Tow Balls & Hitches

About Tow Balls & Hitches

Tow balls and hitches are essential components for safely and legally towing trailers, caravans, horse boxes, and equipment on UK roads. MyToolShed.co.uk stocks a comprehensive range of E-approved 50mm tow balls, secure tow ball locks, protective covers, and towing plugs and sockets to meet every towing requirement. Whether you're a tradesperson transporting materials between job sites or a DIY enthusiast making weekend tip runs, having reliable towing equipment ensures road safety and compliance with UK towing regulations.

This category features quality products from trusted brands including Sealey and Draper, covering both modern 13-pin Euro connectors and traditional 7-pin N-type and S-type connections. From basic tow ball covers to complete conversion leads bridging compatibility gaps between different electrical standards, MyToolShed provides everything needed for secure trailer connections. Professional-grade towing hitches with capacities up to 750kg deliver reliable coupling solutions for light commercial applications.

Applications

• Landscape Gardeners: Towing plant trailers, mini-diggers, and equipment between job sites
• Builders and Tradespeople: Transporting materials, waste, and tools in trailers to work locations
• Agricultural Workers: Connecting farm machinery, livestock trailers, and agricultural equipment
• Vehicle Recovery Professionals: Recovery operations and transporting disabled vehicles
• Caravan Owners: Connecting caravans for leisure travel or towing vehicles behind motorhomes
• Equestrian Users: Towing horse boxes and trailers to events, stables, and competitions
• DIY Enthusiasts: Occasional towing for tip runs, moving materials, or transporting equipment
• Plant Hire Companies: Ensuring fleet vehicles have compatible towing equipment

Choosing The Right Tow Balls & Hitches

Check Vehicle Compatibility: Verify your vehicle's maximum towing capacity, noseweight limit, and tow bar type before purchasing. This information is found in your vehicle handbook or on the VIN plate.

Electrical Connection Standards: Modern vehicles typically feature 13-pin Euro sockets providing power for lights and supplementary functions, whilst older trailers may have 7-pin N-type or S-type plugs. Conversion leads available at MyToolShed.co.uk bridge compatibility gaps between different standards.

E-Approval Compliance: Always choose E-approved tow balls meeting UK and European safety standards. Non-approved equipment can invalidate insurance and result in prosecution if involved in towing accidents.

Security Features: Consider tow ball locks if leaving vehicles unattended on site or in public areas, preventing theft of both tow balls and attached trailers. Reflective tow ball covers improve visibility and protect against corrosion.

Load Capacity: Verify working load limits meet or exceed your typical towing requirements, particularly when using pin couplings or specialised hitches for commercial applications.

Safety Information

Ensure tow balls are correctly torqued to manufacturer specifications, typically between 50-130Nm depending on the model. Improperly secured tow balls can work loose with potentially catastrophic consequences. Always test trailer lights before every journey using a socket tester to avoid roadside penalties.

Never exceed your vehicle's maximum towing capacity or noseweight limits. Overloading affects braking distances, steering response, and stability, particularly in adverse weather. Distribute trailer loads with approximately 60% of weight towards the front for optimal stability.

Regularly inspect electrical connections for corrosion, especially after winter towing where road salt accelerates deterioration. Clean connections with electrical contact cleaner and apply dielectric grease to maintain reliable operation.

Frequently Asked Questions

What's the difference between 13-pin and 7-pin towing sockets?

The 13-pin Euro connector is the modern standard providing power for all trailer lighting plus additional functions like interior power and battery charging for caravans. The 7-pin N-type provides basic lighting functions only and is commonly found on older trailers. Conversion leads allow connection between different types.

Do I need an E-approved tow ball?

Yes, absolutely. E-approved tow balls meet European safety standards and are a legal requirement for road use in the UK. Using non-approved equipment can invalidate insurance and may result in prosecution. Look for the 'E' marking on any tow ball.

How often should I replace my tow ball?

Replace your tow ball if you notice cracks, excessive wear, deformation, or surface damage. Regular inspection is essential, particularly for frequent towing. Surface rust can be cleaned, but deep corrosion or pitting indicates immediate replacement is necessary.