Lada Largus has serious capacity, which is an important characteristic of a family car. In various configurations, Largus can accommodate from five to seven passengers, and the necessary cargo is placed in the luggage compartment with a volume of up to 560 liters. If desired, you can provide a cargo volume of 2350 liters by completely folding the seats, or install an air rack on the roof of the car. However, a car of this class is not purchased to find compromises between the number of passengers and cargo volume. The owner of a country house needs to comfortably place a family, children and a dog in the car, and then easily load five bags of cement, a refrigerator and seedlings into it. The problem of transporting such large cargo can be solved with the help of a trailer. To do this, it is necessary to equip the Largus with a coupling device - a towbar.
Installing a tow bar
To install a tow bar on a Lada Largus car, you do not need additional drilling: the device is attached to a place prepared in advance at the factory and looks very organic. The algorithm for installing a tow bar on a Lada Largus car with your own hands is as follows:
- completely empty the trunk and remove the spare wheel;
- dismantle the protective screen located above the muffler;
- carefully remove the plastic knobs from the side members (we do not throw them away);
Installing a towbar (tow hitch) on a car - we provide sufficient space into which the fasteners can fit (do not forget to remove the mastic and protective adhesive coating);
- insert the front screws and bushings;
- We hang the bracket from the outside and bait it;
- insert the rear screw into the socket and place it from the outside into the hole in the spar;
- insert the sleeve and screw the washer onto the nut;
- We repeat all these steps for the right side.
After installation, you should check whether the towbar is pressed against the bumper and whether it is covering the muffler. After this, it is necessary to tighten all fastening components and return the protective screen to its place.
Towbar mounting points: completing the installation
Finally, we remind you
Using a car with faulty lighting means bringing the owner to administrative liability. But in general, many car owners can install a towbar even with their own hands.
Sources
- https://ShinyNado.ru/raznoe/kak-ustanovit-farkop-na-largus-svoimi-rukami.html
- https://AutoPolar.ru/remont-i-tyuning/ustanovka-farkopa-na-largus.html
- https://car-engine.ru/2021/09/01/%D0%BA%D0%B0%D0%BA-%D1%83%D1%81%D1%82%D0%B0%D0%BD% D0%BE%D0%B2%D0%B8%D1%82%D1%8C-%D1%84%D0%B0%D1%80%D0%BA%D0%BE%D0%BF-%D0%BD% D0%B0-%D0%BB%D0%B0%D1%80%D0%B3%D1%83%D1%81-%D1%81%D0%B2%D0%BE%D0%B8%D0%BC/
- https://kalina-2.ru/remont-vaz/podkljuchenie-rozetki-farkopa-lada-largus
- https://alarm-bike.ru/lada/ustanovka-farkopa-na-lada-largus.html
- https://alexey-demidov.ru/specifika/kak-postavit-farkop-na-largus.html
- https://pricep-vlg.ru/farcop/farkop-lada-largus/
- https://gil-service.ru/dvigatel/ustanovka-farkopa-na-largus.html
- https://new-lada.ru/lada-largus-ustanovka-farkopa/
- https://ZamenaRenault.ru/largus/obshhee-temi/ustanovit-farkop-na-ladu.html
Installing the hitch
The procedure for installing a towbar on a Lada Largus is usually indicated by the manufacturer in the instructions for the coupling device and in general consists of the following steps:
- The trunk of the car is completely freed from luggage, tools and accessories, the spare wheel is removed from the mount.
- The car is installed on an inspection hole (if possible, you can use a stationary lift).
- To ensure safety, when working with the electrical system, the negative terminal from the battery is removed.
- To access the working area of the underbody, you need to remove the protective heat shield and, if necessary, loosen the muffler fastenings.
- To install tow bars of a compatible design on the Lada Largus, the manufacturer has made mounting holes in the rear side members, protected by plastic plugs. For universal models, additional holes may need to be drilled.
- The towbar is secured using the fasteners included with the product.
The towbar for the Lada Largus is a U-shaped structure, in which the “legs” are attached to the car body, and in the middle of the massive crossbar there is a place for attaching the hook. Some towbar models are supplied with reinforcing plates that are installed at the bolted joints.
The installation of the towbar on the Lada Largus Cross is carried out from the bottom, so to facilitate the procedure you will need the help of a partner. Bolts with bushings are installed in the holes of the side member; a tow bar bracket is placed on them from the outside of the car, which is secured with nuts (at this stage the fasteners are not tightened all the way). After installing all the fasteners, you need to make sure that the hitch does not touch the rear bumper and does not interfere with the operation of the exhaust system.
The mounting bolts are then tightened to securely hold the towbar in place and the muffler heat shield is installed in place.
Classification
A towbar is a towing device for attaching, fixing and further moving a car trailer. Modern classification involves the following types of trailer hitch:
- small
- average
- big
It all depends on the weight of the load that the car is dragging behind it. It is unlikely that the towbar will be “comfortable” if the weight of the trailer exceeds the weight of the car. Large towbars are installed on small buses and SUVs with a full frame (spar). They allow you to attach not only trailers with sides, but also transportation platforms designed for transporting boats, snowmobiles, and motor equipment. Such towbars can be found on agricultural machinery: dump trucks, tractors. Bulldozers with large towing devices that can withstand maximum load. You should not overload the trailer if a large towbar is installed, above 3.5 tons.
Passenger cars, such as crossovers, are equipped with medium towbars. Country holidays are more fruitful if you have a mini-trailer behind you. A trip to the lake with a jet ski involves its transportation. A large trailer is more functional. In this case, you also need to think about some kind of medium tow bar up to 2.5 tons of payload.
A towbar up to 1.5 tons is installed on passenger cars. There are many types for passenger cars. Features for the most part are determined not by the weight ceiling, since an unreasonable load can damage the trailer, which is worse - the engine or gearbox, but by the types of attachment to the body, spar (frame), and the efficiency of the material.
Design features
The simplest tow hitch for a passenger car trailer is simple in design:
Tow bar design
The visible part is the metal ball at the end of the hook. Diameter – 50 mm. This is the standard. Socket for trailer electrical connection. If the bumper is missing (damage or other reason), the main horizontal beam of the tow bar will be visible. The invisible part is the fastener to the car body. The vibration resistance of the towbar will depend on the proper fastening of the brackets. The bolted towbar can be removed for any technical work on the inspection pit. It can be replaced if it is seriously damaged or fails. Removing the towbar is convenient when installing electrical leads suitable for the trailer, when you need to determine the most practical distance to the plugs. The downside will be the loosening of the bolts of the structure while driving. The risk of an accident on the road increases. Using high-quality Grover washers and tightly tightening the nuts will eliminate this problem.
Welded construction requires release from the factory. It is convenient because it has a very symmetrical arrangement and factory-made electrical paths running in parallel. We can only hope for the integrity of the manufacturer. Check weld seams for microcracks and rust.
Types of hook attachment to the platform
The types of homemade towbars available on old cars are varied. Mechanics and drivers themselves looked for attachment points, creating unique towing devices. The factory ones have a mounting platform or beam. More specifically, the hook is attached to the platform in several ways.
The simplest connection, one-piece, is a towbar connected to the frame by welding. As mentioned above, a necessary condition for reliability will be the quality of this welding. A car owner who is accustomed to saving money should not find himself in a position where precious garage space is occupied by a protruding ball that is useless for the conditions, constantly propping up something against the back wall, for example, fuel cans. Many drivers will prefer a conditionally detachable mount to the body. But it is unlikely that they will be engaged in screwing and unscrewing the tow bar every time. There need to be good reasons for this. But he can double-check the lock washers and the tightening of the nuts before a long trip, ensuring peace of mind. A fully detachable towbar connection is chosen by those who rarely use a trailer. This tow bar is equipped with a locking mechanism. If desired, it can be easily dismantled. The ball itself can be removed or the hook can be removed separately, which is lowered under the bumper or moved to a vertical position
You should pay attention to the wear and tear of the locking device, which in homemade models has a single edition
Towbar Lider
You will need: buy a tow bar for the Lada Largus (in our case we use a trailer hitch Leader Plus VAZ - 19A, approximate price 5,000 rubles), a tool.
Tow bar drawings
The towbar is attached to the standard places provided by the manufacturer. No additional drilling of the body is required.
Installation:
- Remove the spare wheel.
- Remove the protective screen above the muffler (3 nuts).
- Remove the plastic plugs from the side members (indicated by arrows in the photo).
- Enlarge the hole for the fasteners, removing the protective tape and mastic.
- First insert the front bolt and bushing, hang the bracket from the outside and attach it.
- Insert the rear bolt and push it from the outside into the side member. Insert the bushing, washer, and tighten the nut.
- Do the same on the right side.
Check that the towbar is pressed against the bumper, but does not touch the muffler. Tighten all fastening bolts and install the protective screen.
Connection
Before starting work, remove the rear lights. Pull the towbar wiring through the standard holes that we used when connecting the parking sensors. Next, the plug is drilled and the wires are pulled into it. The wiring is secured to the towbar beam using the clamps included in the kit.
Left connector connection diagram:
- orange - brake light
- black - mass
- pink - rear PTF (optional)
- green - left turn signal
- blue - dimensions
Right connector connection diagram:
- orange - brake light
- gray - right turn signal
- yellow - reverse (optional)
- black - mass
- blue - dimensions
We connect to the plug connector according to the diagram (see above). Before connecting, you should put on the plug, and then the back rubber band from the socket. We perform assembly in reverse order. The process is also shown in the video:
Let us remind you that you can increase the cargo capabilities of the Lada Largus by installing a roof rack, but before this you may need to install roof rails.
Self-assembly and towbar installation
To increase the vehicle's carrying capacity, you need a trailer, and to attach it to the car, you cannot do without a towbar. Despite its simple design, this is a multifunctional device that is easy to use. Unfortunately, the tow bar on the Lada Largus is installed from the factory only as an additional and unreasonably expensive option. Naturally, every owner of a trailer and car is interested in the possibility of installing a towbar with his own hands without contacting car service specialists. It will cost much less.
First, the car owner must decide what type of towbar will be installed. If you choose a stationary option, you should take into account that welding skills are required, since this is how it is fixed to the body. It is much more practical to use a removable towbar, which can be removed and installed as needed. In terms of strength, such a device is in no way inferior to a stationary one. The only drawback is the need for additional fastenings.
Towbar assembly instructions
To install the trailer hitch, standard holes in the body are used, since the Largus factory already provides for the installation of such devices. Installing a towbar on Largus with your own hands is as follows.
- If there is a spare wheel in the trunk, it should be removed, and then unscrew the three fastening nuts holding the protective screen to our exhaust pipe.
- Remove the protective plugs from the side members and remove the anti-corrosion mastic from the standard holes.
- A bolt and bushing are inserted at the front, and a bracket is installed on them to install the mount. After this, a bolt is inserted from behind and threaded behind the spar. Next, the nut is attached. The same actions are carried out for the other side.
- The towbar should press against the bumper, but not touch the exhaust pipe. If everything is fine, you can tighten all the nuts on the bolts and install the protective screen.
After the final tightening of all connections, it remains to make sure once again that the muffler and the towbar do not touch.
Installation of the towbar does not end there, since trailers have their own lights and turn signals, so they need to be connected to the vehicle’s on-board network.
What is needed for installation
Car owners install this device with their own hands or contact a car service center. To install a tow bar yourself, you need technical skills. In order to install the towbar correctly, the car enthusiast will need:
- parts included with the tow bar;
- set of tools.
The assembly process should be carried out in strict accordance with the recommendations of professionals. All appropriately sized nuts, bolts and washers to ensure firm fixation of the device are included in the kit. Therefore, installing the device yourself will not be particularly difficult.
First of all, you need to decide on the type of device that is necessary for smooth operation. The production of stationary and removable mechanisms is practiced. To install a stationary mechanism, welding is traditionally used; for a removable one, you will need special fasteners, corners, and beams. Of course, you can even make a tow bar yourself, but it’s much easier to buy one, especially since the cost is affordable.
To carry out installation work on installing a tow bar on Largus with your own hands, you will need:
- wrenches sizes 16,17 and 19;
- screwdriver set.
Types, pinouts and connection diagrams for towbar sockets
Several types of connectors are used to connect trailers:
- seven-pin (7 pin) European-type connectors;
- American-type seven-pin (7 pin) connectors;
- thirteen-pin connectors (13 pin);
- special connectors.
The most widely used 7-pin European style connector is found on most passenger car cargo trailers. Its diagram and appearance are shown in the figure:
A special feature of the connector is that the receiving part and its mating parts have sockets of both types (“male” and “female”).
This is done for reasons of safe connection of the circular connector in zero visibility conditions. It is almost impossible to install incorrectly or short-circuit the sockets with this arrangement.
Each of the connector pins has a clear purpose. The table shows the areas of the minimum cross-section of wires that are used to connect to the required circuit element.
Contact No. 2 may not be used on many trailers. It is used to provide constant +12 power supply to light duty trailers.
Some car enthusiasts ignore the separation of the right and left side lights, combining them circuit-wise into a single wire. A slight “simplification” of the electrical wiring leads to a disruption of the “parking light” function (when the turn signal is turned on in the parking lot, the dimensions of the corresponding side light up). This function is used when parking on the side of the road.
Pinout diagram for 7-pin American connector:
A special feature of the connector is the presence of a reverse contact and the absence of separation between the right and left rows of side lights.
In some models of American cars, there is no separation between side lights and brake lights (they run on one wire).
In many cases, the set of towbar connectors already includes conductors of the appropriate color and cross-section.
This greatly simplifies the electrical connection process.
13-pin connectors are used to connect passenger trailers.
The main difference between this connector is that there are several contacts for the negative and positive buses, and backup contacts for connecting additional devices (for example, a rear view camera).
A special feature of the connector is that large currents can flow through its contacts, in particular, to power the household electrical equipment of a caravan trailer and charge an additional battery.
Special connectors are sometimes used to connect to boat equipment. In this case, standard adapters are provided:
Modern trailers of a higher class have their own electronic equipment: ABS, ESP systems, on-board computers. They are also connected to the vehicle’s on-board system using special connectors.
Adviсe
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General recommendations when operating trailer electrical equipment:
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- avoid overloading the network, especially when using household appliances in passenger trailers, this can cause a fire;
- check the electrical equipment of the trailer before each trip, at least externally;
- before each season, check the quality of electrical connections outside the vehicle and trailer, protect contact areas and connectors with grease and other means;
- do not allow dangling wires, be sure to secure them to the structural elements with plastic clamps,
- If possible, retrofit your trailer with waterproof LED fixtures.
Read the article about the mass air flow sensor, signs of a malfunction and how to check its functionality.
What resistance should a working ignition coil have?
Video - installation of a tow bar on a LADA Granta and pinout of the socket:
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May be of interest:
From experience I can say that it is still better to install a socket using special electrical terminal blocks, rather than twisting and electrical tape. Firstly, everything looks aesthetically more cultural, and secondly, with prolonged use, the electrical tape begins to unwind over time, and the twisting of the wires weakens. As a result, the twisting area begins to spark, lose contact, and the dimensions with the brakes begin to blink, or even go out completely. And it’s also worth making sure that when traveling without a trailer, the socket is closed with a plug, otherwise dirt, moisture and sand will get clogged there. Especially in the autumn-spring period, otherwise you will have to spend several hours picking it all out with a sharp screwdriver.
Install a tow bar on a Lada Largus with your own hands
The Lada Largus station wagon was created with an eye on practical owners, for whom the car's capacity is in the foreground. Depending on the body version and configuration, this model can accommodate from five to seven passengers, including the driver. At the same time, the cargo space remains at 560 liters (5-seater version). If you fold the backs of the rear seat row, the useful volume for luggage increases to an unprecedented 2350 liters. When the owner doesn’t have enough space, he can easily install a luggage compartment on top of the roof.
Many Lada Largus owners do not want to sacrifice luggage compartment space for the sake of the desire to seat a “full complement” of passengers in the cabin. What compromise can be found in this situation? There is an exit! It's a trailer! It is connected to the car using a special coupling device called a tow bar. Therefore, many car owners are interested in installing a towbar, and even doing it themselves, and we’ll tell you about this.
Arguments influencing the choice of tow bar
When choosing such a device for the Lada Largus, you should take into account such characteristics as the maximum vertical or horizontal load. To calculate it correctly, you need to know the approximate weight of frequently transported cargo and the trailer, the configuration and type of coupling element.
If the load on the towbar exceeds the maximum permissible level, then not only it can be damaged, but also a large part of the body of the car itself. Moreover, if this happens on the road, then such a breakdown can cause a traffic accident.
Nowadays, when there is a large selection of parts, it can be difficult to decide whether to give preference to cheapness or quality
Design options
Let's start with choosing a trailer hitch and try to determine which one is better.
There is a wide selection of manufacturers and suppliers on the market. So the list of those in demand includes:
But you shouldn’t rely only on the brand, since a smart choice requires a comprehensive approach to the issue.
The various types of towbars available on the market are confusing to the buyer. Therefore, first of all, let’s understand this.
Based on the mounting method, all trailer hitches can be:
- fixed (Largus are equipped with these from the factory);
- removable (quickly and easily removed using a special mechanism);
- flanged (fastening is carried out by bolted connections on a special platform).
I will say right away that it is better to choose removable ones, since they are much easier to handle, easy to remove when not needed, but just as easy to put back in place if you are going to travel with a trailer.
TSU balls
There are also different types of balls that are used to attach a trailer hitch.
- Ball A. The load on it is up to 1500 kg;
- Ball N. The load is similar, but the price is lower compared to the previous option;
- Ball F and G. Load up to 3500 kg with the function of changing the fixation height;
- Ball V. Has a load capacity of up to 2500 kg, but is not adjustable;
- B.M.A. It has a vertical mount that is easy and quick to remove;
- Square mount.
The type A ball has recently become popular among Largus owners due to its practicality and ease of use.
I would call the main criteria horizontal and vertical maximum load. To calculate it, you need to understand what kind of cargo you are going to deal with and what trailers to carry with you.
It’s one thing when the tow bar has to support a Bee, and quite another thing if it’s a whole trailer, a motor home.
Main types
Varieties of towing devices can be structured according to different characteristics that affect the size of the tow bar on Largus. The following options are mainly used.
By mounting method:
- fixed (included in the basic package);
- removable (can be removed if necessary so as not to spoil the appearance of the vehicle);
- flanged (fixed with bolts to special platforms).
By construction method:
- ball type “A” (load not exceeding 150 kg);
- ball type “H” (load not exceeding 150 kg, but relatively cheaper than its predecessor);
- ball type “F” and “G” (transportation of loads up to 3.5 tons, with the ability to change the height of the structure fastening);
- “V” type ball (load capacity up to 2.5 tons, non-adjustable due to insufficient number of holes);
- ball type “VMA” (with a vertical mount that can be quickly removed).
If we talk about the above-mentioned domestic car, today it is very popular to install a tow bar on a Lada Largus with a ball of the latest type. It is very easily removed, becoming an inconspicuous mount that can be mounted if necessary.
How to install a coupling product?
The sequence of installation steps is reflected in the technical manual, which is necessarily attached to the towbar itself. In general terms, the algorithm looks like this.
- We empty the luggage compartment of the Lada Largus from excess luggage.
- The car is hung with a lifting device, and in its absence it is installed above the pit.
- The on-board network is de-energized by “resetting” the terminals from the battery terminals.
- To gain access to the working area of the bottom, we dismantle the thermal protection and loosen the muffler fasteners.
- It is recommended to purchase and install devices whose design is adapted for installation specifically on the LADA Largus body, since the corresponding holes are already made in the stern side members. They are not difficult to find; they are closed with special plugs.
- To secure the product, the delivery set includes a set of fasteners.
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Advice! When installing, treat both standard and drilled mounting holes with anti-corrosion substances.
Regarding the device for LADA Largus, we note that this product has a U-shaped design, the legs of which must be fixed to the car body components, and in the middle part of the existing cross member there is a mounting area for a hook. Some modifications of towbars require the presence of reinforcement plates in the kit, which must be installed in places where there is a bolted connection.
- We carry out the installation “operation” from the bottom of the car. The help of a partner will not be superfluous here.
- We insert bolts together with bushings into the side member holes.
- We put the coupling device bracket on them from the outside of the body and fix it with nuts. Do not tighten them to full torque yet.
- Having installed and centered the towbar, we make sure that there is no interference with the bumper and exhaust system.
- Only now do we begin to fully tighten the entire list of fasteners.
- We return the heat shield to its original place.
So that during subsequent dismantling of the device you do not have to “mess around” with rusted fastening components several seasons later, mercilessly cutting them off with a grinder, we recommend treating all butt joints with mastic for anti-corrosion work.
Legal regulation in Russia
Many drivers are interested in whether it is necessary to register a towbar with the traffic police and what punishment awaits for illegal installation?
It is worth saying that installing a trailer hitch is a structural change in the structure of the car. There is a special list of design changes that do not need to be approved by the traffic police. This list also includes a towbar, but with some explanations. The design of the car must include the installation of a towbar. That is, the car must be designed for the installation of a trailer hitch. The vast majority of cars have this capability from the factory.
Vehicle registration
To avoid possible punishment, the driver must have the following documents with him:
- Certificate for tow bar. When purchasing any towbar in a specialized store, a certificate of conformity is issued with it. This is a document that confirms the quality standards specified by the manufacturer. The document also confirms that the product has passed the necessary tests.
- Document from a certified auto center. The installation of trailer hitches must be carried out in specialized auto centers that issue the appropriate certificate. This certificate (or a copy) confirms the quality of the work performed to install the product. The document must be certified by a seal.
If the purchased vehicle already has a trailer hitch installed, then you also need to contact a specialized auto center, which will carry out diagnostics and issue a certificate. The cost of the service is approximately 1,500 rubles.
If the car is not designed to use a trailer hitch
If the machine is not designed for installation of a trailer hitch from the factory, then it is possible to install it yourself, but you need to take the following steps:
- Purchase a tow bar with a certificate.
- Install the product in an auto center.
- Pass an examination at the traffic police to make changes to the design of the car. In turn, the traffic police will send the driver to the auto center for examination.
- Write down changes in the technical certificate and PTS about changes in the design of the car.
Fine for illegal installation
On the first violation for an illegal tow bar, the inspector may issue a warning. For a subsequent violation, a fine of 500 rubles is implied in accordance with Article 12.5 part 1 of the Code of Administrative Offences.
A towbar is a really necessary thing if you intend to use a trailer
When purchasing, it is important to pay attention to the quality of the product, its compliance with standards and the car. It is necessary to take into account the maximum transportable weight of the cargo that it can withstand. Also, the driver must have certain certificates and documents for the trailer vehicle in order to avoid possible punishment
Also, the driver must have certain certificates and documents for the trailer vehicle in order to avoid possible punishment.
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But with electrics it will be a little more difficult if you have not had similar experience before.
Electrics
First remove both tail lights. Your trailer hitch wiring is routed through the factory holes. Also drill the plug and insert the wiring into it. We will secure it to the towbar beam using the clamps that come with the kit.
The main thing here is to stick to the scheme. That is, connect the car’s wires with the wiring of your trailer hitch in the correct accordance.
Let's take the left connector. Here are the wires:
Basic criteria for selecting a part
There are a couple of types of towbars for Lada Vesta:
The flange type device is optimal for Vesta. To install such a structure, it is necessary to take into account the availability of seats in the car. Only if they have the criterion, the load is applied evenly.
Towbars with rigid fixation have a lower price, are functional, and easy to attach. The main disadvantage of this type is the unaesthetic appearance acquired by the car during installation by welding or bolting.
The main advantage of devices with a coupling ball is the removable type of device. In the absence of operation, the upper part of the mount is removed, the trailer hitch becomes almost invisible. In terms of reliability and stability, this type is not inferior to others, but has a higher price. Due to its characteristics, most drivers prefer this model.
Purpose and fastening of Lada Largus towbars
This is one of the types of towing devices for passenger cars. It can be used to attach small trailers and trailers to the rear of the vehicle. In this case, the technical capabilities of the vehicle and the maximum permissible load for the vehicle should be taken into account.
The device can also be used to tow various vehicles with a fixed load (no more than three tons). Lada Largus can be equipped with a tow bar from the factory (for example, the Cross version), but many car owners prefer to install this mechanism themselves. As a rule, a tow bar becomes an indispensable mechanism for drivers who use a car to transport various loads over long and short distances. The presence of a towbar on Largus eliminates the need to transport a special hook in the luggage compartment.
If the trailer is not connected, the use of a towbar is not recommended.
The reason is the danger this mechanism poses when a collision occurs. Both colliding vehicles will receive additional damage in the event of an accident. Moreover, in some European countries it is legally prohibited to use trailer hitches without a trailer or trailer.
Types of towbars
There are many devices from different manufacturers on the car accessories market. Today, the most popular Lada Largus towbars are from the following brands:
- Baltex;
- PT Group;
- Leader Plus;
- Bosal and some others.
It is not recommended to pay attention only to the popularity of the brand; it would be more correct to approach the choice comprehensively. The wide variety of trailer hitches can be confusing. To begin with, you should choose a towbar based on how to attach it.
- Fixed (most often installed as standard trailer hitches at the factory). These are one-piece towing devices that are structurally an integral part of the rear bumper. Today, such models are becoming increasingly rare. Such devices are also installed as a separate element on cars whose design does not imply the use of a towbar. Its advantage is its versatility. Regardless of the type of mount, they do not require installation only on a specific vehicle.
- Removable. Such models are considered the most popular, because if there is no need for a trailer hitch, it can be easily dismantled. For car owners who use a trailer from time to time, this option is most preferable. It's easy to choose a removable one. All you need to consider is the possibility of installation on standard Lada Largus mounts.
- Flanged. This type of tow bar is secured to a special platform using bolts. To some extent, these are also removable trailer hitches. Bolted connections allow them to withstand heavy loads, and the purpose of such models is to tow heavy trailers. In the case of the Lada Largus, you need to select it for a specific model.
Removable versions of the device are optimal, it is convenient and functional.
If necessary, they are easy to dismantle and reinstall if you need to hook up a trailer. Each type has both disadvantages and advantages. For example, a flanged one can withstand severe loads, having a large margin of safety. On the other hand, he is constantly in sight. Other copies do not allow you to choose the height of the ball, and their price is higher. The most expensive type is the folding one, but this model also has the most advantages.
Types of fasteners
The hitch of a trailer or trailer is put on a special ball, which also varies depending on the purpose.
| Varieties | Functional |
| Ball A. | Allows you to tow cargo weighing no more than one and a half tons. |
| Ball H. | Similar to ball A, but much cheaper. |
| Type F and G. | Withstands a load of no more than 3.5 tons. It is possible to change the engagement height. |
| Type V | It is allowed to transport a trailer and cargo with a total weight of no more than 2.5 tons. There is no fixation height adjustment. |
| B.M.A. | Removable version with the possibility of vertical fastening. |
There is also a square type fixation. For Lada Largus, the best option is ball type A. In many ways, the reason for such popularity is the versatility of the product, its practicality and ease of use.
The main parameter by which the trailer hitch should be selected is the maximum permissible load.
Conclusion
As practice shows, many consider a towbar to be a useful element for coupling a car with a trailer, but today it is not an absolute necessity. Whether to install it or not is the choice of every car owner.
Any experienced motorist can confirm the following thesis: “Even a passenger car needs a tow bar.” Very few private vehicles are equipped with a tow bar from the factory.
You can purchase a Lada Largus car (any configuration) here - https://saloncentr.ru/catalog/vaz/lada-largus-u5. The domestic crossover is not equipped with a tow bar in production. But it can be purchased separately.
Tuning Lada Largus, Cross: all the innovations, body kit, interior, chip tuning
But with electrics it will be a little more difficult if you have not had similar experience before.
Electrics
First remove both tail lights. Your trailer hitch wiring is routed through the factory holes. Also drill the plug and insert the wiring into it. We will secure it to the towbar beam using the clamps that come with the kit.
The main thing here is to stick to the scheme. That is, connect the car’s wires with the wiring of your trailer hitch in the correct accordance.
Let's take the left connector. Here are the wires:
Installation Regulatory Requirements
The installation of a non-removable tow bar refers to changes in the design of the vehicle and must be recorded in its technical passport. If the coupling mechanism is included in the list of acceptable additional equipment and can be easily dismantled (removable towbar options), then special registration for such a towbar is not required.
The procedure for carrying out electrical installation work when connecting the towbar socket
1. The first stage of work: determining the connection diagram, the need to use a matching unit, choosing the type of connector.
If at the time of installing the trailer connector, the latter is not yet available, or you do not plan to buy it at all, and you intend to use only rental equipment, it is recommended to immediately install a 13-pin universal connector.
Video - why a 13-pin socket for a towbar is preferable in some cases:
In this case, using a 13/7 pin adapter, you can connect a regular cargo trailer without any problems.
There is, of course, the opposite option - a 7/13 adapter, but some of the user connections, including for charging the battery, will have to be made outside the connector, which is very inconvenient.
If you have a car built before 2000, you may not need to install a matching unit. In this case, the rating of the fuses serving the turn signals and rear lights should be increased by 25%.
2. Next, it is imperative to check all electrical circuits in the trailer connector (if any).
This can only be avoided if you are using a rental trailer; the lessor checks them and is responsible for their functionality and safety.
Before signing a trailer rental agreement, the lessor must check ALL functions of the lights and other devices in the vehicle-trailer combination. In the absence of any signals, he MUST not release the trailer for the trip.
The most typical malfunctions of trailer electrical equipment:
- “rotting” of electrical wiring, especially in the area of connections, contacts, soldering;
- short circuits in the area of rubbing parts;
- failure of light lamps;
- large leakage currents associated with salt coating of roads and driving into bodies of water (boat trailers, especially on the sea coast).
3. At the third stage, a routing diagram is developed (what wire, what color, what cross-section, where it goes, how it goes, where it connects, what it connects to, and, finally, how it connects).
In order. If the purchased trailer connector is equipped with conductors, there is no point in replacing them. Otherwise, you should select conductors in exact accordance with the colors and sections shown in the figures above.
The most difficult thing is to determine the path of the wires from the connector into the luggage compartment so that it is invisible, the conductors cannot be damaged during operation and cause a short circuit, and the seal of the cabin is not compromised. In most cases, manufacturers provide a standard hole.
Connections can be (and are better) made using the standard method: stripping + twisting + soldering + heat shrink. All connections must be made at least with the ignition off. There is a connection option using special clips.
Such connections do not provide high currents and are not as durable, but in some cases they can be used when using cargo trailers.
For further actions you need a minimum set of tools and components:
- a set of plumbing tools for dismantling and installing interior elements during cable laying;
- a set of electrical installation tools, if necessary, a soldering iron, solder, flux;
- wires, electrical clips, self-tapping screws, casings, heat shrink, electrical tape, clamps;
- multimeter;
- control lamp;
- mirror (when installed alone).
4. Connection. At this stage, you need to be as careful as possible; it is better to sign each connection first, and only then carry out the electrical installation.
Electrical connections outside the car must be “dressed” with heat shrink (a cambric that shrinks in size when heated with an industrial hair dryer can be used with a lighter).
Experienced electricians lubricate the contacts with grease or lithol before insulating them, limiting the ingress of water into the contact area. Such grease insulation must be carried out on the contacts of the trailer connector, in the trailer itself, especially those used in winter, in trailers for river and sea transport.
5. Check. At this stage, using a multimeter, the absence of short circuits is determined and electrical connections are made. Only after this can you turn on the ignition and test all functions.
If the on-board computer provides information about errors in the operation of electrical equipment, most likely, the use of a coordination unit when connecting a trailer for your car is mandatory.
Features of the circuit connection of the towbar connector in modern cars
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Cars produced before 2000 used analog circuits for controlling rear light devices. The greatest difficulty during connection is the correct determination of the location where the corresponding conductor is connected.
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Many car enthusiasts carried out this work using the “poke” method, sequentially connecting the contacts of the trailer connector to the indicator lamp. With the advent of digital control circuits for lighting devices and other electrical equipment of the car, this method has become dangerous.
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Video - connecting the towbar wiring on a Nissan Note:
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Digital control of electrical equipment assumes that thick conductors do not go directly to the light devices from the steering “dragonfly”, “frog”, relays and other switches to the tail lights, stops and other light devices. The supply voltage and digital control signals are received there.
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A simple twist-type connection to the tail light conductors is inappropriate here. Even if you connect directly to the rear headlights, which are now mostly LED, it is not a fact that the electronics will not display an error message and turn off these lights altogether, since the current consumption will be exceeded.
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In this regard, matching units are used to connect the towbar electronics in modern cars.
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They are equipped with a set of necessary conductors and a connection diagram. The description of matching blocks must contain a list of cars with which the block is compatible.
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There are diagrams of homemade devices on the Internet. If you want to experiment, you can purchase an inexpensive amateur radio kit:
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The connection diagram for such blocks is shown in a generalized form. You have to determine the specific wire routing yourself.
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Video - UniKIT 2 connection diagram for Baltex tow bar:
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Recommendations for selection
When selecting a trailer hitch for your Lada Largus, rely on several criteria. They will help you make the right choice and operate the towbar itself and the trailer for it without unnecessary problems.
The main nuances of choice are:
- Load. Approximately estimate what kind of cargo you are going to transport so that the trailer hitch can withstand the corresponding loads;
- Design. Between fixed and removable, the choice is clearly in favor of the latter. This is not even discussed. Yes, they are more expensive, but the price is worth it;
- Manufacturer. Choose only well-established companies. Cheap Chinese or any other trailer hitches will only create unnecessary problems;
- Price. Depends on all the characteristics listed above. Sometimes it varies depending on whether you buy a trailer hitch in Moscow, St. Petersburg, the city of Krasnodar, or somewhere in the province. Each store makes its own markups on the factory price. Therefore, it is better to buy from official dealers;
- Compatibility with trailer. If there is already a trailer, then the trailer hitch is selected for it. Or vice versa. Even if the towbar socket and trailer plug do not match, an adapter is always available. Do not forget that on Largus with an on-board computer you will also definitely need a coordination unit.
Almost always somewhere you can buy a product at a discount, choose a suitable discount. Use part number or specific model to search.
I think that's enough. If you think there are a couple more wise tips, be sure to write in the comments and share your observations with our readers.
What are the features when choosing a tow hitch on a Lada Largus?
For cars of this model, class “A” towballs are used. The total load on such balls ranges from 1,000 to 1,500 kg horizontally and from 75 to 100 kg vertically, depending on the dimensions of both the car and the trailer, and the towball itself.
We recommend towbars from Galia, which stand out among other models due to their good balance between reasonable price and high quality. We also ask you to pay attention to the fact that you should not install used towbars, since it is impossible to accurately determine what loads the structure was subjected to and whether they exceeded the norm.
Connecting the power supply
Attention! For many owners, this stage can cause the most difficulties. We recommend that you carry out the procedure for switching the socket of the coupling product in the “presence” of the trailer, which is to be used with the car. This is explained by the presence of a non-standard electrical wiring diagram in some trailer modifications.
We fix the socket on the bracket, and put the insulated cables in a metallized sleeve. It is subsequently fixed with ties.
Next, the wiring through the hole made in the body is laid inside the luggage compartment of the LADA Largus. This hole is initially blocked by a plug and is located close to the muffler, between the rear bumper and the wheel arch. Next, the cable outlets are connected to the on-board network.
Now we present the standard pinout of wires for the Largus station wagon.
- the orange wire is responsible for the brake light;
- black cable - ground;
- pink wire – PTF stern;
- green outlet - left turn signal;
- blue - dimensional lighting equipment.
- orange cable – second brake light;
- black wire – ground;
- beige outlet – reverse lamp;
- green cable – right turn signal;
- blue wire – side light.
Having completed the cable network switching, we check the functioning of the entire list of trailer lighting devices.
Electrical connection
It is recommended to connect the hitch socket if you have a trailer that will be used with this machine, since many trailer models use a non-standard wiring diagram. The socket is installed on a bracket, the insulated wires are placed in a special metallized sleeve, which is fixed with ties.
The wiring of the coupling device is routed through a special technological hole into the trunk of the car. The hole is closed with a plug and is located in the muffler area between the wheel arch and the rear bumper and is connected to the standard electrical system.
Standard pinout of Lada Largus wires:
- orange wire - brake light;
- black – mass;
- pink – rear PTF;
- green wire – left turn signal;
- blue – dimensions.
- orange wire - brake light;
- black – mass;
- beige – reverse indicator light;
- green wire – right turn signal;
- blue – dimensions.
After connecting the electrical wiring, you should check the functionality of the trailer light alarm in all modes.
Features of the installation and connection process of the coupling device can be studied in the following video:
Every year the number of car enthusiasts who install a tow bar on their cars is growing. This is due to the fact that:
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- the number of organizations providing trailer rental services is increasing;
- Traveling with campers (caravan trailers) is becoming popular;
- the number of owners of hydro- and ATVs is growing;
- Carriages are widely used for transporting vehicles.
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Also, many motorists install towbars and universal electrical connectors (sockets) “just in case,” assuming that in the future they may use trailers.
