Directive 94/20/EC of the European Parliament and of the Council (repealed)Show full title

2.3. Attachment of drawbar couplings and mounting blocks

2.3.1. Mounting dimensions for standard drawbar couplings

If types of standard drawbar couplings are intended to be fitted to the vehicle type, the mounting dimensions on the vehicle given in Figure 32 and Table 8 must be met.

2.3.2. Need for remote controlled couplings

If one or more of the following rules regarding easy and safe operation (Section 2.3.3), accessibility (Section 2.3.4) or clearance for the hand lever (Section 2.3.5) cannot be met, a coupling with a remote control device as described in Annex V, Section 10.3 must be used.

2.3.3. Easy and safe coupling operation

Drawbar couplings must be mounted on the vehicle type in such a manner that they are easy and safe to operate.

In addition to the functions of opening (and closing, if applicable) this also includes checking the position of the indicator for the closed and secured position of the coupling pin (by sight and touch).

In the area in which the person operating the coupling must stand, there must be no points of possible danger such as sharp edges, corners, etc. inherent in the design or they must be protected so that injury is unlikely.

The way of escape from this area must not be restricted or barred on either side by any attached objects.

Any underrun protection device must not prevent the person adopting a suitable position to operate the coupling.

2.3.4. Accessibility

The distance between the centre of the coupling pin and the rear edge of the vehicle bodywork must not exceed 420 mm.

However, the distance of 420 mm may be exceeded if technical necessity can be demonstrated:

provided easy and safe actuation of the drawbar coupling is not adversely affected.

2.3.5. Clearance for the hand lever

In order to permit safe operation of drawbar couplings there must be adequate free space around the hand lever.

The clearance illustrated in figure 33 is regarded as sufficient. If different types of standard drawbar couplings are intended to be fitted to the vehicle type, the clearance must be such that the conditions are also satisfied for the largest size of coupling of the appropriate class given in Annex V, Section 3.

The dimensions are also applicable as appropriate for drawbar couplings having hand levers pointing downwards or of a different design.

The clearance must also be maintained within the specified minimum angle for coupling-up and uncoupling given in Annex V, Section 3.6.

2.3.6. Clearance for free movement of drawbar coupling

The drawbar coupling attached to the vehicle must have a minimum clear gap of 10 mm from every other part of the vehicle taking into account all possible geometrical positions in accordance with Annex V.

If different types of standard drawbar couplings are intended to be fitted to the vehicle type, the clearance must be such that the conditions are also satisfied for the largest possible coupling of the appropriate class stated in Annex V, Section 3.

2.3.7. Admissibility of drawbar couplings with a special joint for vertical rotation (see Figure 6).

Couplings having a cylindrical pin and which achieve vertical rotation for the coupled drawbar eye by means of a special joint will only be permitted in cases when technical necessity can be demonstrated. This may be the case, for example, on rear tippers when the coupling head must be hinged, or with the couplings of heavy transporters when for strength reasons the use of a cylindrical coupling pin is necessary.