What do the D and the S ratings on the tow hook represent. Can you tow 3500kg with that ?
S values
The "S" value is a rating measured in kg and represents the maximum vertical load which can be applied to the Towing Jaw/hitch. This is also known as the "nose load".All type approved towing brackets must also show this value on their respective manufacturer's label. The vehicle manufacturer's hand book will also give the maximum "S" value which can be applied to the rear towbar mountings; the actual vertical load which can be applied to the hitch is the lower of the two values.
With regard to the trailer nose load, this should not be confused with the GVW (Gross Vehicle Weight) of the trailer. The nose load of a trailer is the amount of weight that the trailer exerts on the vehicle's tow hitch. Therefore a hitch which has an "S" rating of 260kg is capable of a nose weight of up to 260kg (subject to the towing vehicle's towbar limits - these are normally significantly lower), and has no reference to the total weight the towbar is capable of pulling. This metric is defined by the "D" rating; see below for details.
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D values
The "D" value is a rating measured in kN which reflects the dynamic loading limits between a towing vehicle and a trailer. (Wikipedia)The "D" value of a Towing Jaw determines the gross weight combination of the towing vehicle and the trailer that can be used with that particular jaw.
The "D" value is calculated as follows: D = 9.81 × (T × C) ÷ (T + C)
T = Towing Vehicle Weight - GVW
C = Trailer Weight - GVW
9.81 = Gravity
For example, a towing vehicle of 3500kg GVW combined with a trailer of 3500kg GVW would require a towing hitch with a "D" value of:
9.81 × (3.5 × 3.5) ÷ (3.5 + 3.5) = 17.167
Historically, the maximum GVW of an LCV was 3500kg and the maximum GVW for an over-run brake system is 3500kg - hence why a "D" value of 17kN is still common.
Important Note:
If a Towing Jaw with a "D" value of 17kN is fitted to a towing vehicle having a GVW greater than 3500kg, then the permitted trailer weight will decrease accordingly. Use our calculator below to work out what you are permitted to tow.