Towing connections

12-2 Towbar

Reasons for rejection

Mandatory equipment

1. A towbar that is fitted to a PSV does not show evidence of meeting the requirements of Table 12-2-1.

Condition and performance

2. Refer to general vehicle pages.

3. A certification plate is:

a) illegible, or

b) has details that do not match the vehicle, or

c) has obvious signs of tampering.

Table 12-2-1. Requirements for certification

Towbar/vehicle date

Evidence of certification

Vehicle entered service as a PSV in New Zealand before 1 September 1999 and fitted with a towbar before 1 September 1999

1. A towbar fitted to a class MA vehicle is identified as supplied by the vehicle manufacturer.

2. For any vehicle, a permanently attached plate, indelibly marked with:

a) manufacturer’s name, and

b) towbar model number or part number, and

c) rating – maximum towed mass (MTM)

i. not exceeding 2000 kg if vehicle class is MA, MB, MC or MD1, or

ii. not exceeding 3500 kg if vehicle class is MD2.

Note A towbar that doesn’t meet 1. or 2. above must be identified for private use only, for example on the checksheet.

Vehicle entered service as a PSV in New Zealand on or after 1 September 1999 and fitted with a towbar, or vehicle entered service as a PSV in New Zealand before 1 September 1999 and fitted with a towbar on or after 1 September 1999.

1. A towbar fitted to a class MA vehicle is identified as supplied by the vehicle manufacturer.

2. For any vehicle, a permanently attached plate, indelibly marked with:

a) manufacturer’s name or trademark which clearly identifies the agency or person who has built the towbar, and

b) the maximum towed mass (MTM) not exceeding 3500 kg, and

c) the maximum vertical load applied at the towing ball, and

d) vehicle make, model or part number which identifies the vehicle(s) for which the towbar has been designed.

Note An unrated towbar may be assessed, rated and plated by an appropriately qualified engineer (does not have to be an engineer appointed by the NZTA).

Summary of legislation

Applicable legislation
Mandatory equipment

1. A towbar that is fitted to a PSV must comply with the requirements in Table 12-2-1.

Condition and performance

2. Refer to general vehicle pages.

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