CELEX: 42006X1227(02)
Language: en
Date: 2006-12-27 00:00:00
Title: Regulation No 55 of the Economic Commission for Europe of the United Nations (UN/ECE) — Uniform provisions concerning the approval of mechanical coupling components of combinations of vehicles

L 373/50           EN           Official Journal of the European Union                    27.12.2006
  Only the original UN/ECE texts have legal effect under international public law. The status
  and date of entry into force of this Regulation should be checked in the latest version of the
                UN/ECE status document TRANS/WP.29/343/Rev.X, available at:
         http://www.unece.org/trans/main/wp29/wp29wgs/wp29gen/wp29fdocstts.html.
 Regulation No 55 of the Economic Commission for Europe of the United Nations
(UN/ECE) – Uniform provisions concerning the approval of mechanical coupling
                          components of combinations of vehicles
                                Addendum 54: Regulation No. 55
                                             Revision 1
Incorporating all valid text up to:
The 01 series of amendments - Date of entry into force: 16 September 2001
Corrigendum 1 to the 01 series of amendments, subject of depositary notification
C.N.602.2002.TREATIES-1 dated 13 June 2002
1.       SCOPE
1.1.          This Regulation lays down the requirements which the mechanical
              coupling devices and components shall meet in order to be regarded
              internationally as being mutually compatible.
1.2.          This Regulation applies to devices and components intended for:
1.2.1.        motor vehicles and trailers intended to form a combination of vehicles1
1.2.2.        motor vehicles and trailers intended to form articulated vehicles 1, where
              the vertical load imposed on the motor vehicle by the trailer does not
              exceed
              200 kN.
1.3.          This Regulation applies to:
1.3.1.        standard devices and components as defined in paragraph 2.3.;
1.3.2.        non-standard devices and components as defined in paragraph 2.4.;
1.3.3.        non-standard miscellaneous devices and components as defined in
              paragraph 2.5.
2.            DEFINITIONS
1
  Within the meaning of the Convention on Road Traffic (Vienna, 1968) article 1, subparagraphs (t)
and (u).
 ---pagebreak--- 27.12.2006      EN         Official Journal of the European Union              L 373/51
           For the purposes of this Regulation:
2.1.       "mechanical coupling devices and components means" all those items on
           the frame, load-bearing parts of the bodywork and the chassis of the motor
           vehicle and trailer by means of which they are connected together to form
           the combination of vehicles or the articulated vehicles. Fixed or
           detachable parts for the attachment or operation of the mechanical
           coupling device or component are included.
2.2.       automatic coupling requirement is achieved if reversing the towing
           vehicle against the trailer is sufficient to engage the coupling completely,
           to lock it automatically and to indicate proper engagement of the locking
           devices without any external intervention.
           In the case of hook type couplings automatic coupling requirement is
           achieved if opening and closing of the coupling locking device takes place
           without any external intervention when the drawbar eye is inserted into
           the hook.
2.3.       standard mechanical coupling devices and components conform to
           standard dimensions and characteristic values as given in this Regulation.
           They are interchangeable within their class, independent of manufacturer.
2.4.       non-standard mechanical coupling devices and components do not
           conform in all respects to the standard dimensions and characteristic
           values given in this Regulation but can be connected to standard coupling
           devices and components in the relevant class.
2.5.       non-standard miscellaneous mechanical coupling devices and components
           do not conform to standard dimensions and characteristic values as given
           in this Regulation and cannot be connected to standard coupling devices
           and components. They include, for example, devices which do not
           correspond with any of the Classes A to L and T listed in paragraph 2.6.
           such as those intended for special, heavy transport use and miscellaneous
           devices conforming to existing national standards.
2.6.       mechanical coupling devices and components are classified according to
           type as follows:
2.6.1.     Class A Coupling balls and towing brackets employing a 50 mm diameter
           spherical device and brackets on the towing vehicle for connecting to the
           trailer by means of a coupling head - see annex 5, paragraph 1.
2.6.1.1.   Class A50-1 to 50-5 Standard 50 mm diameter coupling balls with flange
           type bolted fixing.
2.6.1.2.   Class A50-X Non-standard 50 mm diameter coupling balls and brackets.
2.6.2.     Class B Coupling heads fitted to the drawbar of trailers for connecting to
           the 50 mm diameter coupling ball on the towing vehicle - see annex 5,
           paragraph 2.
 ---pagebreak--- L 373/52      EN          Official Journal of the European Union            27.12.2006
2.6.2.1. Class B50-X Non-standard 50 mm diameter coupling heads.
2.6.3.   Class C Drawbar couplings with a 50 mm diameter pin and 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 - see annex 5, paragraph 3.:
2.6.3.1. Class C50-1 to 50-7 Standard 50 mm pin diameter drawbar couplings.
2.6.3.2. Class C50-X Non-standard 50 mm pin diameter drawbar couplings.
2.6.4.   Class D Drawbar eyes having a parallel hole suitable for a 50 mm
         diameter pin and fitted to the drawbar of trailers for connecting to
         automatic drawbar couplings - see annex 5, paragraph 4.:
2.6.4.1. Class D50-A Standard 50 mm pin diameter drawbar eyes for welded
         attachment.
2.6.4.2. Class D50-B Standard 50 mm pin diameter drawbar eyes for threaded
         attachment.
2.6.4.3. Class D50-C and 50-D Standard 50 mm pin diameter drawbar eyes for
         bolted attachment.
2.6.4.4. Class D50-X Non-standard 50 mm pin diameter drawbar eyes.
2.6.5.   Class E Non-standard drawbars comprising overrun devices and similar
         items of equipment mounted on the front of the towed vehicle, or to the
         vehicle chassis, which are suitable for coupling to the towing vehicle by
         means of drawbar eyes, coupling heads or similar coupling devices - see
         annex 5, paragraph 5.
         Drawbars may be hinged to move freely in a vertical plane and not
         support any vertical load or be fixed in a vertical plane so as to support a
         vertical load (Rigid drawbars). Rigid drawbars can be entirely rigid or be
         flexibly mounted.
         Drawbars may comprise more than one component and may be adjustable
         or cranked.
         This Regulation applies to drawbars which are separate units, not an
         integral part of the chassis of the towed vehicle.
2.6.6.   Class F Non-standard drawbeams comprising all components and devices
         between the coupling devices, such as coupling balls and drawbar
         couplings, and the frame (for example the rear cross member), the load-
         bearing bodywork or the chassis of the towing vehicle - see annex 5,
         paragraph 6.
2.6.7.   Class G Fifth wheel couplings are plate type couplings having an
         automatic coupling lock and are fitted to the towing vehicle for connecting
         with a 50 mm diameter fifth wheel coupling pin fitted to a semitrailer - see
         annex 5, paragraph 7.
 ---pagebreak--- 27.12.2006      EN         Official Journal of the European Union               L 373/53
2.6.7.1.   Class G50 Standard 50 mm pin diameter fifth wheel couplings.
2.6.7.2.   Class G50-X Non-standard 50 mm pin diameter fifth wheel couplings.
2.6.8.     Class H Fifth wheel coupling pins, 50 mm diameter, are devices fitted to a
           semitrailer to connect with the fifth wheel coupling of the towing vehicle -
           see annex 5, paragraph 8.:
2.6.8.1.   Class H50-X Non-standard 50 mm pin diameter fifth wheel coupling pins.
2.6.9.     Class J Non-standard mounting plates comprising all components and
           devices for attaching fifth wheel couplings to the frame or chassis of the
           towing vehicle. The mounting plate may have provision for moving
           horizontally, that is to form a sliding fifth wheel - see annex 5, paragraph
           9.
2.6.10.    Class K Standard, hook type couplings intended for use with appropriate
           Class L type toroidal drawbar eyes - see annex 5, paragraph 10.
2.6.11.    Class L Standard toroidal drawbar eyes for use with appropriate Class K
           hook type couplings - see annex 5, paragraph 4.
2.6.12.    Class S Devices and components which do not conform to any of the
           Classes A to L or T above and which are used, for example, for special
           heavy transport or are devices unique to some countries and covered by
           existing national standards.
2.6.13.    Class T Non-standard, non-automatic dedicated drawbar type couplings
           which are able to be separated only by the use of tools and are typically
           used for trailers of car transporters. They shall be approved as a matched
           pair.
2.7.       Steering wedges are devices or components mounted on semitrailers
           which control positive steering of the trailer in conjunction with the fifth
           wheel coupling.
2.8.       Remote control systems are devices and components which enable the
           coupling device to be operated from the side of the vehicle or from the
           driving cab of the vehicle.
2.9.       Remote indicators are devices and components which give an indication
           in the vehicle cab that coupling has been effected and that the locking
           devices have engaged.
2.10.      "type of coupling device or component" means a device or component
           which does not differ in such essential respects as:
2.10.1.    the manufacturer's or supplier s trade name or mark;
2.10.2.    the class of coupling as defined in paragraph 2.6.;
2.10.3.    the external shape, principal dimensions or fundamental difference in
           design including materials used; and
 ---pagebreak--- L 373/54             EN          Official Journal of the European Union                      27.12.2006
2.10.4.        the characteristic values D, Dc, S, V and U as defined in paragraph 2.11.
2.11.          The characteristic values D, Dc, S, V and U are defined or determined as:
2.11.1.        The D or Dc value is the theoretical reference value for the horizontal
               forces in the towing vehicle and the trailer and is used as the basis for
               horizontal loads in the dynamic tests.
               For mechanical coupling devices and components not designed to support
               imposed vertical loads, the value is:
                       TxR
               D=g            KN
                      T+R
               For mechanical coupling devices and components for centre axle trailers
               as defined in 2.13, the value is:
                        TxC
               DC = g          KN
                       T+R
               For fifth wheel couplings of Class G, fifth wheel coupling pins of Class H
               and mounting plates of Class J, as defined in paragraph 2.6., the value is:
                       0,6 xTxR
               D=g                 KN
                      T + R −U
               where:
               T is the technically permissible maximum mass of the towing vehicle,
               in tonnes. Where relevant, this includes the vertical load imposed by a
               centre axle trailer.
               R is the technically permissible maximum mass, in tonnes, of a trailer
               with drawbar free to move in a vertical plane, or of a semitrailer. 2
               C is the mass, in tonnes, transmitted to the ground by the axle or axles of
               the centre axle trailer, as defined in paragraph 2.13., when coupled to the
               towing vehicle and loaded to the technically permissible maximum mass 2.
               For Category O1 and O2 centre axle trailers 3 the technically permissible
               maximum mass will be that declared by the manufacturer of the towing
               vehicle.
               g is the acceleration due to gravity (assumed to be 9.81 m/s2)
2
  The mass T and R and the technically permissible maximum mass, may be greater than the
permissible maximum mass prescribed by national legislation.
3
  See definitions in Regulation N°. 13 annexed to the 1958 Agreement concerning the Adoption of
Uniform Technical Prescriptions for wheeled vehicles, Equipment and Parts which can be Fitted and/
or be Used on Vehicles and Conditions for Reciprocal Recognition of Approvals granted on the Basis
of these Prescriptions. The definition is also contained in annex 7 of Consolidated Resolution on the
Construction vehicles (R. E. 3) (document TRANS/ WP. 29/ 78/ Rev. 1/ Amend. 2).
 ---pagebreak--- 27.12.2006      EN          Official Journal of the European Union                L 373/55
           U is as defined in paragraph 2.11.2.
           S is as defined in paragraph 2.11.3.
2.11.2.    The U value is the vertical mass, in tonnes, imposed on the fifth wheel
           coupling by the semitrailer of technically permissible maximum mass 2
2.11.3.    The S value is the vertical mass, in kilograms, imposed on the coupling,
           under static conditions, by the centre axle trailer, as defined in paragraph
           2.13., of technically permissible maximum mass 2
2.11.4.    The V value is the theoretical reference value of the amplitude of the
           vertical force imposed on the coupling by the centre axle trailer of
           technically permissible maximum mass greater than 3.5 tonnes. The V
           value is used as the basis for vertical forces in the dynamic tests.
                axCxX 2
           V=             (seen the note below)
                   L2
           where:
           a is an equivalent vertical acceleration at the coupling depending on the
           type of suspension system of the rear axle of the towing vehicle.
           For air suspension (or suspension systems with equivalent damping
           characteristics)
           a = 1.8 m/s2
           For other types of suspension:
           a = 2.4 m/s2
           X is the length of the loading area of the trailer, in metres (see Figure 1)
           L is the distance from the centre of the drawbar eye to the centre of the
           axle assembly, in metres (see Figure 1)
           Note: (If less than 1.0, the value of 1.0 shall be used)
            X2
                ≥ 1.0
            L2
 ---pagebreak--- L 373/56      EN           Official Journal of the European Union          27.12.2006
                Figure 1 – Dimensions of the centre axle trailer
2.12.    Symbols and definitions used in annex 6 of this Regulation.
         Av = maximum permitted axle mass of the steered axle in tonnes.
         C = mass of centre axle trailer in tonnes - see paragraph 2.11.1. of this
         Regulation.
         D = D value in kN - see paragraph 2.11.1. of this Regulation.
         Dc = Dc value in kN for centre axle trailers - see paragraph 2.11.1. of this
         Regulation.
         R = mass of towed vehicle in tonnes - see paragraph 2.11.1. of this
         Regulation.
         T = mass of towing vehicle in tonnes - see paragraph 2.11.1. of this
         Regulation.
         Fa = static lifting force in kN.
         Fh = horizontal component of test force in longitudinal axis of vehicle in
         kN.
         Fs = vertical component of test force in kN.
         S = static vertical mass in kg.
         U = fifth wheel imposed vertical mass in tonnes.
         V = V-value in kN - see paragraph 2.11.4. of this Regulation.
         a = equivalent vertical acceleration factor at the coupling point of centre
         axle trailers depending on the type of suspension of the rear axle(s) of the
         towing vehicle - see paragraph 2.11.4. of this Regulation.
         e = longitudinal distance between the coupling point of coupling balls
         which can be dismantled and the vertical plane of the fixing points (see
         Figures 20c to 20f) in mm.
         f = vertical distance between the coupling point of coupling balls which
         can be dismantled and the horizontal plane of the fixing points (see
         Figures 20c to 20f) in mm.
         g = acceleration due to gravity, assumed as 9.81 m/s2.
         L = theoretical drawbar length between the centre of the drawbar eye and
         the centre of the axle assembly in meters.
 ---pagebreak--- 27.12.2006           EN         Official Journal of the European Union                     L 373/57
               X = length of the loading area of a centre axle trailer in meters.
               Subscripts:
               O = maximum test force
               U = minimum test force
               a = static force
               h = horizontal
               p = pulsating
               res = resultant
               s = vertical
               w = alternating force
2.13.          "Centre axle trailer" means a trailer having a drawbar which cannot move
               in a vertical plane independent of the trailer and having an axle or axles
               positioned close to the centre of gravity of the trailer, when uniformly
               loaded. The vertical load imposed on the coupling of the towing vehicle
               shall not exceed 10 per cent of the maximum mass of the trailer, or
               1 000 kg, whichever is the lesser.
               The maximum mass of the centre axle trailer means the total mass
               transmitted to the ground by the axle or axles of the trailer when coupled
               to a towing vehicle and when loaded to the technically permissible
               maximum mass 4.
2.14.          "Positive mechanical engagement" means that the design and geometry of
               a device and its component parts shall be such that it will not open or
               disengage under the action of any forces or components of forces to which
               it is subject during normal use or testing.
2.15.          "Vehicle type" means vehicles which do not differ in such essential
               respects as the structure, dimensions, shape and materials in areas to
               which the mechanical coupling device or component is affixed. This
               applies to both the towing vehicle and trailer.
3.             APPLICATION FOR APPROVAL
3.1.           The application for approval shall be submitted by the holder of the trade-
               name or mark, or by his duly accredited representative.
3.2.           or each type of mechanical coupling device or component the application
               shall be accompanied by the following information, for example, by
               means of the Communication form given in annex 1:
4
  The technically permissible mass, may be greater than the maximum permissible mass prescribed by
national legislation
 ---pagebreak--- L 373/58      EN          Official Journal of the European Union            27.12.2006
3.2.1.   details of all manufacturer's or supplier's trade names or marks to be
         applied to the coupling device or component;
3.2.2.   three sets of drawings which are sufficiently detailed to define the device
         or component and which specify how it is to be fitted to the vehicle; the
         drawings shall show the position and space provided for the approval
         number and other marking as given in paragraph 7.;
3.2.3.   a statement of the values of D, Dc, S, V and U as applicable and as
         defined in paragraph 2.11.
         For Class A towing brackets a statement of the maximum permissible
         towing vehicle and trailer masses and the maximum permissible static
         vertical imposed load on the tow ball as advised by the manufacturer of
         the towing vehicle;
3.2.3.1. The characteristic values shall be at least equal to those applicable to the
         maximum permissible towing vehicle, trailer and combination masses.
3.2.4.   a detailed technical description of the device or component, specifying, in
         particular, the type and the materials used;
3.2.5.   restrictions on the vehicles to which the coupling may be fitted - see annex
         1, paragraph 12. and annex 5, paragraph 3.4.;
3.2.6.   one sample, plus additional samples as requested by the type approval
         authority or technical service;
3.2.7.   all samples shall be fully finished with the final surface treatment applied.
         However, if the final treatment is by painting or epoxy powder coating,
         this should be omitted;
3.2.8.   in the case of a mechanical coupling device or component designed for a
         specific vehicle type, the manufacturer of the device or component shall
         also submit the installation data given by the vehicle manufacturer. The
         approval authority or technical service may also request that a vehicle
         representative of the type be submitted.
4.       GENERAL             REQUIREMENTS                    FOR   MECHANICAL
         COUPLING DEVICES OR COMPONENTS
4.1.     Each sample shall conform to the dimensional and strength specifications
         set out in annexes 5 and 6. Following the tests specified in annex 6 there
         shall not be any cracks, fractures or any excessive permanent distortion
         which would be detrimental to the satisfactory operation of the device or
         component.
4.2.     All parts of the mechanical coupling device or component whose failure
         could result in separation of the vehicle and trailer shall be made of steel.
         Other materials may be used provided that equivalence has been
         demonstrated by the manufacturer to the satisfaction of the type approval
 ---pagebreak--- 27.12.2006      EN          Official Journal of the European Union               L 373/59
           authority or technical service of the Contracting Party applying this
           Regulation.
4.3.       The mechanical coupling devices or components shall be safe to operate
           and coupling and uncoupling shall be possible by one person without the
           use of tools. With the exception of Class T couplings only devices which
           allow automatic coupling shall be allowed for the coupling of trailers
           having a maximum technically permissible mass greater than 3.5 tonnes.
4.4.       The mechanical coupling devices or components shall be designed and
           manufactured such that in normal use and with correct maintenance and
           replacement of wearing parts they will continue to function satisfactorily
           and retain the characteristics prescribed by this Regulation.
4.5.       All mechanical coupling devices or components shall be designed to have
           positive mechanical engagement and the closed position shall be locked at
           least once by further positive mechanical engagement unless further
           requirements are stated in annex 5. Alternatively there may be two or
           more separate arrangements to ensure the integrity of the device but each
           arrangement shall be designed to have positive mechanical engagement
           and shall be tested individually to any requirements given in annex 6.
           Positive mechanical engagement shall be as defined in paragraph 2.14.
           Spring forces may be used only to close the device and to prevent the
           effects of vibration from causing component parts of the device to move
           to positions where it may open or disengage.
           The failure or omission of any one single spring shall not allow the
           complete device to open or disengage.
4.6.       Every device or component shall be accompanied by installation and
           operating instructions giving sufficient information for any competent
           person to install it correctly on the vehicle and operate it properly - see
           also annex 7. The instructions shall be in at least the language of the
           country in which it will be offered for sale. In the case of devices and
           components supplied for original equipment fitting by a vehicle
           manufacturer or bodybuilder, installation instructions may be dispensed
           with but the vehicle manufacturer or bodybuilder will be responsible for
           ensuring that the vehicle operator is supplied with the necessary
           instructions for correct operation of the coupling device or component.
4.7.       For devices and components of Class A, or Class S, if applicable, for use
           with trailers of maximum permissible mass not exceeding 3.5 tonnes, and
           which are produced by manufacturers not having any association with the
           vehicle manufacturer and where the devices and components are intended
           for fitting in the after-market, the height and other installation features of
           the coupling shall, in all cases, be verified by the type approval authority
           or technical service in accordance with annex 7, paragraph 1.
4.8.       For heavy duty and other non-standard miscellaneous coupling devices or
           components, Class S and Class T, the relevant requirements in annexes 5,
 ---pagebreak--- L 373/60      EN         Official Journal of the European Union              27.12.2006
         6 and 7 for the closest standard or non-standard device or component shall
         be used.
5.       APPLICATION FOR APPROVAL OF A VEHICLE FITTED
         WITH A MECHANICAL COUPLING DEVICE OR
         COMPONENT
5.1.     Where a vehicle manufacturer applies for approval of a vehicle fitted with
         a mechanical coupling device or component or authorizes the use of a
         vehicle for towing any form of trailer, then, at the request of a bona fide
         applicant for possible type approval for a mechanical coupling device or
         component, or of the type approval authority or technical service of a
         Contracting Party, the vehicle manufacturer shall readily make available
         to that inquirer or authority or technical service, such information as
         required in paragraph 5.3 below, to enable a manufacturer of a coupling
         device or component to properly design and manufacture a mechanical
         coupling device or component for that vehicle. At the request of a bona
         fide applicant for possible type approval for a mechanical coupling device
         or component, any information given in paragraph 5.3 below which is
         held by the type approval authority shall be released to that applicant.
5.2.     The application for approval of a vehicle type with regard to the fitting of
         a mechanical coupling device or component shall be submitted by the
         vehicle manufacturer or by his duly accredited representative.
5.3.     It shall be accompanied by the following information to enable the type
         approval authority to complete the communication form given in annex 2.
5.3.1.   a detailed description of the vehicle type and of the mechanical coupling
         device or component and, at the request of the type approval authority or
         technical service, a copy of the approval form for the device or
         component;
5.3.2.   The information shall also include the maximum permissible masses of
         the towing and towed vehicles, the distribution of the maximum
         permissible mass of the towing vehicle between the axles, the maximum
         permissible axle masses, the maximum permissible vertical loading to be
         imposed on the rear of the towing vehicle and details and/or drawings of
         the installation mounting points for the device or component and of any
         additional reinforcing plates, support brackets and so on, necessary for
         safe attachment of the mechanical coupling device or component to the
         towing vehicle;
5.3.2.1. the loading condition at which the height of the tow ball of M1 category
         vehicles is to be measured - see paragraph 2 of annex 7, appendix 1.
5.3.3.   three sets of drawings which are sufficiently detailed to identify the device
         or component and which specify how it is to be fitted to the vehicle; the
         drawings shall show the position and space provided for the approval
         number and other marking as given in paragraph 7.;
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5.3.4.     a detailed technical description of the device or component, specifying, in
           particular, the type and the materials used;
5.3.5.     a statement of the values of D, Dc, S, V and U as applicable and as
           defined in paragraph 2.11.;
5.3.5.1.   The characteristic values shall be at least equal to those applicable to the
           maximum permissible towing vehicle, trailer and combination masses.
5.3.6.     a vehicle, representative of the type to be approved and fitted with a
           mechanical coupling device, shall be submitted to the type approval
           authority or technical service which may also request additional samples
           of the device or component;
5.3.7.     a vehicle not having all of the components appropriate to the type may be
           accepted provided that the applicant can show, to the satisfaction of the
           type approval authority or technical service, that the absence of the
           components does not have any effect on the results of the inspection as far
           as the requirements of this Regulation are concerned.
6.         GENERAL REQUIREMENTS FOR VEHICLES FITTED
           WITH A MECHANICAL COUPLING DEVICE OR
           COMPONENT
6.1.       The mechanical coupling device or component fitted to the vehicle shall
           be approved in accordance with the requirements of paragraphs 3. and 4.
           and annexes 5 and 6 of this Regulation.
6.2.       The installation of the mechanical coupling device or component shall
           meet the requirements of annex 7 to this Regulation.
6.3.       Operating instructions shall be provided for use of the coupling device or
           component which shall contain any special instructions for operations
           which are different from those normally associated with the type of
           coupling device or component and instructions for coupling and
           uncoupling with different modes of operation, for example, at various
           angles between the towing and towed vehicles. Each vehicle shall be
           accompanied by these operating instructions which shall be at least in the
           language of the country in which it will be offered for sale.
7.         MARKINGS
7.1.       Types of mechanical coupling devices and components submitted for
           approval shall bear the trade name or mark of the manufacturer, supplier
           or applicant.
7.2.       There shall be a sufficiently large space for application of the approval
           mark referred to in paragraph 8.5. and shown in annex 3. This space shall
           be shown on the drawings referred to in paragraph 3.2.2.
7.3.       Adjacent to the approval mark referred to in paragraphs 7.2. and 8.5., the
           mechanical coupling device or component shall be marked with the class
 ---pagebreak--- L 373/62      EN         Official Journal of the European Union             27.12.2006
         of coupling, as defined in paragraph 2.6. and the relevant characteristic
         values as defined in paragraph 2.11. and shown in annex 4. The position
         for these markings shall be shown on the drawings referred to in
         paragraph 3.2.2.
         The characteristic values need not be marked in cases where those values
         are defined in the classification given in this Regulation, for example,
         Classes A50-1 to A50-5.
7.4.     Where the mechanical coupling device or component is approved for
         alternative characteristic values within the same class of coupling or
         device, a maximum of two alternatives shall be marked on the device or
         component.
7.5.     If the application of the mechanical coupling device or component is
         restricted in any way, for example, if it is not to be used with steering
         wedges, then that restriction shall be marked on the device or component.
7.6.     All markings shall be permanent and legible when the device or
         component is installed on the vehicle.
8.       APPROVAL
8.1.     If the sample(s) of a type of mechanical coupling device or component
         meets (meet) the requirements of this Regulation, approval shall be
         granted subject to the requirements of paragraph 10. being satisfactorily
         met.
8.2.     An approval number shall be assigned to each type approved. Its first two
         digits shall indicate the series of amendments incorporating the most
         recent major technical amendments made to the Regulation at the time of
         issue of the approval. The same Contracting Party may not assign the
         same number to another type of device or component referred to in this
         Regulation.
8.3.     Notice of approval or of extension, refusal or withdrawal of approval or of
         production definitely discontinued, relating to a type of mechanical
         coupling device or component approved pursuant to this Regulation, shall
         be communicated to the Parties to the 1958 Agreement applying this
         Regulation, by means of a communication form conforming to the model
         in either annex 1 or annex 2 to this Regulation.
8.4.     In addition to the mark prescribed in paragraph 7.1., there shall be affixed
         to every mechanical coupling device or component approved under this
         Regulation, in the space referred to in paragraph 7.2., an approval mark as
         described in paragraph 8.5.
8.5.     The approval mark shall be an international mark comprising:
 ---pagebreak--- 27.12.2006          EN           Official Journal of the European Union                          L 373/63
8.5.1.        a circle surrounding the letter "E" followed by the distinguishing number
              of the country which has granted approval 5;
8.5.2.        the approval number prescribed in paragraph 8.2.;
8.5.3.        the approval mark and number shall be arranged as shown in the example
              in annex 3.
9.            MODIFICATIONS OF THE MECHANICAL COUPLING
              DEVICE OR COMPONENT, OR OF THE VEHICLE AND
              EXTENSION OF APPROVAL
9.1.          Any modification to the type of mechanical coupling device or
              component, or of the vehicle as defined in paragraph 2.10. shall be
              notified to the type approval authority or technical service which granted
              the approval. The type approval authority or technical service may then
              either:
9.1.1.        consider that the modifications are unlikely to have any appreciable
              adverse effect and that in any case the device, component or vehicle still
              conforms to requirements; or
9.1.2.        require a further test report.
9.2.          Confirmation of, or refusal of approval, specifying the modification, shall
              be communicated by the procedure prescribed in paragraph 8.3. to the
              Contracting Parties applying this Regulation.
9.3.          The type approval authority or technical service issuing an extension of
              approval shall assign a series number for such an extension and shall
              inform the other Contracting Parties applying this Regulation by the
              procedure prescribed in paragraph 8.3.
10.           CONFORMITY OF PRODUCTION PROCEDURES
10.1.         The holder of the approval must ensure that results of the conformity of
              production tests are recorded and that the annexed documents remain
              available for a period determined in agreement with the approval authority
5
  1 for Germany, 2 for France, 3 for Italy, 4 for the Netherlands, 5 for Sweden, 6 for Belgium, 7 for
Hungary, 8 for the Czech Republic, 9 for Spain, 10 for Yugoslavia, 11 for the United Kingdom, 12 for
Austria, 13 for Luxembourg, 14 for Switzerland, 15 (vacant), 16 for Norway, 17 for Finland, 18 for
Denmark, 19 for Romania, 20 for Poland, 21 for Portugal, 22 for the Russian Federation, 23 for
Greece, 24 for Ireland, 25 for Croatia, 26 for Slovenia, 27 for Slovakia, 28 for Belarus, 29 for Estonia,
30 (vacant), 31 for Bosnia and Herzegovina, 32 for Latvia, 33 (vacant), 34 for Bulgaria, 35-36 (vacant),
37 for Turkey, 38-39 (vacant), 40 for The former Yugoslav Republic of Macedonia, 41 (vacant), 42 for
The European Community ( Approvals are granted by its Member States using their respective ECE
symbol), 43 for Japan, 44 (vacant), 45 for Australia and 46 for Ukraine. Subsequent numbers shall be
assigned to other countries in the chronological order in which they ratify or accede to the Agreement
concerning the Adoption of Uniform Technical Prescriptions for Wheeled Vehicles, Equipment and
parts which can be Fitted and/ or be Used on Wheeled Vehicles and the Conditions for Reciprocal
Recognition of Approvals Granted on the basis of these Prescriptions, and the numbers thus assigned
shall be communicated by the Secretary-General of the United Nations to the Contracting Parties to the
Agreement.
 ---pagebreak--- L 373/64      EN         Official Journal of the European Union            27.12.2006
         or technical service. This period must not exceed 10 years counted from
         the time when production is definitely discontinued.
10.2.    The type approval authority or technical service which has granted type
         approval may at any time verify the conformity control methods applied in
         each production facility. The normal frequency of these verifications shall
         be once every two years.
11.      PENALTIES FOR NON-CONFORMITY OF PRODUCTION
11.1.    The approval granted in respect of a type of mechanical coupling device
         or component pursuant to this Regulation may be withdrawn if the
         requirements are not complied with or if a device or component bearing
         the approval mark does not conform to the type approved.
11.2.    If a Contracting Party to the Agreement applying this Regulation
         withdraws an approval it has previously granted, it shall forthwith so
         notify the other Contracting Parties applying this Regulation by means of
         a communication form conforming to the model in either annex 1 or
         annex 2 to this Regulation.
12.      PRODUCTION DEFINITELY DISCONTINUED
12.1.    If the holder of the approval completely ceases to manufacture a type of
         mechanical coupling device or component approved in accordance with
         this Regulation, he shall so inform the type approval authority or technical
         service which granted the approval. Upon receiving the relevant
         communication, that type approval authority or technical service shall
         inform thereof the other Contracting Parties to the 1958 Agreement
         applying this Regulation by means of a communication form conforming
         to the model in either annex 1 or annex 2 to this Regulation.
13.      TRANSITIONAL PROVISIONS
         Until the United Nations Secretary-General is notified otherwise,
         Contracting Parties applying this Regulation that are Member States of the
         European Community (at the time of adoption of the 01 series of
         amendments, Italy, Netherlands, Belgium, United Kingdom, Luxembourg,
         Finland and Greece) declare that, in relation to mechanical coupling
         devices and components, they will only be bound by the obligations of the
         Agreement to which this Regulation is annexed with respect to such
         devices and components intended for vehicles of categories other than M1.
14.      NAMES AND ADDRESSES OF TECHNICAL SERVICES
         RESPONSIBLE FOR APPROVAL TESTS AND OF
         ADMINISTRATIVE DEPARTMENTS
14.1.    The Contracting Parties to the 1958 Agreement applying this Regulation
         shall communicate to the United Nations Secretariat the names and
         addresses of the technical services responsible for conducting approval
         tests and of the administrative departments which grant approval and to
 ---pagebreak--- 27.12.2006      EN         Official Journal of the European Union             L 373/65
           which forms certifying approval or extension or refusal or withdrawal of
           approval, or production definitely discontinued, issued in other countries,
           are to be sent.
 ---pagebreak--- L 373/66             EN          Official Journal of the European Union                    27.12.2006
                                               Annex 1
                                    COMMUNICATION
                             (maximum format: A4 (210 x 297 mm)
1
  issued by: Name of administration: .......................
concerning: 2/
APPROVAL GRANTED
APPROVAL EXTENDED
APPROVAL REFUSED
APPROVAL WITHDRAWN
PRODUCTION DEFINITELY DISCONTINUED
of a type of mechanical coupling device or component pursuant to Regulation No. 55
Approval No .......... Extension No ...........
1. Trade name or mark of the device or component:
2. Manufacturer's name for the type of device or component:
3. Manufacturer's name and address:
4. If applicable, name and address of the manufacturer's representative:
5. Alternative supplier's names or trade marks applied to the device or component:
6. Name and address of company or body taking responsibility for the conformity of
production:
7. Submitted for approval on:
8. Technical service responsible for conducting approval tests:
1
   Distinguishing number of the country which has granted/ extended/ refused/ withdrawn approval (see
approval provisions in the Regulation).
2
   Strike out what does not apply.
 ---pagebreak--- 27.12.2006                EN         Official Journal of the European Union           L 373/67
9. Brief description:
9.1. Type and class of device or component:
9.2. Characteristic values:
9.2.1. Primary values:
            D.............. kN Dc................ kN S............... kg
            U...............tonnes V.................. kN
            Alternative values:
            D............. kN Dc................ kN S................ kg
            U...............tonnes V.................. kN
9.3. For Class A mechanical coupling devices or components, including towing
brackets:
Vehicle manufacturer's maximum permissible vehicle mass: ...............................kg
Distribution of maximum permissible vehicle mass between the axles:
Vehicle manufacturer's maximum permissible towable trailer mass: .....................kg
Vehicle manufacturer's maximum permissible static mass on coupling ball: ....kg
Maximum mass of the vehicle, with bodywork, in running order, including coolant,
oils, fuel, tools and spare wheel (if supplied) but not including driver:
..................................kg
Loading condition under which the tow ball height of a mechanical coupling device
fitted to category M1 vehicles is to be measured - see paragraph 2 of annex 7,
appendix 1: .......
10. Instructions for the attachment of the coupling device or component type to the
vehicle and photographs or drawings of the mounting points given by the vehicle
manufacturer:
11. Information on the fitting of any special reinforcing brackets or plates or spacing
components necessary for the attachment of the coupling device or component:
..............
12. Additional information where the use of the coupling device or component is
restricted to special types of vehicles - see annex 5, paragraph 3.4.
...................................
13. For Class K hook type couplings, details of the drawbar eyes suitable for use with
the particular hook type.
14. Date of test report:
 ---pagebreak--- L 373/68        EN         Official Journal of the European Union         27.12.2006
15. Number of test report:
16. Approval mark position:
17. Reason(s) for extension of approval:
18. Approval granted/extended/refused/withdrawn: 2
19. Place:
20. Date:
21. Signature:
22. The list of documents deposited with the Administration Service which has
granted approval is annexed to this communication and may be obtained on request.
 ---pagebreak--- 27.12.2006          EN          Official Journal of the European Union                      L 373/69
                                              Annex 2
                                    COMMUNICATION
                            (maximum format: A4 (210 x 297 mm)
1
  issued by: Name of administration: .......................
 concerning: 2
APPROVAL GRANTED
APPROVAL EXTENDED
APPROVAL REFUSED
APPROVAL WITHDRAWN
PRODUCTION DEFINITELY DISCONTINUED
of a vehicle type with regard to the fitting of a mechanical coupling device or
component pursuant to Regulation No. 55.
Approval No.......... Extension No .............
1. Trade name or mark of vehicle:
2. Vehicle type:
3. Manufacturer's name and address:
4. If applicable, name and address of the manufacturer's representative:
5. Vehicle category, for example, M1, N1:
6. Maximum permissible vehicle mass: ....kg
Distribution of maximum permissible vehicle mass between the axles:
1
  Distinguishing number of the country which has granted/ extended/ refused/ withdrawn approval (see
approval provisions in the Regulation).
2
  Strike out what does not apply.
 ---pagebreak--- L 373/70             EN            Official Journal of the European Union            27.12.2006
Maximum permissible towable trailer mass: ....kg
Maximum permissible static mass on coupling ball: ....kg
Maximum mass of the vehicle, with bodywork, in running order, including coolant,
oils, fuel, tools and spare wheel (if supplied) but not including driver: ...........kg
7. D.............. kN Dc................ kN S............... kg
U...............tonnes V.............. kN
8. Instructions for the attachment of the coupling device or component type to the
vehicle and photographs or drawings of the mounting points:
9. Information on the fitting of any special reinforcing brackets or plates or spacing
components necessary for the attachment of the coupling device or component:
10. Trade name or mark of the mechanical coupling device or component and the
approval number:
11. Class of coupling device or component:
12. Submitted for approval on:
13. Technical service responsible for conducting approval tests:
14. Date of test report:
15. Number of test report:
16. Approval mark position:
17. Reason(s) for extension of approval:
18. Approval granted/extended/refused/withdrawn: A1_S4_F1 2
19. Place:
20. Date:
21. Signature:
22. The list of documents deposited with the Administration Service which has
granted approval is annexed to this communication and may be obtained on request.
 ---pagebreak--- 27.12.2006       EN       Official Journal of the European Union                    L 373/71
                                        Annex 3
     EXAMPLE OF AN ARRANGEMENT OF THE APPROVAL
                                        MARK
a = 8 mm minimum
The mechanical coupling device or component or vehicle bearing the approval mark
shown above is a device or component approved in the Netherlands (E4), under
approval number 2439, meeting the requirements of the 01 series of amendments to
this Regulation.
Note: The approval number and additional symbols shall be placed close to the circle
and either above or below the letter 'E', or to the right or left of that letter. The digits
of the approval number shall be on the same side of the letter 'E' and face in the same
direction. The use of Roman numerals as approval numbers should be avoided so as to
prevent any confusion with other symbols.
 ---pagebreak--- L 373/72         EN         Official Journal of the European Union                  27.12.2006
                                          Annex 4
     EXAMPLES OF ARRANGEMENTS OF MARKING OF THE
                        CHARACTERISTIC VALUES
1.          All mechanical coupling devices or components shall be marked with the
            class of the device or component. In addition there shall be marking to
            indicate the capacity in terms of characteristic values as defined in
            paragraph 2.11. of this Regulation.
1.1.        The height of all letters and numbers shall be not less than those of the
            approval number, that is a/3 where a is 8 mm.
1.2.        The characteristic values applicable to each device or component which
            are to be marked are as shown in the table below - see also paragraph 7.3.
            of this Regulation:
TABLE 1 - Relevant characteristics values to be marked on coupling devices or
components
 Description of mechanical coupling                 Relevant characteristic values to be marked
 device or component
                                                Class       D        Dc       S        U         V
 Coupling balls and towing brackets - *                  *                  *
 see annex 5, para. 1 of this Regulation
 Coupling heads                                *         *                 *
 Drawbar couplings                             *         *         *       *                   *
 Drawbar eyes                                  *         *         *       *                   *
 Drawbars                                      *         *         *       *                   *
 Drawbeams                                     *         *         *       *                   *
 Fifth wheel couplings                         *         *                           *
 Fifth wheel pins                              *         *
 Fifth wheel mounting plates                   *         *                           *
 Hook type couplings                           *         *         *       *                   *
Examples: C50-X D130 Dc90 S1000 V35 would identify a non-standard drawbar
coupling of Class C50-X with a maximum D value of 130 kN, a maximum permitted
 ---pagebreak--- 27.12.2006      EN        Official Journal of the European Union        L 373/73
Dc value of 90 kN, a maximum permitted static vertical imposed mass of 1000 kg
and a maximum permitted V value of 35 kN.
A50-X D20 S120 would identify a standard towing bracket with ball coupling of
Class A50-X with a maximum D value of 20 kN and a maximum permitted static
vertical imposed mass of 120 kg.
 ---pagebreak--- L 373/74         EN        Official Journal of the European Union             27.12.2006
                                         Annex 5
   REQUIREMENTS FOR MECHANICAL COUPLING DEVICES
                               OR COMPONENTS
1.         COUPLING BALLS AND TOWING BRACKETS
           The requirements stated in paragraphs 1.1. to 1.5. of this annex are
           applicable to all coupling balls and towing brackets of Class A. Paragraph
           1.6. details additional requirements which must be fulfilled by standard 50
           mm diameter coupling balls with flange type bolted fixings.
1.1.       Coupling balls of Class A shall conform to Figure 2 in external shape and
           external dimensions.
1/ The connecting radius between the ball and the neck should be tangential both to
the neck and to the lower horizontal surface of the coupling ball
2/ See ISO/R 468 and ISO 1302, the roughness number N9 refers to an Ra value of
6.3mm.
                         Figure 2 - Coupling ball of Class A
 ---pagebreak--- 27.12.2006      EN         Official Journal of the European Union                L 373/75
1.2.       The shape and dimensions of towing brackets shall meet the requirements
           of the vehicle manufacturer concerning the attachment points and
           additional mounting devices or components if necessary.
1.3.       Removable coupling balls:
1.3.1.     In the case of removable coupling balls or components which are not fixed
           by bolts, for example Class A50-X, the point of connection and the
           locking arrangement shall be designed for positive mechanical
           engagement.
1.3.2.     In the case of a removable coupling ball or component which may be
           separately approved for use with a variety of towing brackets for different
           vehicle applications, for example Class A50-X, the clearance space when
           such a coupling ball is fitted to the towing bracket shall be that prescribed
           in annex 7, Figure 25.
1.4.       Coupling balls and towing devices shall be able to satisfy the tests given
           in annex 6, paragraph 3.1.
1.5.       Manufacturers of towing brackets shall incorporate attachment points to
           which either secondary couplings or devices necessary to enable the trailer
           to be stopped automatically in the event of separation of the main
           coupling, may be attached. This requirement is necessary to enable the
           vehicle to comply with the requirements of paragraph 5.2.2.9. of UN/ECE
           Regulation No. 13 - Uniform Provisions concerning the approval of
           vehicles of categories M, N and O with regard to braking.
1.5.1.     The attachment points for a secondary coupling and/or breakaway cable
           shall be positioned such that when in use, the secondary coupling or
           breakaway cable does not restrict the normal articulation of the coupling
           or interfere with the normal inertia braking system operation.
           A single attachment point shall be positioned within 100 mm of a vertical
           plane passing through the centre of articulation of the coupling. If this is
           not practicable, two attachment points shall be provided, one on each side
           of the vertical centre line and equidistant from the centre line by a
           maximum of 250 mm. The attachment point(s) shall be as rearward and as
           high as practicable.
1.6.       Special requirements for standard coupling balls and flange type towing
           brackets of Classes A50-1 to A50-5 inclusive:
1.6.1.     Dimensions of Class A50-1 coupling balls and flange type towing
           brackets shall be as given in Figure 3 and Table 2.
1.6.2.     Dimensions of Class A50-2, A50-3, A50-4 and A50-5 coupling balls and
           flange type towing brackets shall be as given in Figure 4 and Table 2.
1.6.3.     Coupling balls and flange type towing brackets of the classes A50-1 to
           A50-5 inclusive, shall be suitable and tested for the characteristic values
           given in Table 3.
 ---pagebreak--- L 373/76       EN        Official Journal of the European Union          27.12.2006
   Figure 3 - Dimensions of standard flange type ball couplings of Class A50-1
                                     (see Table 2)
  Figure 4 - Dimensions of standard flange type ball couplings of Class A50-2 to
                                A50-5 (see Table 2)
 ---pagebreak--- 27.12.2006        EN         Official Journal of the European Union                 L 373/77
TABLE 2 -Dimensions of standard flange type ball couplings (mm), see Figures 3 and
4.
       Class             A50-1            A50-2, A50-4        A50-3, A50-5     Comments
 e1                  90                  83                   120            ± 0.5
 e2                  --                  56                   55             ± 0.5
 d2                  17                  10.5                 15             H13
 f                   130                 110                  155            + 6.0 -0
 g                   50                  85                   90             + 6.0 -0
 c                   15                  15                   15             maximum
 l                   55                  110                  120            ± 5.0
 h                   70                  80                   80             ± 5.0
TABLE 3 -Characteristic values for standard flange type ball couplings
     Class           A50-1            A50-2            A50-3           A50-4       A50-5
 D                17             20                 30              20          30
 S                120            120                120             150         150
             D = Maximum D value (kN)
             S = Maximum static vertical mass (kg)
1.7.         Manufacturers of coupling balls and towing brackets intended for fitment
             in the after-market and which do not have any association with the
             relevant vehicle manufacturer shall be aware of the requirements for
             articulation of the coupling given in paragraph 2 of this annex and shall
             comply with the appropriate requirements in annex 7 to this Regulation.
 ---pagebreak--- L 373/78       EN         Official Journal of the European Union             27.12.2006
2.       COUPLING HEADS
2.1.     Coupling heads of Class B50 shall be designed so that they can be used
         safely with the coupling balls described in paragraph 1 of this annex and
         thereby retain the prescribed characteristics.
         Coupling heads shall be designed in such a way that safe coupling is
         ensured, also taking into account the wear of the coupling devices.
2.2.     Coupling heads shall be able to satisfy the tests laid down in annex 6,
         paragraph 3.2.
2.3.     Any additional device (e.g. braking, stabilizer, etc.) shall not have any
         adverse effect on the mechanical connection.
2.4.     When not attached to the vehicle, horizontal rotation of the coupling head
         shall be at least 90° to each side of the centre line of the coupling ball and
         mounting described in paragraph 1 of this annex. Simultaneously, there
         shall 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 shall be possible for there to be 25° of roll in both directions about
         the horizontal axis. The following articulation shall be possible at all
         angles of horizontal rotation:
         (i) vertical pitch ±15° with axial roll ±25°
         (ii) axial roll ±10° with vertical pitch ±20°
3.       DRAWBAR COUPLINGS
         The requirements of paragraphs 3.1. to 3.6. of this annex are applicable to
         all drawbar couplings of Class C50. Additional requirements which must
         be fulfilled by standard drawbar couplings of Classes C50-1 to C50-6 are
         given in paragraph 3.7.
3.1.     Performance requirements - All drawbar couplings shall be able to satisfy
         the tests stated in annex 6, paragraph 3.3.
3.2.     Suitable drawbar eyes - Class C50 drawbar couplings shall be compatible
         with all Class D50 drawbar eyes and couplings with the specified
         characteristics.
3.3.     Jaw
         Class C50 drawbar couplings shall have a jaw which is designed such that
         the appropriate drawbar eye is guided into the coupling.
         If the jaw, or a part supporting the jaw, can pivot about the vertical axis, it
         shall establish itself automatically in the normal position and with the
         coupling pin open, be effectively restrained in this position to give
         satisfactory guidance for the drawbar eye during the coupling procedure.
 ---pagebreak--- 27.12.2006      EN          Official Journal of the European Union               L 373/79
           If the jaw, or a part supporting the jaw, can pivot about the horizontal
           transverse axis, the joint providing the rotation capability shall be
           restrained in its normal position by a locking torque. The torque shall 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.
           The locking torque shall be greater than that created by operation of the
           hand lever described in paragraph 3.6 of this annex. It shall be possible to
           bring the jaw to its normal position manually. A jaw that pivots about the
           horizontal transverse axis is only approved for bearing mass, 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 shall 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
           D value > 18 kN ≤ 25 kN - width 280 mm, height 170 mm
           D value > 25 kN - width 360 mm, height 200 mm
           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 tonnes 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 for ensuring safe execution of the automatic coupling
           procedure and if the field of application is restricted in the approval
           according to information given by the coupling manufacturer in the
           Communication form shown in annex 1.
3.4.       Minimum articulation of the coupled drawbar eye
           The drawbar eye, when coupled to a drawbar coupling but not fitted to a
           vehicle, shall have the degrees of articulation given below. If part of the
           articulation is provided by a special joint (Class C50-X drawbar couplings
           only), the field of application, given in the communication form shown in
           annex 1, shall be restricted to the cases stated in annex 7, paragraph 1.3.8.
3.4.1.     ± 90° horizontally about the vertical axis from the longitudinal axis of the
           vehicle - see Figure 5.
 ---pagebreak--- L 373/80      EN         Official Journal of the European Union            27.12.2006
                         Longitudinal axis of the towing vehicle
          Figure 5 - Horizontal rotation of the coupled drawbar eye
3.4.2.   ± 20° vertically about the transverse axis from the horizontal plane of the
         vehicle - see Figure 6.
                                       Horizontal plane
           Figure 6 - Vertical rotation of the coupled drawbar eye
3.4.3.   ± 25° axial rotation about the longitudinal axis from the horizontal plane
         of the vehicle - see Figure 7.
 ---pagebreak--- 27.12.2006      EN         Official Journal of the European Union               L 373/81
                                        Horizontal plane
               Figure 7 - Axial rotation of the coupled drawbar eye
3.5.       Locking to prevent inadvertent uncoupling:
           In the closed position the coupling pin shall be locked by two positive
           mechanical engagement locking devices each of which shall remain
           effective should the other fail.
           The closed and locked position of the coupling shall be clearly indicated
           externally by a mechanical device. It shall be possible to verify the
           position of the indicator by feel, for example, in the dark.
           The mechanical indication device shall 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.
3.6.       Hand levers
           Hand levers shall be of a design suitable for easy use with the end rounded
           off. The coupling shall not have any sharp edges or points of possible
           pinching near the hand lever which could result in injury during operation
           of the coupling. The force needed to release the coupling, measured
           without the drawbar eye, shall not exceed 250 N perpendicular to the hand
           lever along the line of operation.
3.7.       Special requirements for standard drawbar couplings of Class C50-1 to
           C50-6:
3.7.1.     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 joint);
 ---pagebreak--- L 373/82        EN        Official Journal of the European Union           27.12.2006
3.7.2.     Tensile and compressive shock loads along the longitudinal axis due to the
           clearance between the coupling pin and the drawbar eye shall be
           attenuated by spring and/or damping devices (except C50-1).
3.7.3.     The dimensions shall be as given in Figure 8 and Table 4.
3.7.4.     The couplings shall be suitable and tested for the characteristic values
           given in Table 5.
3.7.5.     The coupling shall be opened by means of a hand lever at the coupling (no
           remote control).
     Figure 8 - Dimensions of standard drawbar couplings (mm), see Table 4
 ---pagebreak--- 27.12.2006    EN       Official Journal of the European Union             L 373/83
TABLE 4 - Dimensions of standard drawbar couplings (mm), see Figure 8
    Class    C50-1     C50-2         C50-3         C50-4       C50-5  C50-6    Remarks
                                                                      C50-7
 e1        83        83            120           140          160    160       ±0.5
 e2        56        56            55            80           100    100       ±0.5
 d1        --        54            74            84           94     94        maximum
 d2        10.5      10.5          15            17           21     21        H13
 F         110       110           155           180          200    200       +6.0 -0
 G         85        85            90            120          140    140       ±3.0
 A         100       170           200           200          200    200       +20.0 -0
 B         150       280           360           360          360    360       +20.0 -0
 C         20        20            24            30           30     30        maximum
 H         150       190           265           265          265    265       maximum
 l1        --        150           250           300          300    300       maximum
 l2        150       300           330           330          330    330       maximum
 l3        100       160           180           180          180    180       ±20.0
 T         --        15            20            35           35     35        maximum
 ---pagebreak--- L 373/84       EN         Official Journal of the European Union             27.12.2006
TABLE 5 - Characteristic values for standard drawbar couplings
   Class     C50-1       C50-2          C50-3         C50-4       C50-5  C50-6        C50-7
 D          18          25            70            100          130    190         190
 Dc         18          25            50            70           90     120         130
 S          200         250           650           900          1000   1000        1000
 V          12          10            18            25           35     50          75
          D = maximum D value (kN)
          Dc = maximum D value (kN) for centre axle trailer applications
          S = maximum static vertical load on coupling (kg)
          V = maximum V value (kN)
4.        DRAWBAR EYES
4.1.      General requirements for drawbar eyes of Class D50:
          All drawbar eyes of Class D50 shall be able to satisfy the test stated in
          annex 6, paragraph 3.4.
          Class D50 drawbar eyes are intended for use with C50 drawbar couplings.
          Drawbar eyes shall not be able to rotate axially (because the respective
          couplings can rotate).
          If Class D50 drawbar eyes are fitted with sleeves, they shall comply with
          the dimensions shown in Figure 9 (not permitted for Class D50-C) or
          Figure 10.
          The sleeves must not be welded into the drawbar eyes.
          Class D50 drawbar eyes shall have the dimensions given in paragraph 4.2.
          The form of shank for drawbar eyes of Class D50-X is not specified. but
          for a distance of 210 mm from the centre of the eye the height "h" and the
          width "b" shall be within the limits given in Table 6.
 ---pagebreak--- 27.12.2006      EN        Official Journal of the European Union       L 373/85
               Figure 9 - Slotted sleeve for Class D50 drawbar eyes
           Figure 10 - Non-slotted sleeve for Class D50-C drawbar eyes
 ---pagebreak--- L 373/86          EN          Official Journal of the European Union      27.12.2006
TABLE 6 - Dimensions for drawbar eyes D50-A and D50-X,
see Figure 11
       Class              h (mm)               b (mm)
 D50-A               65 +2/-1             60 +2/-1
 D50-X               80 maximum           62 maximum
TABLE 7 - Characteristic values for standard drawbar eyes
       Class                 D                    Dc                 S      V
 D50-A               130                  90                   1 000   30
 D50-B               130                  90                   1 000   25
 D50-C               190                  120                  1 000   50
 D50-D               190                  130                  1000    75
4.2.         Special requirements for Class D50 drawbar eyes:
4.2.1.       Class D50-A and D50-X drawbar eyes shall have the dimensions
             illustrated in Figure 11.
 ---pagebreak---     27.12.2006              EN     Official Journal of the European Union            L 373/87
Section A-A (shown without sleeve)
                            Sphere
      Figure 11 - Dimensions of Classes D50-A and D50-X drawbar eyes, see Table 6
    4.2.2.          Class D50-B drawbar eyes shall have the dimensions illustrated in Figure
    12.
 ---pagebreak--- L 373/88        EN          Official Journal of the European Union               27.12.2006
                                              DRAWBAR EYE
                                                       Front part of drawbar
                                                                  between plates
  Figure 12 - Dimensions of Class D50-B drawbar eyes, see other dimensions in
                                          Figure 11
4.2.3.     Classes D50-C and D50-D drawbar eyes shall have the dimensions
           illustrated in Figure 13.
 ---pagebreak--- 27.12.2006       EN         Official Journal of the European Union            L 373/89
                                                                                 SECTION AA
1/ For Class D50-D drawbar eyes this dimension shall be "80 max."
   Figure 13 - Dimensions of Classes D50-C and D50-D drawbar eyes, see other
                                dimensions in Figure 11
4.2.4.      Classes D50-C and D50-D drawbar eyes shall be fitted with non slotted
            sleeves shown in Figure 10.
4.3.        Load values for standard drawbar eyes
            Standard drawbar eyes and the means of attachment shall be suitable for,
            and tested for, the load values stated in Table 7.
4.4.        General requirements for Class L toroidal drawbar eyes:
4.4.1.      Class L toroidal drawbar eyes are intended for use with Class K hook type
            couplings
 ---pagebreak--- L 373/90        EN         Official Journal of the European Union             27.12.2006
4.4.2.      When used with a Class K hook type coupling they shall meet the
            requirements for articulation given in paragraph 10.2 of this annex.
4.4.3.      Class L toroidal drawbar eyes shall have the dimensions given in Figure
            14 and Table 8
       Figure 14 - Dimensions of Class L toroidal drawbar eyes - see Table 8
4.4.4.      Class L toroidal drawbar eyes shall satisfy the tests given in annex 6,
            paragraph 3.4 and shall be suitable for the characteristic values given in
            Table 9.
TABLE 8 - Dimensions of Class L toroidal drawbar eyes - see Figure 14 (Dimensions
in mm)
   Class         L1            L2                L3            L4        L5       Remarks
 a           68+1.6/-0.0 76.2±0.8          76.2±0.8        76.2±0.8 68+1.6/-0.0
 ---pagebreak--- 27.12.2006      EN          Official Journal of the European Union                L 373/91
 b          41.2±0.8       41.2±0.8         41.2±0.8        41.2±0.8     41.2±0.8
 c          70             65               65              65           70         Min
TABLE 9 - Characteristic values for Class L toroidal drawbar eyes
    Class       L1           L2             L3            L4          L5
 D kN       30           70             100           130          180
 Dc kN      27           54             70            90           120
 S kg       200          700            950           1000         1000
 V kN       12           18             25            35           50
5.         DRAWBARS
5.1.       Drawbars of class E shall satisfy the tests prescribed in annex 6,
           paragraph 3.3.
5.2.       In order to provide a connection to the towing vehicle, the drawbars can
           be fitted either with coupling heads as in paragraph 2 or drawbar eyes as
           in paragraph 4 of this annex. The coupling heads and drawbar eyes can be
           attached by screwing, bolting or welding.
5.3.       Height adjusting devices for hinged drawbars
5.3.1.     Hinged drawbars shall be fitted with devices for adjusting the drawbar to
           the height of the coupling device or jaw. These devices shall be designed
           so that the drawbar can be adjusted by one person without tools or any
           other aids.
5.3.2.     Height adjusting devices shall be able to adjust the drawbar eyes or ball
           couplings from the horizontal above the ground at least 300 mm upwards
           and downwards. Within this range the drawbar shall be adjustable
           steplessly, or in maximum steps of 50 mm measured at the drawbar eye or
           ball coupling.
5.3.3.     Height adjusting devices shall not interfere with the easy movement of the
           drawbar after coupling.
5.3.4.     The height adjusting devices shall not interfere with the action of any
           inertia, overrun type, brake.
5.4.       In the case of drawbars combined with inertia, overrun, brakes, the
           distance between the centre of the drawbar eye and the end of the free
           shank of the drawbar eye shall not be less than 200 mm in the brake
 ---pagebreak--- L 373/92      EN         Official Journal of the European Union              27.12.2006
         application position. With the shank of the drawbar eye fully inserted the
         distance shall not be less than 150 mm.
5.5.     Drawbars for use on centre axle trailers shall possess at least half the
         moment of resistance against lateral forces as against vertical forces.
 ---pagebreak--- 27.12.2006       EN         Official Journal of the European Union          L 373/93
6.          DRAWBEAMS
6.1.        Drawbeams of Class F shall satisfy the tests prescribed in annex 6,
            paragraph 3.3
6.2.        The drilling pattern for mounting of Class C standard drawbar couplings
            shall be in accordance with Figure 15 and Table 10 below.
6.3.        Drawbeams shall not be welded to the chassis, bodywork or other part of
            the vehicle.
   Figure 15 - Mounting dimensions for standard drawbar couplings (see Table 10)
 ---pagebreak--- L 373/94      EN          Official Journal of the European Union             27.12.2006
TABLE 10 - Mounting dimensions for standard drawbar couplings (mm) - see Figure
15
   Class    C50-1       C50-2           C50-3         C50-4       C50-5 C50-6C50-7 Remarks
 e1       83           83             120           140          160     160        ±0.5
 e2       56           56             55            80           100     100        ±0.5
 d1       -            55             75            85           95      95         +1.0/-0.5
 d2       10.5         10.5           15            17           21      21         H13
 T        -            15             20            35           35      35         maximum
 F        120          120            165           190          210     210        minimum
 G        95           95             100           130          150     150        minimum
 L1       -            200            300           400          400     400        minimum
7.       FIFTH WHEEL COUPLINGS AND STEERING WEDGES
         The requirements of paragraphs 7.1 to 7.7 are applicable to all fifth wheel
         couplings of Class G50.
         Additional requirements which shall be fulfilled by standard coupling
         devices are given in paragraph 7.9.
         Steering wedges shall satisfy the requirements listed in paragraph 7.8.
7.1.     Suitable fifth wheel coupling pins
         Class G50 fifth wheel couplings shall be designed so that they can be used
         with Class H50 coupling pins and, together, provide the specified
         characteristics.
7.2.     Guides
         Fifth wheel couplings shall be equipped with a guide which ensures safe
         and correct engagement of the coupling pin. The entry width of the guide
         for standard 50 mm diameter fifth wheel couplings shall be at least 350
         mm (see Figure 16).
 ---pagebreak--- 27.12.2006      EN               Official Journal of the European Union       L 373/95
           For small, non-standard, fifth wheel couplings of Class G50-X and having
           a maximum "D" value of 25 kN, the entry width shall be at least 250 mm.
                                    Section A-A
                            Enlarged view of coupling pin
              bevelled edge
                                                                           Guide for the steering edge
 ---pagebreak--- L 373/96         EN         Official Journal of the European Union                         27.12.2006
Notes
1/ To provide for the use of steering wedges, measure the reference dimension k =
137 ±3 mm at 32 mm below the top surface and at a distance of 200 mm from the
transverse centre line of the coupling.
2/ The 40° +1°/-0° throat angle must be maintained over a distance of 360 mm
minimum from the transverse centre line of the coupling. The entry width of 350 mm
minimum may be obtained outside this distance by increasing the entry angle up to an
included angle of 120° maximum as shown in dotted line.
3/ Elongated mounting holes 23 ± 2 mm x 17 +2/-0 mm
or round mounting holes Dia. 17 +2/-0 mm could be used.
4/ When using elongated holes or holes > 18 mm diameter, washers 40 mm diameter,
6 mm thick, or means of equal strength, e.g. flat steel plate, are to be used.
      Figure 16 - Dimensions of standard fifth wheel couplings (see Table 11)
                                                                   Longitudinal axis of the vehicle
                                 Coupling pin
Figure 16a - Mounting holes tolerances for class J mounting plates for fifth wheel
                        couplings (see para. 9.1. of this annex)
 ---pagebreak--- 27.12.2006      EN          Official Journal of the European Union               L 373/97
TABLE 11 - Dimensions of standard fifth wheel couplings (mm), see Figure 16
    Class      G50-1       G50-2          G50-3         G50-4       G50-5   G50-6
 H           140-159     160-179        180-199       200-219      220-239 240-260
7.3.       Minimum articulation of the fifth wheel coupling
           With the coupling pin engaged, without the fifth wheel coupling being
           attached to a vehicle or mounting plate, but taking into account the effect
           of the mounting bolts, the coupling shall permit, simultaneously, the
           following minimum values of articulation of the coupling pin:
7.3.1.     ±90° about the vertical axis (not applicable to fifth wheel couplings with
           positive steering);
7.3.2.     ±12° about the horizontal axis transverse to the direction of travel. This
           angle does not necessarily cover off-road use.
7.3.3.     Axial 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 the locking mechanism enables the restriction of
           the rotation to ±3° maximum.
7.4.       Locking devices to prevent uncoupling of fifth wheel couplings
           The fifth wheel coupling shall be locked in the coupled position by two
           positive mechanical locking devices each of which shall remain effective
           should the other fail.
           The primary locking device shall operate automatically but the secondary
           locking device may either be automatic or be engaged manually. The
           secondary locking device may be designed to work in conjunction with
           the primary device and provide an additional positive mechanical lock for
           the primary device. It shall only be possible to engage the secondary
           locking device if the primary device is properly engaged.
           It shall not be possible for the locking devices to be released inadvertently.
           Release shall require intentional action by the driver or operator of the
           vehicle.
           The closed and locked position of the coupling shall be indicated visually
           by a mechanical device and it shall be possible to verify the position of the
           indicator by feel, for example, to allow the position to be checked during
           darkness. The indication device shall indicate the engagement of both
           primary and secondary locking devices, however, it is sufficient for the
           engagement of only one device to be indicated if, in this case, the
           engagement of the other device is a simultaneous and inherent feature of
           the design.
 ---pagebreak--- L 373/98      EN         Official Journal of the European Union            27.12.2006
7.5.     Operating devices or release mechanisms
         In the closed position the operating devices or release mechanisms shall
         be prevented from being operated inadvertently or accidentally. The
         locking system shall be such as to require positive, conscious action to
         release the locking device in order to operate coupling release mechanism.
7.6.     Surface finish
         The surfaces of the coupling plate and coupling lock shall be functionally
         satisfactory and be carefully machined, forged, cast or pressed.
7.7.     Load requirements
         All fifth wheel couplings shall be able to satisfy the tests described in
         annex 6, paragraph 3.7.
7.8.     Steering wedges
7.8.1.   The dimensions of steering wedges for the positive steering of semitrailers
         shall be as in Figure 17.
 ---pagebreak--- 27.12.2006      EN          Official Journal of the European Union              L 373/99
Notes:
1/ Only applicable to steering wedges over 60 mm thick.
2/ This dimension only refers to the functional surface: the steering wedge itself can
be longer.
           Figure 17 - Dimensions of spring-mounted steering wedges
7.8.2.     The steering wedge shall allow safe and correct coupling and shall be
           spring-mounted. The strength of the spring shall be selected so that it is
           possible to couple an unloaded semitrailer and so that, with the semitrailer
           fully loaded the steering wedge is firmly in contact with the flanks of the
           coupling during use. Uncoupling of the fifth wheel shall be possible with
           the semitrailer both loaded and unloaded.
7.9.       Special requirements for standard fifth wheel couplings:
7.9.1.     the dimensions shall be as shown in Figure 16 and Table 11.
7.9.2.     they shall be suitable for, and tested for, a D value of 150 kN and a U
           value of 20 tonnes.
7.9.3.     release shall be possible by a hand lever mounted directly on the coupling.
7.9.4.     they shall be suitable for the positive steering of semitrailers by means of
           steering wedges - see paragraph 7.8.
8.         FIFTH WHEEL COUPLING PINS
8.1.       Fifth wheel coupling pins of Class H50 (ISO 337) shall have the
           dimensions shown in Figure 18
 ---pagebreak--- L 373/100      EN         Official Journal of the European Union            27.12.2006
                  35
          Figure 18 - Dimensions of Class H50 fifth wheel coupling pins
8.2.       The coupling pins shall be able to satisfy the tests described in annex 6,
           paragraph 3.9.
 ---pagebreak--- 27.12.2006      EN         Official Journal of the European Union             L 373/101
9.         MOUNTING PLATES
9.1.       Class J mounting plates for fifth wheel couplings shall have circular
           mounting holes positioned as shown in Figure 16a if they are intended for
           standard fifth wheel couplings. However, the mounting holes shall be 17
           mm +2.0 mm/ -0.0 mm diameter. The holes shall be circular, NOT slotted
           (see Figure 16a).
9.2.       Mounting plates for standard fifth wheel couplings shall be suitable for the
           positive steering of semitrailers (with steering wedges). Mounting plates
           for non-standard fifth wheel couplings which are unsuitable for positive
           steering shall be marked appropriately.
9.3.       Mounting plates for fifth wheel couplings shall be able to satisfy the tests
           described in annex 6, paragraph 3.8.
10.        HOOK TYPE COUPLINGS
10.1.      General requirements for Class K hook type couplings:
10.1.1.    All Class K hook type couplings shall satisfy the tests given in annex 6,
           paragraph 3.5 and shall be suitable for the characteristic values given in
           Table 13
10.1.2.    Class K hook type couplings shall have the dimensions given in Figure 19
           and Table 12. Class K1 to K4 are non-automatic couplings for use only on
           trailers not exceeding 3.5 tonnes maximum permissible mass and Class
           KA1 to KA3 are automatic couplings.
 ---pagebreak--- L 373/102       EN          Official Journal of the European Union            27.12.2006
      Figure 19 - Dimensions and articulation of Class K hook type couplings
10.1.3.    A hook type coupling shall only be used with a toroidal drawbar eye and
           when used with a Class L toroidal drawbar eye the Class K coupling shall
           have the degrees of articulation given in paragraph 10.2 of this annex.
10.1.4.    A Class K hook type coupling shall be used with a toroidal eye giving a
           minimum clearance, or free movement, of 3 mm and a maximum
           clearance of 5 mm when new. Suitable drawbar eyes shall be declared by
           the coupling manufacturer on the Communication form shown in annex 1.
10.2.      A Class K coupling when used with a Class L toroidal eye, but not fitted
           to a vehicle, shall have the following non-simultaneous angles of
           articulation - see also Figure 19:
10.2.1.    ±90° horizontally about the vertical axis of the coupling;
10.2.2.    ±40° vertically about the horizontal transverse axis of the coupling;
10.2.3.    ±20° axial rotation about the horizontal longitudinal center line of the
           coupling.
 ---pagebreak--- 27.12.2006      EN         Official Journal of the European Union             L 373/103
10.3.      Automatic Class K hook type couplings shall have a jaw designed such
           that the drawbar eye is guided into the coupling.
10.4.      Locking to prevent inadvertent uncoupling:
           In the closed position the coupling shall be locked by two positive
           mechanical engagement locking devices each of which shall remain
           effective should the other fail.
           The closed and locked position of the coupling shall be clearly indicated
           externally by a mechanical device. It shall be possible to verify the
           position of the indicator by feel, for example, in the dark.
           The mechanical indication device shall 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.
10.5.      Hand levers
           Hand levers shall be of a design suitable for easy use with the end rounded
           off. The coupling shall not have any sharp edges or points of possible
           pinching near the hand lever which could result in injury during operation
           of the coupling. The force needed to release the coupling, measured
           without the drawbar eye, shall not exceed 250 N perpendicular to the hand
           lever along the line of operation.
 ---pagebreak--- L 373/104      EN        Official Journal of the European Union           27.12.2006
TABLE 12 - Dimensions for Class K hook type couplings - see Figure 19
  Class     K1     K2       K3         K4        KA1       KA2   KA3 Remarks
 e1       -      83       83         120        120       140   160  ±0.5
 e2       -      56       56         55         55        80    100  ±0.5
 e3       90     -        -          -          -         -     -    ±0.5
 d2       17     10.5     10.5       15         15        17    21   H13
 c        3      3        3          3          3         3     3    Min
 f        130    175      175        180        180       200   200  Max
 g        100    100      100        120        120       140   200  Max
 a        45     45       45         45         45        45    45   +1.6/-0.0
 L1       120    120      120        120        250       300   300  Max
 L2       74     74       63         74         90        90    90   Max
 L3       110    130      130        150        150       200   200  Max
TABLE 13 - Characteristic values for Class K hook type couplings
  Class     K1     K2       K3         K4        KA1       KA2   KA3
 D kN     17     20       20         25         70        100   130
 Dc kN -         -        17         20         54        70    90
 S kg     120    120      200        250        700       900   1000
 V kN     -      -        10         10         18        25    35
 ---pagebreak--- 27.12.2006      EN         Official Journal of the European Union             L 373/105
11.        DEDICATED DRAWBAR TYPE COUPLINGS - CLASS T
11.1.      Class T dedicated drawbar type couplings are intended for use on specific
           vehicle combinations, for example, car transporters. These vehicles have
           special structures and may need particular and unusual location of the
           coupling.
11.2.      Class T couplings shall be restricted to use with centre axle trailers and
           this restriction shall be notified on the Communication form shown in
           annex 1.
11.3.      Class T couplings shall be approved as a matched pair and it shall not be
           possible to separate the coupling other than in a workshop using tools
           which are not normally carried on the vehicle.
11.4.      Class T couplings shall not be automatic in operation.
11.5.      Class T couplings shall satisfy the relevant test requirements given in
           annex 6, paragraph 3.3., except paragraph 3.3.4.
11.6.      The following minimum and simultaneous angles of articulation shall be
           possible with the coupling not fitted to a vehicle but assembled, and in the
           same normal position as when fitted to a vehicle;
11.6.1.    ±90° horizontally about the vertical axis;
11.6.2.    ±8° vertically about the horizontal transverse axis;
11.6.3.    ±3° axial rotation about the horizontal longitudinal axis.
12.        DEVICES FOR REMOTE INDICATION AND REMOTE
           CONTROL
12.1.      General requirements
           Devices for remote indication and remote control are permitted only on
           automatic coupling devices of Classes C50-X and G50-X.
           Devices for remote indication and remote control shall not interfere with
           the minimum free movement of the coupled drawbar eye or coupled
           semitrailer. They shall be permanently fitted to the vehicle.
           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.
12.2.      Remote indication
12.2.1.    For an automatic coupling procedure, remote indication devices shall
           indicate the closed and doubly locked position of the coupling in an
 ---pagebreak--- L 373/106      EN         Official Journal of the European Union               27.12.2006
          optical manner according to paragraph 12.2.2. Additionally the open
          position may be indicated as in paragraph 12.2.3.
          The remote indication device shall be automatically activated and reset
          during every opening and closing of the coupling.
12.2.2.   The change from the open to the closed and doubly locked position shall
          be indicated by a green optical signal.
12.2.3.   If the open and/or unlocked position is indicated, a red optical signal shall
          be used.
12.2.4.   In the case of indicating the completion of the automatic coupling
          procedure, the remote indicator shall ensure that the coupling pin has
          reached the doubly locked end position.
12.2.5.   The appearance of any fault in the remote indication system shall not
          indicate a closed and locked position during the coupling procedure if the
          end position has not been reached.
12.2.6.   The disengagement of one of the two locking devices shall cause the
          green optical signal to extinguish and the red optical signal (if fitted) to
          show.
12.2.7.   The mechanical indicators fitted directly to the coupling device shall be
          retained.
12.2.8.   In order to avoid distracting the driver during normal driving, there shall
          be a provision for switching off the remote indication device but this shall
          be automatically reactivated when the coupling is next opened and closed
          - see paragraph 12.2.1.
12.2.9.   The operating controls and indicators of the remote indication devices
          shall be mounted within the driver's field of vision and be permanently
          and clearly identified.
12.3.     Remote control
12.3.1.   If a remote control device, as defined in paragraph 2.8 of this Regulation,
          is employed, there shall also be a remote indication device as described in
          paragraph 12.2 which shall at least indicate the open condition of the
          coupling.
12.3.2.   There shall be a dedicated switch (i. e. master switch, lever or valve) to
          enable the coupling to be opened or closed by means of the remote control
          device. If this master switch is not located in the driving cab it shall not be
          in a position where it is freely accessible to unauthorized persons or it
          shall be lockable. The actual operation of the coupling from the driving
          cab may only be possible when inadvertent operation has been precluded,
          for example by an operation requiring the use of two hands.
          It shall be possible to ascertain whether opening of the coupling under
          remote control has been completed or not.
 ---pagebreak--- 27.12.2006      EN          Official Journal of the European Union            L 373/107
12.3.3.    If remote control involves the coupling being opened by external force,
           the condition under which the external force acts on the coupling shall be
           indicated appropriately to the driver. This is not necessary if the external
           force is only operative while the remote control is operating.
12.3.4.    If the actuating device for opening the coupling under remote control is
           mounted externally on the vehicle it shall be possible to oversee the area
           between the coupled vehicles, but it shall not be necessary, however, to
           enter this area in order to operate it.
12.3.5.    Any single error in operation or the occurrence of any single fault in the
           system shall not result in accidental opening of the coupling during
           normal road use. Any faults in the system shall be indicated directly or be
           immediately obvious at the next operation e.g. by a malfunction.
12.3.6.    In the event of a failure of the remote control it shall be possible, in an
           emergency, to open the coupling in at least one other way. If this requires
           the use of a tool then this shall be included in vehicle's tool kit. The
           requirements of paragraph 3.6 of this annex are not applicable to hand
           levers used exclusively for opening the coupling in an emergency.
12.3.7.    The operating controls and indicators for the remote control devices shall
           be permanently and clearly identified.
 ---pagebreak--- L 373/108      EN          Official Journal of the European Union               27.12.2006
                                         Annex 6
       TESTING OF MECHANICAL COUPLING DEVICES OR
                                  COMPONENTS
1.        GENERAL TESTING REQUIREMENTS
1.1.      Samples of coupling devices shall be tested for both strength and function.
          Physical testing shall be carried out wherever possible but unless stated
          otherwise the type approval authority or technical service may waive a
          physical strength test if the simple design of a component makes a
          theoretical check possible. Theoretical checks may be carried out to
          determine worst case conditions. In all cases, theoretical checks shall
          ensure the same quality of results as with dynamic or static testing. In
          cases of doubt it is the results of physical testing that are overriding.
          See also paragraph 4.8 of this Regulation.
1.2.      With coupling devices the strength shall be verified by a dynamic test
          (endurance test). In certain cases additional static tests may be necessary
          (see paragraph 3 of this annex).
1.3.      The dynamic test shall be performed with approximately sinusoidal load
          (alternating and/or pulsating) with a number of stress cycles appropriate to
          the material. No cracks or fractures shall occur.
1.4.      Only slight permanent deformation is permitted with the static tests
          prescribed. Unless stated otherwise the permanent, plastic, deformation
          after releasing shall not be more than 10 per cent of the maximum
          deformation measured during the test. In the case where measurement of
          deformation during the test puts the tester at risk then, provided that the
          same parameter is checked during other tests, such as the dynamic test,
          then this part of the static test may be omitted.
1.5.      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 (such as stabilizers, close coupling
          devices, etc.) generate additional forces or moments, additional tests may
          be required by the type approval authority or technical service.
          The horizontal force component in the longitudinal axis of the vehicle is
          represented by a theoretically determined reference force, the D or D
                                                                                         c
          value. 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, or by the static vertical bearing load, U, in the case of
          fifth wheel couplings.
 ---pagebreak--- 27.12.2006       EN         Official Journal of the European Union              L 373/109
1.6.       The characteristic values D, Dc, S, V and U, on which the tests are based
           and which are defined in paragraph 2.11. of this Regulation, shall be taken
           from the manufacturer's information given in the application for type
           approval - see communication form shown in annexes 1 and 2.
1.7.       Any positive locking device, which is retained in position by spring force,
           shall remain in its secured position when subjected to a force applied in
           the least favourable direction and equivalent to three times the mass of the
           locking mechanism.
2.         TEST PROCEDURES
2.1.       For the dynamic tests and static tests, the sample shall be placed in a
           suitable rig with a means of force application, such 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 shall not
           deviate by more than ±1° from the specified direction. In the case of
           pulsating and static tests, the angle shall be set for the maximum test
           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.
2.2.       The test frequency shall not exceed 35 Hz. The selected frequency shall be
           well separated from resonance frequencies of the test set up including the
           tested device. With asynchronous testing the frequencies of the two force
           components shall be between approximately 1 per cent and a maximum of
           3 per cent apart. For coupling devices made from steel the number of
           stress cycles is 2 x 106. For devices made from materials other than steel a
           higher number of cycles may be necessary. The dye-penetration method of
           crack testing or an equivalent method shall be used to determine any
           cracking during test.
2.3.       With pulsating tests, the test force varies between the maximum test force
           and a lower, minimum, test force, which may not be greater than 5 per
           cent of the maximum test force unless otherwise stated in the specific
           testing procedure.
2.4.       With static tests, other than the special tests required by paragraph 3.2.3 of
           this annex, the test force shall be applied smoothly and quickly and be
           maintained for at least 60 seconds.
2.5.       The coupling devices or component on test should 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 intended for the attachment
           of the coupling device or component to the vehicle and/or shall have
           identical mechanical characteristics.
2.6.       Coupling devices or components shall be tested in the form used on the
           road. However, at the discretion of the manufacturer, and in agreement
           with the technical service, flexible components may be neutralized if this
 ---pagebreak--- L 373/110       EN        Official Journal of the European Union             27.12.2006
          is necessary for the test procedure and if this will not have any unrealistic
          influence on the test result.
          Flexible components which are overheated during these accelerated test
          procedures may be replaced during the test. The test loads may be applied
          by means of special slack-free devices.
3.        SPECIFIC TESTING REQUIREMENTS
3.1.      Coupling balls and towing brackets
3.1.1.    Mechanical coupling devices with coupling balls may be of the following
          types:
          (i) one-piece coupling balls including devices with non- interchangeable
          detachable balls (see Figures 20a and 20b),
          (ii) coupling balls, comprising a number of parts which can be dismantled
          (see Figures 20c, 20d and 20e),
          (iii) towing brackets without ball fitted (see Figure 20f).
 ---pagebreak--- 27.12.2006   EN        Official Journal of the European Union                           L 373/111
                                                       a  One piece towing bracket and coupling ball
                                                       b  In this model the ball can be removed by hand : for
                                                          example, an assembly with a bayonet-type fixture
                                                       c  Bracket with ball which can be removed using tools
                                                       d  Bracket with ball and ball support, fastened using class
                                                          A50 bolts, for example
                                                       e  Bracket with ball and integral support, assembled using
                                                          tools
                                                       f  Bracket without ball
           Figure 20 - Arrangements of ball type towing brackets
 ---pagebreak--- L 373/112       EN         Official Journal of the European Union             27.12.2006
3.1.2.    The basic test is a dynamic endurance test. The test sample comprises the
          coupling ball, the ball neck and the mountings necessary for attaching the
          assembly to the vehicle. The coupling ball and towing bracket shall be
          rigidly mounted to a test rig, capable of producing an alternating force, in
          the actual position in which it is intended for use.
3.1.3.    The positions of the fixing points for attaching the coupling ball and
          towing bracket are specified by the vehicle manufacturer (see paragraph
          5.3.2. of this Regulation).
3.1.4.    The devices submitted for test shall be provided with all parts and design
          details which may have an influence on the strength criteria (for example
          electrical socket plate, any marking, etc.). The test sample shall include all
          parts up to the anchorage points or fitting points to the vehicle. 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.
3.1.5.    The sample mounted on the test rig shall be subjected to an alternating
          stress test applied at an angle to the ball as shown in Figure 21 or 22.
          The direction of the angle of test shall be determined by the vertical
          relationship between a horizontal reference line passing through the centre
          of the ball and a horizontal line passing through the fixing point of the
          coupling device which is the highest of the nearest, when measured in a
          horizontal plane, to a transverse vertical plane passing through the centre
          of the ball. If the fixing point line is above the horizontal reference line,
          the test shall be carried out at an angle of α = +15°±1° and if it is below
          then the test shall be carried out at an angle of α = -15°±1° (see Figure
          21). The fixing points to be considered in determining the angle of test
          shall be those declared by the vehicle manufacturer and which transmit the
          major towing forces to the structure of the towing vehicle.
          This angle is chosen in order to take account of the vertical static and
          dynamic load and is only applicable for a permitted static vertical load not
          exceeding:
          S = 120 x D [N]
          Where the static vertical load exceeds that calculated above, the angle
          shall, in both conditions, be increased to 20°.
          The dynamic test shall be performed with the following test force:
          F        = ±0.6 D
            hs res
3.1.6.    The test procedure is applicable to the different types of coupling devices
          (see paragraph 3.1.1 of this annex) as follows:
 ---pagebreak--- 27.12.2006       EN        Official Journal of the European Union             L 373/113
3.1.6.1.   one piece coupling balls including devices with non-interchangeable
           detachable balls (see Figures 20a and 20b).
3.1.6.1.1. the strength test for the devices shown in Figures 20a and 20b shall be
           carried out according to the requirements of paragraph 3.1.5;
Note: The line parallel to the reference line passes through the centre of the highest
and nearest point for mounting the towing bracket to the vehicle - see annex 6,
paragraph 3.1.5.
                    Figure 21 - Angles of application of test force
 ---pagebreak--- L 373/114        EN          Official Journal of the European Union             27.12.2006
Note:
Direction of alternating test force, Fhs res, depending on the location of the ball centre
horizontal reference line in relation to the line parallel to this reference line -
see Figure 21
                    Figure 22 - Angles of application of test force
3.1.6.2.    coupling balls, comprising parts which can be dismantled.
            The following categories are defined:
            (a) towing bracket and ball (see Figure 20c),
            (b) towing bracket and ball on integral support (see Figure 20d),
            (c) towing bracket with detachable ball (see Figure 20e),
            (d) towing bracket without ball (see Figure 20f).
3.1.6.2.1. The strength test for the devices shown in Figures 20c to 20f shall be
            carried out according to the requirements of paragraph 3.1.5. Dimensions
            e and f, shall have a manufacturing tolerance of ±5 mm, and shall be
            stated in the test report.
            The test of the towing bracket (see Figure 20f) shall be carried out with a
            mounted ball (on support). Account will be taken only of the result of the
            test on the towing bracket between the fixing points and the mounting
            surface of the ball support.
            The dimensions e and f shall have a manufacturing tolerance of ±5 mm
            and shall be specified by the coupling device manufacturer.
 ---pagebreak--- 27.12.2006       EN         Official Journal of the European Union              L 373/115
3.1.6.3.   Coupling devices with variable dimensions e and f for demountable and
           interchangeable coupling balls - see Figure 22.
3.1.6.3.1. The strength tests for such towing brackets shall be carried out to the
           requirements of paragraph 3.1.5.
3.1.6.3.2. If a worst case configuration can be defined by agreement between the
           manufacturer and the type approval authority or technical service, then
           testing of this one configuration alone shall be sufficient.
           Otherwise, several ball positions shall be tested in a simplified test
           programme according to paragraph 3.1.6.3.3.
3.1.6.3.3. In a simplified test programme, the value for f shall be between a defined
           value of f     and a value of f         which does not exceed 100 mm. The ball
                      min                    max
           shall be at a distance, emax, 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 fmax), two
           devices are to be tested:
           (i) one with a ball in the upper (fmax) position, and
           (ii) one with a ball in the lower (fmin) position.
           The angle of application of the test force will vary, positive or negative,
           depending on the relationship of the ball centre horizontal reference line to
           the parallel line passing through the highest and nearest coupling device
           fixing point. The angles to be used are shown in Figure 22.
3.1.7.     In the case where detachable ball units are retained using fixing
           arrangements other than screwed fittings, for example, spring clips, and
           where the positive mechanical engagement aspect of the arrangement is
           not tested during the dynamic test, then the arrangement shall be subject to
           a static test applied to the ball or to the positive mechanical engagement
           arrangement in an appropriate direction. Where the positive mechanical
           engagement arrangement retains the ball unit vertically, the static test shall
           be to apply an upwards vertical force to the ball equivalent to the "D"
           value. Where the positive mechanical engagement arrangement retains the
           ball unit by means of a transverse horizontal design, the static test shall be
           to apply a force in this direction equivalent to 0.25 D. There shall not be
           any failure of the positive mechanical engagement device or any distortion
           likely to have an adverse effect on its function.
3.1.8.     The attachment points for the secondary coupling referred to in annex 5,
           paragraph 1.5 shall withstand a horizontal static force equivalent to 2D
           with a maximum of 15 kN. Where there is a separate attachment point for
           a breakaway cable this shall withstand a horizontal static force equivalent
           to D.
3.2.       Coupling heads
 ---pagebreak--- L 373/116      EN          Official Journal of the European Union            27.12.2006
3.2.1.    The basic test is an endurance test using an alternating test force followed
          by a static test (lifting test) on the same test sample.
3.2.2.    The dynamic test shall be performed with a Class A coupling ball of
          appropriate strength. On the test rig the coupling ball and coupling head
          shall be arranged as instructed by the manufacturer and orientated in a
          way corresponding to the relative positions in normal use. There should be
          no possibility of extra forces in addition to the test force acting on the
          specimen. The test force shall be applied along a line passing through the
          centre of the ball and inclined downwards to the rear at 15° (see Figure
          23). An endurance test must be performed on a test specimen with the
          following test force:
          Fhs res w = ±0.6 D
          Where the maximum permissible static vertical mass, S, exceeds 120 D,
          then the angle of test shall be increased to 20°.
                                Figure 23 - Dynamic test
3.2.3.    A static separation test shall also be performed. The coupling ball used for
          the test shall have a diameter of 49.00 to 49.13 mm in order to represent a
          worn coupling ball. The separation force, F , shall be applied
                                                                   a
          perpendicular to both the transverse and longitudinal centre line axes of
          the coupling head and shall be increased smoothly and quickly to a value
          of:
                                        Fa = g(C+ S/1000)         kN
 ---pagebreak--- 27.12.2006      EN         Official Journal of the European Union            L 373/117
           and be held for 10 seconds.
           The coupling head shall not separate from the ball nor shall any
           component of the coupling head exhibit any permanent distortion which
           could have an adverse effect on its functional capability.
3.3.       Drawbar couplings and drawbeams
3.3.1.     An endurance test shall be performed on a test sample. The coupling
           device shall be equipped with all the fixings needed to attach it to the
           vehicle. Any intermediate devices fitted between the drawbar couplings
           and the vehicle frame (i. e. drawbeams) shall be tested with the same
           forces as the coupling. When testing drawbeams intended for standard
           drawbar couplings, the vertical load shall be applied at a longitudinal
           distance from the vertical plane of the fixing points that is equal to the
           position of the corresponding standard coupling.
3.3.2.     Drawbar couplings for hinged drawbars (S=0)
           The dynamic test shall be performed with a horizontal alternating force of
           F = ±0.6 D acting in a line parallel to the ground and in the longitudinal
             hw
           median plane of the towing vehicle passing through the centre of the
           coupling pin.
3.3.3.     Drawbar couplings for use with centre-axle trailers (S>0).
3.3.3.1.   Centre axle trailer masses up to and including 3.5 tonnes:
           Drawbar couplings for use with centre axle trailers up to and including a
           mass of 3.5 tonnes shall be tested in the same way as coupling balls and
           towing brackets described in 3.1 of this annex.
3.3.3.2.   Centre axle trailer masses exceeding 3.5 tonnes:
           The test forces are applied to the specimen in both horizontal and vertical
           directions in an asynchronous endurance test. The horizontal line of action
           shall be equivalent to being parallel to the ground and along the
           longitudinal median plane of the towing vehicle and pass through the
           centre of the coupling pin. The vertical line of action shall be
           perpendicular to the horizontal line of action and shall act along the
           longitudinal centre line of the coupling pin.
           The fixing arrangements for the drawbar coupling and the drawbar eye on
           the test rig shall be those intended for its attachment to the vehicle in
           accordance with the manufacturer's fitting instructions.
           The following test forces shall be applied:
 ---pagebreak--- L 373/118        EN         Official Journal of the European Union             27.12.2006
TABLE 14 - Test forces
       Test force           Mean Value (kN)              Amplitude (kN)
 Horizontal force         0                           ±0.6Dc (See Note)
 Vertical force           S x g/1000                  ±0.6V (See Note)
Note: In the case of Class T dedicated drawbar couplings these values shall be
reduced to ±0.5Dc and ±0.5V.
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 per cent and 3 per cent.
3.3.4.      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 shall not cause the closure to open and it shall not
            cause any damage. A test force of 0.1 D is sufficient in the case of
            cylindrical coupling pins.
3.4.        Drawbar eyes
3.4.1.      Drawbar eyes shall be subjected to the same dynamic testing as drawbar
            couplings. Drawbar eyes used solely for trailers having hinged drawbars
            allowing free vertical movement shall be subjected to an alternating force
            as described in paragraph 3.3.2. Drawbar eyes also intended for use on
            centre axle trailers shall be tested in the same way as ball coupling heads
            (paragraph 3.2) for trailer masses C up to and including 3.5 tonnes and in
            the same way as drawbar couplings (paragraph 3.3.3.2.) for centre axle
            trailers with a mass, C, exceeding 3.5 tonnes.
3.4.2.      Toroidal eyes of Class L shall be tested in the same manner as standard
            drawbar eyes.
3.4.3.      The testing of drawbar eyes shall be conducted in such a manner that the
            alternating force also acts on the parts used for attaching the drawbar eye
            to the drawbar. All flexible intermediate components shall be clamped.
3.5.        Hook type couplings
3.5.1.      Class K hook type couplings shall satisfy the dynamic test given in
            paragraph 3.5.2 of this annex.
3.5.2.      Dynamic test:
3.5.2.1.    The dynamic test shall be a pulsating test using a Class L toroidal eye and
            with the coupling mounted as it would be on a vehicle and with all of the
 ---pagebreak--- 27.12.2006       EN           Official Journal of the European Union                L 373/119
           necessary parts for vehicle installation. However, any flexible components
           may be neutralized with the agreement of the type approval authority or
           technical service;
3.5.2.2.   For hook type couplings intended for use with hinged drawbar trailers,
           where the imposed vertical load on the coupling, S, is zero, the test force
           shall be applied in a horizontal direction simulating a tensile force on the
           hook and varying between 0.05 D and 1.00 D;
3.5.2.3.   For hook type couplings intended for use with centre axle trailers the test
           force shall represent the resultant of the horizontal and vertical forces on
           the coupling and shall be applied along an angle, -α , that is, from top
           front to bottom rear (see Figure 21), and equivalent to the calculated angle
           of the resultant between the horizontal and vertical forces on the coupling.
           The force, Fhs res shall be calculated as:
                                                                     9.81S
           F hs res =   F 2 h + F 2 s where F h = D c and F s =            .+ 0.8 V
                                                                     1000
3.5.2.4.   The applied force shall vary between 0.05 Fhs res and 1.00 Fhs res.
3.5.3.     Static test on coupling locking device
           With hook type 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 shall not cause the closure to open and it shall not
           cause any damage.
3.6.       Drawbars
3.6.1.     Drawbars shall be tested in the same way as drawbar eyes (see paragraph
           3.4.). The type approval authority or technical service may waive an
           endurance test if the simple design of a component makes a theoretical
           check of its strength possible. The design forces for the theoretical
           verification of the drawbar of centre axle trailers with a mass, C, of up to
           and including 3.5 tonnes shall be taken from ISO 7641/1:1983. The design
           forces for the theoretical verification of drawbars for centre axle trailers
           having a mass, C, over 3.5 tonnes shall be calculated as follows:
           Fsp = (g x S/1000) + V
           where the force amplitude V is that given in paragraph 2.11.4. of
           this Regulation.
           The permissible stresses based on the design masses for trailers having a
           total mass, C, over 3.5 tonnes shall be in accordance with paragraph 5.3.
           of ISO 7641/1:1983. For bent drawbars (e. g. swan neck) and for the
           drawbars of full trailers, the horizontal force component Fhp = 1.0 x D
           shall be taken into consideration.
 ---pagebreak--- L 373/120      EN          Official Journal of the European Union              27.12.2006
3.6.2.    For drawbars for full trailers with free movement in the vertical plane, in
          addition to the endurance test or theoretical verification of strength, the
          resistance to buckling shall be verified either by a theoretical calculation
          with a design force of 3.0 x D or by a buckling test with a force of
          3.0 x D. The permissible stresses in the case of calculation shall be in
          accordance with paragraph 5.3. of ISO 7641/1:1983.
3.6.3.    In the case of steered axles, the resistance to bending shall be verified by
          theoretical calculations or by a bending test. A horizontal, lateral static
          force shall be applied in the centre of the coupling point. The magnitude
          of this force shall be chosen so that a moment of 0.6 x Av x g (kNm) is
          exerted about the front axle centre. The permissible stresses shall be in
          accordance with paragraph 5.3. of ISO 7641/1:1983.
          However, in the case where the steered axles form a twin, tandem, axle
          front carriage (steered bogie) the moment shall be increased to
          0.95 x Av x g (kNm)
3.7.      Fifth wheel couplings
3.7.1.    The basic strength tests are a dynamic test and a static test (lifting test).
          Fifth wheel couplings intended for the positive steering of semitrailers
          shall be subject to an additional static test (bending test). For the purpose
          of the tests the fifth wheel coupling shall be equipped with all the fixings
          needed to attach it to the vehicle. The method of mounting shall be
          identical to that employed on the vehicle itself. It is not permissible to use
          a calculation method as an alternative to physical testing.
3.7.2.    Static tests
3.7.2.1.  Standard fifth wheel couplings designed for a steering wedge or similar
          device for the positive steering of semitrailers (see paragraph 2.7 of this
          Regulation) shall 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
          imposed vertical load, U, for the fifth wheel shall be applied vertically to
          the coupling in its operating position by means of a rigid plate of
          sufficient size to cover the coupling completely.
          The resultant of the applied load shall pass through the center of the
          horizontal joint of the fifth wheel coupling.
          Simultaneously, a horizontal lateral force, representing the force needed
          for positive steering of the semitrailer, shall be applied to the flanks of the
          guide for the coupling pin. The magnitude of this force and the direction
          in which it acts shall be chosen so that a moment of 0.75m x D is exerted
          about the center of the coupling pin by means of a force acting on a lever
          arm 0.5 m ± 0.1 m long. Permanent, plastic deformation up to 0.5 per cent
          of all nominal dimensions is permitted. There shall not be any cracking.
 ---pagebreak--- 27.12.2006       EN         Official Journal of the European Union              L 373/121
3.7.2.2.   A static lifting test shall be performed on all fifth wheel couplings. Up to a
           lifting force of Fa = g.U there shall not be any major permanent bending
           of the coupling plate over more than 0.2 per cent of its width.
           In the case of Class G50 standard fifth wheel couplings and comparable
           couplings for the same coupling pin diameter, there shall not be any
           separation of the coupling pin from the coupling with a lifting force of Fa
           = g x 2.5 U. In the case of non-standard couplings using a pin diameter
           greater than 50 mm, for example 90 mm pin diameter couplings, the
           lifting force shall be: Fa = g x 1.6 U with a minimum value of 500 kN.
           The force shall 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 center of the coupling pin - see Figure 24.
           The lever arm shall be at 90° to the direction of entry of the coupling pin
           into the coupling. If the worst case is obvious, this worst case has to be
           tested. If the worst case is not easy to determine, the type approval
           authority or technical service shall decide which side to test. Only one test
           is necessary.
                                                                    Rear view
                   Figure 24 - Lifting test on fifth wheel couplings
3.7.3.     Dynamic test
           The fifth wheel coupling shall be subjected to alternating stress on a test
           rig (asynchronous dynamic test) with horizontal alternating and vertical
           pulsating forces acting simultaneously.
 ---pagebreak--- L 373/122       EN        Official Journal of the European Union              27.12.2006
3.7.3.1.  In the case of fifth wheel couplings not intended for the positive steering
          of semitrailers, the following forces shall be used:
          Horizontal: Fhw = ±0.6 x D
          Vertical: FsO = g x 1.2 U
          FsU = g x 0.4 U
          These two forces shall be applied in the longitudinal median plane of the
          vehicle with the lines of action of both forces FsO and FsU passing through
          the centre of the joint of the coupling.
          The vertical force Fs alternates between the limits +g x 1.2 U and
          +g x 0.4 U and the horizontal force between ±0.6 D.
3.7.3.2.  In the case of fifth wheel couplings intended for the positive steering of
          semitrailers the following forces shall be used :
          Horizontal: Fhw = ±0.675 D
          Vertical: FsO and FsU as in paragraph 3.7.3.1.
          The lines of action of the forces are as given in paragraph 3.7.3.1.
3.7.3.3.  For the dynamic test of fifth wheel couplings, a suitable lubricating
          material shall be placed between the coupling plate and the trailer plate so
          that the maximum coefficient of friction, F, is 0.15.
3.8.      Mounting plates for fifth wheel couplings
          The dynamic test for fifth wheel couplings described in paragraph 3.7.3.
          and the static tests described in paragraph 3.7.2. shall also be applied to
          mounting plates. With mounting plates, it is sufficient to perform the
          lifting test on one side only. The test shall be based on the maximum
          designated installation height for the coupling, the maximum designated
          width and the minimum designated length of the mounting plate design. It
          is not necessary to carry out this test if the mounting plate in question is
          identical to one which has already undergone this test except that it is
          narrower and/or longer and the total height is lower. It is not permissible
          to use a calculation method as an alternative to physical testing.
3.9.      Fifth wheel coupling pins of semitrailers
3.9.1.    A dynamic test with alternating stress shall be performed on a sample
          mounted on a test rig. The testing of the coupling pin shall not be
          combined with the testing of the fifth wheel coupling. The test shall be
          conducted so that the force is also applied to the fixings needed for
          attaching the coupling pin to the semitrailer. It is not permissible to use a
          calculation method as an alternative to physical testing.
 ---pagebreak--- 27.12.2006     EN          Official Journal of the European Union              L 373/123
3.9.2.     A dynamic test with an alternating horizontal force of Fhw = ±0.6 D shall
           be applied to the coupling pin in the operating position.
           The line of action of the force shall 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 5, Figure 18).
 ---pagebreak--- L 373/124            EN          Official Journal of the European Union                      27.12.2006
                                                Annex 7
            INSTALLATION AND SPECIAL REQUIREMENTS
1.             Installation and special requirements
1.1.           Attachment of coupling balls and towing brackets
1.1.1.         Coupling balls and towing brackets shall be attached to vehicles of
               categories M1, M2 (below 3.5t maximum permissible mass) and N1 1 in a
               manner which conforms to the clearance and height dimensions given in
               Figure 25. The height shall be measured at the vehicle loading conditions
               given in appendix 1 to this annex.
               The height requirement shall not apply in the case of category G off-road
               vehicles as defined in annex 7 of the Consolidated Resolution on the
               Construction                  of              Vehicles               (R.E.3)(document
               TRANS/WP.29/78/Rev.1/Amend.2).
1.1.1.1.       The clearance space shown in Figures 25a and 25b may be occupied by
               non-demountable equipment, such as a spare wheel, provided that the
               distance from the centre of the ball to a vertical plane at the extreme
               rearmost point of the equipment does not exceed 300 mm. The equipment
               shall be mounted to allow adequate access for coupling and uncoupling
               without risk of injury to the user and without affecting articulation of the
               coupling.
1.1.2.         For coupling balls and towing brackets the vehicle manufacturer shall
               supply mounting instructions and state whether any reinforcement of the
               fixing area is necessary.
1.1.3.         It shall 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:
               is rotated horizontally 60° to right or left, (β = 60°, see Figure 25);
               is rotated vertically 10° up or down (α = 10°, see Figure 25);
               is rotated axially 10° to right or left.
1
  See definitions in Regulation N°. 13 annexed to the 1958 Agreement concerning the Adoption of
Uniform Technical Prescriptions for wheeled vehicles, Equipment and Parts which can be Fitted and/
or be Used on Vehicles and Conditions for Reciprocal Recognition of Approvals granted on the Basis
of these Prescriptions. The definition is also contained in annex 7 of Consolidated Resolution on the
Construction vehicles (R. E. 3) (document TRANS/ WP. 29/ 78/ Rev. 1/ Amend. 2).
 ---pagebreak--- 27.12.2006      EN        Official Journal of the European Union             L 373/125
    Figure 25 (a) - Clearance space for, and height of, coupling ball - side view
 ---pagebreak--- L 373/126     EN         Official Journal of the European Union         27.12.2006
          Figure 25 (b) - Clearance space for coupling ball - plan view
 ---pagebreak--- 27.12.2006      EN          Official Journal of the European Union             L 373/127
1.1.4.     When the trailer is not coupled to the towing vehicle, the mounted towing
           bracket and coupling ball shall not obscure the mounting space provided
           for the rear registration plate or affect the visibility of the rear
           registration/licence plate of the towing vehicle. If the coupling ball or
           other items do obscure the rear registration plate they shall be removable
           or repositionable without the use of tools except, for example, an easily
           operated (i.e. an effort not exceeding 20 Nm) release key which is carried
           in the vehicle.
1.2.       Attachment of coupling heads
1.2.1.     Class B coupling heads are permitted for trailers of maximum mass up to
           and including 3.5 tonnes. With the trailer horizontal and carrying the
           maximum permitted axle load, coupling heads shall be fitted so that the
           centre line of the spherical area into which the ball fits is 430 ±35 mm
           above the horizontal plane on which the wheels of the trailer rest.
           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 or similar) the
           trailer manufacturer shall give an appropriate reference line defining the
           horizontal position. The height requirement shall apply only to trailers
           intended to be attached to vehicles mentioned in paragraph 1.1.1. of this
           annex.
           In all cases the horizontal position shall be determined to within ±1°.
1.2.2.     It shall be possible to operate the coupling heads safely within the free
           space of the coupling ball given in Figures 25a and 25b, up to angles of α
           = 25° and β = 60°.
1.3.       Attachment of drawbar couplings and mounting blocks
1.3.1.     Mounting dimensions for standard drawbar couplings:
           In the case of types of standard drawbar couplings the mounting
           dimensions on the vehicle given in Figure 15 and Table 10 must be met.
1.3.2.     Need for remote controlled couplings
           If one or more of the following requirements regarding easy and safe
           operation (paragraph 1.3.3.), accessibility (paragraph 1.3.5.) or clearance
           for the hand lever (paragraph 1.3.6.) cannot be met, a coupling with a
           remote control device as described in annex 5, paragraph 12.3. shall be
           used.
1.3.3.     Easy and safe coupling operation
           Drawbar couplings shall be mounted on the vehicle in such a manner that
           they are easy and safe to operate.
 ---pagebreak--- L 373/128       EN         Official Journal of the European Union            27.12.2006
          In addition to the functions of opening (and closing, if applicable) this also
          includes checking the position of the indicator for the closed and locked
          positions of the coupling pin (by sight and touch).
          In the area in which the person operating the coupling has to stand, there
          shall not be any points of possible danger such as sharp edges, corners,
          etc. inherent in the design unless these are protected so that injury is
          unlikely.
          The way of escape from this area shall not be restricted or barred on either
          side by any objects attached to either the coupling or the vehicles.
          Any underrun protection device shall not prevent the person adopting a
          suitable position to operate the coupling.
1.3.4.    Minimum angle for coupling up and uncoupling
          Coupling and uncoupling of the drawbar eye shall be possible when the
          longitudinal axis of the drawbar eye in relation to the centre line of the
          jaw is simultaneously rotated:
          50° horizontally to right or left;
          6° vertically up or down.
          6° axially to right or left.
          This requirement shall also apply to Class K hook type couplings.
1.3.5.    Accessibility
          The distance between the center of the coupling pin and the edge of the
          bodywork of the vehicle shall not exceed 550 mm. Where the distance
          exceeds 420 mm, the coupling shall be fitted with an actuation mechanism
          which will allow safe operation at a maximum distance of 420 mm from
          the outer board of the bodywork.
          The distance of 550 mm may be exceeded as follows, provided that
          technical necessity can be demonstrated and that easy and safe actuation
          of the drawbar coupling is not adversely affected:
          (i) to a distance of up to 650 mm for vehicles with tipping bodies or rear-
          mounted equipment;
          (ii) to a distance of up to 1320 mm if the unobstructed height is at least
          1150 mm;
          (iii) in the case of car transporters with at least two loading levels when
          the trailer vehicle is not separated from the towing vehicle in normal
          transport operation.
1.3.6.    Clearance for the hand lever
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           In order to permit safe operation of drawbar couplings there shall be
           adequate free space around the hand lever.
           The clearance illustrated in Figure 26 is regarded as sufficient. If different
           types of standard drawbar couplings are intended to be fitted to the
           vehicle, the clearance shall be such that the conditions are also satisfied
           for the largest size of coupling of the appropriate class given in annex 5,
           paragraph 3.
                           Figure 26 - Hand lever clearance
The clearance dimensions are also applicable as appropriate for drawbar couplings
having hand levers pointing downwards or of a different design.
The clearance shall also be maintained within the specified minimum angle for
coupling up and uncoupling given in paragraph 1.3.4. of this annex.
1.3.7.     Clearance for free movement of drawbar coupling
           The drawbar coupling attached to the vehicle shall have a minimum clear
           gap of 10 mm from every other part of the vehicle taking into account all
           possible geometrical positions given in annex 5, paragraph 3.
           If different types of standard drawbar couplings are intended to be fitted to
           the vehicle type, the clearance shall be such that the conditions are also
           satisfied for the largest possible coupling of the appropriate class stated in
           annex 5, paragraph 3.
1.3.8.     Acceptability of drawbar couplings with a special joint for vertical
           rotation - see annex 5, paragraph 3.4.
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          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
          when technical necessity can be demonstrated. This may be the case, for
          example, on rear tippers when the coupling head shall be hinged, or with
          the couplings of heavy transporters when for strength reasons the use of a
          cylindrical coupling pin is necessary.
1.4.      Attachment of drawbar eyes and drawbars on trailers.
1.4.1.    Drawbars for centre axle trailers shall have a support device which is
          adjustable in height if vertical bearing mass at the drawbar eye on the
          trailer exceeds 50 kg, when the trailer is uniformly loaded to its
          technically permissible maximum mass.
1.4.2.    When attaching drawbar eyes and drawbar to centre-axle trailers with a
          maximum mass, C, of more than 3.5 tonnes and more than one axle, the
          trailers shall be equipped with device for axle load sharing.
1.4.3.    Hinged drawbars shall be clear of the ground. They shall not fall below a
          height of 200 mm from the ground when released from the horizontal
          position. See also annex 5, paragraphs 5.3. and 5.4.
1.5.      Attachment of fifth wheel couplings, mounting plates and coupling pins
          on vehicles.
1.5.1.    Class G50 fifth wheel couplings shall not be mounted directly on the
          vehicle frame unless permitted by the vehicle manufacturer. They shall be
          fixed to the frame by means of a mounting plate and the installation
          instructions provided by the vehicle manufacturer and coupling
          manufacturer shall be followed.
1.5.2.    Semitrailers shall be equipped with landing gear or any other equipment
          which allows uncoupling and parking of the semitrailer. If semitrailers are
          equipped so that the connection of the coupling devices, the electrical
          systems and braking systems can be effected automatically, the trailer
          shall have landing gear which retracts from the ground automatically after
          the semitrailer has been coupled up.
          These requirements shall not apply in the case of semitrailers designed for
          special operations where they are normally only separated in a workshop
          or when loading and unloading in specifically designed operating areas.
1.5.3.    The fixing of the fifth wheel coupling pin to the mounting plate on the
          semitrailer shall be as instructed by the vehicle manufacturer or the
          manufacturer of the fifth wheel coupling pin.
1.5.4.    If a semitrailer is equipped with a steering wedge it shall meet the
          requirements as described in annex 5, paragraph 7.8.
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2.         REMOTE INDICATION AND CONTROL
2.1.       When installing remote indication and control devices any relevant
           requirements given in annex 5, paragraph 12 shall be taken into account.
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                             Annex 7 - Appendix 1
LOADING CONDITIONS FOR MEASUREMENT OF COUPLING
                                 BALL HEIGHT
1.        The height shall be as specified in annex 7, paragraph 1.1.1.
2.        In the case of M1 category vehicles 1/ the vehicle mass at which this
          height shall be measured shall be declared by the vehicle manufacturer
          and shall be given in the Communication form (annex 2). The mass shall
          be either the maximum permissible mass, distributed between the axles as
          declared by the vehicle manufacturer or the mass given by loading the
          vehicle in accordance with paragraph 2.1. of this appendix.
2.1.      The maximum figure for the mass in running order as declared by the
          towing vehicle manufacturer (see paragraph 6. of the Communication
          form, annex 2); plus
2.1.1.    two masses, each of 68 kg, positioned in the outer seating position of each
          row of seats, with the seats in the rearmost adjustable position for normal
          driving and travel, and with the masses located:
2.1.1.1.  for original equipment coupling devices and components submitted for
          approval by the vehicle manufacturer, approximately at a point located at
          100mm in front of the "R" point for adjustable seats and 50 mm in front of
          the "R" point for other seats, the "R" point being determined according to
          Regulation No. 14 paragraph 5.1.1.2.; or
2.1.1.2.  for coupling devices and components submitted for approval by an
          independent manufacturer and intended for replacement market fitting,
          approximately at the position of a seated person;
2.1.2.    In addition, for each mass of 68 kg, an additional mass of 7 kg allowance
          for personal luggage shall be distributed evenly in the luggage area of the
          vehicle;
3.        In the case of N1 category vehicles 1/, the vehicle mass at which this
          height shall be measured shall be:
3.1.      The maximum permissible mass, distributed between the axles as declared
          by the towing vehicle manufacturer (see paragraph 6. of the
          Communication form, annex 2).