for conducting the tests. 

3.4.2. 

3.4.3. 

4. 

4.1 

4.1.1. 

4.1.2. 

4.1.3. 

confirmation or refusal of approval, specifying the 
modification, shall be communicated by the procedure specified 
in items 3.3. above to the Member states. 

The competent authority issuing the extension of approval shall 
assign a serial number to each communication  form drawn up for 
such a extension. 

EEC Vehicle Type Approval 

Application for EEC type approval 

In order for a vehicle to be granted type approval with a 
coupling fitted, a representative type of vehicle with a 
coupling device for which a component type approval has been 
granted, must be submitted to the relevant Technical Service ,by 
the manufacturer of the vehicle. 

In order for a vehicle to be granted type approval without a 
coupling fitted, the manufacturer or his representative agent 
must supply only the data mentioned in Annex VII, section 1.1. 

The relevant Technical Service will examine according to Annex 
VII, the suitability of the type of coupling device for which 
type approval has been granted for the type of vehicle for which 
vehicle approval has been applied for.The Technical Service will 
particularly ensure that the attachment of the coupling device 
corresponds to that which is prescribed for EEC component type 
approval. 

4.1.4. 

The competent authority shall verify the existence of 
satisfactory arrangements for ensuring effective control of the 
conformity of production of the vehicle before type approval is 
granted. 

4.2 

Granting of vehicle type approval 

4.2.1. 

If the type of vehicle meets the requirements of item 5 below, 
approval for that type of vehicle shall be granted. 

4.2.2. 

4.2.3. 

4.3. 

4.3.1. 

- 16 -

An approval number shall be assigned to each type of vehicle 
approved.  The same Member State may not assign the same number 
to another type of vehicle. 

Notice of approval, or of extension or refused of approval of a 
type of vehicle pursuant to this Directive shall be communicated 
to the Member states by means of a form conforming to the model 
in Annex IX to this directive. 

Modification of the type of vehicle and extension of EEC vehicle 
type approval 

Every modification of the type of vehicle shall be notified to 
the administrative department which appproved the type of 
vehicle. 
The department may then either: 

4.3.1.1. 

Consider that the modifications are unlikely to have an 
appreciable adverse effect and that in any case the vehicle type 
still complies with the requirements, or 

4.3.1.2. 

Require a further report from the technical service responsible 
for conduction the tests. 

4.3.2. 

The holder of an EEC vehicle type approval can apply for it to 
be extended to other types or classes of coupling devices. 

The competent authorities will grant such an extension on the 
following conditions: 

4.3.2.1. 

EEC component type approval has already been granted for the 
other type of coupling device 

4.3.2.2. 

it is suitable for the type of vehicle for which the extension 
of the EEC vehicle type approval has been applied for 

4.3.2.3. 

the attachment of the coupling device to the vehicle corresponds 
to that proposed for the granting of EEC component type 
approval. 

4.3.3. 

4.3.4. 

4.3.5. 

In the case of standard coupling devices in classes A,C, D and 
G, EEC vehicle type approval is also valid for other coupling 
devices of the same class without the need for a further 
mounting check and extension of EEC vehicle type approval. 

Confirmation or refusal of approval, specifying the 
modification, shall be communicated by the procedure specified 
in items 4.2.3. 

The competent authority issuing the extension of approval shall 
assign a serial number to each communication form drawn up for 
such an extension. 

5. 

5.1. 

5.2. 

5.3. 

5.4. 

5.5. 

5.6. 

5.7 

5.8 

5.9 

Requirements 

-  17 -

The mechanical coupling devices between motor vehicles and 
trailers must be manufactured and attached in accordance with 
good engineering practice, and must be safe to operate. 

safe coupling and uncoupling of the vehicles must be possible by 
a single person without the use of tools. 
only automatic coupling devices which allow an automatic 
coupling procedure shall be employed for the coupling of 
trailers having a maximum mass of more than 3,5 t. 

The mechanical coupling devices shall be so designed and 
manufactured that in normal use, with proper maintenance and the 
timely replacement of wearing parts, they will continue to 
function satisfactorily. 

Every coupling device must be accompanied by installation and 
operating instructions giving sufficient information for a 
competent person to install it on the vehicle and operate it 
propertly.  The instructions must be in the language or 
languages of the Member State in which the coupling device will 
be offered for sale.  In the case of coupling devices supplied 
for assembly-line use by vehicle builders or bodybuilders, the 
provision of installation and operating instructions for each 
coupling device can be dispensed with.  It is then the 
responsibility of the vehicle builder or bodybuilder to ensure 
that the vehicle operator is provided with the information 
necessary for operating the coupling device. 

The materials that may be used are those for which the 
properties relevant to the application are laid down in a 
standard or those for which the properties are given in the 
documentation according to 3.1.2.3. of this Annex. 

All parts of the mechanical coupling devices whose failure could 
result in separation of the two vehicles must be made of steel 
or forged or cast steel. 
other materials may be used provided equivalence has been 
demonstrated by the manufacturer to the satisfaction of the 
Technical Service. 

All couplings must be designed for positive mechanical 
engagement, and the closed position must be secured at least 
once by positive mechanical engagement, unless further 
requirements are stated in Annex V. 

The mechanical coupling devices must satisfy the requirements of 
Annex V. 

Loading requirements 

5.9.1. 

Mechanical coupling devices are subject to the tests described 
in Annex VI. 

5.9.2. 

5.10 

5.11. 

6. 

6.1. 

6.2. 

-  18 -

These tests must not cause any cracks, fractures or other 
visible external damage, or any excessive permanent distortion 
which would be detrimental to the satisfactory operation of the 
device. 

The installation of the mechanical coupling devices to the 
vehicle must be checked according to the requirements given in 
Annex VII. 

The above-mentioned requirements and those of Annexes V, VI and 
VII are also applicable, as relevant, to miscellaneous coupling 
devices  (Class S ). 

Conformity of production 

Every mechanical coupling device or vehicle approved to this 
Directive shall be so manufactured as to conform to the type 
approved by meeting the requirements of this directive. 

in order to verify that the requirements of paragraph 6.1. are 
met, suitable controls of the production shall be carried out. 

6.3. 

The holder of the approval shall in particular: 

6.3.1. 

6.3.2. 

6.3.3. 

6.3.4. 

6.3.5. 

6.3.6. 

6.3.7. 

ensure existence of procedures for the effective control of the 
quality of products, 

have access to the control equipment necessary  for checking the 
conformity of each approved type, 

ensure that data of test results are recorded and that annexed 
documents shall remain available for a period to be determined 
in accordance with the administrative service, 

analyse the results of each type of test, in order to verify and 
ensure the stability of the product characteristics making 
allowance for tolerances of an industrial production, 

ensure that in the case of a component for each type of product 
at least the tests prescribed in Annex VI to this Directive are 
carried out, 

ensure that in the case of a component all safety-relevant parts 
of every single mechanical coupling device are checked by non 
destructive methods in order to ascertain the absence of 
structural anomalies, if the manufacturing process contains 
operations like casting or heat-treating or other operations 
where anomalies cannot be excluded. 

ensure that any sampling of samples or test pieces giving 
evidence of non-conformity with the type of test considered 
shall give rise to another sampling and another test.  All the 
necessary steps shall be taken to re-establish the conformity of 
the corresponding production. 

6.4. 

6.4.1. 

6.4.2. 

6.4.3* 

6.4.4. 

6.4.5. 

-  19 -

The competent authority which has granted type-approval may at 
any time verify the conformity control methods applicable to 
each production unit. 

In every inspection the test books and production  survey records 
shall be presented to the visiting inspector. 
The inspector may take samples at random which will be tested in 
the manufacturer's laboratory* The minimum number of samples may 
be determined according to the results of the manufacturer's own 
verification. 

When the quality level appears unsatisfactory or when it seems 
necessary to verify the validity of the tests carried out in 
application of paragraph 6.4.2. the inspector shall select 
samples to be sent to the Technical Service which has conducted 
the type approval tests. 

The competent authority may carry out any test prescribed in 
this Directive. 

The normal frequency of inspections authorized by the competent 
authority shall be one per year.  In the case where negative 
results are recorded during one of these visits, the competent 
authority shall ensure that all necessary steps are taken to re 
establish the conformity of production as rapidly as possible. 

>"m 

a) 

Example  EEC  approval  mark  for  a drawbar  coupling 

-  20 -

ANNEX  I I 

n  m i, 
f 

*  miwr 

irrr  T  3 

a  >  8  mm 

The  coupling  device with  the EEC approval  mark  illustrated  above 
is a non-standard  drawbar  coupling  of Class  C50-X  with  a maximum 
permitted  0 value of  130 kN, a maximum  permitted  static  vertical 
bearing  load of  1000 kg and  a maximum  permitted  V-value of  35 
kN,  for which  EEC component  type  approval  was  granted  in the 
Federal  Republic of  Germany  (el) under  the  number  92-1234. 
If any  characteristic  values, such  as S and  V,  are  not  relevant, 
the positions must  be marked  with  a dash. 
Characteristic  values D;S and V are not  required  for  standard 
coup Iings. 

b) 

Example  EEC approval  mark  for  a drawbar  eye 

3 

f 

3  rE 

,97-4/1 1 

i 
n  nil  —r  5 
r 
n  T 
F  3 

»  ^" 

a 

a  >  8  mm 

The  coupling  device with  the EEC  approval  mark  illustrated  above 
is a non-standard  drawbar  eye 50 of  Class  D50-X  for  welding 
attachment  having  a D value of  130 kN, a maximum  permitted 
static  vertical  bearing  load of  1000 kg  and  a maximum  permitted 
V-value of  50 kN,  for which  EEC component  type  approval  was 
granted  in the Federal  Republic of  Germany  (el) under  the  number 
92-4711. 

If any  characteristic  values, such  as S and  V with  hinged 
drawbar, are not  relevant,  the positions  must  be marked  with a 
dash.  Characteristic  values D, S and V  are  not  required  for 
standard  coupling devices. 

c) 

Specimen  EEC approval  mark  for  a fifth  wheel  coupling 

-  21  -

H33HS: 

m 

iHtr 

1 

TT77T 

zzzrzn 

1 

>  8  mm 

The  coupling  device with  the  EEC  approval  mark  illustrated  above 
is a non-standard  fifth wheel  coupling of  Class  G50-X  having  a 
maximum  permitted  D value of  180 kN  and  a maximum  permitted 
fifth wheel  load of  26  t,  for  which  EEC  component  type  approval 
was  granted  in the  Federal  Republic  of  Germany  (el) under  the 
number  92-1241. 

Characteristic  values  D and  U are  not  relevant  at  all  for 
standard  fifth  wheels. 

d) 

Specimen  EEC  approval  mark  for  a  fifth  wheel  coupling  pin 

H  Vli-X 

D  Ifi? 

JL 

e  1 

I?. 
3 

1 

Q9-ma 

a  >  8  mm 

The  coupling  device with  the  EEC  approval  mark  illustrated  above 
is a non-standard  fifth wheel  coupling  pin  of  Class  H50-X  having 
a D value of  162 kN  for which  EEC component  type  approval  was 
granted  in the  Federal  Republic  of  Germany  (el) under  the  number 
92-1242. 

e) 

Spec'men EEC approval mark  for a coupling ball  and  towing 
brackets 

- 22 -

A  v o -\ 

L 

, 

e  1 

2a 
3 

TTTTT 

TTTT 

JL 

9 7 -  • ^H J 

a  >  8  mm 

The coupling device with the EEC approval mark  illustrated above 
is a non-standard coupling ball and towing brackets of Class A 
50-X having a maximum permitted D value of 18 kN and a maximum 
permitted static vertical bearing  load of 75 kg, for which EEC 
component  type approval was granted  in the Federal  Republic of 
Germany  (el) under  the number 92-1243. 

f) 

Specimen EEC approval mark for a coupling head 

ft 1f- -x 

i 

2a 
3 

e  i 

TTTF 

•^T-TT 

3 
3 

a_ 
3 

97-»2U 

a  >  8  mm 

The coupling device with the EEC approval mark  illustrated above 
is a non-standard  coupling head of Class B50-X  having a D value 
of 18 kN and a maximum permitted static vertical  bearing  load of 
75 kg, for which EEC component  type approval was granted  in the 
Federal  Republic of Germany  (el) under  the number 92-1244. 

g) 

Specimen  EEC  approval  mark  for  a  drawbar 

-  23 -

'D  HIV  ,  3 

\\ 
.s  mnn  ~ 

M  in 

.- 

a 

§ 

3 

3 

^ _ ^ ^ ^-

>  8  mm 

The  coupling  device  with  the  EEC  approval  mark  illustrated  above 
is a drawbar  for  a centre  axle  trailer  of  Class  E with  a  maximum 
permitted  D value  of  109 kN,  a maximum  permitted  static  vertical 
bearing  load of  1000 kg and  a maximum  permitted  V-value of  50 
kN,  for  which  EEC  component  type  approval  was granted  in  the 
Federal  Republic of  Germany  (el) under  the number  92-1245. 
If any  characteristic  values, such  as S and  V with  hinged 
drawbar,  are  not  relevant,  the positions  must  be marked  with  a 
dash. 

- 24 -

ANNEX III 

information Document N* 

relating to the EEC Coponent Type Approval of 
Mechanical coupling Devices for Motor Vehicles and their 
Trailers (.../.../EEC) 

O. 

GENERAL 

O.l. 
0.2. 
O.5. 
0.7. 

Make  (trade name of manufacturer): 
Type and commercial description^): 
Name and address of manufacturer: 
Location and method of affixing of the EEC approval mark: 

1 

CONNECTIONS BETWEEN DRAWING VEHICLES AND TRAILERS AND SEMI-TRAILERS 

1.1. 

*-.*• 
1.3. 
1.4. 
i.5. 
1.6. 
1.7. 

1.8. 

kN 

Detailed technical description  (including drawings and material 
specifications) of the type of the mechanical coupling device: 
class and type of the coupling device(s): 
Maximum D-value ( *) : 
Maximum vertical load S at the coupling point(^): 
Maximum load U at the fifth wheel coupling  < * ): 
Maximum V-value < * > 
instructions of attachment of the coupling type to the vehiole and 
photographs or drawing Of the fixing points at the vehicle given by 
the manufacturer;  additional information, if the use of the coupling 
type is restricted to special types of vehicles: 
information of the fitting of special towing brackets or mounting 
plates(1): 

kg 
t 

kN 

Date, File 

(l\ 

if  applicable 

- 25 -

ANNEX IV 

M O D E L  (a) 

(maximum format: A4  (210 x 297) 

EEC TYPE-APPROVAL CERTIFICATE 

Communication  concerne the : 

type-approvalI *) 

-  extension of type-approval (*) 
-  refusal of type-approval<*) 
-  withdrawal of type approval*1) 

of a type of a component(*) with regard to Directive 
(..../..../EEC), as last amended by Directive 

Type-approval number^) : 

Reason for extension: 

SECTION I 

r 

Make  (trade name of manufacturer): 
Type and commercial description(s): 

O.l. 
O.2. 
O.3.  , Means of identification of type if marked on the component  (1)(3) 
O.3.I.  Location of that marking: 
0.5. 
6.7. 

Name and address of manufacturer: 
Location and method of affixing of the EEC approval nark:. 
SECTION II 

1. 
2. 
3. 
4. 
5. 
6. 
7. 
8 • 
9. 

(1) 

(2) 

Additional information  (where applicable): See Appendix I 
Technical service responsible for carrying out the tests: 
Date of test report: 
Number of test report: 
Remarks  (if any) : see Appendix I 
Place: 
Date: 
Signature: 
The index to the information package lodged with the competent 
authority that has granted type approval, which may be obtained on 
request, is attached. 

Delete where not applicable 

The EEC type-approval number appearing on this document shall 

consist of all sections outlined in Annex VII to Directive 

70/156/EEC, as last amended by Directive  .../.../EEC. the 

component itself shall be marked as prescribed in the relevant 

separate Directive. 

(3) 

If the means of identification of type contains characters not 

relevant to describe the component types covered by this type-

approval certificate such characters shall be represented in the 

documentation by the symbol  : **?" (e.g. ABC?? 123??) 

-  26  -

Appendix  I 

concerning  the  component  type  approval  of mechanical  coupling 
devices with  regard  to Directive  .../.../EEC 

to EEC type-approval  certificate  no 

1. 

Additional  information 

1.1. 

Class  of the type  of  coupling: 

1.2. 

Categories or types  of vehicles  for which  the  device  is designed  or 
restricted: 

1.3. 

Maximum  D-value(1):....  kN 

1.4. 

Maximum  vertical  load  s at the coupling  point  (*): 

kg 

1.5. 

Maximum  load U at  the  fifth wheel  coupling  point  <*) 

t 

1.6. 

Maximum  V-value  (*):  .... kN 

1.7. 

Use  of  special  towing  brackets  or mounting  plates: 
yes/no 

5. 

Remarks: 

(1) 

Delete where  not  applicable 

-  27  -

ANNEX  V 

Requirements  for  mechanical  coupling  devices 

1 . 

Coupling  balls and  towing  brackets 

The  requirements  stated  in 1.1.  to  1.4. are  applicable  to all 
coupling  balls  and  towing  brackets of  Class  A. 
Section  1.5.  lists additional  requirements  which  must  be  fulfilled  by 
standard  coupling  balls  50 and  flange  type  towing  brackets. 

1.1. 

1 .2 

Coupling  balls of  Class  A must  conform  to Fig.  2  in shape  and 
dimensions. 

The  shape  and  the  dimensions  of  the  towing  brackets  have  to meet  the 
requirements  of  the  vehicle  manufacturer  concerning  the  attachment 
points  and  additional  mounting  devices,  if  necessary. 

1.3. 

In the  case of  removable  coupling  balls  the point  of  connection  and 
their  locking  must  be  designed  for  positive  mechanical  engagement. 

1 .4. 

Coupling  balls and  towing  devices must  be  able  to satisfy  the  tests 
laid  down  in Annex  VI, Section  4.1. 

Fig  2 

1) 

2) 

The  connecting  radius  between  the ball  and  the neck  should  be 
tangential  both  to  the  neck  and  to  the  lower  horizontal  surface  of 
the coup Iing  balI. 
See  ISO/R  468 and  ISO  1302; the  roughness  number  N9  refers  to  an  Ra 
value of  6,3  mm. 

- 28 -

1 .5 

1.5.1. 

1.5.2. 

1.5.3. 

Special  requirements for standard coupling balls and flange type 
towing brackets of class A50-1, A50-2 and A50-3. 

Dimensions of class A50-1 coupling balls and flange type towing 
brackets must be as given  in Fig. 3 and Table 1. 

Dimensions of class A50-2 and class A50-3 coupling balls and 
flange type towing brackets must be as given  in Fig. 4 and 
Table 1. 

Coupling balls and flange type towing brackets of the classes 
A50-1, A50-2 and A50-3 must be suitable and tested  for the 
characteristic values given  in Table 2. 

d2 

1 

1 

A 

'Jl 
.1. 

f 

= 

( 

I, 

i 
1 

r 

ll 

II 
' 

1 

^ 

Fig. 3 

Dimensions of standard ball couplings and flange type towing 
brackets of Class A50-1  (mm), see Table 1 

ON 

P" m 
L: e-

^ 

^ 

f  4 

\ 

Fig. 4 

Dimensions of standard ball couplings and flange type towing 
brackets of Classes A50-2 and A50-3 (mm), see Table  ITable 1 

Dimensions of standard ball couplings and flange type towing 
brackets  (mm), see Fig. 3 and Fig. 4 

- 29 -

A50-1 

A50-2 

A50-3 

remark 

el 
e2 
d2 
f 
g 
c 
1 
h 

90 
-
17 
130 
50 
15 
55 
70 

83 
56 
10,5 

110 
85 
15 
110 
80 

120 
55 
15 
155 
90 
15 
120 
80 

+/-0,5 
+/-0,5 
H13 
+6,-0 
+6,-0 
max 
+/-5 
+ /-5 

Table 2 

Characteristic values for standard ball couplings and flange 
type towing brackets 

D = Max. D-value  (kN) 
S = Max. static vertical load  (kg) 

A50-1 

A50-2 

A50-3 

D 
S 

10 
75 

20 
100 

30 
120 

2. 

2.1. 

2.2. 

2.3. 

2.4. 

Coupling heads 

Coupling heads of Class B50 must be designed so that they can be 
used safely with the coupling balls described in Section 1 of 
this Annex and thereby retain the prescribed characteristics. 

Coupling heads must be able to satisfy the tests laid down in 
Annex VI, Section 4.2. 

Any additional device  (e.g. braking, stabilizer etc.) shall not 
have any adverse effect on the mechanical connection. 

Horizontal rotation of the coupling head at least 90* to either 
side of the centreline of the coupling ball and mounting 
described in Section 1 of this Annex when not attached to the 
vehicle must be possible. 
Simultaneously there must be an angle of free vertical movement 
20* above and below the horizontal.  Also, in conjunction with 
the horizontal angle of rotation of 90* it must be possible for 
there to be 25* of roll in both directions about the horizontal 
axis. The following combinations of motions must be possible: 

vertical pitch 
axial roll 

+  15* with axial roll 
+ 25* 
+  10* with vertical pitch + 20* 

at all angles of horizontal rotation. 

3. 

Drawbar  couplings 

-  30 -

3.1. 

3.2. 

3.3. 

3.4. 

The requirements  of  3.1  to  3.8  are  applicable  to  all  drawbar 
couplings  of  class C50. 
Item  3.9  lists  the  additional  requirements  which  must  be 
fulfilled  by  standard  drawbar  couplings  of  classes  C50-1 
to  C50-7. 

Load  requirements 
All  drawbar  couplins  shall be  able  to  satisfy  the  tests  stated 
in Annex VI, item  4.3. 

suitable  drawbar  eyes 
Class  C50 drawbar  couplings  shall be compatible  with  all  Class 
D50 drawbar  eyes  and coupling with  the  specified 
characteristics. 

Automatic  operation 
Drawbar  couplings must  be  automatic  in  operation 
(see Annex  I,  item  2.1.17). 

Jaw 
Class  C50 drawbar  couplings must  have  a jaw which  is  designed 
such  that the  appropriate  drawbar  eyes  is guided  into  the 
coupling. 

If the  jaw, or  a part  supporting  the  jaw,  can  pivot  about  the 
vertical  axis,  it must  establish  itself  automatically  in the 
normal position  and, with  the  coupling  pin  open,  be  restrained 
in a positive mechanical  engagement  in this  position. 

If the  jaw,  or  a part  supporting  the  jaw, can pivot  about  the 
transverse  axis, the  joint  providing  the  rotation  capability 
must  be restrained  in its normal position  by  a  locking  torque. 
This  torque must  be  sufficient  to prevent  a force  of  200 N 
acting vertically  upwards  on the top of the  jaw producing  any 
deflection  of  the  joint  from  its normal position.  It must  be 
possible  to bring  the  jaw to  its normal position manually.  A 
jaw that  pivots  about  the transverse  axis  is only  approved  for 
vertical  bearing  loads  S of up to  50 kg  and  a V-value  of up to 5 
kN. 

If the  jaw,  or  a part  supporting  the  jaw,  is pivoted  about  the 
longitudinal  axis, the  rotation must  be restrained  by  a  locking 
torque of  at  least  100 Nm. 

The minimum  required  size  of the  jaw depends  on the  D value  of 
the  coupling: 

D-value  >  18 kN: width  150 mm,  height  100 mm 
18 kN <D-value  <  25  kN: width  280 mm,  height  170 mm 
: width  36 0 mm,  height  200  mm 
25 kN <D-value 

The external  corners  of the  jaw may  be  radiused. 
Smaller  jaws  are  permitted  for Class  C50-X  drawbar  couplings  if 
their  use  is restricted  to centre  axle  trailers  up to  3.5  t 
maximum  permissible  mass  or  if the use of  a  jaw  from  the  above 
table  is impossible  due to technical  reasons  and  if, 
furthermore,  there  are  special  circumstances  such  as visual  aids 

-  31 -

for ensuring  safe  execution  of  the  automatic  coupling  procedure 
and  if the  field  of  application  is restricted  in  the  approval 
according  to Annex  III. 

3.5. 

Minimum  freedom  of movement  of  the  coupled  drawbar  eye 

The  coupled  drawbar  eye must  be  able  to rotate  horizontally +_ 
90*  about  the  vertical  axis  from  the  longitudinal  axis  of  the 
vehicle  (see Fig. 5 ). 
The  coupled  drawbar  eye must  be  able  to rotate  vertically  + 2 0* 
about  the  transverse  axis  from  the  horizontal  axis  of  the 
vehicle  (see Fig.  6 ).  If the motion  is provided  by  a  special 
joint  (only  on  Class  C50-X  drawbar  couplings)  the  field  of 
application  given  in the  approval  according  to Annex  III must  be 
restricted  to the  cases  stated  in Annex VII, Section  2.3.7. 
It must  be possible  for the  coupled  drawbar  eye  to be  rotated 
axially  + 2 5*  about  the  longitudinal  axis  from  the  horizontal 
plane  of  the  vehicle  (see Fig. 7 ). 
The  stated  angles  of  rotation  are  applicable  to  drawbar 
couplings  not  attached  to the  vehicle. 

3.6. 

Minimum  angle  for  coupling-up  and  uncoupling 

coupling  and  uncoupling  of  the  drawbar  eye must  also be  possible 
when  the  longitudinal  axis  of  the  drawbar  eye  in  relation  to  the 
centreline  of  the  jaw: 

3.6.1. 
3.6.2. 
3.6.3. 

is rotated  50* horizontally  to right  or  left 
is rotated  10*  vertically  up  or  down 
is rotated  10* axially  to right  or  left. 

3.7. 

Locking  to prevent  inadvertent  uncoupling 

In the  closed  position  the  coupling  pin must  be  secured  by  two 
positive mechanical  securing  devices  each  of which must  remain 
effective  should  the  other  fail. 

The  closed  and  secured  position  of  the  coupling  must  be  clearly 
indicated  externally  by  a mechanical  device.  It must  be 
possible  to verify  the  position  of  the  indicator  by  feel,  e.g. 
in the  dark. 

The mechanical  device  must  indicate  the  engagement  of  both 
locking  devices  (an AND  condition). 

However,  it  is  sufficient  for  the  engagement  of  only  one  locking 
device  to be  indicated  if,  in this  situation,  engagement  of  the 
second  locking  device  is an  inherent  feature  of  the  design. 

3.8 

Hand  levers 

Hand  levers must  be  of  a design  suitable  for  easy  use with  the 
end  rounded  off. The  coupling  must  have  no  sharp  edges  or  points 
of possible  pinching  near  the hand  lever which  could  result  in 
injury  during  operation  of the  coupling. 

-  32  -

The  force needed  to release  the coupling,  measured  without  the 
drawbar  eye, must  not exceed  250 N perpendicular  to the  hand 
lever  along  the  line of  operation. 

Special requirements  for  standard  drawbar  couplings  of  Class 
C50-1  to  C50-7 

the  swivel motion  of the  drawbar  eye  about  the  transverse  axis 
must  be  achieved  through  the  spherical  shape  of  the  coupling  pin 
(and not by means  of  a special  joint,  see Fig. 6 ). 

Tensile  and  compressive  shock  loads  along  the  longitudinal  axis 
due to the clearance  between  the coupling  pin  and  the  drawbar 
eye must  be  attenuated  by  spring  and/or  damping  devices  (except 
C50-1). 

The dimensions  given  in Fig.  8 and Table  3 must  be  adhered  to. 

The couplings must  be  suitable  and tested  for  the  characteristic 
values  given  in Table  4. 

The couling must  be opened  by means  of  a hand  lever  at  the 
coupling  (no remote  control). 

3.9 

3.9.1 

3.9.2 

3.9.3 

3.9.4 

3.9.5 

-  33  -

longitudinal  axis of 
towing  vehicle 

Fig. 5 

Minimum  horizontal  rotation of  the coupled  drawbar  eye  ± 90' 
about  the vertical  axis  from  the  longitudinal  axis of  the 
vehicle 

special  joint 

20° nun 

/20°min.  \  20° nun 

Horizontal  plane 

Fig. 6 

Minimum  vertical  rotation of  the coupled  drawbar  eye ±20°  about 
the  transverse  axis  from  the  horizontal  plane of  the  vehicle. 

-  34  -

Horizontal  plane 

F i g .7  KX;r.r:;= ttsar :r;;.*s;,:r  -

- 35 -

Fig.8 

Dimensions of the standard drawbar coupling (mm), see Table 3 

Table 3 : 

Dimensions of standard drawbar couplings  (mm), see Fig. 8 

- 36 -

C50-

•1 

C50-2 

C50-3 

C50-4 

C50-5 

C50-6 

C50-7 

remark 

el 
e2 
dl 
d2 
f 
g 
a 
b 
c 
h 
11 
12 
13 
T 

i 
8: 
5« 

-

54 

lJ 
IK 

>,5 
) 
8! 

100 
150 

150 
-
150 
100 
-

1 
2< 

170 
280 

190 
150 
300 
160 
15 

120 
55 
74 
15 
155 
90 
200 
360 
24 
265 
250 
330 
180 
20 

140 
80 
84 
17 
180 
120 
200 
360 
30 
265 
300 
330 
180 
25 

160 
100 
94 
21 
200 
140 
200 
360 
30 
265 
300 
330 
180 

25 

30 

200 
120 
124 
25 
250 
170 
200 
360 
40 
265 
300 
330 
180 
30 

+/-0,5 
+/-0,5 
max. 
H13 
+6,-0 
+/-3 
+20,-0 
+20,-0 
max. 
max. 
max. 
max. 
+/-20 
max. 

Table 4 : 

characteristic values for standard drawbar couplings 
D = Max. D value (KN) 
S - Max. static vertical bearing load (kg) 
V = Max. V-value (KN) 

C50-1 

C50-2 

C50-3 

C50-4 

C50-5 

C50-6 

C50-7 

D 
S 
V 

18 
200 
12 

25 
250 
10 

70 
650 
18 

100 
900 
25 

130 
1000 
35 

190 
1000 
50 

250 
1000 
85 

4. 

Drawbar eyes 

The requirements stated in 4.1 are applicable to drawbar eyes of 
Class D50. 

Sections 4.2 to 4.5 list the additional requirements which must 
be fulfilled by standard drawbar eyes. 

4.1 

General requirements for drawbar eyes 

All drawbar eyes shall be able to satisfy the test stated in 
Annex VI item 4.4. 

Class D50 drawbar eyes are intended for use with C50 drawbar 
couplings. 

Drawbar eyes must not be able to rotate axially  (because the 
respective couplings can rotate). 

- 37 -

If Class D50 drawbar eyes are fitted with sleeves, they shall 
comply with the dimensions shown in Fig. 13 (except class D50-C) 
or Fig. 14. 

The sleeves must not be welded into the drawbar eyes. 

Class D50 drawbar eyes must have the dimensions illustrated in 
Fig. 9 (if not stated otherwise in 4.2, 4.3  or  4.4) 
The form of shank for drawbar eyes of class D50-X is not 
specified, but in a distance of 210 mm from the centre of the 
eye the height  "h" and the width "b" must be within the limits 
given by Table 6. 

Special requirements for drawbar eyes of Class D50-A 

Drawbar eyes of class D50-A must have the dimensions  illustrated 
in Fig. 9. 

special requirements for drawbar eyes of class D50-B 

Class D50-B drawbar eyes must have the dimensions illustrated in 
Fig. 10. 

4.2 

4.3 

4.4 

Special requirements for drawbar eyes of class D50-C 

Class D50-C1 drawbar eyes must have the dimensions  illustrated 
in Fig. 11. 

class D50-C2 drawbar eyes must have the dimensions  illustrated 
in Fig. 12. 

Class D50-C drawbar eyes must be fitted with the sleeves 
illustrated in Fig. 14. 

4.5 

Load values for standard drawbar eyes 

The standard drawbar eyes and their means of attachement must be 
suitable and tested for the load values stated in Table 5. 

Table 5 : Characteristic values for standard drawbar eyes 

D - Max. D value  (KN) 
S = Max. static vertical bearing load  (kg) 
V - V-value (KN) 

Class 

D50-A 
D50-B 
D50-C1 
D50-C2 

D 

130 
130 
190 
250 

S 

1000 
1000 
1000 
1000 

Table 5 

V 

30 
25 
50 
85 

Table 6 

Dimensions for drawbar eyes D50-A and D50-X, see Fig.9 

- 38 -

Class 

D50-A 

D50-X 

h (mm) 

b (mm) 

6 5+2 
-1 
67  max 

60+2 
-1 
62  max 

8<T5 

210! 

A-A 
shown  w i t h o ut  s l e e ve 

^  s p h e re $+15.? 

325 «k 

Fig. 9 

Dimensions of Classes D50-A and D50-X drawbar  eyes  (see Table 6) 

-  39 

6x1,5 

1*1 

•^1:10 

v_ 

•I 

Drawl lar  eye 

Drawbar eye socket 

Fig. 10 

Dimensions of Class D50-B drawbar eyes (see Fig. 9 for missing 
dimensions) 

-  40  -

të^^^^^Jj!*JÉ;!SË^Ç>a^ 

b S° ^1  'c^w b^5SW.<9*ë"• Fig,  9  for  missing 

- 41 -

Fig. 12 

Dimensions of Class D50-C2 drawbar eyes (see Fig. 9 for missing 
dimensions) 

- 42 -

Fig. 13 

Slotted sleeve for D50 drawbar eyes 

••S 

i  » 

Fig. 14 

Not slotted sleeve for D50-C drawbar eyes 

5. 

5.1 

5.2 

5.3 

5.4 

5.4.1 

5.4.2 

5.4.3 

5.4.4 

5.5 

5.6 

6. 

6.1 

6.2 

6.3 

Drawbars 

- 43 -

Drawbars of class E must be able to satisfy the tests described 
in annex VI, section 4.5. 

In order to provide a connection to the towing vehicle, the 
drawbars can be fitted either with coupling heads as in Section 
2 or drawbar eyes as in Section 4 of this Annex. The coupling 
heads and drawbar eyes can be attached by screwing, bolting or 
welding. 

Hinged drawbars must be clear of the ground. 
They shall not fall below a height of 200 mm from the ground 
when released from the horizontal position. 

Height adjusting devices for hinged drawbars 

Hinged drawbars have to be equipped with devices for adjusting 
the drawbar to -the height of the coupling device of jaw. These 
devices roust be designed so that the drawbar can be adjusted by 
one person without tools or any other aids. 

Height adjusting devices must be able to adjust the drawbar eyes 

i or ball couplings from the horizontal above the ground at least 
300 mm upwards and downwards. Within this range the drawbar must 
be adjustable steplessly or in maximum steps of 50 mm measured 
at the drawbar eye or ball coupling. 

The height adjusting device must not interfere with easy 
movement of the drawbar after coupling-up. 

The height adjusting devices must not interfere with the action 
of any overrun brake. 

In the case of drawbars combined with overrun brakes the 
distance between the centre of the drawbar eye and the end of 
the free shank of the drawbar eye must not be less than 200 mm 
in the brake application position. With the shank of the drawbar 
eye fully inserted the distance must not be less than 150 mm. 

Drawbars for use on centre axle trailers must possess at least 
half the moment of resistance against lateral forces as against 
vertical forces. 

Mounting frames 

Mounting frames shall be appropriate for the attachment of the 
concerned coupling device to the corresponding vehicle(s). 

Mounting frames must not be welded to the chassis, bodywork or 
other part of the vehicle. 

Mounting frames must be able to satisfy the tests laid down in 
Annex VI, section 4.3. 

7. 

Fifth wheel couplins and steering wedges 

- 44 -

The requirements of 7.1 to 7.9 are applicable to all fifth wheel 
couplings of class G50. 
Section 7.10 lists the additional requirements which must be 
fulfilled by standard coupling devices. 
Steering wedges must satisfy the requirements listed in 7.9. 

7.1 

Suitable fifth wheel coupling pins 

Class G50 fifth wheel couplings must be designed so that they 
can be used with class H50 coupling pins and provide the 
specified characteristics with them. 

7.2 

Automatic operation 

Fifth wheel couplings must be automatic in operation. 

7.3 

Guides 

Fifth wheel couplins must be equipped with a guide which ensures 
safe and secure engagement of the coupling pin. The entry width 
of the guide must be at least 350 mm. 

7.4 

Minimum free movement of the fifth wheel coupling with the 
coupling pin engaged  (but with the fifth wheel coupling not 
attached to a mounting plate or vehicle) 

7.4.1 

7.4.2 

7.4.3 

With the coupling pin engaged, fifth wheel couplings must permit 
the following minimum values of rotation of the coupling pin in 
the travelling position: 

±90*  about the vertical axis  (not applicable to fifth wheel 
couplings with positive sterring) and, simultaneously, 

± 1 2* about the horizontal axis transverse to the direction of 
travel. This angle does not necessarily cover off road use. 

Rotation about the longitudinal axis of up to ± 3* is permitted. 
However, on a fully oscillating fifth wheel coupling, this angle 
may be exceeded, providing that a locking mechanism enables the 
restriction of the rotation up to ± 3*. 

7.5 

Locking devices to prevent uncoupling of fifth wheel couplings 

The locking mechanism of the coupling must secure the coupling 
pin two positive ways; the second locking device may operate on 
the first. The first locking device must operate automatically 
at coupling-up. If the second locking device has to be operated 
by hand it should only be possible to engage it after the first 
device has been fully engaged. If the second locking device 
operates automatically, the engagement of both must be indicated 
visually. 

7.6 

Operating devices 

- 45 -

In the closed position the operating devices must be secured to 
prevent inadvertent operation. 

7.7 

Surface finish 

The surfaces of the coupling plate and coupling lock must be 
functionally satisfactory and carefully machined, forged, cast 
or pressed. 

7.8 

Load requirements 

All fifth wheel couplings must be able to satisfy the tests 
described in Annex VI, Section 4.6. 

7.9 

Steering wedges 

7.9.1 

7.9.2 

Couplings of class G50-X which are unsuitable for positive 
steering must be marked appropriately. 

The dimensions of steering wedges for the positive steering of 
semi-trailers must be as in Fig. 16. 

The steering wedge must allow safe and secure coupling-up. The 
steering wedge must be spring-mounted. 
The strength  of the spring must be selected so that it is 
possible to couple up an unloaded semi-trailer and so that, with 
the semi-trailer fully loaded, the steering wedge is firmly in 
contact with the flanks of the coupling during travel. 
Uncoupling of the fifth wheel must be possible with the semi 
trailer both loaded and unloaded. 

7.10 

Special requirements for standard fifth wheels couplings 

7.10.1 

7.10.2 

7.10.3 

7.10.4 

Standard fifth wheel couplings of Classes G50-1, G50-2, G50-3 
and G50-4 must have the dimensions indicated in Fig. 15 and 
Table 7. 

Standard fifth wheel couplings must be suitable for and tested 
for a D-value of 150 KN and a value of U of 20 t. 

Release must be possible by a hand lever directly at the 
coupling. 

Standard fifth wheel couplings must be suitable for the positive 
steering of semi-trailers by means of steering wedges  (see 
section  7.9.). 

- 46 -

i  ^ 

<F 

t06 

TT 

sect ion A-B 

(shown oversize, turned  through 90' 
and with the coupling pin) 

1*^5° 

Provide  space  for  steering  wedge 

Bearing  surface 
for  s t e e r i ng  wed-

Fig. 15 

Dimensions of standard  fifth wheel couplings  (see Table 7) 

Table 7 

Dimensions of standard  fifth wheel couplings  (mm) (see Fig. 15) 

- 47 -

G50-1 

G50-2 

G50-3 

G50-4 

150 ± 10 

175 ± 10 

200  ± 10 

250 ± 10 

+ 2 

52 

- 1 

minimum ±12° 

H 

h 

a 

1) 
2) 

Only applicable to steering wedges over 60 mm thick 
This dimension only refers to the functional  surface; the 
steering wedge  itself can be longer 

Fig. 16 

Dimensions of spring-mounted steering wedges 

8. 

8.1 

8.2 

Fifth wheel  coupling pins 

- 48 -

Fifth wheel  coupling pins of Class H50 (ISO 337) must  have the 
dimensions shown  in Fig. 17. 

The coupling pins must be able to satisfy  the tests described  in 
Annex VI, Section 4.8. 

*  <  * 

i 

•— 

• 

• 

*.•* 

i ? 3 :W 

o 50. Bio.i 

"7 

J. 

.pace  f or  «ar»i i»»g 

e71.5tot 

\  or 

V 
A.0 

V.. 

Fig. 17 

Dimensions of Class H50 fifth wheel coupling pins 

"A-  actional  c^»3">^er  2*$X-*5° 

9. 

9.1 

9.2 

9.3 

10. 

10.1 

Mounting plates 

Class J mounting plates for fifth wheel couplings must  have a 
hole configuration corresponding to Classes G50-1,G50-2, G50-3 
and G50-4  if they are  intended for standard  fifth wheel 
coup Ii ngs. 

Mounting plates for standard fifth wheel couplings must be 
suitable for the positive steering of semi-trailers (with 
steering wedges). Mounting plates for non-standard  fifth wheel 
couplings which are unsuitable for positive steering must be 
marked appropriately. 

Mounting plates for fifth wheel couplings must  be able to 
satisfy  the tests described  in Annex VI, Section 4.7. 

Devices for remote  indication and remote control 

General  requirements 

Devices for remote  indication and remote control  are permitted 
on automatic coupling devices of Classes C50-X and G50-X. 

Devices for remote  indication and remote control must not 
interfere with the minimum  free movement of the coupled drawbar 
eye or coupled semi-trailer. They must be permanently  connected 
to the vehicle. 

- 49 -

All the devices for remote indication or remote control fall 
within the scope of.testing and approval of the coupling device 
together with all parts of the operating devices and 
transmission devices. 

10.2 

Remote indication 

10.2.1 

10.2.2 

10.2.3 

10.2.4 

10.2.5 

10.2.6 

10.2.7 

10.2.8 

10.2.9 

For an automatic coupling procedure, remote indication devices 
must indicate the closed and doubly locked position of the 
coupling in an optical manner according to section  10.2.2 and/or 
10.2.3. 

The change from the open to the closed and doubly locked 
position shall be indicated by a green optical signal. 

If the open and/or unsecured position is indicated, a red 
optical signal shall be used. 

In the case of -indicating the termination of the automatic 
coupling procedure, the remote indication has to ensure that the 
coupled devices are really connected together  (e.g. that pin has 
actually engaged in the drawbar  eye). 

The appearance of any fault in the remote indication system 
shall not indicate a closed and locked position during the 
coupling procedure if the endposition has not been reached. 

The disengagement of one of the two locking devices must cause 
the green optical signal to extinguish and/or the red optical 
signal to show. 

The mecanical indicators directly at the coupling device must be 
retained. 
The remote indication device shall be automatically  activated 
during every coupling procedure. 

In order to avoid distracting the driver during normal driving, 
there shall be a provision for switching off the remote 
indication device. 

The operating controls and indicators of the remote indication 
devices must be mounted within the driver's field of vision and 
be permanently and clearly  identified. 

10.3 

Remote control 

10.3.1 

10.3.2 

If a remote control device is employed, there must also be a 
remote indication device as described in 10.2 which must also 
indicate the open condition of the coupling. 

There must be a dedicated switch  (i.e. master switch, lever or 
valve) for enabling or barring opening of the coupling by means 
of the remote control device. If this master switch is not 
located in the driving cab it must not be in a position where it 
is freely accessible to unauthorized persons or it must be 
lockable. The actual operation of the coupling from the driving 
cab may only be possible when inadvertent operation has been 
precluded. 

10.3.3 

10.3.4 

10.3.5 

10.3.6 

- 50 -

It must be possible to ascertain whether opening of the coupling 
under remote control has been enabled or not. 

If remote control involves the coupling being opened by external 
force, the condition under which the external force acts on the 
coupling must be indicated appropriately to the driver. This is 
not necessary if the external force is only operative while the 
remote control is operating. 

If the actuating device for opening the coupling under remote 
control is mounted externally on the vehicle it must be possible 
to oversee the area between the coupled vehicles, but it must 
not be necessary, however, to enter this area in order to 
operate it. 

Any single error in operation or the occurrence of any single 
fault in the system must not result in accidental opening of the 
coupling during normal road travel. Any faults in the system 
must be indicated directly or be immediately obvious at the next 
operation, e.g. by a malfunction. 

In the event of a failure of remote control it must be possible 
to open the coupling in at least one other way in an emergency 
case. If this requires the use of a tool it must be included in 
the vehicle's tool kit. The requirements of Annex V, Section 3.8 
are not applicable to hand levers used exclusively for opening 
the coupling in an emergency. 

10.3.7 

The operating controls and indicators for the remote control 
devices must be permanently and clearly identified. 

1. 

1.1 

1.2 

1.3 

1.4 

1.5 

1.6 

-  51 -

ANNEX  VI 

Testing  of mechanical  coupling  devices 

General  testing  requirements 

Specimens  of coupling  devices must  be  tested;  both,  strength 
tests  and  function  tests  being  performed. 
However  the Technical  Service  may waive  a  strength  test  if  the 
simple  design  of  a component  makes  a theoretical  check  possible. 

With  coupling  devices  the  strenght  must  be verified  by  a  dynamic 
test  (endurance  test).  In certain  cases  some  additional  static 
tests may  be necessary  (see  section  4 ). In the  case  of  simple 
Class  E components, which  past  experience  has  shown  to  require 
no endurance  test  for  safe verification,  a  static  test  or 
theoretical  calculation  will be  sufficient.  In  cases  of  doubt  it 
is the  results -of dynamic  testing  that  are  overriding.  The 
Technical  Service  responsible  will  decide  on  the  type  of  tests 
to be  employed. 

Check calculations  must  ensure  quality  of  the  results  with  those 
of dynamic  or  static  testing. 

The  dynamic  test  should  be performed  with  approximately 
sinusoidal  load  (alternating  and/or  pulsating) with  a number  of 
stress  cycles  appropriate  to the material. No  cracks  of 
fractures must  occur. 

Only  slight  permanent  deformation  is permitted  with  the  static 
tests  prescribed.  The  plastic  deformation  after  releasing  must 
not be more  than  10 % of  the maximum  deformation. 

The  loading  assumptions  in the  dynamic  tests  are  based  on  the 
horizontal  force  component  in the  longitudinal  axis  of  the 
vehicle  and  the vertical  force  component. 
Horizontal  force  components  transverse  to the  longitudinal  axis 
of  the vehicle,  and moments, are  not taken  into  account  provided 
they  are  of only minor  significance. 
If the  design  of  the coupling  device  or  its  attachment  to  the 
vehicle  or the  attachment  of  additional  systems  (as  stabilizers, 
short  coupling  systems  etc.) generates  additional  forces  or 
moments  additional  tests may  be  required  by  the  Technical 
Service. 
The horizontal  force  component  in the  longitudinal  axis  of  the 
vehicle  is represented  by  a theoretically  determined  reference 
force,  the  D value  as defined  in Annex  1, Section  2.1.18. The 
vertical  force  component,  where  applicable,  is represented  by 
the  static  vertical  bearing  load  s at the  point  of  coupling  and 
the  assumed  vertical  load V,  defined  in Annex  I,  Section  2.1.19 
or by the  static  vertical  bearing  load  U  in case  of  fifth  wheel 
couplings. 

1.7 

2. 

2.1 

2.2 

2.3 

2.4 

2.5 

2.6 

-  52 -

The characteristic  values D, S, V and U on which  the  tests  are 
based, must  be taken  from the manufacturer's  application  for  the 
granting  of EEC type  approval. 

Test  procedures 

For  the dynamic  tests  and  static  tests  the  specimen must  be 
placed  in a suitable rig with  a suitable means  of  force 
application  so that  it  is not  subjected  to  any  additional  forces 
or moments  apart  from  the  specified  test  force. In the  case  of 
alternating  tests the direction  of  force  application  must  not 
deviate  by more  than  ±1*  from the  specified  direction.  In  the 
case  of pulsating  and  static  tests the  angle must  be  set  for  top 
force. This will  normally  require  a joint  at the point  of  force 
application  (i.e. the point  of coupling)  and  a second  joint  an 
adequate  distance  away. 

The test  frequency must  not exceed  35 Hz. The  selected  frequency 
shall be well  seperated  from resonance  frequencies  of  the  test 
set-up  inducing  the tested  device. With  asynchronous  testing 
the  frequencies  of the  two force components  must  be 
approximately  1% to a maximum  of  3% apart. For  coupling  devices 
made  of  steel the number  of  stress cycles  is 2 x  106.  for 
devices made  of other materials  than  steel  a higher  number  of 
cycles may  be necessary. The dye-penetration  method  of  crack 
testing  or  an equivalent  method must  be  employed. 

With  alternating  test  forces  (components)  the mean  force  is 
zero. With  pulsating  tests the test  force  is equal  to the  top 
force; the bottom  force may be up to 5% of  the  top  force  unless 
stated otherwise  in the  specific testing  requirements. 

With  static  tests the test  force must  be  applied  smoothly  and 
quickly  and be maintained  for at least  60 seconds. 

The coupling  devices  on test  shoud normally  be mounted  as 
rigidly  as possible  on  a test  rig  in the  actual  position  in 
which they will be used  on the vehicle. The  fixing  devices 
should  be those  specified  by the manufacturer  or  applicant  and 
should  be those  intented  for its attachment  to the  vehicle 
and/or  shall have  identical mechanical  characteristics. 

Preferably,  couplings  have to be tested  in original  condition  as 
being  foreseen  for the use on the road. At  the discretion  of  the 
manufacturer  and  in agreement with  the Teichnical  Service 
flexible components  may  be neutralized  if this  is necessary  for 
the test procedure  and  if there  is no concern  about  unrealistic 
influence  to the test  result. 

Flexible  components  being  apparently  overheated  due to  this 
accelerated  test procedure  are may  be replaced  during  the  test. 
The test  loads may  be applied  by means  of  special  slack-free 
devices. 

3. 

Symbols and definitions in Annex VI 

- 53 -

Av =  max. permitted axle load of the steered axle in t 
C 

=  mass of centre axle trailer in t  (as Annex I, Section 

2.1.18) 

=  D value in kN  (Annex I, Section  2.1.18) 
=  mass of full trailer in t (Annex I, section  2.1.18) 
=  mass of towing vehicle in t  (Annex I, Section  2.1.18) 

D 
R 
T 
FA =  static lifting force in kN 
Fn =  horizontal component of test force in longitudinal 

axis of vehicle in kN 

F3 =  vertical component of test force in kN 
F_ 

horizontal component of test force transverse to 
longitudinal axis of vehicle in kN 

Fns  r es 

= 

Fhq res 

resultant test 
force of Fn and 
FS  in kN 
resultant 
of 
force 
kN 
Pq  in 

test 
Fh  an 

S 
U 
V 
a 

=  static vertical load in kg 
=  fifth wheel imposed vertical load in t 
=  V-Value in kN  (Annex I, Section  2.1.19) 
=  equivalent vertical acceleration factor in the 

coupling point of centre axle trailers depending on 
the kind of suspension on the rear axle(s) of the 
towing vehicle 

e 

=  longitudinal distance between the coupling point of 

coupling balls which can be dismantled and the 
vertical plane of the fixing points  (see Fig. 23 to 
26) in mm 

=  vertical distance between the coupling point of 
coupling balls which can be dismantled and the 
horizontal plane of the fixing points  (see Fig. 22 to 
26) in mm 

=  acceleration due to gravity, assumed as 9,81 m/s2 
=  theoretical drawbar length between the centre of the 
drawbar eye and the centre of the axle assembly in m 

=  distance between drawbar eye and centre line of the 

steered axle in mm 
=  scrub radius in mm 
=  track in mm 
=  length of the loading area of a centre axle trailer in 

f 

g 
1 

n 

r 
s 
x 

m 

Subscripts  : 

U = bottom force 
w = alternating 
h = horizontal 
s = vertical 

o = top force 

4. 

4.1 

4.1.1 

4.1.2 

4.1.3 

4.1.4 

4.1.5 

Specific  testing  requirements 

-  54 -

Coupling  balls  and towing  brackets 

The mechanical  coupling  devices  of coupling  balls may  be  of  the 
following  types: 

-  one-piece  coupling  balls  including  devices  with  non-

interchangeable  detachable  balls  (see Fig.  21) 

-  coupling  balls, comprising  a number  of  parts which  can  be 

dismantled  (see Fig.  22,23,24) 
towing  brackets  (see Fig.  25) 

The basic  test  is an endurance  test with  an  alternating  test 
force. The  test  specimen  is the coupling  ball, the ball  neck  and 
the mountings  necessary  for  attaching  to the vehicle.  The 
coupling  ball  and towing  brackets  must  be rigidly mounted  to a 
test  rig,  capable  of producing  alternating  forces,  in the  actual 
position  in which  it  is  intended  for use. 

The positions  of the  fixing  points  for  attaching  the  coupling 
ball  and towing  brackets  are  specified  by  the  vehicle 
manufacturer  (see Annex VII, Section 1.3). 

The devices  submitted  to the test  shall be provided  with  all 
design details which may  have  an influence  on the  strength 
criteria  (for examle  electrical  socket  plate,  any marking  etc.). 
The  test  periphery  ends  at the  anchorage  points  or  fitting 
points. The  geometric  location of the  coupling  ball  and  the 
fixing points  of the coupling  device  related  to the  reference 
line  shall be provided  by the vehicle manufacturer  and  shall  be 
shown  in the test  report. 
All relative positions  of the  anchorage  points with  respect  to 
the reference  line,  for which  the towing  vehicle  manufacturer 
shall provide  all the necessary  information  to the  towing  device 
manufacturer,  shall be repeated  on the test  bed. 

The  assembly  mounted  on the  test bed  shall be  subjected  to a 
test  on  an alternating  stress  tensible  testing  machine  (for 
example  on  a resonance  pulser). 
The test  load  shall be  an alternating  force  and must  be  applied 
to the coupling  ball  at an angle of  15* ±  1*  as  shown  in Fig.  18 
and/or  Fig.  19. 
If the ball center  is above that  line parallel  to the  reference 
line as  shown  in Fig. 20 which  contains  the  highest  of  the 
nearest  fixing  points, the test  has to be carried  out with  an 
angle 
that  line parallel  to the reference  line  as  shown  in Fig.  20 
which  contains  the highest  of the  nearest  fixing points,  the 
test has to be carried  out with  an angle 
19). 
This  angle  is chosen  in order to take  iccount of  the  vertical 
static  and dynamic  load. This  test me* lod is only  applicable  to 
a permitted  static  load  of not more t  *n S =  120  • D.. If a 

= -15* ± 1*  (see Fig.  18). If the ball center  is  below 

=  15* i  1*  (see  Fig. 

static  load  above  120  • D is requested,  the  test  angle  should 

9 

g 

be  increased  to 20*. 
The dynamic  test must  be performed  with  the  following  test 
force: Fhg  r es  = ± 0,6  D 

-  55 

-

F i g.  18  Test  r ig 

I 

F i g.  19  Test  r ig 

I I 

reference 

l i ne 

h i g h e st 

f i x i ng  p c i r .-

l i ne  p a r a l l el 

r e f e r e n ce 

l i ne 

re  f e r e n ce  1  i ne 

b a ll  center 

F i g.  20  C r i t e r ia 

f or 

the  t e st  angles 

-  56  -

T} 

£r 

K ^ -^  ^ 
• 
i  I 

y< 
• 

^ 
I" 

rt\ 

# 

V 

F i g.  21  One  coupling  b a il 

4.1  .6 

4.1.6.1 

The  test  procedure  is applicable  to  the different  types of 
coupling  devices  (see 4.1.1) as  follows : 

One-piece  coupling  balls  including  devices with  non-
interchangeable  detachable  balls  (see  Fig. 2 1 ). 

The strength  test  for  the devices  shown  in Fig.  21  shall  be 
carried  out  according  to the  requirements  of  section  4.1.5. 

4.1.6.2 

Coupling  balls, comprising  parts which  can  be  dismantled. 

The  following  categories  are  defined: 

-  towing  bracket  and  ball  (see Fig.  22) 
-  towing  bracket  and  ball  on  integral  support  (see  Fig.  23) 
-  towing  bracket  and  ball  (see Fig.  24) 
-  towing  bracket  without  ball  (see  Fig.  25) 

Fig. 22 Towing  bracket  and  ball 

- 57 -

\ N \ ^ N S ^\ X 

.T\ 

Fig. 23 Towing bracket and ball on  integral support 

WVs^VjAX 

exi 

r-^H 

Fig. 24 Towing bracket and ball 

- 58 -

V,  4  /  /  S  ,,/  A 

Fig. 25 Towing bracket 

The strength test  for the devices shown  in Fig. 22 to 24 shall 
be carried out according to the requirements of Section 4.1.5. 
Dimensions e and f with a manufacturing tolerance of ± 5 mm, 
shall be shown  in the test report. 

The test of the towing bracket  (see Fig. 25) shall  be carried 
out with a mounted ball  (on support). Account will be taken only 
of the results to the towing bracket between  the fixing points 
and the mounting surface of the ball support. 

The dimensions e and f are to be specified by the coupling 
device manufacturer. 

4.1.6.3 

Coupling devices with variable dimensions e and f for 
demountable and  interchangeable coupling balls. 

4.1.6.3.1. 

The strength tests for such towing brackets (shown  in figure 26) 
shall be carried out  to the requirements of Section 4.1.5. 

4.1.6.3.2. 

4.1.6.3.3. 

If a worst case configuration can be defined by agreement 
between the manufacturer  and the Technical  Service, the testing 
of this one configuration alone shall be sufficient. 
Otherwise, several  ball positions shall be tested  in a 
simplified test programme according  to 4.1.6.3.3. 

In a simplified  test programme, the value for f shall be between 
a defined value of  fmjn and a value of fm ax which does not 
exceed 100 mm. The ball shall be at a distance  (em a x) of 130 
mm from the support. 
To cover all possible positions of the ball,  in the field given 
by the horizontal  distance from the mounting surface and the 
vertical  range of f (fmin to 'max)*  t wo  devices are to be 
tested: 

-  one with a ball  in top (fmax) a nd 
-  one with a ball  in low (fmjn) position. 

If the field of possible ball positions  is divided by the line 
parallel reference  line (see fig. 26c), the test angles are: 
-0C for the ball above, and +01 for the ball below that 
reference  line (compare Fig. 20). 

a>  fmax  below  line parallel  reference  line test  angles:  + OC 

- 59 -

r e f e r e n ce  line  *©c 

bail  beiow 

max 

Fig. 26a Towing  bracket  and support  for a various number  of ball  posit! 

ons 

b) fm ln  above  line parallel  reference  line test  angles: - C* 

re fe r s n cs  lines 

- 0/ 

l^ne  c a r s i l el  r e f e r e n ce 

l i ne 

TjH^ —c<. 

j 

b a ll  above 

e 

L  _ 

T 

max 

Fig.  26b  Towing  bracket  and  support  for  a  various  number  of  ball  posit! 

ons 

c>  *max  ab0 ve  n ne  p a r a l l el 

r e f e r e n ce 

l i ne 

min  below 

l i ne  p a r a l l el 

r e f e r e n ce 

l i ne 

t e st  a n g l e s:  + C * a nd  -  OL 

-  60 

-

l i ne  p a r a l l el 

r e f e r e n ce 

l i n e/ 

' 

/ /, 

s f 6 r s n c s 

i _ n es 

!  b a ll  above 

b a ll  below 

A 

v 

max 

F i g.  26c  Towing  bracket  and  s u p p o rt 

f or  a  v a r i o us  number  of  b a ll  p o s i t i o ns 

4.2 

4.2.1 

4.2.2 

Coup Iing  heads 

The  basic  test  is an endurance  test  with  an alternating  test 
force and a static  test  (lifting  test) on each  test  specimen. 

The  dynamic  test  must  be performed  with  a Class A coupling  ball 
of  appropriate  strength. On the test  rig the ball  coupling and 
coupling  ball  must  be arranged  as  instructed  by the manufacturer 
and  in a way corresponding  to their  attachment  in a vehicle. 
There  should  be no possibility  of extra  forces  in addition to 
the  test  force  acting on the specimen. 
The  test  force must  be applied  along  a  line passing  through the 
centre of the ball  and  inclined  downwards  to the rear  at 15° 
(see Fig. 2 7 ). An endurance  test  must  be performed  on a test 
specimen  with  the following  test  force: 

- 61 -

Fhs res w • * °-6  D 

<^ - --A5 

Fig. 27 Dynamic test 

4.2.3 

A static  lifting test must also be performed. The coupling ball 
used for the test must have a diameter of 

+ 0,13 

49 

- 0 

mm 

in order  to represent  a worn coupling ball. The  lifting force 
FA must  be  increased smoothly and quickly to a value of C +S 

and be held for 10 seconds  (see Fig. 28). The coupling head 
shall  not separate from the ball or exhibit  any permanent 
distortion which could have an adverse effect on  its functional 
capabiIity. 

7 7 7 7 7 7 7 7/ 

/  /  /  y 

F i g.  28  L i f t i ng 

t e st 

4.3 

Drawbar couplings and mounting frames 

- 62 -

4.3.1. 

An endurance test must be performed on one test specimen. The 
drawbar coupling must be equipped with all the fixings needed to 
attach it to the vehicle frame. 
Any intermediate devices fitted between the drawbar coupling and 
the vehicle frame  (i.e. mounting frames) must be tested with the 
same forces as the coupling. 

4.3.2. 

Drawbar couplings for hinged drawbars  (S=0) 

The dynamic tests must be performed with a horizontal 
alternating force of F  = o 6 n  *•' 
the ground and in the ttfngirudinal median plane of the towing 
vehicle passing through the centre of the coupling pin. 

n i t-

1* 

4.3.3. 

Drawbar couplings for use with centre axle trailers  (S > 0 ). 

4.3.3.1. 

Centre axle trailer masses up to and including 3.5. t 

Drawbar couplings for use with centre axle trailers up to and 
including a mass of 3.5 t must be tested in the same way as 
coupling balls and towing brackets described in 4.1 of this 
Annex. 

4.3.3.2 

Centre axle trailer masses exceeding 3.5. t 

The test loads are applied to the specimen in the horizontal and 
vertical directions in an asynchronous endurance test. The 
horizontal line of action must be parallel to the ground in the 
longitudinal median plane of the towing vehicle and pass through 
the centre of the coupling pin. The vertical line of action must 
be perpendicular to the ground in the longitudinal median plane 
of the towing vehicle and pass through the centre of the 
coupling pin  (see Fig. 29). 

The fixing arrangements for the drawbar coupling and the drawbar 
eye on the test bed shall be those intended for its attachment 
to the vehicle in accordance with the manufacturer's fitting 
instructions. 

- 63 -

The following test loads shall be applied to the coupling 
point 

test load 

mean value  (KN)  amplitude  (KN) 

horizontal 
load 

vertical 
load 

0 

+/- 0.6  * D 

g » S 
1000 

+/- 0.6  * V 

The test force is the geometrical sum of the vertical and the 
horizontal components. This can be achieved by the test bed 
configuration shown in Fig. 29. The vertical and the horizontal 
components  shall be sinusoidal in shape and shall be applied 
asynchronously, where the difference of their frequencies shall 
be between  1% and 3%, so that resulting test forces in all 
directions are created. 

4.3.4. 

Static test on coupling pin locking device 

With drawbar couplings it is also necessary to test the closure 
and any locking devices by means of a static force of 0.25 D 
acting in the direction of opening. The test must not cause the 
closure to open and it must not cause any damage. A test force 
of 0.1 D is sufficient in the case of cylindrical coupling pins 

-  64  -

* " t > «i  te st  load 

//  /  r/  //J////////////////// 

>*/  /'/>///////// 

/SS//S-/S 

SSSS/s} 

4 .4 

4 . 4 .1 

4 . 4 .2 

4 .5 

4 . 5 .1 

Example of test  bed configuration 

Fig. 29 Testrig for  drawbar  couplings  (example) 

Drawbar  eyes 

Drawbar  eyes must be subjected to the same  dynamic  testing as 
drawbar  couplings. Drawbar  eyes used  solely  for trailers  having 
hinged  drawbars  allowing  free vertical  movement  must be 
subjected to an alternating  load as described  in 4.3.2.  Drawbar 
eyes  also  intended  for use on centre  axle  trailers must be 
tested  in the same way as ball  couplings  (4.2.) for trailer 
masses C up to and  Including 3.5 t and in the same way as 
drawbar  couplings  (4.3.3.2.) for  centre  axle  trailer  with a 
mass C exceeding 3.5 t. 

The  testing of drawbar  eyes must be conducted  In such a manner 
that  the alternating  load  also  acts on the parts  used for 
attaching  the drawbar  eye to the drawbar. All  flexible 
intermediate  components  must be clamped. 

Drawbars 

Drawbars  shall be tested  In the same way as drawbar  eyes (see 
4.4). 
The  technical  service may waive an endurance  test  if the simple 
design of a component  makes a theoretical  check of Its  strength 
possIbIe. 
The  design  loads for the endurance  test or the theoretical 
verification of the drawbar of centre  axle  trailers  with a 
mass C of up to and  including 3.5 t shall be taken  from ISO 
7641/1  (1983). 

- 65 -

The design loads for the theoretical verification of drawbars 
for centre axle trailers having a mass C over 3,5 t must be 
calculated as follows: 

F

sw  - ± 0.6  ( 1000 + V) 
where the force amplitude V is that given in Annex  1,  Section 
2.1.19. 

The asynchronous nature of the horizontal and vertical force 
components must be taken into account by multiplying the sum of 
the bending moments by a factor 0.75. This reduced total bending 
moment must not be less than the maximum individual bending 
moment. 

In addition to the endurance test or theoretical verification of 
strength, the resistance to buckling must be verified either by 
a theoretical calculation with a design load of 1,8 X D or by a 
buckling test with a design load of 3 X D. 

In the case of steered axles, theoretical calculation must 
verify the maximum permitted bending stresses due to lateral 
forces. 

design loads : 

F 

qy « g* 0.18  * Aj, • r (for stub axle steering) 

F 

qv • g* 0.18  • Ay  * £  (for fifth wheelr steering) 

Fifth wheel couplings 

The basic strength tests are a dynamic test and a static test 
(lifting test). Fifth wheel couplings intended for the positive 
steering of semi-trailers must be subject to an additional 
static test  (bending test). 
For the purpose of the tests the fifth wheel coupling must be 
equipped with all the fixings needed to attach it to the 
vehicle. The method of mounting must be identical to that 
employed  subsequently on the vehicle itself. 

4.5.2 

4.5.3. 

4.6. 

4.6.1 

4.6.2. 

Static tests 

4.6.2.1 

standard fifth wheel couplings designed for a steering wedge or 
similar device for the positive steering of semi-trailers  (see 
Annex V, Section 7.9) must be tested for adequate strength by 
means of a static bending test within the working range of the 
steering device with the simultaneous application of fifth wheel 
load. The maximum permitted fifth wheel load U must be applied 
vertically on the coupling in its operating position by means of 
a rigid plate of sufficient size to cover the coupling 
completely. 

4.6.2.2 

-  66  -

The  resultant  of  the applied  load must  pass  through  the  centre 
of  the  horizontal  Joint  of  the  fifth wheel  coupling. 
Simultaneously,  a horizontal  lateral  force,  representing  the 
force  needed  for  positive  steering of  the semi-trailer, must  be 
applied  to  the  flanks of  the guide  for  the  coupling  pin. The 
magnitude of  this  force  and  the direction  in which  it acts must 
be chosen  so  that  a moment  of  0.75 m  X D  is exerted  about  the 
centre  of  the coupling  pin. 
The moment  should  be  applied  by means of  a  force  acting on a 
lever  arm  0.5  m  long. Permanent  (plastic) distortion  up  to 0.5  % 
of  all  nominal  dimensions  is permitted. There must  be  no 
cracking. 

A static  lifting  test  must  be performed  on  all  fifth  wheel 
couplings. Up  to a  lifting  force of  FA  - g-U  there must  be 
no major  permanent  bending  of  the coupling  plate  over  more  than 
0.2  % of  its width. 
In the  case  of  Class G50 standard  fifth wheel  couplings  and 
comparable  couplings  for  the same coupling  pin  diameter  there 
must  be no separation of  the coupling  pin  from  the  coupling  with 
a  I ift ing  force of 

FA - 9 

2.5  • U. 

The  force  should  be applied  by means of  a  lever  bearing  on  the 
coupling  plate  at one end  and  being  raised  at  the other  end  at a 
distance  of  1.0  to 1.5 m  from  the centre of  the coupling  pin 
(see Fig. 3 0 ). 
The  lever  arm must  be  at  90°  to the direction of  entry  of  the 
coupling  pin  into the coupling. A second  test  with  the  lever  arm 
repositioned  at  180° shall  be  performed. 

For  the  second  test  a new  specimen may  be  used. 

Sketch of  the  test  rig 

Looking  from  the  rear 

Fig. 30 Lifting  test  on  fifth wheel  couplings 

4.6.3 

Dynamic test 

- 67 -

The fifth wheel coupling must be subjected to alternating stress 
on a test rig  (asynchronous dynamic test) with horizontal 
alternating and vertical pulsating forces acting  simultaneously. 

4.6.3.1 

In the case of fifth wheel couplings not intended for the 
positive steering of semi-trailers the following forces must be 
used: 

Horizontal: F 

hw 

Vertical:  F 

psO 
sU 

t  0.6  • D 

g • 1.2  • U 
g  • 0.4  • U 

These two forces must be applied in the longitudinal median 
plane of the vehicle with F 
7.  . . . 
,  .. 
the joint of the coupling. s u#u  F 
The vertical force F 

«o u passing through the centre of 
^ 

. ^ 

, . 

^ 

* 

so U alternates between the limits 

+1 2 

• u and +0.4  • U 

and the horizontal force between 
+0.6 

• D and -0.6* D. 

4.6.3.2 

In the case of fifth wheel couplings intended for the positive 
steering of semi-trailers the following forces must be used: 
. _ „__  ^ 
hw » * 0-67*  * D 

horizontal: F 

vertical:  F 

sO,U as in 4.6.3.1 

The lines of action of the forces are shown in 4.6.3.1. 

4.6.3.3 

For the dynamic test of fifth wheel couplings, a suitable 
lubricating sheet material shall be placed between the coupling 
plate and the trailer plate so that a maximum friction 
coefficient of JJ = 0.15 is assured. 

4.7 

Mounting plates for fifth wheel couplings 

The dynamic test for fifth wheel couplings described in 4.6.3 
and the static tests described in 4.6.2 must be applied 
appropriately to mounting plates. With mouting plates it is 
sufficient to perform the lifting test on one side only. The 
test must be based on the maximum assigned installation height 
for the coupling, the maximum assigned width and the minimum 
assigned lenght of the mounting plate design. It is not 
necessary to carry out this test if the mounting plate is 
narrower and/or longer and the total height lower, but otherwise 
identical to a design which has already undergone this test. 

4.8 

4.8.1 

Fifth wheel coupling pins of semi-trailers 

- 68 -

A dynamic test with alternating stress must be performed on a 
specimen on a test rig. The testing of the coupling pin must not 
be combined with the testing of the fifth wheel coupling. The 
test must be conducted so that the load is also applied to the 
fixings needed for attaching the coupling pin to the semi 
trailer. 

4.8.2 

A dynamic test with a horizontal load of F 
must be applied to the coupling pin in thehopIratxn§ position. 

The line of action of the force must pass through the centre of 
the smallest diameter of the cylindrical part of the coupling 
pin having a diameter of 50.8 mm for Class H50  (see annex V, 
Fig. 17). 

- 69 -

ANNEX VII 

Requirements relating to the type-approval of the vehicle type 
with regard to the optional attachment of mechanical coupling 
devices to this vehicle. 

General requirements 

The vehicle manufacturer shall state which types and classes of 
coupling devices may be fitted to the vehicle type giving the 
values of D, V, S or U  (if applicable) which are based on the 
construction of the vehicule type in combination with the 
type(s) of the coupling device(s) intended to be used. The 
characteristics D, V, S or U of the coupling devices approved in 
accordance with this Directive shall be equal or greater than 
the characteristics given for the combination concerned. 

The coupling device shall be attached to the vehicle type 
according to the installation instructions, given by the vehicle 
manufacturer in agreement with the coupling manufacturer and the 
Technical Service. The vehicle manufacturer shall state the 
appropriate attachment points for the coupling device on the 
vehicle  type and, if necessary, mounting brackets, mounting 
plates, etc. to be.fitted on the specific vehicle type. 

Only automatic coupling devices which allow an automatic 
coupling procedure on motor vehicles shall be employed for the 
coupling of trailers having a maximum mass of more than 3,5 t. 

When mounting coupling devices of classes B, D, E and H on 
trailers, a value of 32 t for the maximum mass T of the towing 
vehicle must taken into account for D-value calculation. If the 
D-value of the coupling device is not sufficient for T = 32 t, 
the resulting restriction on the mass T of the towing vehicle or 
the mass of the vehicle' combination must be stated in the EEC 
vehicle type approval certificate of the trailer  (AnnexIX). 

1. 

1.1 

1.2 

1.3 

1.4 

2. 

2.1 

2.1 .1 

Special  requirements 

-  70 -

Attachment  of  coupling  balls and  towing  brackets 

Coupling  balls  and  towing  brackets must  be attached  to a vehicle 
in a manner  which  conforms  to the clearance  and  height 
dimensions  given  in Fig. 31. 

<5' 

Profit* vt«wr (»«cx»*»0>&"A 

s  i 
_!J_ 

www /taction  d-S) 

Fig. 31  Clearance  space  for  coupling  balls 
Any  details not  given must  be selected  appropriately. 
The dimensions  and  angles should  be checked with  suitable  instruments 

2.1.2 

2.1.3 

2.1.4 

2.2 

2.2.1 

- 71 -

For  coupling  balls and  towing  brackets  the vehicle  manufacturer 
must  supply  mounting  instructions and  state  whether  any 
reinforcement  of  the  fixing  area  is necessary. 

It must  also  be  possible  to couple  and uncouple  ball  couplings 
when  the  longitudinal  axis of  the ball  coupling  in relation  to 
the centre  line of  the coupling ball  and  mounting: 

a)  is horizontally  B - 60°  to right  or  left  (see  Fig.  31) 
b)  is vertically 
c)  is axially  rotated  10°  to right  or  left. 

-  10° up or  down  (see  fig.  31) 

The mounted  coupling  ball  must  not  obscure  the place  or 
visibility of  the  rear  license plate, otherwise  a coupling  ball 
which  can  be  dismantled  has  to be  used. 

Attachment  of  coupling  heads 

Class B  coupling  heads  are  permitted  for  trailers  of  the  maximum 
mass up  to and  including  3.5.t. 
With  the  trailer  horizontal  and  carrying  the maximum  permitted 
axle  load, coupling  heads must  be attached  so  that  the  coupling 
point  of  the  trailer  is 430 ±  35 mm  above  the horizontal  plane 
on which  the wheels  of  the  trailer  stand  (see  Fig. 3 2 ). 
In the case of  caravans  and  goods  trailers,  the  horizontal 
position  is regarded  as when  the  floor  or  loading  surface  is 
horizontal.  In the case of  trailers without  such  a  reference 
surface  (e.g. boat  trailers of  similar) the  trailer  manufacturer 
must  give  an  appropriate  reference  line defining  the  horizontal 
pos i 11on. 

2.2.2 

It must  be  possible  to operate  the coupling  heads  safely  within 
the  free  space of  the coupling ball  given  in Fig.  31. The  hand 
lever  must  be  shaped  in such  a manner  that  there  is existing  an 
adequate  freer  space  for  the hands withing  the operating  area  of 
the  hand  lever  including  the  removal  of  the coupling  head  from 
the coup Iing  balI. 

, * ; * / * * * * * * ' • • * ' ' * ' * * ' ' '' 

Fig.  32 Mounting  height  of  a coupling  head 

2.3 

2.3.1 

Attachment of drawbar couplings and mounting blocks 

Mounting dimensions for standard drawbar couplings 

- 72 -

If types of standard drawbar  couplings are  intended to be fitted 
to the vehicle type, the mounting dimensions on the vehicle 
given  in Fig. 33 and Table 8 must be met. 

Fig. 33 Mounting dimensions for standard drawbar couplings (see Table 8) 

2.3.2 

Need for remote controlled couplings 

- 73 -

If one or more of the following rules regarding easy and safe 
operation  (2.3.3), accessibility  (2.3.4) or clearance for the 
hand lever  (2.3.5) cannot be met, a coupling with a remote 
control device as described in Annex V, section 10.3 must be 
used. 

2.3.3 

Easy and safe coupling operation 

Drawbar couplings must be mounted on the vehicle type in such a 
manner that they are easy and safe to operate. 

In addition to the functions of opening  (and closing, if 
applicable) this also includes checking the position of the 
indicator for the closed and secured position of the coupling 
pin  (by sight and  touch). 

In the area in which the person operating the coupling must 
stand, there must be no points of possible danger such as sharp 
edges, corners, etc. inherent in the design or they must be 
protected so that injury is unlikely. 

The way of escape from this area must not be restricted or 
barred on either side by any attached objects. 

Any underrun protection device must not prevent the person 
adopting a suitable position to operate the coupling. 

2.3.4 

Accessibility 

The distance between the centre of the coupling pin and the rear 
edge of the vehicle bodywork must not exceed 420 mm. 

However, the distance of 420 mm may be exceeded if technical 
necessity can be demonstrated: 

1. a distance of up to 650 mm for vehicles with tipping 

bodies or rear-mounted equipment 

2. a distance of up to 1320 mm if the unobstructed 

height is at least  1150 mm 

3. car transporters with at least two loading levels when the 

trailer vehicle is not separated from the towing vehicle in 
normal transport operation, 

provided easy and safe actuation of the drawbar coupling  is not 
adversly affected. 

2.3.5 

Clearance for the hand lever 

In order to permit safe operation of drawbar couplings there 
must be adequate free space around the hand lever. 

The clearance illustrated in Fig. 34 is regarded as sufficient. 

- 74 -

If different types of standard drawbar couplings are intended to 
be fitted to the vehicle type, the clearance must be such that 
the conditions are also satisfied for the largest size of 
coupling of the appropriate class given in Annex V, Section 3. 

The dimensions are also applicable as appropriate for drawbar 
couplings having hand levers pointing downwards or of a 
different design. 

The clearance must also be maintained within the specified 
minimum angle for coupling-up and uncoupling given in Annex V, 
Section 3.6. 

2.3.6 

clearance for free movement of drawbar coupling 

The drawbar coupling attached to the vehicle must have a minimum 
clearance of 10 mm from every other part of the vehicle taking 
into account all possible geometrical positions of the coupling 
that can be adopted. 

If different types of stadard drawbar couplings are intended to 
be fitted to the vehicle type, the clearance must be such that 
the conditions are also satisfied for the largest possible 
coupling of the appropriate class stated in Annex V, Section 3. 

2.3.7 

Admissibility of drawbar couplings with a special joint for 
vertical rotation  (see Fig. 6) 

couplings having a cylindrical pin and which achieve vertical 
rotation for the coupled drawbar eye by means of a special joint 
will only be permitted in cases when technical necessity can be 
demonstrated. This may be the case, for example, on rear tippers 
when the coupling head must be hinged, or with the couplings of 
heavy transporters when for strength reasons the use of a 
cylindrical coupling pin is necessary. 

Table 8  Mounting dimensions for standard drawbar  couplings 

- 75 -

C50-1  C50-2 

C50-3 

C50-4 

C50-5  C50-6 

C50-7 

remark 

e1 

e2 

d1 

d2 

T 

F 

G 

83 

56 

-

-

54 

10,5 

15 

120 

140 

55 

75 

15 

20 

80 

85 

17 

25 

120 

95 

165 

190 

100 

130 

L1 

-

200 

300 

160 

100 

95 

21 

200 

+/-0.5 

120 

+/-0.5 

125 

+1/-0.5 

25 

H13 

25 

30 

max. 

210 

150 

400 

260 

min. 

180 

min. 

min. 

Fig. 34 Hand  lever clearance 

2.4 

2.4.1 

2.4.2 

2.5 

2.5.1 

2.5.2 

2.5.3 

2.5.4 

- 76 -

Attachment of drawbar eyes and drawbars on trailers 

Drawbars for centre axle trailers must have a support device 
adjustable in height if the vertical bearing load at the drawbar 
eye on the trailer type exceeds 50 kg, when the trailer is 
uniformly loaded to its technically permissible maximum mass. 

When attaching drawbar eyes and drawbars to centre axle trailers 
with a maximum mass c of more than 3.5 t and more than one axle, 
they must be equipped with a device for axle load sharing such 
that when one axle is lifted by 6 cm the load of this axle does 
not increase by more than 25%, when uniformly loaded to its 
technically permissible maximum mass. 

Attachment of fifth wheel couplings, mounting plates and 
coupling pins on vehicles 

class G50 fifth wheel couplings must not be mounted directly on 
the vehicle frame unless permitted by the vehicle manufacturer. 
They must be fixed to the frame by means of the mounting plate, 
the installation instructions provided by the vehicle 
manufacturer or coupling manfacturer must be followed. 

Semi-trailers must be equipped with landing gear or an other 
equipment which allows uncoupling and parking of the semi 
trailer. If semi-trailers are equipped so that the connection of 
the coupling devices, the electrical systems and braking systems 
can be effected automatically, the trailer must have landing 
gear which retracts from the ground automatically after the 
semi-trailer has been coupled up. 

The fixing of the fifth wheel coupling pin in the mounting plate 
on the semi-trailer must be as instructed by the vehicle 
manufacturer or manufacturer of the fifth wheel coupling. 

If a semi-trailer is equipped with a steering wedge it must meet 
the requirements as described in Annex V, Sections 7.9.1 and 
7.9.2. 

-  77  -

ANNEX VXII 

Information Document No 

pursuant to Annex I of Council Directive 76/156/EEC 
relating to EEC Type approval of a vehicle with respect to the 
Fitting of Mechanical Coupling Devices (.../...EEC) 

0. 

0.1 
0.2 
0.3 
0.3.1 
0.4 
0.5 

1. 

1.1 
1.4 
1.5 

2. 

2.2 
2.2.1 
2.2.2 

2.4.2 
2.4.2.5 
2.6 

2.6.1 

2.8 

2.8.1 

2.9 

GENERAL 

Make  (trade name of manufacturer)! 
type and commercial  description^): 
Means of identification of type, if marked on the vehicle . 
Location of that marking: 
Category of vehicle (see Annex II of 70/156/EEC): 
Name and address of manufacturer: 

: 

GENERAL CONSTRUCTION CHARACTERISTICS OF THE VEHICLE 

Photographs and/or drawings of a representative vehicle: 
chassis (if any) (overall drawing): 
Material used for the side-members  . 

(d), 

MASSES AND DIMENSIONS 
where applicable) 

( e)  <in  k9 and mm)  (refer to drawing 

In the case of tractive units 
Fifth wheel lead  (maximum and minimum) 
Maximum height of the fifth wheel  (standardized),. k 
(n) 

For chassis with bodywork 
Rear overhang 
Mass of the vehicle with bodywork in running order, or mass of 
the chassis with cab if the manufacturer does not fit the 
bodywork  (including coolant, oils, fuel, tools, spare wheel end 
driver) 
Distribu!ioAmd*-tn5d- maBs am5nfa€&ev«xle8nand, in the case of a 
semi-trailer, load on the fifth wheel coupling pin (max.  and 
min. for each version): 

Technically permissible maximum laden mass stated by the 
manufacturer  (max. and min. for each version): 
Distribution of this mass among the axles and, in the case of a 
semi-trailer, load on the fifth wheel coupling pin (max.  and 
min. for each version): 
Technically permissible maximum mass on each axle and, in the 
case of a semi-trailer, load on the fifth wheel coupling pin 
stated by the manufacturer: 

2.10 
2.10.1 
2.10.2 
2.10.3 
2.10.3.1 

Maximum mass of trailer which may be coupled 
Full trailer: 
Semi-trailer: 
Centre-axle trailer: 
Indicate the maximum ratio of the coupling overhang 
wheelbase: 

( q)  to  t he 

2.10.3.2 

Maximum V-value (kN): 

- 78 -

2.10.4 
2.10.6 

2.11 
2.11.1 
2.11.2 

9. 

9.1 

9.2 

11. 

11.1 

11.2 
11.3 

11.4 

Maximum mass of the combination: 
Maximum mass of unbraked trailer: 

Maximum vertical load 
On the vehicle's coupling point for a trailer: 
on the drawbar of a trailer: 

BODYWORK 

Type of bodywork: 

Materials used and methods of construction: 

CONNECTIONS BETWEEN DRAWING VEHICLES AND TRAILERS AND SEMI 

TRAILERS 

Class and type of the coupling device(s): 

Maximum D-value: 
Instructions of attachment of the coupling type to the vehicle 
and photographs or drawings of the fixing points at the vehicle 
given by the manufacturer; additional information, if the use of 
the coupling type is restricted to special types of vehicles: 

kN 

Information of the fitting of special towing brackets of 
mounting plates 

I1): 

Date, File 

- 79 -

ANNEX IX 

MODEL 
(maximum format: A4  (210 X 297)) 

EEC TYPE-APPROVAL CERTIFICATE 

Communication concerning the 
- type-approval 
- extension of type-approval 
- refusal of type-approval  J 
- withdrawal of type approval 

of a type of a vehicle with regard to Directive 

Type-approval number 

Reason for extension: 

SECTION I 

0.1 
0.2 
0.3 
0.3.1 
0.4 
0.5 

1. 

2. 
3. 
4. 
5. 
6. 
7. 
8. 
9. 

Make  (trade name of manufacturer): 
Type and commercial description^) : 
Means of identification of type if marked on the vehicle _ 
(3) 
Location of that marking: 
x ' 
Category of vehicle: 
Name and address of manufacturer: 

SECTION II 

Additional information  (where applicable): See 
Appendix I 
Technical service responsible for carrying out the tests: 
Date of test report: 
Number of test report: 
Remarks  (if any): See appendix I 
Place: 
Date: 
Signature: 
The index to the information package lodged with the competent 
authority that has granted type approval, which may be obtained 
on request, is attached. 

(1) 

(2) 

Delete where not applicable 

In the case of components the EEC type-approval number appearing on 

document shall consist of all sections outlined in Annex VII to 

Directive 70/156/EEC, as last amended by Directive  .../...EEC. The 

component itself shall be marked as prescribed in the relevant separ 

Directive. 

(3) 

If the means of identification of type contains characters not relev 

to describe the vehicle, component or separate technical unit types 

covered by this information document/type-approval  certificate such 

characters shall be represented in the documentation by the symbol: 

- 80 -

Appendix I 

to EEC type-approval certificate no 

concerning the type approval of a vehicle with regard to 
Directive  .../...EEC 

Additional information 

Vehicle construction, bodywork/chassis: 
Materials used: 

Class of the coupling device, EEC type-approval number: 

Use of towing brackets or mounting plates; attachment 
instructions of the coupling type: 

EEC vehicle type approval is extended to the following type(s) 
of coupling device and class(es): 

Maximum mass of the vehicle type T or R 
coupling device: 

t 

(1>  fitted with the 

Maximum vertical load S or fifth wheel load U 
vehicle type fitted with the coupling device: .;.9£g£fee 

Maximum V-value of a centre axle trailer: 

kN 

Maximum towable mass of the motor vehicle 

<!>: 

Remarks: 

1. 

1.1 
1.1.1 

1.2 

1.3 

1.4 

1.5 

1.6 

1.7 

1.8 

5. 

- 81 -

IMPACT STATEMENT ON COMPETITIVENESS AND JOBS 

Proposal for a Council Directive relating to the mechanical coupling devices 
of motor vehicles and trailers and their attachment to these vehicles 

I. What is the main justification of the measure? 

- 

- 
- 
- 

Completion of the EEC type-approval procedure for road vehicles and 
coupling devices 
Harmonization of national laws 
Improvements to road safety 
Interchangeability  of motor vehicles and trailers with regard to 
international transport within the Community 

II. 

Characteristics of the companies involved 

More particularly, 

- 
- 
- 
- 

Do they include a large number of SME? - No 
Are there any significant regional concentrations? - No 
Are they eligible for regional aid from the MS? - No 
Are they eligible for aid from the ERDF? - No 

III. 

What obligations are imposed on those companies? 

Merely the obligation to comply with what the Directive lays down with 
regard to type approval and the manufacture of coupling devices. 

IV. 

What obligations are likely to be imposed indirectly upon these 
companies via the local authorities? 

No additional obligation 

V. Do any special measures apply to SME? 

What are they? 

None 

VI. 

What is the foreseeable impact on 

- 

- 

company productivity?  No foreseeable impact 

jobs?  No foreseeable impact 

VII. 

Have both sides of industry been consulted?  Yes 

- Opinion of the two sides of industry: no objections 

idl03/KB/DIRECT/imp4226en 

ISSN 0254-1475 

COM(92) 108 final 

DOCUMENTS 

EN 

07 

Catalogue number: CB-CO-92-120-EN-C 

ISBN 92-77-42161-4 

Office for Official Publications of the European Communities 
L-2985 Luxembourg