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Frequently asked questions - COUPLINGS

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  • Your coupling system specifications can be found directly, on the label bonded onto the system, or in our catalogue.
  • The value D (expressed in kN), for a coupling system, is the maximum horizontal dynamic force generated by an articulated bar rig.
  • The value D (expressed in kN), for a coupling system, is the maximum horizontal dynamic force generated by a rig with central axles.
  • D = [(gross weight of trailer x max. loaded weight of carrier) / (gross weight of trailer x max. loaded weight of carrier)] x 9.81
  • Dc = [(gross weight of trailer x max. loaded weight of carrier) / (gross weight of trailer x max. loaded weight of carrier)] x 9.81
  • The value S (expressed in kg), for a coupling system, is the max. acceptable vertical static load. When preparing a load plan, this value must never be exceeded.
  • The value V (expressed in kN), for a coupling system, is the maximum acceptable vertical dynamic force generated by a rig with a central-axle trailer.
  • V = [gross weight of trailer x length of trailer platform x length of trailer platform x 2.4 (for a vehicle with mechanical suspension) or 1.8 (for a vehicle with pneumatic suspension)] / [total length from the ring to the trailer axle centre x total length from the ring to the trailer axle centre]
  • The initials BNA mean “Bureau de Normalisation de l’Automobile” (French standards authority for couplings in France).
  • The initials DIN mean “Deutsches Institut für Normung” (German standards authority for couplings in Europe).
  • A BNA hook is a fixed hook with a pin Ø 68 mm. A DIN hook is a rotary hook with a pin Ø 40 mm or 50 mm)
  • No, the two products are not compatible. If you have a BNA hook, it can only be coupled to a BNA ring. And similarly for a DIN hook.
  • The marking ECE R55 indicates that the system is approved in accordance with European Regulation R55. This regulation defines the requirements to be met by coupling systems and mechanical parts, to be considered internationally compatible.
  • No, regulation R55 states that a non-approved coupling system cannot be used on the road.
  • If your tow bar is cracked or damaged, even slightly, we advise you to replace it immediately. In fact, the mechanical properties of the bar may be affected, which means that it could break.
  • The OF N° on a Pommier product is the manufacturing batch number. It comprises the year and week of manufacture, and the number of products manufactured.
  • The tightening torque values for your coupling are shown directly on the label bonded on the coupling, or in the coupling installation documentation.
  • No, we do not authorise the installation of carrier systems on our Pommier ball hooks.
  • A Spare Parts catalogue is available on our Web site, in PDF format. It will enable you to find all the spare parts available for most POMMIER products.
  • Yes, the Pommier Pack Acier allows you to add supplementary accessories, such as a step, light brackets, registration plate mount, etc. You can find all these accessories in our catalogue or on our Web site: https://www.pommier.eu
  • The 7-pin coupling harness only supplies electrical power to the additional lighting system. You can use it to couple a small trailer or to install a cycle carrier for example. However, it isn’t designed to supply constant power for a caravan or a big trailer.

    The 13-pin coupling harness provides the same function as the 7-pin harness, i.e. it sends basic electrical signals to the additional lighting system. However, it differs by its ability to supply constant 12 V power (with ignition switched on) to the electrical system of the coupled element. A 13-pin harness is essential to supply electrical appliances in a caravan.
  • The part number of the KONEXO hook pin repair kit is: 2944034
  • No, unfortunately a manual hook cannot be converted to an automatic hook.
  • Yes, you can cut the Pommier Pack Acier profile, providing the conditions are met. The rear protection system must not, at any point, be wider than the rear axle width, measured at the extreme outer points of the wheels (not counting the tyre compression swelling in contact with the ground), and must not be more than 100 mm narrower on each side.
  • Regulation R55 stipulates that the ball centre-line must be between 350 and 420 mm above the ground. Loaded vehicle. (Height range valid for M1 and N1 vehicles only).
  • Yes, couplings can be painted. However, take care to ensure that the mechanisms remain functional and that the identity plate is still legible.
  • If the coupling system is approved R55, it is acknowledged as valid in all European Union countries. You can therefore use it everywhere in Europe.
  • No, unfortunately. One of the coupling devices (hook or ring) must always be rotary. BNA and DIN standards provide information concerning compatibility of the various coupling systems.
  • If your KONEXO hook wasn’t initially equipped with a play compensation system, then unfortunately it cannot be retrofitted without work at our factory.
  • G145 and G150 are the between centres spacing for the drilled hook holes. G145 means a drilling spacing of 140x80 mm, and G150 means a drilling spacing of 160x100 mm.
  • Yes. Regulation R58-03 is mandatory for all vehicles first registered on or after 1 September 2021, but it doesn’t prevent R58-03 versions from being installed on vehicles registered earlier.
  • Our steps support a maximum weight of 200 kg.
  • No, we leave our bodywork customers to drill the holes, to provide the optimum attachment of the tow bar on the vehicle.
  • The required screw grade is indicated on the hook label. We recommend screw grade 10.9.
  • The tow bar is a coupling system (regulation R55) that allows a hook to be installed on the vehicle. Whereas the under-run bar is a rear protection system (regulation R58), similar to a bumper.
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