Notes on installing a trailer hitch - AH31.10-P-1000-02CW

MODEL 117.3/9, 156.9, 164, 166, 176.0, 204, 205, 207, 212, 218.9 (except 218.974), 222.0/1, 242.8, 246.2 

Export countries must observe the respective registration regulations and legal requirements regarding the installation of a trailer hitch.

The body sealant and underfloor protection must be removed from all the body mounting points of the trailer hitch. The mounting points should then be cleaned with a commercially available cleaning agent. Apply anticorrosion paint to bare-metal areas of the body.

Trailer hitches are homologated safety-related parts. They are to be installed on vehicles by skilled personnel only. Trailer hitches that suffer damage as a result of accident, ground contact or impact must be replaced. Attempts to repair these components by bending or welding them, or any other mechanical forms of repair, are not approved.

The coupling ball must have a minimum diameter of 49 mm at all points, measured using a vernier caliper. The coupling ball must be greased before use to reduce wear. Advise the customer accordingly. 

Safe trailer operation is not assured otherwise. 

Before coupling the trailer in the case of trailers with an anti-swerve device, it must be ensured that the coupling ball is clean and free of grease. 

Otherwise, the friction between the friction linings and the coupling ball is considerably reduced, meaning that the swerving and pitch motions can no longer be suppressed. 

Also advise the customer that greasing the coupling ball on trailers with anti-swerve devices is prohibited.

Advise the customer to familiarize themselves with the chapters "Trailer hitch" and "Trailer operation" in the operator's manual.